Choosing all the right colors and patterns for your quilt is hard enough when you're just starting out, fun as it is. But you still have to choose the right threads. Not only does the thread need to be a color that complements or at least blends in with your quilt, it has to be the right strength, quality, and fiber. If you'll be sewing a brightly colored quilt, or a quilt that uses lots of different colors, it's best to choose a neutral gray color for your thread. Experienced quilters can often create beautiful effects with different colored threads, but if you're just starting out, you'll save yourself some trouble by using a muted thread. If you are sewing a 100% cotton quilt, use 100% cotton thread. Long staple cotton thread is best, since it's better quality and not as prone to fraying. If you're sewing a polyester quilt, use thread that's a combination of polyester and cotton. Use good quality thread. You don't want to use thread that will tangle, fray, or pop in no time. Also keep in mind that if you use pure polyester thread, it can melt easily if you iron it! When you iron a quilt that's been sewn together with pure polyester thread, use the lightest heat setting. Don't use double strands of thread when you sew. If you want strong seams, strengthen your thread by coating it with beeswax. This will also help prevent fraying. If you're sewing by hand, don't use excessively long pieces of thread; this will help cut down on tangles and fraying.
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