I knew about the thread, but had forgotten. I watched how I work and I do it correctly - and I'm left handed. Believe me, lefties do sew somewhat differently - I start at the other end, sewing toward myself and it does make a difference in how that piece of thread 'unravels'. Needles are punched out of sheets and that's why there is a very definite front and back of them. If you're having trouble threading your needle, gently rotate it in your fingers and try again - from the other side. Should make a big difference.