I will repeat several things that have already been mentioned here. I use a single strand of thread that I measure from where I'm holding the end to my elbow (this is the length I am most comfortable for almost all my hand sewing -- hemming, sewing on buttons, applique, embroidery, hand-quilting). I use the Clover Domed Threaded Needle Holder and thread several needles at one time
http://www.joann.com/clover-dome-thr...e/2184992.html. I do use Thread Heaven but don't run my thread through it until I get ready to sew with it. Then I hold the thread on the top of the Thread Heaven and run the thread over it two or three times, then pinch the thread between my thumbnail and forefinger, which flattens out the thread. I am one of those who have a tendency to twist my needle, so every 5-6 stitches, I let the needle hang and untwist the thread. When you hide your knot, hold the knot with your thumbnail and give a tug so the knot "pops". I use the same thread to hand sew binding that I used to machine sew it on, if I matched the color. Otherwise, I use a matching Mettler Silk Finish 100% cotton thread. I wouldn't use hand-quilting thread, as someone suggested, because I think it's too heavy. I use an applique stitch, so my binding stitches blend into the binding.