I recently discovered that Kimberbell has designed a machine embroidery program for this specific thing. Their called, "Clear Blue Tiles." It's machine embroidery quilt designs made specifically for putting the 3 layers together. In this kit you CAN use regular machine thread in the regular weight to quilt the sandwich together using both top and bottom regular weight thread. I purchase mine from a company called, "My Girlfriends Quilt Shoppe" online but some of your local quilt shops now sell the Kimberbell Clear Blue Tiles. You can download a lot of different quilting stipples online made specifically to work with these for around $9 to $12 at Kimberbell website. But the CBT's come with a USB loaded with several quilt stipples in several hoop sizes.