You are correct...if they are loose enough they CAN keep the thread from unwinding too much..I use a spool stand and haven't had any trouble with the net pulling off while sewing ...I used varrigated without a problem BUT haven't tried with metalic YET!

I use mine ALL THE TIME. I don't swap and change nets but have one on each and every spool, I make up more nets every time I buy more spools.
A1. Yes.
A2. Yes
A3. Yes
A4. no, the nets are open top and bottom, you just pull the thread through the top of the net.
The nets are very stretchy and they are a snug fit, they don't budge and the thread feeds effortlessly.
A5. Yes Metallic threads feed much better with nets. Variegated threads are no different to ordinary threads but still benefit from the use of thread nets.

The safety factor is an added bonus, no loose dangling threads to get caught up in fly wheels while spools are sitting round waiting to be used.
Once you've used one, you will feel so much happier knowing this fact alone.

No more tangled spools when they're stored.
No more threads unravelling too quickly and getting caught, on place it shouldn't, between the spool and machine.
No more jerky unravelling of threads.
Only disadvantage, it's not easy to see your colours once each spool is safely ensconced in its own net. Small price to pay.
Hugs n roses. Meganne

I also use thread nets while embroidering. Meganne's answer is very good!

I use the nets for embroidery, mainly when using metallic threads as I haven't enough to cover every spool I have, not by a long way. Meganne's answer is so exhausting there's really nothing to add.

I use thread nets on all my metalics, but I fold it in half, seems to work better on my machine, then I bought some threads on ebay that were kinda weird spools and wouldn't feed right but a thread net fixed that. I got mine on ebay and they were pretty cheap. Your dealer also has them. Definetly a good investment on some if not all your threads. I keep one on all my megal spools to keep them from unraveling.....

Colleen, I use a thread net on my Metallic threads, only. But then I have a different system for all the thread ends - I have been using that non-stick tape - that sticks to itself - for years - but starting using that technique that you twist the end loop three times and pull the end - like the manufactor's does - we each find ways that work for us - use what you can of all these suggustions and enjoy embroidery. *4U

Thanks Meganne for the great tips and thanks to Waterlily for asking.

Meg, in reading your answer you say you make up nets. What do you make them out of? I only have a few because of the cost.

On my Serger site they show you that the net is pushed through the hole then pulled over the tread.Pull it over from the bottom leaving a small space at the top so that the thread runs smoothly.

Ann

I use thread nets on the spools of my multi-spool holder which is above the machine. It helps to keep them from coming off of the spool too loosely.