I only use cones of thread. Don't buy serger thread however. My Janome 6600 has a holder that accommodates cones, but otherwise on other machines I use a metal base thread stand. I got mine from superiorthreads.com and I use their thread all the time (So Fine). Cones are much more economical. However, if I need a colored thread which is rare, I do buy Coats and Clark or Gutterman at Joanns. I usually just stick with the neutrals on the cones.