I use cotton thread depending on what my needs are, I've even had it mixed with rayons in a design when the only color of thread that came close was cotton. I've even used serger thread when making free standing lace easter baskets or ornaments. I didn't want to spend a fortune on rayon for something that wouldn't last long because it was for the kids. I had to go up to a size 90 sharp needle and use 2 layers of stabilizers and slow it down for the FSL but it did a great job. I made the baskets with varigated thread so they turned out really well. I brush mine out alot anyways which is the main thing you have to do. It was a learning curve trying to get the serger thread to work but once I did it was so worth it and saved lots of money in thread. I've also used the Aurifil thread which is lower in lint anyways.