The big thing for me is the lint that less expensive thread creates. I dont mind it in my Featherweight since I can access and clean it so easily. Finally figured out that lint was the problem when it started skipping stitches. Clean out and all ok. I still use this thread since it is around $2.75 for 1200m. But with an expensive computer machine, I will be upgrading my thread. Not sure to what yet but it will be one that creates less lint.

I need to have a balance between cost and quality. I will not pay any amount for perceived perfection. Value needs to be there.

Think about the quilts now in museums that were made with leftovers and worn out clothing and then put your mind at rest. If it suits you and the way you like to do things as well as your style, if your machine and you have a good working relationship and look out for each other; all is well. And, don't look back!!

When I look at the quilts that my grandmother made 70 years ago...I'm sure she didn't have "special thread" or fabric...she used what she had available (feed sacks!) Those quilts have stood up...yes a few bare sots here and there...The best "rule" of quilting...there is no rule!

I heard a lecture at my quilt guild and she explained the difference between long staple and short staple cotton and everything she said made total sense. Coats and Clark is a short staple cotton, therefore makes a lot of fuzzies in your machine.

I have a Bernina Virtuosa and it will not work on cheap thread. I can't use any Coats and Clark thread. I use Connecting Threads thread and it works but I find I have to clean the lint out more than the more expensive thread. I am going to buy some YSI thread today and see how that works. These Berninas are expensive machines and require better thread and require cleaning every 5 bobbins. Mine hums when it sews so it's worth it.

Experiment with what you have by doing some test blocks and then decide your next step. There will always be a new gizmo and the latest, greatest technique to try - keeps the 'quilt/fabric economy' going. It's your project so you decide. If you need help in deciphering instructions or maybe doing a technique ask at a LQS or local Guild members - I'm sure they will help.

I agree about the expensive irons not giving the service that we would like - I saved to buy the 'latest & greatest' and it only lasted 9 months. Oh well, using a much cheaper model now that works fine! :)

Good Luck with your projects :)

I wholeheartedly agree with this. It seems to me that quilters today (and, yes, I've been doing this for a very long time) have let themselves be bullied into believing that there's one "right" way to do everything. That's how the whole "never quilt with polyester thread" thing got started. Books are helpful, but if you disagree with something, that's okay. Do it your way. It's YOUR quilt after all.

I have always used Gutterman thread and liked it very much. I recently switched to CT cotton thread because of the price. Yes, it's more linty but the price on sale can't be beat. I just have to clean my machine more often--not a big deal to me. You should use what you have not what some book says. If it works and you like it, go for it.

Another note on this topic. I agree that our ancestors in quilting used what they had and were happy with it. But let's remember that they usually didn't use machines, but their hands. Cut everything with scissors. As technology grows and our machines get more electronically intricate, they require special pampering. Which means that thread that grandma used may not work in the machines that cost more than 1k.

I don't think you are doing anything wrong. I agree with many of the comments below - I have used Coats & Clarks for years and haven't had any problems. I once bought the thread 4 or 5/$1.00, but wound up throwing them out as they created far too much lint in my machine. I try to clean out the lint in my machine under the bobbin, the feed dogs, etc. and that helps, as when I'm having a problem sewing, it's usually because of lint buildup, either that or when I changed thread, I didn't thread it correctly, so I re-thread it and I'm usually fine. As far as fabric, buy what you can afford. I try to find sales or clearance, and when I do I buy a little extra, such as white or beige fabric that is good for background. I've never had a problem.