handquilting thread
 

When I do handquilting, I always have trouble with the thread fraying so. What is a good needle size
and a good brand of thread to use? Thanks

If you are using regular thread, I would switch to hand quilting thread. Hand quilting thread is treated with a stiffener that keeps it from tangling and fraying so easily. As for the needle, it's probably not as much a question of needle size as it is of needle brand. The better hand quilting needles have smoother eyes.

Sometimes I have trouble with thread fraying, so I make sure that I move the needle on the thread. But I also recommend glazed quilt thread - I use YLI hand quilting thread. It works best for me.

Janet

I also only use YLI glazed cotton handquilting thread. On the rare occasion that it has frayed, it's because my thread was too long...(operator error) Coats & Clark is a polyester thread and i find it difficult to thread needles. My favorite needle is Jeana Kimball betweens..Gutterman's does have a glazed cotton hand-quilting thread that isn't too bad - but YLI is still my go-to thread...

I use a variety of thread but it is all labeled hand quilting thread. I use Coats & Clark; Guterman; Americana; and probably some others that I can't recall the name. Whatever I find in the color I want is what I use. I do, however, use Roxanne needles and rarely have issues with thread shredding. I also use Thread Heaven thread conditioner and I believe it also makes a difference. Unfortunately, like most quilting issues, it's trial and error finding what works for YOU!