I use all 6 strands of embroidery floss.

I have also used the very narrow satin ribbon (like used for ribbon embroidery) on little girl's quilts, left the ends longer and tied bows.

And on the corduroy quilt I made, I used varigated ribbon style crochet 'yarn' that was intended for making a scarf or belt.

Two strands of #10 bedspread cotton crochet thread works very well.

I used to candlewick many years ago. When I was pregnant with our first DD, DH took an interest in candlewicking and wanted to make something for our baby to be. We used coloring books with easy to trace patterns. He made about 20 or so squares with candlewicked teddy bears on them. My sweet Mom made them into a quilt and tied it. DD is 23 and treasures the quilt made by her Mamaw and Daddy.

You can also do a small "x" if your machine as one, or one repeat of a design, or even a bar tack on the machine. Quick and holds well.

I've done tied quilts using embroidery floss - all 6 strands - and found that with repeated washings the floss became untied and must have gone down the drain as it just disappeared.

Has anyone else had that problem?

I did use square knots, thinking those would be very durable.

I use the embroidery floss that is twisted. If I don't have that I use all 6 strands.

That is really easy to fix--just a drop of Fray Check on each knot, and the problem is solved.
I have used this on quilts that are 20-25 years old at least--nothing has come loose, despite repeated washings.

What a good - and simple - idea! Thanks!

Here you go.. just did this one last week and used it to teach a young mom how to tie a quilt.. it's 3 strands of embroidery floss with a surgeon's knot and is a doll quilt, but same principle.