I would like to get the experienced quilters suggestions for choosing a hand sewing thread. Which is the best? I've heard that Mettler or Gutterman are good choices. Are there better threads. I prefer to have a 100% cotton. And what about weight. I'm currently taking a hand applique class and I'm using Mettler 60 wgt. I'm new to the quilting world and I'm trying to find out what I can use to product a good quality piece or work. Thanks so much everybody!

I like DMC (don't know if it's made anymore, I have a stash), Mettler, and Treasures by Superior. But Aurifil cotton mako, which can be used on the machine also, comes in various weights: 12, 28, 40, and 50. It actually works great also, with a little Thread Heaven or good ol' beeswax if needed.

For hand quilting I like YLI hand quilting thread. It's glazed and doesn't seem to knot or tangle much.

Janet

I use whatever hand quilting thread is in the color I need. I have used many different brands. Probably the one I use most is Coats & Clarks 100% glazed cotton. It work fine and doesn't tangle or twist....but it has to be the 100% glazed cotton...the cotton wrapped poly thread they have twists something awful.

I've heard (havent tried it yet) several gals that have done hand applique say they prefer silk thread for applique as it hide the stitches very well. (if you are doing needle turn that is). good luck. Sue

That's what I use, too. I don't get fussy about thread, whatever works. For applique I just use any cotton thread #50. Use the glazed and beeswax for hand quilting.

I used to use Coats & Clark hand quilting thread but when I went to purchase a different colour the LQS was out. I tried the Gutterman hand quilting thread and I liked it better. It tangled and knotted less than the C&C. Sorry, re-read your post and I think you are asking about hand SEWING thread? I don't do any hand sewing in quilt projects just machine sewing and I use Gutterman's regular sewing thread mostly for that.

I have been using Coats and Clark hand quilting glace thread with no difficulties to date.

I also love to use the YLI hand quilting thread because it's very strong and doesn't tangle much. Recently I have tried "Treasure", a varigated thread made by Superior Threads and this is also really good.

For hand quilting we recommend extra-long staple glazed cotton thread.

For piecing we recommend #50 for cotton or Silk #100
Both will blend in well for piecing and for applique.

Having a glaze on cotton is great for hand quilting due to the added strength the glaze provides.

I see a few ladies like to use DMC brand. What kind of DMC do you use for what kind of sewing. I didn't know DMC made anything except embroidery, cross stitch floss, perle cotton, that type of threads. Does DMC make regular sewing threads? If you use DMC, what specifically are you using and what are you using it for? I'm currently using C&C glace hand sewing thread for my hexagon hand stitched quilt top. It seems to be strong and except for a very occasional kink or knot, I've hardly ever had a problem with it breaking or tangling. Now, I want to start an applique quilt top and I'm wondering what kind of thread I should use. The shop I've been going to suggests Mettler, which is what I'm using but they only carry Mettler and one or two other brands as far as I remember. I'm just wondering if there is a better thread. I've read where some people use silk, is that a personnal preference or is it better. I've read posts here on the QB that silk thread doens't hold up and doesn't knot as well. A few people have said that their knots don't hold???? I'm wondering about that. I'm one of those told time gals who thinks if I don't 'nail' something is place and then back that up with a screw..........it's going to fall apart. LOLOL...I would hate to work so hard on a hand stitched project only to have it fall apart soon after I've completed it. I have it in my mind that if I use good quality supplies, it's my technique that will need alot of work and no so much the mateials I used. I'm sooo new at this and I just want to do a good job......Sounds like a little OCD, doesn't it? I swear I'm not, well not that I've ever been diagnosed, LOL.... Thanks to all of you ladies/gentlemen (I keep forgetting there are alot of men who partake in sewing and quilting these days) for your answers to my questions. You're been a wealth of knowledge that I cannot find here in my own area. I really need an experienced quilting buddy in my area.
Thanks again......Babs