I keep mine threaded with black thread since in use natural color on my machine in piece on, then it is ready to do mending of DH pants or whatever. I also use it when I have friends come over to quilt and they don't bring their own machines. BTW, I also go my Sterling for $20. Within the same week I also bought a used Pfaff 230. Again, after I cleaned and oiled it myself, it runs like a charm. It can sew through 14 layers of fabric (I tried) and I use it for same as above, but also for purse making since they get so thick. I got mine online, one on Craigs list and one on our local garage sale site.