I've made several rag quilts with denim and flannel. Both the denim and flannel were from clothing so were washed many times before I recycled it into quilts. I use regular thread and size 16 needle in stitching all pieces together. I do have some lint buildup and find that I have to clean the bobbin area a couple of times during the stitching. I just figured it goes with the project. Those rag quilts make perfect picnic quilts and quilts for the porch swing .... and the big dogs just love them! I look forward to seeing yours when it is done.