Beginner's How To Thread Spool On Sewing Machine Steps

Threading a sewing machine might look tricky at first. It’s a key step for happy sewing. Knowing how to thread your sewing machine helps the thread run smoothly. This stops problems like broken threads or messy stitches. We will show you how to do this simple job step by step. You will learn about the main parts and what they do. Let’s get your machine ready to sew!

How To Thread Spool On Sewing Machine
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Knowing Your Sewing Machine Parts

Before you put any thread on, it helps to know the main parts you will use. Every machine is a bit different. But most have the same basic parts for threading. Look at your machine’s manual too. It shows your specific model.

Main Bits for Threading

Here are the key players in threading:

The spool pin: This is where you put the spool of thread. It might stand up or lay flat. It holds the thread neatly.
Thread guides: These are small hooks, loops, or clips. They guide the thread along a path. The path keeps the thread in the right place.
Thread tension discs: These are usually two discs. The thread goes between them. They put just the right amount of pull on the thread. This makes stitches look good.
The take-up lever: This is a part that moves up and down. It pulls thread from the spool. It gives thread to the needle. It looks like an arm or a hook that goes up and down.
Needle: The needle takes the thread through the fabric. Threading the needle is the last step for the top thread.
Bobbin: This is a small spool for the bottom thread. It sits under the needle area.
Bobbin case: This holds the bobbin in place. Some machines have a case you take out. Others have a drop-in system.
Bobbin winding pin/area: This is where you put an empty bobbin to wind thread onto it. Bobbin winding is a job you do before sewing.

Learning these sewing machine parts makes threading easier.

Getting Ready to Thread

Before you start threading, do these simple things.

Turn off your machine. Safety first! This stops the needle from moving by accident.
Raise the needle to its highest point. You can use the handwheel on the side of the machine. Turn it towards you.
Lift the presser foot. This is the foot that holds the fabric down. Lifting it opens the thread tension discs. This lets the thread sit in them right.

Now you are ready to start putting the thread on the machine.

Upper Threading: The Top Path

Upper threading is putting the thread from the spool down to the needle. Follow the numbers or marks on your machine. They show the right path. Always follow your machine’s specific path.

Step 1: Put the Spool On

Place the spool of thread onto the spool pin.
Make sure the thread unwinds smoothly.
If your spool pin stands up, use a spool cap that fits. This keeps the spool from wobbling. It helps the thread come off nicely. The cap should be just bigger than the spool end.
If your spool pin lays flat, put the spool on. Put a cap over it to hold it.

Step 2: Guide the Thread

Find the first thread guides. They are usually near the spool pin.
Pull the thread from the spool.
Feed the thread through the first thread guides. These might be hooks or clips.
Follow the numbers or lines on your machine. These show you the next step.

Step 3: Go Down and Around

The thread usually goes down the front of the machine.
It then makes a turn. It might go into a channel.
Follow the path shown on your machine. It might look like a U-turn.
Make sure the thread goes into all the right spots.

Step 4: Catch the Take-Up Lever

This is a key step. The thread must go through the hole or hook in the take-up lever.
The take-up lever should be at its highest point. You set this earlier.
Bring the thread up from the U-turn.
Put the thread through the eye or hook of the take-up lever. If the lever is not high enough, turn the handwheel to bring it up.

Step 5: Go Down Again

From the take-up lever, the thread goes back down.
Follow the guides along the arm of the machine.
There might be one or more thread guides here. These keep the thread straight before it reaches the needle.
Make sure the thread is held by these guides.

Step 6: Reach the Needle Area

The thread is now near the needle.
There is usually a final thread guide just above the needle. This guide keeps the thread in line for needle threading. It might be a small hook or a little wire guide.
Thread this last guide.

Step 7: Thread the Needle

This is the final step for the top thread.
Put the thread through the eye of the needle.
Most home sewing machine needles thread from front to back. Some thread from side to side. Check your machine manual or needle type.
Cut the end of the thread clean. A clean cut makes needle threading easier.
Push the end of the thread through the needle eye.
Pull about 6 inches of thread through the eye.
Pull this thread under the presser foot.
Lay the thread towards the back of the machine.

You have now finished the upper threading! The thread path goes from the spool pin, through guides, around tension discs, up through the take-up lever, down through more guides, and into the needle.

Bobbin Winding: Getting the Bottom Thread Ready

The bobbin holds the bottom thread. You need to wind thread onto an empty bobbin before you can use it. Bobbin winding uses a special part of the machine.

Step 1: Put Thread On

Put your spool of thread on the spool pin, just like for upper threading.
Find the bobbin winding path on your machine. It’s different from the upper threading path.
Follow the machine’s marks for winding. The thread usually goes through a special tension disc or guide just for winding. This guide helps wind the thread smoothly and evenly onto the bobbin.

Step 2: Set Up the Bobbin

Take an empty bobbin.
Put the end of the thread through a small hole on the bobbin. Most plastic and metal bobbins have small holes.
Hold the thread end while you start winding. This stops it from coming loose.

Step 3: Place the Bobbin for Winding

Put the bobbin onto the bobbin winding pin. This pin is usually on the top or front of the machine.
Push the bobbin winding pin towards the side. This makes it ready to work. On some machines, you click it into place. This movement often tells the machine to stop sewing and start winding the bobbin.

Step 4: Start Winding Thread

Hold the loose thread end coming from the bobbin hole.
Gently press the foot pedal or the start button.
The bobbin will spin fast and start winding thread.
Let go of the loose thread end after the bobbin starts winding. The thread will break off or you can trim it.
Watch the bobbin wind. The machine will put the thread on evenly.

Step 5: Stop Winding

Do not fill the bobbin too much. It should not go over the edges.
Most machines stop bobbin winding by themselves when the bobbin is full. There is often a small lever or sensor that stops the winding.
If your machine doesn’t stop itself, watch it. Stop pressing the pedal or button when the bobbin looks full.
Push the bobbin winding pin back to its resting spot. This makes the machine ready to sew again.
Take the bobbin off the pin.
Cut the thread connecting the bobbin to the spool.

Now you have a full bobbin ready to use for your bottom thread.

Putting the Bobbin in the Machine

The next step is to put the wound bobbin into the machine. The way you do this depends on your machine type. There are two main types: top-loading (drop-in) and front-loading.

Top-Loading Bobbin (Drop-in)

This is common on newer machines.

Open the clear cover over the bobbin area. This is usually on the needle plate under the presser foot.
Take out the empty bobbin or old one if needed.
Take your newly wound bobbin.
Look at the direction the thread comes off the bobbin. Your machine will show you the right way. There’s usually a small picture. For many, the thread needs to come off counter-clockwise, like the letter ‘P’.
Place the bobbin into the bobbin area. Make sure it sits flat.
Draw the thread from the bobbin.
Follow the path marked in the bobbin area. There will be slots or guides.
Pull the thread through the guides. This sets the correct bobbin tension.
Leave a few inches of thread tail lying on the needle plate.
Close the clear cover.

Front-Loading Bobbin

This is common on older or mechanical machines.

Open the door or cover on the front of the machine, usually near the bobbin area.
Pull out the bobbin case. This might have a small latch or handle.
Take out the old bobbin from the case if needed.
Take your newly wound bobbin.
Hold the bobbin case in one hand.
Put the bobbin into the bobbin case.
Look at the direction the thread comes off the bobbin in the case. Again, check your manual or the case itself. It might need to come off clockwise or counter-clockwise.
Guide the thread into the slot on the side of the bobbin case.
Pull the thread firmly until it slips under the little tension spring on the bobbin case. You should feel a slight click or resistance. This sets the bobbin tension.
Leave a few inches of thread hanging from the bobbin case.
Put the bobbin case back into the machine. It should click or lock into place. Make sure it’s seated properly.
Close the door or cover.

Now both the top thread and the bottom thread (bobbin thread) are in the machine.

Bringing Up the Bobbin Thread

You have the top thread through the needle and the bobbin in place. Now you need to bring the bobbin thread up through the needle plate hole. This makes a loop for sewing.

Step 1: Hold the Top Thread

Hold the tail of the top thread that comes out of the needle eye. Hold it gently with one hand. Keep a little tension on it.

Step 2: Turn the Handwheel

With your other hand, turn the handwheel on the side of the machine.
Turn the handwheel towards you slowly.
Watch the needle go down into the needle plate hole.
Watch the needle come back up. As it comes up, it will catch the bobbin thread. It will pull the bobbin thread up in a loop.

Step 3: Catch the Loop

As the needle rises, you will see a loop of bobbin thread appear on the needle plate surface.
Use your fingers or a seam ripper to gently catch this loop.
Pull the loop upwards.

Step 4: Pull Up the Thread

As you pull the loop, the end of the bobbin thread will come up through the hole.
Pull the bobbin thread tail completely through the needle plate hole.

Step 5: Arrange the Threads

You now have two thread tails: the top thread and the bobbin thread.
Pull both thread tails under the presser foot.
Lay both threads towards the back of the machine.

You are now fully threaded and ready to sew!

Checking Your Threading

It’s a good idea to do a quick check.

Look at the path of the top thread. Did it go through all the guides? Is it in the take-up lever? Is it between the thread tension discs?
Is the bobbin in the right way? Is its thread through the tension slot on its case or area?
Do you have both threads pulled under the presser foot and to the back?

If anything looks wrong, unthread that part and do it again carefully. Wrong threading is the most common reason for stitch problems.

Common Threading Issues and Simple Fixes

Even when you follow the steps, you might have small problems. Don’t worry! Most are easy to fix. Usually, the fix is related to threading.

Issue 1: Thread Breaks Often

Why it happens: The thread path is wrong. The thread tension is too tight. The spool is catching. The needle is bent or old.
Simple Fix: Re-thread the top completely. Make sure the presser foot is up when threading the top. Check the spool cap size. Change the needle.

Issue 2: Loops of thread on the fabric (usually underneath)

Why it happens: The top thread tension is too loose. Or, the bobbin thread is not in its tension properly.
Simple Fix: Re-thread the top, making sure the thread snaps into the tension discs. Check that the bobbin thread is correctly seated in its tension path/case.

Issue 3: Machine Skips Stitches

Why it happens: The needle is not in right. The needle is the wrong type for the fabric. The needle is bent. The machine is not threaded right.
Simple Fix: Check the needle is in all the way and facing the right way. Change the needle for a new one suitable for your fabric. Re-thread the whole machine (top and bottom).

Issue 4: Thread Bunches Up (Nest)

Why it happens: The machine is not threaded right, often the top thread has skipped a guide or is not in the take-up lever or tension discs. Or, the presser foot was not down when starting to sew.
Simple Fix: Re-thread the top very carefully, following every step. Make sure the presser foot is lowered before you start sewing.

Table of Sewing Machine Parts for Threading

Here is a simple table showing the sewing machine parts used for threading and what they do.

Part	What It Looks Like	What It Does for Threading
Spool Pin	A stick or flat holder for the thread spool.	Holds the `spool` of thread neatly.
Thread Guides	Small hooks, clips, or loops.	Show the thread’s path. Keep thread in place.
Thread Tension Discs	Two metal discs, sometimes hidden.	Add the right pull (`thread tension`) to thread.
Take-Up Lever	An arm or hook that moves up and down.	Pulls thread from `spool`. Gives thread to needle.
Needle	Pointed metal piece with an eye.	Takes thread through fabric. Needs `needle threading`.
Bobbin	Small spool for bottom thread.	Holds the bottom thread. Needs `winding thread`.
Bobbin Case	Holds the `bobbin`. May have tension spring.	Keeps `bobbin` in place. Sets `bobbin` tension.
Bobbin Winding Area	A pin and guides on the machine.	Helps you wind thread onto the `bobbin` (`bobbin winding`).

Knowing these parts helps you follow the steps easily. Each part has a job to make the thread flow right.

Taking Care While Threading

Using care when you thread helps a lot.

Slow down: Don’t rush. Take your time.
Use bright light: Make sure you can see the guides and the needle eye well. Use a lamp if needed.
Clean machine: Dust and lint can block the thread path or tension. Keep your machine clean, especially the bobbin area and tension discs.
Right thread: Use thread made for sewing machines. Cheap thread can break or shred easily.
Right needle: Use a sharp needle that is right for your fabric and thread size. A dull or wrong needle can cause problems.

The Path of Thread: Why It Matters

The path the thread takes is not just random. Each guide and turn is there for a reason.

Spool pin: Keeps the thread supply steady.
First guides: Start the thread on the right path from the spool.
Tension discs: This is very important. The thread must go between these discs. They control how much pull is on the thread. If the thread is not in them, the stitch will be loose and messy. Lifting the presser foot opens these discs so the thread can seat properly.
Take-up lever: This part is always moving when the machine sews. It pulls up the extra thread needed for each stitch. If the thread is not in the take-up lever, the machine cannot form a stitch. The thread will loop and tangle.
Guides down to needle: These guides keep the thread from tangling or snagging on other parts just before it goes into the needle.
Needle eye: The thread goes through the needle eye to enter the fabric.

Every step in the upper threading path is important. Missing just one can cause big problems when you try to sew.

Winding Thread onto the Bobbin: Getting It Right

Winding thread onto the bobbin seems simple, but how you do it matters.

Even winding: The thread should wind on smoothly and evenly. It should not be bumpy or piled higher on one side. Even winding helps the thread come off the bobbin smoothly during sewing.
Not too loose: The thread needs a little tension as it winds. If it’s too loose, the bobbin can get tangled inside the machine. This is why there’s a special tension guide for bobbin winding.
Not too full: A bobbin that is too full can get stuck in the case or area. It can also cause tangled thread. Fill it to the edges, but not over.
Right bobbin: Use the type of bobbin made for your machine. Using the wrong size or shape bobbin can cause problems with tension and fit.

Taking care when winding thread prevents headaches later when you are trying to sew. It makes sure the bobbin thread feeds out just right.

Bringing it all together: A Smooth Operation

Threading is like setting up a little system. The top thread follows its path. The bobbin thread follows its path. When you sew, the machine links these two threads together in the fabric. The take-up lever pulls up the loop of bobbin thread. The needle pushes the top thread down. The thread tension makes sure both threads have the right pull so the stitch looks neat on both sides of the fabric.

If the thread tension is off on the top, you will see loops on the bottom. If the bobbin thread tension is off, you will see loops on the top. Correct threading gets the thread through the tension parts correctly.

Learning to thread is the first big step in sewing. Once you can do it easily, you are ready for the fun part – sewing! Practice a few times. Soon, you will be able to thread your machine fast without even thinking.

Summary of Steps

Here is a short look back at the main steps:

Get Ready: Turn off machine, lift needle, lift presser foot.
Upper Threading:
- Put spool on spool pin.
- Follow guides down and around.
- Go up through the take-up lever.
- Go down through guides to the needle.
- Thread the needle (needle threading).
- Pull thread under foot, to back.
Bobbin Winding:
- Put spool on spool pin.
- Guide thread through winding tension.
- Put thread end in empty bobbin hole.
- Put bobbin on winding pin. Push pin over.
- Start machine to wind bobbin winding. Stop when full.
- Cut thread.
Insert Bobbin:
- Open bobbin area.
- Place bobbin correctly (check direction).
- Guide thread through bobbin tension area.
- Leave tail out. Close cover/case.
Bring Up Bobbin Thread:
- Hold top thread.
- Turn handwheel towards you one full turn.
- Catch the loop of bobbin thread that comes up.
- Pull the bobbin thread tail up.
Arrange Threads:
- Pull both thread tails under presser foot.
- Lay them towards the back.

That is the full process for winding thread onto the bobbin, putting the bobbin in, and doing the upper threading.

Keeping Threading Easy

A few simple habits make threading less of a chore.

Always thread with presser foot up: This lets the thread sit correctly in the tension discs. If the foot is down, the discs are closed, and the thread just sits on top, not in them. This causes loose stitches.
Always thread the needle last: After the thread is through all the guides and the take-up lever, then you thread the needle.
Use good thread: Good quality thread is smoother and stronger. It goes through the machine better.
Check your manual: Every machine is a little different. Your manual is the best guide for your specific machine. It shows the exact path for your model.
Practice: The more you thread, the faster and easier it gets. Do it a few times even if you don’t plan to sew. It’s a good skill to master.

Threading is a basic but key skill for using a sewing machine. It makes sure your machine works right. It helps you get nice, even stitches on your projects. Take your time, follow the steps, and soon it will feel like second nature.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Here are some common questions people ask about threading sewing machines.

Q: Do I really need to turn off the machine to thread it?

A: Yes, it’s best to turn it off. This stops the needle from moving unexpectedly. It is a simple safety step. It keeps your fingers safe.

Q: Why does my top thread keep breaking?

A: The most likely reasons are wrong upper threading (missed guide, not in take-up lever, not in tension), thread tension is too tight, using bad quality thread, or a bent/wrong needle. Re-thread carefully, check your thread type, and change the needle.

Q: My stitches look loose and loopy on the bottom. What is wrong?

A: This usually means the top thread tension is too loose. It often happens because the top thread is not correctly in the tension discs or the take-up lever. Make sure the presser foot is up when you thread the top. Then re-thread the top path carefully.

Q: My stitches look loose and loopy on the top. What is wrong?

A: This usually means the bobbin thread tension is too loose. This happens if the bobbin thread is not seated in its tension spring or slot in the bobbin case or area. Check how you put the bobbin in. Make sure the thread is in the right spot for tension.

Q: Does it matter which way the spool goes on the spool pin?

A: Yes, it can matter. The thread should unwind smoothly without catching. For vertical spool pins, check if the thread unwinds from the front or the back over the top. Use the right spool cap to help. For horizontal spool pins, the thread usually comes off the front of the spool. Check your manual if unsure. The goal is smooth, even unwinding.

Q: How full should I wind the bobbin?

A: Wind it until it is almost full, but not over the edge. If thread spills over the edge, it can snag and cause problems. Most machines stop automatically when the bobbin is full enough.

Q: Do I thread the needle from the front or the side?

A: Most home sewing machine needles thread from front to back. Check your machine manual to be sure. Some special needles or machines might thread differently. A flat side on the needle shaft usually faces the back.

Q: What if I miss a thread guide?

A: Missing even one thread guide can cause problems. The thread won’t follow the right path. The thread tension or take-up lever won’t work correctly. This leads to bad stitches or tangled thread. Always follow the full path marked on the machine.

Q: Why do I need to pull both threads under the presser foot and to the back?

A: This prevents the thread from getting caught in the needle plate when you start sewing. It also helps the machine begin sewing smoothly without the thread bunching up right away.

Q: My machine has an auto `needle threading` tool. How does that work?

A: Many newer machines have a tool to help thread the needle eye. You bring the tool down, hook the thread, and a tiny hook pushes the thread through the eye. It is a great help! Follow your manual for how to use your specific machine’s tool. Even with the tool, you still need to do all the steps for the upper threading path before threading the needle.

Threading is a skill you will use every time you sew. Take the time to learn it well. It makes your sewing projects much more fun and successful. Happy sewing!