You want to use specifically labeled hand quilting thread. Single thread in the needle. I also use 'quilting heaven' which is a conditioner. Helps keep thread from tangling and also helps it glide through the fabric/batting easier.
I usually use multiple colors of thread when hand quilting. In fact, the quilt I am working on now, I am using a dark blue in the dark blue fabric and a red in the light blue background novelty print. Except in the larger plain blocks (of same fabrics) and I am using red in all of the fabrics. The backing has all of the colors of the top in a single fabric. The quilting will likely not show so much on the back but that's ok.