I would use a machine that I am comfortable with. I don't take my featherweight to retreats unless it is a one day only event, as I am very protective with it. Overnight retreats I take my older singer, simple straight stitching is all I would be sewing. Coats & Clarks thread works very well for me - use it all the time for piecing. I have been quilting for the past 40 years, the last 13 professionally and find that when I use what I'm comfortable with I have less problems and more fun.