I never realized there was so much to learn about needles and thread until I began to read the Superior Threads newsletter and browse around the site.  Thread was thread…perhaps with a few variations…for a long time for me. 
Then I began to realize different threads gave various effects and some lasted longer than others. The needles you use in your machine or for hand work will vary, too.
You’ll find at Superior Threads  mamy educational articles concerning just about anything you ever wanted to know about thread as well as how and when to use it.  There is information about workshops , too.
  As thread …read more

Quilting newsletters and magazines are very valuable to quilters and fabric artists to answer questions, keep them up to date, and inspire them.  You’ll eventually find your favorites, yet will still want to know about new ones.
Periodically, I mention here those I enjoy and new ones I discover.
I just received my latest e-mail issue of QuiltedParadise.com weekly newsletter. It contains tips, quilting techniques, and patterns.  The current newsletter gives tips from readers about quilting threads.  There’s also an explanation, in answer to a reader’s question, abut the difference among 4, 5, 7, and 9-patch quilt patterns.
To subscribe for the free quilting newsletter, …read more

Threads for quilting may vary depending on the effect you want to achieve, the materials you’re using, and where you’re using it…for decorative effect or stitching pieces together.  Also, consideration should be given to the planned use of the piece.  Will it be a bed quilt or a decorative hanging?
Since you’re putting a great deal of work into your work, select thread of good quality that will endure.  Therefore bargain threads usually aren’t recommended.
Your usual threads are:
*100% cotton
*100% polyester
*cotton-wrapped polyester
*quilting thread treated with a coating to minimize tangling
*metallic and specialty threads
Quilters eventually will find the type and manufacturer’s brand of …read more