Frugalsewer - I'm wondering if you are trying to fill the bobbin with thread after feeding the thread through your machine and the needle. Don't do this. Check out this photo- if it posts- [ my reel of thread is behind the machine] I often hold the thread with my fingers for tension, not sure which tension you're talking about. Where did you buy your machine. Do they not give you a couple of free lessons? I think that's lousy service . Ok, posting photos won't work, not sure if it's QB or this new windows 7. I can attach to emails etc just not here. Can anyone assist? please pm me Good luck Fs