Several times the orientation of the thread spool has been mentioned, here on the Board and elsewhere. Some say the spool is designed to be on its side, others upright. How do you know which is which? My machine offers both positions so I don't believe orientation is dependent upon the machine type. And, when I look at a spool, it doesn't indicate orientation. So, what's the secret? And, why is orientation important? Thanks.

Some threads will twist and get caught in the various threading positions and eventually break, if not oriented correctly. It is especially important with specialty threads, like invisible and metallic threads.

Okay, but how do you know which way they're supposed to sit?

I actually know this one! It depends on how the thread is put on the spool. If the thread is in the spool straight then the thread needs to come off the spool straight as well you would position that spool upright. If the thread crosses in a V pattern, the thread is meant to come off from above it so you can either use a cone holder and have the thread on it or load the thread sideways so it pulls it over the top of the spool.

I found some photos so I hope they help explain this too.

Ripped

Wow, thanks for the info!! The pictures definitely make a difference. I suspect I've been using some spools incorrectly (but don't tell anyone! _:-)_ )

Thank You. I didnt know this. Now I will pay closer attention.

Just when I think I know it ALL (ha!) I learn something new. The more I learn the more I know that I don't know much! Thanks for the question.

I've been meaning to ask the question for a while now. Guess the right brain cells & karma lined up correctly!

I just got excited that I could actually answer one! :thumbup:

Wonderful feeling, isn't it?! Well done.

Yep Ripped on Scotch! You got it! I didn't know this until I took my first Bernina Mastery class. I believe we were also told that when upright, the thread should come off from the back of the spool, just like the first pic, you would take the end of the loose thread over to the left to thread the machine, so the thread would be coming from the back. Ya learn somethin' new every day don't ya?

Cool! Thanks for posting the pictures - I definitely know I've done things wrong in the past. You guys all teach me so much on this board! My girlfriend, who isn't a lurker like me, is always amazed at the things I share with her. I always give this place credit! You're all a wonderful resource for me!!!

Thanks to all!!

http://video.about.com/quilting/Quilting-Thread-101.htm

http://www.quiltuniversity.com/difficult_threads.htm