I use a conventional thread guide as shown here. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01HR58V6K...1-219660d24dcd

I have an older Brother machine that feeds thread off sideways. No matter where I put the stand, the thread would get tangled on the machine and hang up. I solved the problem by running the thread through the bobbin threading guide on the top of the machine after I ran it over the top of the thread stand. This causes it to feed as if the cone is sideways on the machine. My smallest thread cones I use are about 1100 yards, but mostly I use 3000 and 5000 yards. You save so much money using the larger cones, and it is really hard to run out of thread.

As Zozee said I use a mug and put my cone in it. works fine for me. Make sure the mug is taller and heavier

I used a small ceramic planter to hold the cone, and taped safety pins to my machine to create a thread path that does not get caught on anything. Worked great. If the planter pot is rough terra cotta, just drape a silky scarf in it and set the thread into that so you are not causing friction that will ruin your thread.

Thanks for all the suggestions. I think I will try the mug technique when I get my thread in.

The coffee mug (or quart canning jar, etc.) work if you put it on the floor. If it's just behind the machine, the thread isn't pulling straight upward, and can drag and mess with your tension. Cone threads are made to pull straight off the top.

I use a mug too. Have had no problems.

None of the above for me. I have a Janome that the spool can either be sideways or upright and there are those cap things. I have the spool holder upright with one cap thing on it. Then an empty spool from invisible thread and the cone thread fits nicely over that. It's a bit loose but it works fine and is not noisy. Doesn't take up space around my machine either.

To keep your thread from tangling in the wheel of the machine when using a thread stand or mug, or whatever, I taped a large safety pin on the top of my machine (away from the flywheel) and thread the thread through the eyelet in the safety pin, problem solved.

I usr a metal thread stand love it ..

I wish mine were heavier. It tips over so easily. Otherwise it is a very nice stand and works well. Just don't bump it!