Almost Wasted Money
 

I have been wanting something to keep the sewing spool and its bobbin when I take them off to do machine applique. Today in the store I almost bought something and changed my mind.

When we got home, I found in the kitchen cabinet, at least five of those neat little glasses you get when the apricot jam is used up. Yeah! Instant spool holder. I took one for pens as well. (more money to spend on fabric)

I make my own apricot jam so I'm not familiar with those glasses. How about a picture?

I use the larger diameter plastic straws, like you get at McDonald's. I cut them into shorter lengths and stick it into the thread spool and seat the bobbin on top of the part that sticks out. Because they are a bigger diameter you have to pinch them a little to fit them in, but that is what makes them hold the thread and bobbin together.

I've used a pint canning jar for several years.

Each brand of apricot jam comes in a different container. I buy cherry preserves and the jar is fluted but not tall enough for a spool of thread.

Here you go. They are about 5 inches tall.

I love jelly/jam jars w/handles. But sadly the place I use to buy the jelly/jam closed several years ago.

Good idea. Tons of unused Mason jars here. I also like Just Retirea's idea of the straws...have to check that out. I use the plastic thingies that look sort of like a hair clip and like those, but it does get spendy.

I use almost all cone thread, mostly the bigger ones. I use a bag that zips in a sandwich or quart size, whichever fits the thread. When I am quilting, I use the long arm bobbins, which don't fit my sewing machine to sew the binding on. This frees up the bobbin for future use. I know, I should just break down and buy some more bobbins, but why, when this system has been working for me?

If you have a Merita or Flowers bread store near you they carry jams and jellies in jars w/handles.