I have not used the Connecting Thread cotton thread, but I DO have Aurifil. I like it and Masterpiece for my piecing. I have heard that the CT cotton is very linty. Any cotton is linty! You might look into So Fine also. I have pieced and machine quilted with it with success. Maybe you have a friend who has some you can try out? I don't like to buy a big cone or spool unless I know I like the thread. Once I have tried it, I like the biggest cone of the colors I used most!