Quick Answer
The Bottom Line #635 Medium Blue is a versatile polyester thread for longarm quilting, especially when your quilt top features medium blue tones, navy, or gray fabrics. Its 60 wt 2-ply construction creates a fine, lint-free stitch that blends well without overpowering the design.
Why Thread Color Matters in Longarm Quilting
Thread color affects how much the quilting stands out or recedes into the fabric. Medium blue sits between light and dark blues, making it a good middle ground for quilts with multiple blue shades. It can also work as a neutral accent on white or cream backgrounds, adding subtle contrast without drawing attention away from the piecing.
One trade-off: medium blue may not match exactly if your quilt uses a very specific blue tone. In that case, a slightly lighter or darker shade often works better. Test a small sample before committing to a full quilt.
Polyester vs. Cotton for Longarm Quilting
Polyester thread like The Bottom Line is stronger and more elastic than cotton, which helps it withstand the tension and speed of longarm machines. It also resists breaking and produces less lint, meaning fewer thread changes and cleaner machine operation.
The downside: polyester can feel slicker on the fabric surface and may not be ideal for hand-quilting or heirloom projects where cotton's matte finish is preferred. For most longarm quilting, polyester is a reliable choice.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I match #635 Medium Blue to my quilt fabric?
Hold the thread cone next to your fabric in natural daylight. Medium blue works best with solid blue fabrics, blue-toned prints, or as a subtle contrast on light neutrals. If your fabric has a variegated blue pattern, test a small stitch sample to see how the thread reads from a distance.
Can I use this thread in the bobbin as well?
Yes. The Bottom Line is designed for both top and bobbin use. Because it's 60 wt and fine, it reduces bobbin tension issues common with thicker threads. For best results, match the bobbin thread to the top thread color or use a slightly lighter shade in the bobbin. Using matching thread in the bobbin prevents color show-through on the quilt back.
What needle size works best with 60 wt polyester thread?
A 75/11 or 80/12 quilting needle is ideal. These sizes accommodate the fine thread without causing skipped stitches or fabric damage. For dense quilting or thicker batting, an 80/12 offers more stability. Always test needle and thread on a scrap quilt sandwich before starting your project.
Product Facts
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The Bottom Line #635 Medium Blue: The Bottom Line is a lint-free polyester quilting, embroidery, sewing, binding, bobbin thread. Each cone has 3,000 yards. Thread Weight: 60 wt. 2-ply. The 60 wt 2-ply construction creates a fine stitch that doesn't add bulk, ideal for longarm quilting where thread buildup can distort the fabric. The lint-free property keeps your machine cleaner during long sessions.
The Bottom Line #635 Medium Blue