I like Gutermann's cotton hand quilting thread for traditional quilting where the desire is for small stitches. The neutral buttercream color works in a wide variety of quilts.

This is a 39wt. 3-ply thread that is strong and fine. It has a glazed/waxed finish which helps to prevent tangling and allows the thread to slide easily through fabrics. (Never use glazed thread in your sewing machine.)