My bobbin came with thread on it so I just did a little test with it. I haven't tried to wind a bobbin with the machine yet. I know it sews a beautiful straight seam, and maybe one of these days I'll do more than look at it. I know you'll love your little machine. It looked like it was in great shape when you got it. If you don't have the manual, it is available for download. You should be able to find it if you Google it. DH found it for me.