I bought the Side Winder and quickly determined it was a big waste of money for me. I used it less than 2 dozen times. Instead, I buy 2 spools of the same thread, and when my bobbin needs refilling, I simply hold the other spool of thread in my hand while the bobbin winds, letting the thread run between my fingers. Works like a charm for me. You have to get used to how tightly to hold the spool so that it will wind by have enough tension to keep the thread on the bobbin tight.