Originally Posted by
jmoore
Ditto.... Does anyone have a suggestion or comment on what thread count should or shouldn't be used? For some reason I recall a post that the thread count should be similar to your quilt top fabric... is that 200 or even higher?
Typically quilting cotton is around 140 thread count. Batiks are around 180. The lower thread count makes it easier to get the thread to sink nicely into the fabric with a standard quilting needle. With the higher thread count, the thread is likely to sit a bit higher on the surface of the fabric and you may find you benefit from using either a Microtex or Topstitch needle that are extra sharp to get through the tinier spaces in denser weave fabrics (like 200). I really wouldn't recommend going higher than 200 if you have a choice. Higher thread counts don't breathe as readily and can become very hot & sweat-drenched in all but the coldest climates. They also are quite a bit heavier, especially if you are also quilting with cotton thread.