any one have any clever suggestions as to how I use these big cones of thread I have on my little DM? I'm sure someone here has figured out something brilliant. I'm at a loss. I tried a paper towel holder but it's too big. :roll:

They make a cone holder that sits behind the machine for that.

I use big cones all the time -- I have 2 different cone holders. The one bejeriann has in a picture is cheap and holds all kinds of odd size cones and spools -- from giant cones to big spools. I use it most often.

I also use the cone holder like in bjeriann's picture. I've had 2 different ones, one plastic-bottomed, one heavy metal-bottomed. The metal one works much better for me. Works great and cost less that $10 at the LQS.

I just got one of the cone holders haven't used it yet!!

Ohh that makes sense, lol. Thanks. I bet DH can make me one.

I use the black plastic cone holder as pictured above. I have found it often solves problems when doing machine embroidery with metallic threads...can set it further away from the machine which allows the thread to feed without twisting which results in breakage.
Nancy

My son made mine from a paper towel holder from Dollar tree.

There is also the Deeleybob which are several different sized heavy plastic/nylon spindles or adaptors designed to fit inside your cone of thread. Sometimes you have to use two of them together to get the right size. They will also handle the smaller cones of embroidery thread. I have a set and they work quite well on my old Singer 201 and will sit right on the thread pin.

I bought one of those gadgets called E-Z Winder that transfers thread from the cone to a regular spool. I love it! Check it out... www.darrsewnotions.com

Cut out the bottom portion of a 2 liter "coke" bottle, set over the thread cone and run the thread through the neck! Also tape a safety pin to the end of your machine to run the thread through if you need an additional tension guide.

I have something like this - it is a Christmas bulb hanger.

Thanks for posting this question. I have 12 of the big cones that was my mothers and I had no idea how to use them on my regular sewing machine. Mom did hand sewing and brought the big cones. I hate to waste anything so I have some great ideas from you guys.

You can also put the cone in a large glass or mug. Position it to the back and to the right of your machine. Tape a paperclip on your machine to guide the thread, then thread as usual. What ever you use, make sure it is heavy enough so that it won't tip.

My ex-FIL made one for me 20 years ago. In the mean time you can just wind bobbins and use for the top thread until you can get one. :-D

I found that I can stick a small spool inside the bigger one and use it on the original spindle on the sewing machine....it works great.....just have to stabilize the cone when winding a bobbin, I use my finger....may not be the best fix, but it works and is cheap! :D

Thanks for all your suggestions. Wish I would have known about the 2 liter bottle thing a few hours ago, but DH to the rescue when he got home, he made me this. What a sweetie!

I turn the cone upside down and drop a skinny spool of thread inside the cone, placing both on the machine.