HH uses a very specific nylon thread for applique . It comes out looking like it was sewed on by hand (I have her book and took her class and done that technique). That specific thread she uses is not at all like fishing line. I would think the date of those books makes a difference. When I took her class, it was in the 90's. I've actually taken a hiatus from quilting and just got back into it about 2 years ago. And guess what? The thread is completely different! Aurifil quilts and sews like a dream! So know that books take a year or more to get to print and that you are more than likely reading old information.