I started with the tiny spools and soon decided I needed to have the opportunity to not run out every time I started a project! I have tried Robison Anton, Sulky, Coats and Clark, Floriani, etc. all worked well in my Viking DIamond, however when I found Metro thread, I ordered the big selection (about 69 cents per spool) and have been very pleased. You do need a large selection to do a design with shading (4 shades of green, 3 pinks, 2 reds just to do a rose) so I don't think having a great selection is overrated. I also use the large Sulky spools for the basics, and I use them for utility colors....logos green and blue can be replaced and they will be the same "dye lot" as the last spool. Price, availability, shipping costs, color selection all play a part in what threads you will use, don't limit yourself to one brand if you want variety, however some folks only use one kind and are happy. Do what makes you happy!