I'm a complete sewing machine novice....

[headfairy]

do I need special thread for the machine or can I use any cotton thread I have around the house? I want to try some simple patchworking to practice on, the fabric I'm using is either cotton or polycotton. Not sure what sort of weight it would be described as.

Any decent branded thread would probably be fine.

It is best to match the thread to the fabric so if you are using cotton fabric use a cotton thread. Having said that, threads are much better than they were so you probably wouldn't have a problem if you used something different so long as it isn't some cheap thread that hasn't been mercerised and breaks too easily like a tacking thread or something.

For patchwork piecing a size 70-80 needle would be fine, assuming the fabric isn't too heavy like most patchwork fabric. The needle needs to match the thread and the fabric weight, more or less, too.

Have fun!

Oh forgot to say, some machine like mine, don't like some types of thread - in my case Guttermann cotton. If you have tried adjusting everything like the tension and the machine is clean and the needles isn't blunt or damaged, you might just have to try a different sort of thread but hopefully it won't come to that. It is a reasonably common problem but it is a bit trial and error.

OH thanks BBB..... what kind of machine do you have? I have just been given a Brother (can't remember what model number I'm afraid - I'm at work at the mo)? Just wanted to know if certain brand machines don't like certain brand thread.

I have a Janome. I think they might be a bit tempermental! Not heard anything about Brother and your machine is new so it probably it will be OK. I just thought I would mention it as you might think there is an issue with your machine when it was fine, just not suited to the thread.