Hi Claude,
I have a Designer 1 and use Madeira Rayon 1000m spools and Marathon Polyester 1000m cones. The cones I always place on a thread stand (the Viking one that hooks onto your machine) and that works great for the spools as well. Both brands don't give me any problems just as well as I have the 6 drawer chest with all Madeira colours on 1000m spools. Made a picture and put something behind to give a better view (and to hide the mess as well).

I also use Madeira rayon 1000m spools for my designer 1 and they hardly give me probs. The only prob I have is with the bobbin thread, my machine seems to prefer rayon in the bobbin too making my embroidery more expensive grrrr. Somehow the bobbin thread always keep showing on the right side no matter how I adjust the tension. could be I am doing something wrong though not the machine lol

Mops, thank you very much for your picture, where had you the thread stand?

I have a D1 and have never had the slightest problem with any thread. I have often joked that I could probably stitch with dental floss. The ones I use the most are Threadart and Metro. I do have some Madeira, some Coats and some that I really don't even know what the name is. I use the large cones all the time. I always sit the cone on the floor beside my machine.(right side) Then I run the thread up and over the first spool holder, then under the second spool holder. From there I thread it just like normal. Like I said, I have never had a problem with any thread. Just make sure not to get tangled in your thread or let it get over in the flywheel. <br /><br />Good luck!<br /><br />Lisa

I have had this same problem with my Babylock. So I guess I am no help. H&*

Thank you aismom, you have give to me a new idea to try: to put the cone holder on the floor, perhaps it will give more tension to the thread, and it will no more tangle.