I used to have trouble getting the needle threaded and one day I was at a quilt show and they had a class concerning different threads and uses for them. The presenter said that using silk thread for hand applique was the best option. It is really fine and you won't see the stitches on your applique and it threads easier in the needle. I also like to make sure I have a solid background fabric when threading the needle as it makes it easier now that I am older.