For folks who use larger thread spools, like 1/2 and 1 lb spools, consider the use of Cone nets to help with tangles, loops etc. to keep the thread on the bobbin until the thread is ready to be used, and when used for wrapping, the thread is essentially metered off as it is used.

Particularly, if one is working with metallic threads and or other threads that are "springy" in nature:

[colmanandcompany.com]

This type of netting has been used for many years in the sewing industry to keep threads under control.

Here are other styles of thread nets to control the thread on different sized bobbins:
[www.amazon.com]

Another style of a thread net to control slippery thread:
[www.thecolorfulworldofsewing.com]

Here is how to use a thread net for a conventional sized spool of thread where the thread comes off the side of the spool:
[help.brother-usa.com]

and:
[www.amazon.com]

Roger,
is there a tendancy foer the nets to damage the thread fibers as the thread rubs on the net as it passes through the net ??
Herb

THANK YOU ROGER!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! That may be just the solution I have needed!!! I designed my thread carriage / tensioners with the spools vertical, and at times the thread can flop down and under the spool; it doesn’t happen often but Murphy’s Law dictates that when it does, it does so at the most inopportune time. While I am certain a spool net would work flawlessly when the thread is being pulled off the END of the spool, I am uncertain how it will work with the thread being pulled off the SIDE of the spool. Herb makes a good point about the net possibly causing thread fuzzies, but one never knows until trying it. Nonetheless, you have offered me an idea with which to experiment; it certainly has a lot of merit, and hopefully promise.
You are the best, Roger!!! You are always a wealth of information and an asset to this site. I want to be just like you when I grow up.

Mark Talmo
FISHING IS NOT AN ESCAPE FROM LIFE BUT RATHER A DEEPER IMMERSION INTO IT!!! BUILDING YOUR OWN SIMPLY ENHANCES THE EXPERIENCE.

nice work, Roger. While I don't use big thread spools, I have wondered how they could be handled.

Roger,
Your suggestion of “cone nets” prompted me to try them on my thread set-up. The cone nets work perfectly if the thread is taken off the END of the spool. I have to be honest and say that I am experiencing difficulty attempting to adapt them to my vertical, tensioned spools where the thread is taken off from the SIDE of the spool. But I have not given-up hope; the idea seems too good to ignore; I’ll just have to wait for that 3:00 AM brainstorm. Nonetheless, thank you for your contribution and willingness to share in helping so many on the forum. I’ll keep you posted.

Mark Talmo
FISHING IS NOT AN ESCAPE FROM LIFE BUT RATHER A DEEPER IMMERSION INTO IT!!! BUILDING YOUR OWN SIMPLY ENHANCES THE EXPERIENCE.