How to Begin a Spool of Thread on a Sewing Machine

24 December 2024

When sewing, starting a spool of thread is key to smooth operation and great results. Different brands have different ways of finding the thread end which can affect how you start the spool. Threading your machine incorrectly can cause loose stitches, tangled thread or even damage to your machine. New spools may have different features to secure the thread end which brings their own set of challenges. Whether your a beginner or an experienced sewer, this is a fundamental step to master for sewing success.

This tutorial will show you how to start a spool of thread on most sewing machines, covering the correct way, troubleshooting tips and the importance of threading. Along the way we’ll cover loose thread and how to prevent it.

Why Threading Matters

Threading may seem like a small step but it plays a big role in your sewing project. Threading correctly ensures smooth stitching, prevents thread breakage and protects your machine’s life. For machines like Brother machines or other common machines, threading both the spool and bobbin correctly is key to stitch consistency. Different brands have slightly different threading methods so it’s important to follow the instructions for your machine.

Threading incorrectly can cause skipped stitches, loose thread loops and overall poor sewing quality—all things that can derail your project. By learning the correct way to set up your thread spool and needle you’re investing in better, more efficient sewing.

Thread Spools

Thread spools are a common thing in the sewing world but have you ever stopped to think about how they work? A thread spool is a cylindrical object that holds a length of thread and is designed to make it easy to use the thread for sewing. Most thread spools have a hidden compartment or a way to access the thread end which can be a bit tricky to find. But don’t worry, with a little practice you’ll be able to find the thread end on a new spool of thread.

Thread Preparation

Before you start sewing you need to prepare the thread. This means finding the thread end on the spool and pulling it out to the length you want. You may need to twist the end of the spool or lift the top or bottom to find the thread end. Some thread spools have a hidden compartment that holds the thread end so you may need to search for it. Once you find the thread end you can pull it out and start sewing.

Step-by-Step to Begin a Spool of Thread Stitch

Step 1: Prepare Your Machine

Before threading turn your machine off and place it on a flat surface. This is for safety and to prevent mistakes as movement during threading can mess up the setup.

Materials Needed

You will need:

The thread spool of your choice (clear thread or standard)
A filled bobbin
Sewing machine needle
Your machine’s threading diagram (found in the manual)
Coats Cotton spools, known for their special design features that make finding the thread end easier

Step 2: Put the Spool of Thread on the Spool Pin

Find your machine’s spool pin. It may be vertical or horizontal.

Put the thread spool on the spool pin.
Secure the thread spool with a spool cap (for horizontal spool pins) so it doesn’t move or tangle during stitching.

Step 3: Thread the Upper Thread Path

Follow the exact threading path as indicated in your machine’s manual. Different brands have slightly different threading paths but most machines including Brother have a diagram on the machine itself to guide you.

Pull the Thread: Pull the loose thread end towards the thread guide.
Pass Through Guides: Thread the loose thread through the guides on the machine above the needle area. This will keep the thread controlled and not slack.
Follow the Tension Control: Make sure the thread is through the tension discs to keep the stitching balanced.

Step 4: Thread the Needle

You may need to use a needle threading tool if your machine doesn’t have an automatic needle threader.

Manual Needle Threading

Lower the presser foot so the thread doesn’t slip during the process.
Pass the thread through the last guide just above the needle.
Put the loose thread into the needle’s eye (from front to back) leaving a 6 inch tail.

Step 5: Load the Bobbin

Your machine uses both the spool of thread and the bobbin thread to make stitches. Make sure to load the bobbin correctly to avoid skipped stitches or loose tension.

Open the bobbin case under the needle plate.
Put the bobbin in the case making sure the thread comes out as indicated in your machine’s manual.
Pass the thread through the bobbin tension slot.

Step 6: Pull Up the Bobbin Thread

Now that the bobbin is in, you need to pull up the bobbin thread to join the upper thread.

Hold the upper thread’s loose end with one hand.
Turn the handwheel (or press the foot pedal lightly if it’s automatic) to lower and raise the needle.
The needle will pick up the bobbin thread. Pull both threads to the back of the machine under the presser foot.

Common Mistakes to Watch Out For

Loose Thread

Loose thread will give you uneven stitches and holes in your sewing. Proper threading will give you great results. Make sure both upper and bobbin threads are snug in their tension controls.

Skipped Stitches

Skipped stitches happen when the thread is not seated properly on the guides or tension discs. Check that the thread is sitting well on each threading path.

Wrong Needle

A bent or improperly installed needle will damage threads and disrupt stitching. Make sure your needle is straight and fully seated using the machine’s needle clamp.

Wrong Thread Type

Heavy duty thread spools or clear threads require specific tension settings. Make sure your machine is compatible with these thread types and adjust the tension accordingly.

Troubleshooting

Thread Breakage: If the thread is breaking, it might be because of incorrect tension, worn out needle or wrong thread size. Check these before you start again.
Uneven Stitches: Make sure both upper and bobbin threads are threaded correctly. Also check that the tension is set for the type of fabric and thickness you’re sewing.
Machine Jamming: Jamming happens when threads are tangled in the bobbin case. Remove the bobbin and reel to clear the jam before re-threading.

Safety Precautions

When using thread spools, be careful to take some safety measures to avoid trouble. One of the most important things to do is to keep the thread spool away from children and pets as they might accidentally ingest the thread or get tangled in it. Don’t touch the thread end to your eyes or mouth as it can cause irritation. Also keep the thread spool clean and dry to prevent the thread from tangling or getting damaged. By following these safety precautions you’ll have a safe and enjoyable sewing experience.

Brother Machines Bonus Tip

Brother machines have automatic threading and built-in diagrams. Use these to help you out. If you still have issues, check the user manual for machine specific troubleshooting guides.

Why Threading Your Machine Properly Saves Time and Stress

Properly starting the thread will make the rest of your sewing session smooth. It will minimize the frustrations caused by mistakes like skipped stitches, tangling and uneven seams so you can focus on creativity not corrections.

Follow these easy steps and you’ll be threading like a pro whether you have a Brother machine or any other. Remember, detail here means beautiful sewing projects.