I read somewhere that you need to thread your needle with the thread the same way all the time. It is the way it comes off the spool. I always forget which I am suppose to thread. Try threading your needle with the end that comes off the spool first and knotting that end. If it still knots up do it the opposite---thread the needle with the end that comes off the spool first and knot where you cut the thread. I know it sounds weird, but there is a difference. Yes, I use guttermans.......