I do not use my auto thread cutter when quilting except when I finish a seam or after doing a long row of blocks. Polyester thread also stretches and the tail is shorter. Using it does not damage the fabric. Usually when I use it the bobbin thread is cut below the surface of the machine and I turn the fly wheel to bring up the bobbin thread as I always like to start with both threads having a tail.

Don't use the thread cutter ... It cuts a very short thread and it is not tidy. I made that mistake on one of my quilts. If your machine has an auto cutter, test it .

Sandy