Just a tip on how I thread my needles. I use size 10 because 12's are just too small. When cutting your thread be sure and cut it at an angle. Not straight across. Then put the needle in your mouth (yes your needle) to wet the eye of it. Never get the end of the thread wet cause it will "swell" and be difficult to get thru the eye. I know all of us are used to putting the end of the thread in our mouths to thread that darn needle. Hope this helps or at least makes sense to some of you. Good luck Marge