I have used two wildly different threads on the top and bottom, but I used a thicker batting. I needed to adjust the tension slightly and while I was quilting it there was the pinprick issue that you mentioned. However, it couldn't be seen from farther away. When I washed and dried it, you really couldn't tell at all. It was close quilting and it puckered the way I like it. My quilts do not come with a magnifying glass.