Frugal, if you put the thread thru the hole from the inside part of the bobbin, pull that thread out 6 or so inches. Then when the bobbin starts to wind it is supposed to break the thread. It would help if you had a picture on here. Before you start [if you have an old Singer] loosen the little wheel on the big wheel on right side of machine.[by holding the big wheel, and turning the small wheel]. When you are finished, tighten the little wheel back up. When you loosen it that is supposed to stop the needle from working up and down. Stay on here until we can help you.