Color-Based Thread Play

• Colored offers contrast or balance.Jupiterimages/liquidlibrary/Getty Images
  
  Choosing an overall effect in stitching a quilt together requires a decision to use contrasting thread, one that matches the background of the fabric or a combination of the two. Ideal opportunities for color-based thread play include blocks with simple piecing, muted fabrics and borders devoid of piecing.
  
  Contrasting thread adds interest to plain blocks and borders and can balance colors in other blocks to create dramatic effects. Unfavorable conditions for contrasting thread include blocks with intricate fabrics or piecing, since the added color play can create an overwhelming effect.
  
  Note: Hand quilters must take care to regulate stitch length since variances will be more noticeable with contrasting thread.
  
  Analogous colors are best employed in meandering patterns or straight lines intended only for fabric stabilization. Matching threads offer subtle effects without the risk of overpowering fabrics or the overall design.
  
  Tip: Fabric markers can help determine whether a color will work well.
  
  

Thread Play and Shapes

• Latticed continuous line patternBrand X Pictures/Brand X Pictures/Getty Images
  
  Stitch patterns can reinforce themes within a quilt by echoing shapes found in fabric patterns or block designs. Choices include self-contained shape templates and/or using continuous line designs.
  
  Individualized shapes require consideration of personalized patterns and seam densities. Shape templates are ideal for outlining objects to create meaning for a quilt's intended recipient. For example, a project designed for an animal lover might incorporate stitched paw prints. Templates should be centered on areas without intricate piecing, since heavier seam densities are more difficult to stitch through.
  
  Continuous line stitching offers homogeneous stabilization for quilts with a uniform pattern. Designs may be simple, like interlaced straight stitches, or involve intricate shapes consistent with the project's theme.
  
  Note: Hand quilters should avoid all-over patterns, since it is difficult to stitch across pieced seams. Consider using self-contained shapes in densely seamed blocks and roving patterns for borders.
  
  

Thread Play and Techniques

• Simplistic quilt designHemera Technologies/PhotoObjects.net/Getty Images
  
  Different quilting techniques achieve diverse results, which require examination prior to making final decisions regarding thread play. Thread play can accent or detract from various techniques, such as stippling.
  
  Stippling involves a meandering line that forms heavily textured patterns. Incorporating color thread play adds a dramatic touch due to the density of stitches in a stippled section, but may be too intense for elaborate fabrics.
  
  

Other Considerations

• Quilting for othersJupiterimages/Photos.com/Getty Images
  
  Determine how thread play will affect a quilt's appearance and functionality before committing to color, stitch shapes or techniques.
  
  Consider the back of the quilt as well as the front, since both are affected by quilting patterns.
  
  Quilted gifts should reflect the tastes of the recipient, not the quilter. Choosing colors and patterns based on the beneficiary demonstrates additional thoughtfulness.
  
  Browse galleries of completed projects from other quilters to forge thread play plans.