I think it's usually used on a machine. I haven't seen any varigated hand-quilting thread. You probably could hand quilt with the all purpose varigated thread, but hand quilting thread is harder thread and holds up much better, doesn't fray when being pulled through the fabric so much like an all purpose thread would, and will hold up in your quilt much longer.

Some have short color changes and others are longer :D:D:D

I have already used the King Tut for hand quilting and it works just fine for me. Coats has varigated thread expecially for hand quilting, it's also called Dual Duty like the solid thread colors.

I love Superior Threads King Tut, yummy stuff!

I got mine at Joann with coupons. I'm using Sulky rayon.

Poly or rayon - depending on what catches my eye....
I don't believe I've ever seen a cotton varigated....so if anyone has, please post! I've gotten the majority of my varigated @ Joanns...on sale or with coupon. Have to watch those pennies!

[quote=CompulsiveQuilter]What I'm confused about with variegated thread because the changes between colors are so subtle, or so far apart, that I can't really see the effect. Am I looking at something wrong, or expecting too much?[/quote/]

Really depends on what background you're quilting. I used a beautiful variegated in a red/white/blue on a quilt that had kona cream and batik blocks....and it really made the quilt pop. I'm a piecer and appliquer - no mid arm/long arm & frame set up yet - but most of the quilters I know believe the quilting should enhance - not overpower the quilt itself. Makes sense to me!

Sure! Looks very nice.

Superior threads Rainbows .is my alltime favourite

Jo anns or online