What do I do with heavy 30 weight cotton quilting thread?

[drj2athome]

what are the uses of this kind of thread? Does it require a certain batting etc.? I bought a bunch of it in pretty colors. I have an embroidery machine, but usually embroidery is done with fine thread, right? thanks for any info, Jan

[HomespunMary]

The 30 weight cottons (as well as the 30 rayon embroidery threads) are my favorite qulting theads for free motion quilting. They show a bit more than regular thread (which is normally 40 or 50 weight), so they are very fun to use. That is, if you want the stitches to show, of course

Nothing special is needed to use them. Just regular batting, and regular (or quilting) needle. They sometimes require a bit lower thread tension, though, so just check that before you use them on a quilt.

[calicopuzzle]

I agree Homespun--I have some 30wt variagated thread and it is fun to see the results because it shows up so well.

[drj2athome]

Thanks for the information. I actually took a look and it was mostly 40 weight that I bought. So heavier threads need a lower tension. That is good to know. Thanks, Jan