Karla,Such a beautiful quilt,that is a good idea on the vairgated thread.
You did a great job. I just got two quilt back from the quilting lady here,she charged me $80 for the two,and that included backing and she binded for me, I usually do that my self but this time she did it.
I am a barnbum too,we have icelandic horses. If I am not sewing I am riding.