Hand applique and thread color

[HomespunMary]

Just the other day, I said I would never try applique, because it seemed both difficult and time consuming, but this should teach me to never say never: yesterday I got a new idea for the quilt I'm working on, and it actually involves a little bit of applique...

So, I've now prepared the applique pieces, and was just going to hand stitch them onto the background fabric, when I realized I couldn't decide what color to use for the thread.

The applique pieces are mainly black, and the background fabric is creme and tan. Should I go with creme or black for the thread? I intend to do the stiches as invisible as possible, but obviously they will show a little bit anyway.

Those of you who have experience in appliqueing, how do you choose the thread color? Do you go with the color of the applique piece or the background?

[Quiltcreator]

You always try to match the thread color to the applique piece. The only place the thread should show is a tiny bit at the very edge of the applique; none shows on the background, so you want the thread to match the applique. And try silk thread - wonderful.

[HomespunMary]

Thanks, Quiltcreator! As it happens, the only silk thread I have at home is actually black, so that will be perfect then!