If you purchase blank CD's in bulk the spindle they are stacked on will hold a large cone of thread and the top makes a handy trash bin next to the sewing machine, wooden skewers used on the BBQ for shishkebobs (spelling) make great stilettos when cut in half. ALSO here's a great link for making fancy stilettos with turkey skewers and beads:
www.quiltville.com/pdf/TurkeyLacerStilettos.pdf