Genden

I am a hand quilter and have quilted and quilted on many quilts over the years. I have also looked at many antique quilts. In my opinion, you should hand quilt this quilt with quilting thread. I prefer YLI brand quilting thread. I would use the neutral off white color that matches your background fabric. The Sunbonnet Sues should be quilted about 1/8" from the dolls. The sashing should be quilted 1/8" into the background fabric. The background fabric around the dolls can be quilted in a variety of ways to fill the space--perhaps meandering, echo, or a design like small flowers. The cross hatch quilting pattern in the white space is also vintage and would look nice. I would google and see if I could find some similar quilts already quilted for ideas. I do believe the hand quilting will be easier with quilting thread and you will be happier with a neutral off white than a color. Off white would be authentic to an earlier time and not detract from the colorful dolls. You have done a beautiful job. I also love the lace. What a treasure.