I tried variegated thread on my chicken mat, on DSM. Good color and everything matched great. But with the straight stitching. And Sid. I didn't like it, on the white. Maybe if I could of had a all over design,it would of blended better. Took a lot of time to rip out. Re did with white, I really liked the lighter color in the negative space much better. So this was one of my own experiences. And I need a lot more before I could advise you.