Threading can be a pain; the easiest way I found to thread is to simply re-thread. I cut the thread close to the spool and single knot the new thread on then slowly run the machine until the new thread shows up in the loops; I do that for each one and then do the #1 thread that goes thru the needle. I always stop before the knot passes thru the needle and thread the needle by hand. I had some problems with the timing on my machine last year (first time I ever had to take it into the shop and it is 12 years old). Needless to say I had to take it back twice 'cause the guy who worked on it wasn't thorough. I was so happy to get her back 'cause she runs like new! It makes a difference in what order you thread your lower loopers 'cause if one thread should be over the other and it isn't you won't get your loops right. I hope that all makes sense.