I buy most of my basic color thread on cones because it is economical. I most often use Superior or Aurifil. I also use a lot of Precencia thread. I buy various weights as I like 50 for piecing and 40 or sometimes 30 for quilting. Please do not use thread made for sergers for piecing because it has less twist and is therefore less strong. It is made to be used with several threads which give combined strength and coverage and is special use thread.