I use Gutermann Hand Quilting thread or Aurifil 28 wt thread for my hand quilting both are a heavier weight. I do use 50 wt if I am stiching in the ditch around an applique as I want it to blend in more. I do use Thread Magic on my thread when quilting but I've forgotten sometimes to wax thread and it doesn't seem to really matter that much. What type of batting are you using as a cotton batting is more difficult to hand quilt. I use a 80% cotton/20% poly batting and your needle will stitch through with less resistance. The other thing that helps is to keep my thread shorter (around 18") your thread will have less stress on it and won't tangle as much, your shoulders and hands will thank you too.