I see the words 'hand dyed' and 'silk' thrown around a lot. I'm over here like DMC FTW! All DMC! Specialty threads? This pattern is trying to put on airs. Denied! DMC!
I have only ever used DMC. If the specialty threads weren't so ridiculously expensive I would love to try some of the variegated colors just because they are pretty. But brown is brown so I don't understand paying the extra cost for the ordinary colors.
My standby and the brand I have the most of is DMC, however I do admit that I do have a substantial stash of specialty threads that I've bought through the years for different projects. I really do enjoy the different colors and even the luxurious feel that some of the more premium flosses have.
My stash includes Crescent Colours, Weekly Dye Works, Gentle Arts Sampler and other various premium threads. I love them all
I find that when a pattern is photographed with the specialty threads and I use the DMV conversion mine never looks the same as the photograph. I'm not experienced enough yet to try my own color replacements.