While pulling on the thread do not pull hard. Jiggle the hand wheel as you gently pull on the thread. Pulling hard on the thread can break the tip off of the hook. (I have repaired one that had the thread yanked on and the tip broken off of the hook. Not easy to find the expensive parts.) If you take it apart take care with the screws and parts, they are expensive also. Working on a soft surface (old towel)and placing small parts on a magnet or in a magnetic dish helps. You can do this.