shorter lengths of thread will make all the difference in the world- people always think they will save time if they start with a piece of thread 6 feet long---when you spend most of your time untangling you are not saving anything- start with about 18" of thread- it is a lot faster to rethread a needle than to untangle yards of thread. you can always start with 4 or more needles threaded (with 18" lengths) in a pin cushion so when you run out of one you can just pick up the next one. also, for that linty cotton thread you want to use up- try some bees wax * or 'Thread Heaven' which comes in a little 1" square box- you simply drag the thread across it before starting- same with the bees wax---most shops (local quilt shops and places like Joanne's and hobby lobby) carry both of these products.