Bobbin Basics
 

You'd think I'd know this by now, but I've had a few different answers to this question, so here goes.

I have a few bobbins that are about 1/3 full right now. Do you ever wind new thread over the one already there or use it as is until its finished? Thanks for the input.

I've read where you are not supposed to do this as it changes the tension or some such. That being said, I do it if I only need to stitch a little bit and all my other bobbins are full. LOL

I have heard not to wind additional thread over a bobbin that has thread on it from a previous use. I would think that would cause quite a mess.

Julie

I use up what is on the bobbin. I think I would lose the end of the first thread after it is covered

Don't know if modern computerized machines are more finicky, but in prehistoric times, when I was growing up, we only had like 3 bobbins. We always were winding on top of existing thread and it worked just fine. Also, we had 1 needle size & type and only changed it if it broke. You can always just put it on the thread spindle & use it for the top thread for piecing if you want to run it out.

I use up my almost empty bobbins while piecing. It doesn't matter that much on thread color when piecing. I will also use a bobbin for the top, instead of a spool of thread, to use it up.

I've never wound thread over a partially filled bobbin. It never occurred to me.

Rob

I use those partial bobbins when I make scrap quilts. I find that the color doesn't matter since it is all scrappy anyway. I also use those partial spools the same way. Bobbin and top thread totally different.

When I was growing up, we would wind thread on a bobbin if we needed a new color and all was fine. I don't sew clothes anymore, and unless I am actually quilting where the thread will show, I just use it up.