Many years ago took a cross stitch class. They gave an excellant hint to keep your floss from tangling. Yes, cut it less than the 18 inches, that helps but the trick is that floss has a nap. After you cut it, run it between your fingers, both ways. One way will be smooth and tangle free, the other way you can feel the roughness, that is what causes the tangles. Hold the end and when you find the smooth way then thread your needle with that end that you are holding. Works every time. Good luck, youlll do great. :)