Thread, Thread, and More Thread

We can't stitch our quilts without thread. It comes in a multitude of colors and weights. We can't do it all with one type or one spool. We have all-purpose thread and a spectacular collection of sparkly, shiny, silky, light weight, and heavier weight offerings all designed to inspire our creativity. 

The problem that comes with this stockpile of shades and types of thread is storage, of course. How do we keep it all handy and manageable without overloading our sewing surface?

I have a small dresser that helps keep my thread collection under control. I have divided my cotton and all-purpose thread by color in the top drawers, followed by serger thread and fun decorative threads in the bottom. This seems to work out well for me. (Yes, and some day I may even remove it all temporarily to paint the outside of the dresser.)

I have only one problem. That is that my thread accumulation has exceeded the space. Notice the spools on the floor. So, in addition to my dresser, I have several shoe (boot) boxes for thread that I use mainly for quilting my projects. It seems these boxes were made just the perfect height for a cone of thread to stand up in them. (Obviously, they had quilters in mind when they were designing the boxes, don't you think?)

What clever ways have you found to keep your thread under control and close at hand?