I always use 100% cotton thread when I am hand quilting and I have used various brands with good results. I like to use marking pens than iron out and if I am using a stencil for the quilting pattern I like to have a sharp point. One of my favorite markers is a used piece of bath soap. I let the slivers of soap dry out and they are perfect for marking on darker fabrics and I always wash my quits when they are finished so the soap is gone without any residue.