FMQ question about different fabrics: what color thread?
 

Hi everyone,
I made this last Christmas but I really don't like the way the quilting looks. I've gotten better at it but my question is about thread.
I don't like the thread showing up the way it does in the darker fabrics but I don't think I'd like to switch colors every time they change- so my question is what do you do?

Since this is small I may redo it.
TIA

Susie[ATTACH=CONFIG]614897[/ATTACH]

You could use variegated thread or outline/SITD the features in the blocks and meander around them. Or you could use a different thread that would blend in more with the different fabrics. I think your quilting looks very good!!

when you are quilting an edge to edge design, you probably need to stick to one color thread. Variagated may work well--but do remember that most varigations are not random, so you may end up with a secondary design via the quilting. If you are going to switch thread color you will probably want to do more custom work in each color fabric. another idea, one that I use a lot, is a gold or a silver color (I don't use metallics, but instead a poly thread in those colors) and it works pretty darn well.

It is hard to choose thread colors when there is such contrast in the fabrics. Somewhere the thread is going to show so it depends on the look you want.

I love watching the LA lady pick thread colors at the LQS. Have you ever watched Donna Jordan pick the thread color for her projects? It is always interesting to see which one is the winner.

When you have a high contrast, here it's white, burgundy and green. You can go with a medium color. It will show in all areas but it sometimes looks better (to me) to have it show everywhere and not disappear in one area. I probably would have gone with a gold. Weird as that sounds.

Try a finer thread. It can make a big difference.

I agree with EasyPeezy! I've had success with Invisafil which is 100 wt. It comes in colors, but it really sinks into the fabric. So if you choose a pale grey or taupe, you won't see it.

I use a beige thread that is very thin... it doesn't show up from a few feet away from the quilt.

SusieQ, I am glad you brought this up and will be interested to see the responses you get. I, too, struggle with thread color for quilting. Have used variegated and don't care for the results. Left it in the quilt because I couldn't find a better choice.

I would leave it. I usually use an off white and it doesn't bother me to have it show up on darker colors. I just try to make sure my stitches are even and neat. I'm not much help.