I'm lucky enough to be able to take classes from Jinny Beyer. She hand pieces all of her quilts. Her top recommendation for thread is Aurifil 28wt in dark colors and John James 10 or 11 needles. If you join the Quilt Show, there are several episodes that she gives piecing suggestions - well worth watching, in my opinion.
You can also visit her site at:
http://www.jinnybeyerstudio.com
Mary