I was given a very large spool of cotton grey thread. My machine won't handle the whole spool as the "hole" on the spool is much too large. I love the thread but there must be a way I can use it with an empty spool. I keep them on hand all of the time. Mostly for my cats to play with :roll: I was able to fill a bobbin by placing a wooden spoon in the center and just holding it.