It is best if you thread your needle with the thread as it comes off the spool because of the way thread is made, that way you get the best use of the thread and it tangles less. Thread is made in a twisting fashion and that is why they recommend taking it straight off the spool onto the needle. In fact, to save time, I thread several of my needles onto the spool at one time then I just pull one off with a length of about 18" as I go.