i have used thin ribbon, and just spaced it to the batting's instructions. i've done sewing the length of the quilt, in parallel lines (i used a chubby needle that let me use longer stitches--it used a lot of ribbon!) and i've tied at intervals (used that same needle) on other ones. you have to be sure to use square knots, and do a final "knot" like you were tying a kid's tennis shoes. i did this mostly on "quillows", and when they went through the wash, they sometimes untied if i'd been careless or lazy on that final knot. it can work; it just takes care. it looks wonderful, so be fussy, and do the knotting. it's a nice touch. i didn't try it, but a single drop of fabric glue might help hold it secure--but i don't know how it would look after it dried. i'd try it out on a test swatch, first...

I usually use the twisted embroidery floss.

I used yarn. It was hard to pull through the fabric, however. So I have started using bar tacks in place of the yarn ties and it's much easier on my hands.

The first time the ladies at church were helping me tying my jean quilt I brought yarn. They use double thread of pearl cotton. It looks much better than yarn.

Yarn and Pearle cotton have worked for me...ribbon would shread...

Ditto, BrendaK

I have only tied one quilt because it was with a Fatt Batt and I couldn't hand quilt through all of it. It was an Around the World quilt pattern and I used the cotton twine I got at a shop where they did macrame and I did small X's at the junctions and channeled under the fabric to the next corner. I made that quilt over 25 years ago and it has been in constant use. It looks like the devil now but my son and his wife drag it out in the winter and snuggle under it while watching movies.

I use embroidry floss all 6 strands and tie on the backing side.

I use embroidery thread and tie it on the BACKSIDE of the quilt. I really don't like the "strings" showing on the front side, but like the quickness of tying.

I've mostly used yarn on baby quilts when I started quilting. I like pearl cotton. Like others said, depends upon the look you want.