I have always used Madeira Polyneon and love it. I have every color. I do have random spools of other brands and they are fine also. I personally never buy Sulky but that is my preference. I had sample spools and didn't like them at all. I'm sure it depends on your machine. I have a Diamond and an Epic HV. I did use a thread spool stand on my diamond and loved it, but on my Epic, I just stand the large spool upright on the spool holder and have never had a problem. Good luck!