Hi--I am new to quilting and a more experienced friend told me I must use 100% cotton thread. I have trouble finding much in the way of colors. I see "quilting" thread--both for machine and hand quilting, but it all seems to be a combo of polyester and cotton. Any guidance from you experienced folks?

Well I can only say for myself - but I love Mettler thread - I use 100% cotton and it is 50wt - I just like how it feels - but I think its just a matter of preference.

If you order online, Connecting Threads have good quality cotton thread.

I love Connecting Threads Essential Thread. It's great and the price is right.

There is always a lot of discussion on the issue of thread. Personally, I think it's more important to use good quality thread than to worry about whether it's all cotton - while I prefer cotton thread myself, I'd rather use a good quality non-cotton than a cheap cotton. Keep asking around and try the different threads to decide what you want to use. and remember that just because it's 100% cotton doesn't mean it's good!

The words "must use 100% cotton thread" are words I have difficulty with. Poly/cotton works just as well. Foir years I quilted with regular sewing thread in order to get colors I needed. I will use a thread saver such as "Thread Haven" to keep from tangling. I have started using the finger tip stuff like Tacky Fingers which seems to be working better in preventing tangling. While cotton is preferred there is no "law" that says you must use it. There is always a reason certaing things are preferred.

I love using Aurofil in the bobbin. Also for piecing. I will also use Metler and Connecting threads. I love YLI variegated threads as well as Superior threads for my quilting.

By the way Welcome to the board from Southern California!!!!

There was recently quite a discussion here regarding thread. You might try doing a search to read the different opinions. Also try the Superior Thread website. They have some videos that dispel some of the myths regarding threads.

My bottom line is use: 1) What works for you and what you are comfortable with 2) What you have on hand so you don't have to spend more $$ & 3)What your machine likes. Some people have machines that are particular. My Viking isn't too particular.

Good Luck!