I'm sorry you're not happy with this quilt - but honestly, i think it's beautiful !!! I am not a big fan of invisible thread because the only time i used it - when i held the quilt up i could see light through the "holes" where each stitch went through the quilt. If i were doing it i'd either use a variagated thread that's got red,white and blue primarily - or a neutral - outlining the various elements of the blocks....but i'm pretty much a straight line quilter cuz all i have is my trusty little sewing machine. Spacing depends on your batting of course - which is why i always choose the one that allows max 10". Good luck - and i hope this quilt continues to grow on you !!