3) Bobbin and Thread

The bobbin and spool of thread are purchased separately. Fit the spool into the bobbin as shown.

Before you can use the bobbin, you need to get the thread through the tube section. You can do this in one of two ways. To start, pull off approximately 10 cm of thread.

One way to ‘thread the bobbin’ is to use a bobbin threader. Push the end of the bobbin threader down the tube as shown.

Then pass the thread through the open area at the end of the threader.

Pull the threader out of the tube dragging the thread with it.

You can thread the bobbin in another way. Start by pushing the thread partially up the tube.

Then suck on the other end of the tube. This draws the thread the rest of the way through the tube and the bobbin is ready to use.

The spool must turn with some tension. If there is too much tension, the thread can break. If there is too little, the thread comes off too easily and you will have little control. You can adjust the bobbin by bending the frame. You need to hold the part near the tube. Bend the end part in or out as is necessary. Do the same to both sides. Put the spool in and check how it turns. Make further adjustments if necessary.

NB: You need to hold the part near the tube to avoid pressure on where the tube joins the frame. If this isn’t done your bobbin can break at this joint.