I use aurifil for piecing and quilting. It's cotton, no poly. It's 50 wt so a true 1/4 seam works. With 40 wt, a scant 1/4 inch seam is needed.
However, I've noticed that the direction the thread releases from the spool makes a difference in breaking and twisting. I use an auxiliary thread stand holder.
I like Bottom Line for hand sewing and applique. At 60 wt poly it moves through the cotton fabric easier.