Keeping things organized

Here's a simple trick I use for sewing.  I always load the plain/clear bobbins that generally come with a machine with my regular polyester blend threads for piecing.  Most companies make colored bobbins which are easily purchased through your dealer or online.  I use my colored bobbins for my cotton and quilting threads.  This way, even if I don't work on a project for many weeks I know that I'm using the right thread especially when I am piecing and quilting with the same colors such as white or black.  Although you won't ruin a quilt by using cotton thread to piece your blocks, I don't think you'll have quite as nice a result if you use a non quilting thread (cotton, metallics etc.) to finish the top.

Make sure you pre-load at least 3 bobbins with your threads as it saves time when you're working hard to finish that project.  

You will use more thread for free motion quilting than you do for straight line sewing but all thread spools are easily marked with the amount on it and it's not too hard to guesstimate how much you will need.  I favor King Tut superior cotton threads for quilting.  It comes in 500 yard spools and 2000 yard cones and boasts a wide range of colors.

 If you use the cone version you should invest in a thread holder which sits beside your machine and threads through the rest of the machine normally.  Most machines won't accommodate the size of the cone.

If you are blessed with space then invest in a thread wall rack.  It keeps everything organized and you will quickly see that you do (or don't) have the color you need.  Happy sewing!