Buy the 12 wt thread on the spool, forget the skein of thread/floss. I love Superior Sew Sassy thread for big stitching. I use a large embroidery needle. Tiger Tape keeps my stitches even without me having to perfect them with practice. I won a hand quilting award at a local quilt show with my big stitch. I didn't use a hoop or frame. I put the quilt flat on a table, sat down, and started stitching lines across it.