My Janome, and I am sure other brand machines, come with spool caps that go on the spindle on top of the spool of thread. Then when the thread comes off the spool, it runs along the cap edge, away from the edge of the spool and does not catch the thread. I guess that is the purpose of the caps. Not sure, but I always use the caps.

I found using the larger end cap you slide back on to hold the horizontal thread in place prevents the thread from getting caught in that slot. the small end cap does if it's smaller than the spool.

I have had rough edges on other parts of the spool - the nail file works wonders, even on little nicks in your face plate. Just a good sewing tool to have around.

Thanks for the tip ..

Thanks for the post...I had that happen last week and could not figure out why it was catching...I will get the nail file out....

Good suggestion! My janome 12000 does not like the spool going the other way with the thread over the spool rather than under. Will try the larger disk next time. I usually use sulky thread but this time used coats and Clark's that I picked up on the fly at Walmart to practice decorative stitches on a quilt. Lesson learned.

I read somewhere recently (can't remember where) that thread spools are wound two different ways. The ones that are wound in a criss cross way are meant to be used with the spindle in a horizontal position, but the ones that are wound just round and round are meant to be used with the spindle upright. I did not know that, but it makes sense and it would solve your problem

Great tip.

This short video shows how thread is wound and how it comes off the spool. Very informative.

http://www.superiorthreads.com/video...thread-holder/

A good reason to keep a nail file handy!