Quiltmaker is happy to partner with Sulky for the second in a five-part thread giveaway. (Part 1 winners are listed at the end of this post.)
You’ll learn more about thread and have many chances to win a great 3-pack of Sulky Blendables.
Win a three-pack of Sulky Blendables!
Here’s a short thread lesson to make your quilting life easier.
You may have noticed that thread comes loaded onto spools in two different fashions. Viewed from the side, if the threads run horizontally and lie right next to each other, the thread is stacked. The Sulky Blendables shown above are stacked.
If the thread runs diagonally and crosses itself, the spool is crosswound. In the photo below, the thread on the right is crosswound. You can see that it’s different from the stacked spool on the left.
- Stacked (left) vs. Crosswound thread
Why does this matter? Because you want the thread to feed differently from the spool depending on how it is wound.
Stacked thread is intended to feed off the side of the spool. For the best results, use a vertical spoolpin (points upward) for stacked threads. The spool should rotate freely on the spoolpin.
Small piece of felt fits over spoolpin, sits underneath spool and helps spool to rotate freely as thread unwinds
The small piece of wool or flannel that slips over the spoolpin and sits beneath the thread helps to accomplish this.
Crosswound thread should feed from the top of the spool as shown.
Crosswound thread is intended to feed off the top of the spool. A horizontal spoolpin (spool on its side) works well for crosswound threads. The thread slips off the top of the spool; there is generally no “pull” involved and the spool is stationary (it does not rotate).
Thread stand
A thread stand next to the machine also works for crosswound threads. In this setup, the thread unwinds from the top of the spool and feeds upward into the machine. Your dealer can suggest a stand that works well.
A spoolpin attachment, this one from Handi Quilter
If your machine has only one spoolpin, check with your dealer to see if an attachment exists to give you the other orientation. The dealer may have other suggestions as well. (They’re a wealth of information and we don’t use them enough!)
* * * * *
Sulky Blendables
For a chance to win some luscious Sulky threads, leave a comment below by midnight Friday, April 20 answering this question: How is your spoolpin oriented? Did you learn anything new from this post?
Winners in the first round are Sallie Whiteside in Texas, Kay Lee in Colorado, Diane Hicks in Ontario, Canada and Donna Gross in Alberta, Canada.
Good information on stacked and crosswound thread! I learned that my stacked spools should be on a vertical spindle and I will do that tonight when I start working on my project. Thank you!
I had no idea that there was a difference in how the thread is on the spool, so yes, I learned something. I think my sister’s spoolpin is for stacked thread, it’s vertical. I’ve not seen her use it horizontally. When I use her machine, it’s always vertical.
Thanks!
Margaret
I usually use cross wound cones so I use one of those nifty tall spool holders. I learned the difference in threads a few years ago and it does make a difference especially in tension!
I have both a top and a side spool pin. Very useful for the different types of thread out there!
My spool pin is located in the top of my machine. Vertically and under cover. I have a second pin that can be added on to provide an additional color. Love it.
Most of my machines have options for both orientations, so it’s good to know which thread goes which way. Thanks!
My Bernina has spool pins for both types of thread.
On my Janome I have two spool pins, one for diagonal and one for horizontal thread. I mainly use the bigger cones of thread so I tend to use my medal spool holder that sits off to the side of my machine. And yes I did learn something from this because when I use my embroidery machine, I usually put all the spools of thread on the extended thread stand I purchased when I bought the machine, and according to this some of the threads I use should not be used horizontally.
Thanks! My spool pin is horizontal and I didn’t even realise threads could be wound differently! I just checked and I’m currently using cross wound thread!
My spool pin is horizontal, though it does tip up to about a 45 degree angle. I’ve always wondered if it’s designed to go vertical too, but I haven’t been brave enough to force the issue…I really don’t want to break the pin off!
Interestingly enough, thread and needles is something we all use often. I was just saying that information on the two subjects would be of great benefit to all levels of quilters. I learned so much from this article; and I’ve sewn for years! BTW, I use both vertical and horizontal feeds. The horizontal feed is much more conducive to machine embroidery, my latest subject in the school of sewing….lol
I think I have the option for both, but currently it is situated horizontally since I use crosswound thread as of late. I did not know that it made a difference, but it’s good to now know that I’m at least doing something right.
I had no idea there were two different kinds of spools, or that each had to be placed in a different orientation. My Janome7700 has a vertical thread stand.
My spool pin is at an angle but horizontal which is great for both types of thread. This was very informative!
I use a horizontal spoonpin all the time. Seems that I should be using the vertical one for the stacked thread- the kind i usually use. Good information, never thought there was much difference.
My spoolpin is vertical. But I’d love some thread, no matter how it’s wound!
My spool is oriented vertically – and yes, I did learn something new and interesting about threads, etc. This should be helpful to my daughter who is teaching beginning sewing classes at their homeschool coop – she needs to teach this as well.
Would love to have the blendables – they work so well in some of my hand quilted pieces, too.
I just purchased a thread stand 4 days ago and noticed immediately the difference. Thank you for a through explanation of why. Thank you for making me a better educated quilter .
I never knew that! Thanks for the giveaway. Linda
It’s all news to me, but it sure makes sense. My machine has both kids of pins and now I’ll pay attention to my threads! Thank you for the lesson.
Good information! Now onto the give away! Thanks!!
By the way my machine spool pin is vertical.
I have a vertical spoolpin on my machine. I almost always buy crosswound thread as a result. I learned about this about a year ago at a LQG presentation, but it was a great reminder. You also provided nice suggestions on how to handle the other type of thread.
Wonderful and informative information. Just love the Blendable threads whether for embroidery or quilting.
Great post! I only have the vertical post on my machine. I had no idea that threads were wound in different ways or that it made any difference at all. Thanks for the great information!
Thanks so much for this information – it’s going on a postie on my machine right now!
Also a great big thank you for picking me as a winner in Round 1. I’m really looking forward to sewing with Sulky thread. Please don’t count me in for round two I just wanted to comment and wish everybody else good luck.
I can never remember which way the thread goes. There’s a sticky on my machine now. Love the Blendables!
Why can’t I ever remember which one goes which way???? Maybe the “v” in the look of the cross-wound thread = “v”ertical pin; side-wound = pin on its side! Hope this helps!
KT.
I learned about this a couple of years ago. It does make a difference.
Thanks for spreading the word.
I had to go check all my thread as I didn’t realize this could make a difference. It explains why my tension isn’t always as good as it should be. I use alot of the bigger spools of thread and these are crosswound. They have a larger opening in the center and my husband had made me an insert from a piece of dowel to keep the spool in place. I just lucked out as it keeps the spool steady and the thread unwinds from the top. yea!
I had no idea. Will pay attention now. My machine has the spool on it’s side.
“I didn’t know that!” My machine has a verticle spoolpin. I have purchased the separate thread stand…but only because I could use the larger spools of thread. Now I know which to use. Thank you.
My spool holder on my machine is horizontal, nothing vertical. Yes I learned lots about how thread is wound on spools. Great info, thanks so much. I will check into the add on spool holder.
I had NO idea the differences in thread, and why they were wound that way. My machine has both a side feed and a top feed spool, and now I know how to use them! Thanks for the chance to win some YUMMY Sulky thread … I LOVE the blendables!
Nice reminders! I have two spool pins that are vertical and yes, I have noticed stacked winds off easier!
Interesting article. Makes so much sense reading this, but I’d never thought of it before. Winning Sulky thread would be great!
I learn a lot from the post! Thanks! By the way my sewing machine spool pin is vertical.
Interesting! That explains why I’ve had trouble with some threads. My machine is a side feed.
I never knew there was a difference. I use Sulky blendable thread and I love them!!!!
I have both types of spool pins on my machine and I am glad to know that I use them correctly. Thanks for the chance to win some of my favorite threads!
My Babylock machine accomodates both types of thread. Love the blendables. Hope to win.
Good post…I learned something new…thank you for the information!
Great info! Who says you can’t teach an Ol’ Quilter new tricks?! I have both kinds of spools and now I know how to use them properly! Thanks!
Well I learned my new thing for the day…that’s one of the fun things about sewing and quilting, there’s always something to learn, that will make your work improve!
Very informative. My machine has both types of spool pins. I didn’t know that using the correct spool pin would help the thread come off smoothly. This information will be helpful when sewing my next projects.
Love learning new things…thanks for posting.
This is new information! My machine has both a verticle and a horizontal spool pin. Now I’ll pay attention to how the machine is threaded.
My machine has a horizontal pin but I got a vertical one after a class with a Sulky educator. Just need to remember which is which!
Who knew? Great info. Thanks a bunch!
Mine is vertical and yes I did learn some things about spools of thread (and spool pins) I didn’t know; thanks!
I have been sewing 40 plus years and never knew this information. Thread use to come on wooden spools when I started sewing. I love sulky thread
I learned to leave the flannel piece under the spool from now on. Thank You for this article.
my machine has both! i did know about how thread should come of the spool, been telling people about for a long time (teaching classes).
Wow! Now that’s great information! I never knew the difference, and that makes a lot of sense – thanks for the information, and the opportunity to win!
Thank you so much for posting about how a stacked spool and a crosswound spool should be on my sewing machine. I didn’t know about that at all and I’ve been sewing for over 50 yrs. When finished posting I will go change my thread and have it oriented the correct way on my machine. I love your threads, love using them to quilt my projects. The colors are fantastic and they blend so well with my fabrics. Thanks so much for all the info and creating the wonderful threads.
My spool pin is vertical. Thanks for the information – I didn’t know there was a difference in how the threads should come off the spool.
I did learn that the stacked thread should be sewed using a vertical spool pin and that crosswound comes off the top using a horizontal pin. I knew about the 2 types of winding on spools, but not how they affected the tension.
this was news to me as well. I have a vertical spoolpin on my Juki, but the crosswound thread (Aurifil) I’m using seems OK. thanks for the info and the chance to win.
I had no idea there was a difference in the spools. I had always wondered why I had two options regarding spool placement on my machine. Now I know! Thanks for the info!
I have a horizontal pin on my machine, but also have a free standing thread holder for vertical use. I learned this tip when sewing with decorative threads and my thread was always breaking~ thanks for the reminders! Congrat’s to the winners!
I have both a vertical and horizontal spool pin. I have sonder why thread were wound in two different ways and now I know. Thank you.
Well that’s interesting. I’ve been sewing for many, many years and did not know that. I have a set of vertical pins with elevated thread eyes on my machine…much like the stand alone spool holder.
meant wondered why they were wound differently.
I have both a vertical and horizontal spool holders, and now I know why!!
Mine is horizontal only – I usually don’t have issues but I do use the spool holder beside my machine sometimes. Thanks for the chance to win!
I have vertical spool holders, and I also have a stand holder for the crosswound threads.
This was very helpful. I’m going right now to see if my machine has a horizontal spool pin!
I have both on my domestic and longarm……it makes a difference!
After reading this blog post I checked I don’t have a spool of stacked thread in my thread stash. I need to go shopping if I don’t win.
Nice post–Thanks for the info! My spoolpin is oriented horizontally, which is good because I happen to have crosswound thread on right now. However, it converts to horizonal, so I Can use stacked thread spools, if I have them. Thanks for the info! I have wondered about that, but never looked it up.
I am very lucky because my machine offers a choice of spool orientations. This was one of the reasons I bought my first Viking Designer. I now have a Diamond and love that with the flick of my fingers I can have the spools threading correctly.
I had absolutely no idea! My spool pin can be oriented either horizontally or vertically–my choice. I have always left it in the vertical position because that ‘s the way every previous machine had a spool pin. N0w I know the orientation of the spool pin should coincide with how the thread is wound on the spool!
Hmmm…I am wondering now why manufacturers would choose stacked or crosswound to load their spools–is there a difference? Why would I choose one over the other?
My machine has options for both orientations and I also have a thread stand. I was surprised at what a difference it makes to have your spool oriented correctly when sewing. It’s the little things that make a difference!
I learn something everyday your website
How interesting! Thanks for sharing this great information! I will make use of it today when i go to my sewing machine…
I have both horizontal and vertical spool pins but I didn’t know that there were differences in use based on how the spool is wound. Nice to learn something new!
Like most sewers here, I never gave this detail much thought, except that the Blendables maybe look tidier wound in the stacked formation. My machine gives me both options, so from now on – I will start to use the proper machine spool with the selected thread.
I never knew that so now I know how and what to look for. My machine is horizontal but I have a thread stand also that I can use for the vertical.
My machine has both options and I never knew the reason! It’s great to learn something new.
thanks for info
Thank you for the information I had no idea the way the thread was wound made a difference my machines have both now I will pay attention to which thread I use on the spool. Thank you!
Interesting question! My spool pin is missing. We bought the machine new and a then talked a friend into buying one too. Hers was missing the spool pin. So since we had another machine (same brand) we gave her ours and went to order another from the dealer. That was about 10 years ago and we have been trying to order another one all over the country ever since and they either don’t have it or think they have it and send the wrong one. Crazy! It is a vertical spool pin if we ever find it. This article was very informative and I am happy for any information I can get that can make “mechanical: things simpler for me.
My spoolpin is located at the top of the machine for stacked spools. I also have a thread stand that I use. I learned a lot from this post, I did not know there was a difference, Thank you for making it clear.
I did not know that threads were wound 2 different threads! Wow! My spoolpin lays down on the top of my machine but I do have a one that stands next to the machine .
My Janome has vertical and horizontal options, but I use cone thread often for piecing. I would love some blendables for embellishment quilting.
Thank you so much for all the information on Sulky threads. These were the first threads I learned to sew with.
Mine is horizontal only (and it’s also on a hinge that moves, I had been meaning to look up to see if there was some reason for it) I REALLY enjoy learning here about stuff that I hadn’t thought about. Every little bit of knowledge helps!
Thanks for reconfirming what a sewing machine tech once told me. Great reminder.
My spoolpin is horizontal Didn’t know the difference in ways of winding thread and haven’t noticed much in difference of performance either
My spoolpin is horizontal. I did know there was a difference, but I haven’t tried to attach my alternate spoolpin yet. Winning these threads will give me the push to do just that! Thanks for the opportunity!
I use a thread stand,i have a verity of machines and i use both kinds of thread depending on the machine. mostly cross wound spools.
i had no idea! Thanks for the information. My Janome has both, so I’ll make sure to put my stacked in the vertical pin. I just purchased 2 spools of Sulky Blendables, so this info came just in time!
My machine has a spool pin that can be either vertical or horizontal, but I didn’t know why one would choose either position. I usually use the vertical position – works for me! Now, if I have cross wound spools, I’ll use the horizontal position.
Didn’t realize the difference. Now I need to get a side attachment to put beside my machine for cross wound threads.
my spool pin on most of my machines is upright, however on the newest machine it has an optional sideways spool pin. i have a thread stand that i use most of the time because i use a lot of larger cones of thread. i did learn from this post – didn’t know what it was called when they were wound differently and why! thanks!
My machine has both types of spool pins. Several years ago I had learned the difference in how they worked, which I always use. Makes a difference in the stiches. This post is a very good reminder for me and will be helpful to lots of sewers. Sulky threads are the best!
I use both the machine and viking thread stand — can’t live without them and the threads feeds so evenly. Sulky is one of the best threads — all of them – Terry
I have two spool pins. One flips up for upright use, and the other can be either horizontal or upright. It is very helpful depending on the size of the spool too. I haven’t used Sulky yet – so would be delighted to win some to try (especially since attempting to learn straight line quilting on the machine). Thanks to QM and Sulky for the great giveaway opportunity.
I knew different wound threads went different ways but I didn’t know which was which, Thanks for the tip!
Thank you for reaffirming I am doing it correctly.
My spool pin is vertical (points up) and fixed. I didn’t know there was a difference as to how the thread would best feed according to whether stacked or cross-wound, and the spool pin orientation. Looked through my sewing machine manual and there isn’t any explanation about this. Shame on the manufacturer! So, learned quite a bit of new information today.
My Bernina has attachments for both types of spools. I generally use the thread stand behind my machine when using cones.
My spool pin is vertical. I did know that threads are wound differently, but I didn’t know that they feed differently on the type of pin you have.. Glad to learn something new as I use both types of thread. Thanks for the good information.
My Elna has both thread setups and I also have a separate thread stand but I had no idea – until now – how the thread on the spool and the thread holders on the sewing machine related. Thank you for the info!
My machine has a horizontal pin, I’m going to have to check to see if it has a vertical option, as I mostly buy cross-wound threads.
My old machine only has a vertical pin for stacked thread. So I use a stand next to the machine for the larger cones and cross stacked.
My newer expensive machine only has a horizontal pin. So whats up with that?
Youd think some machine designer could make a pin with a rotating hinge so you can put it where you want based on the thread you are using… dosent seem like rocket science to me…
Never too old to learn. I knew that there were differences in the way the spools were wound, but not that it would make a difference in threading. This could explain a lot weirdness that happens when sewing sometimes. Thanks.
Thank you for explaining the difference, my machine will do both but I just usually use the horitizonal one for crosswound thread.
My machines have the ability to go both ways. I did not know that I needed to orientate my thread differently. Good to know!
I certainly learned something. I hadn’t ever thought about the threads being wound on different ways. My thread holder runs off the side but I do have an attachment for the top. I will take note next time I’m at the machine. Thanks for the great information.
This is a good reminder about correct thread orientation. I used some Sulky Blendables at a class and would love to have some of my own!
thanks!
My spoolpin is horizontal. There is also a vertical spoolpin accessory which my instruction book says is for decorative stitching with a twin needle. I had no idea that I should use the vertical spoolpin for stacked thread. Thanks for the information.
I have a horizontal spool pin on my machine. My mothers had a vertical, the one I learned to sew from. I don’t think she or I ever used crosswound spools before, but I should look into an adapter anyway as the brace that should hold my spools in place is broken. Good to know what the difference between the two spools/ pins are for also!
The spoolpins on both my machines are vertical; an old Bernina 830 and an Elna Air Electronic; neither have any way to change that and I use mostly crosswound on it with no problems. I have one of the thread stands, but that’s so I can use coned thread on the sewing machine.
Thanks for the great information!
I have both vertical and horizontal spoolpins, I just did not know “why”. Thanks for this article, will definitely put this new knowledge to use and see how it improves my machine’s and my thread’s performance! Thank you, Quiltmaker!
My machine has both spoolpin orientations…so glad and I am now glad to know when to use them. The video is great!
Mine is horizontal – I had no idea about the two different kinds of thread.
My spoolpin is horizontal. Think I will check on a vertical one. I have noticed the difference on how thread has been wound on the spool but, didn’t know why. Now I do! Thanks!
I like using my thread stand when I am quilting, unless it is a very small spool, then I use the one on my machine. Thanks for all the info and hints.
I didn’t know there was a difference in spools – I will have to pull out my thread stand and use it for any of my cross wound thread. My spool holder is in a horizontal position.
This was news to me! I have been sewing for years and didn’t know this. Thank you for the information. Thank goodness, my machine has both kinds of spool pins . Now, I know how and when to use them.
One machine is vertical, the other is horizontal, and I have an adapter to convert either way. Hmmm…. looks like there will be post-a-note to self to remember which way I am to be oriented. Yes, I knew there was a difference, but I go my nilly-willy way when I’m working on something.
Obrigada pela informação, eu não sabia a diferença. Minha máquina Singer tem os dois pinos.
My Elna’s spoolpin is fashioned that the thread pulls up from the top. Yes, I have learned from this & your last thread blog! I’m totally enjoying
My machine has one of each, but I typically use the horizontal one.
Horizontal~and now that I know the difference between the two, I can adjust between the two depending on my thread! Yay!
Wow! I never even noticed the difference. I’ve been using a vertical spool pin, because that is all my machine has. I guess that explains why my thread sometimes catches – it’s meant to feed from the side, and my machine is meant for thread that feeds from the top!
My machine has both spool spindles. I use both stacked and crosswound thread. I don’t have a preference. Glad that you shared this information. Thank you for the information.
Well now I know why I have so much trouble with my thread hanging up. My machine only has a horizontal spoolpin and the thread feeds out over the top of the spool as though it was vertical. I use predominately stacked thread so I’m going to have to see if I can get an attachment for my machine.
My machine has a vertical spool pin only. I had noticed thread being wound differently on spools, never knew what difference that made, if any. Thanks to your article, now I do! Thanks for the chance at your giveaway.
Yes I learned something! I always wondered why some thread was wound crosshatched. Now I know! My machine has a vertical spool pin only.
I never knew that one, but I do find that even with my regular stacked threads, it goes more smoothly if I lay the spool holder down, instead of up. Mine does go both ways, so I use the way that works the best with the threads I am using. Love the threads, would be fun to use in art projects.
Debbie
Thanks for the lesson! The spool pin on my machine is vertical – not adjustable. Perhaps I’ll try a thread stand for those cross-wound spools.
Great info! Mine is horizontal.
My spool pin is vertical. Lots of good information! I had no idea! I do want to get a
thread stand. Thanks for the chance to win!
I have both spoolpins, but tend to use the vertical one most. I thought it was more for my convenience, so now have learned the actual reason. Thank-you for the info. I love your blendables – until I’m ready to use them in my project, they are my eye candy.
I learned about different types of thread winds. My sewing machine has a horizontal spool pin, but I use a thread stand. Thank you for the chance to win – I love Sulky Blendables!
Thank you so very much for this information. I usually put the spool of thread on and if it messes up I have to try another way. I did not know the spools of thread were wound stacked or crosswind. I will make sure I watch this and put it on my sewing machine correctly. Great advice!!!!
My sewing machine has two spoolpins, one vertical and one horizontal, which is very convenient. Thanks!
ah, so! that’s why there’s two spool spindles on my machine and two different ways to start threading the thread. shoulda remembered that fromreading the book, hmm? have bothtypes of winds on my thread stash, will pat attention! thanx for the info.
My spool pin is horizonal. I didn’t know there was a difference in how the thread winds off… I always wondered why the spools looked different. I’ll have to look into the goodies that came with my new machine as I vaguely remember a spool pin in there that I think attaches vertically. Thank you for this valuable information.
Thank you for this information. I have both spoolpins. Just have to start using them both.
YES! I definitely learned from this post. I’ve never heard of this whole subject before now! I actually have both vertical and horizontal ways to put my thread on my machine, but I’d never thought about it before!
I had no idea there was a difference; I’m vertical here.
Wow–I never knew that! I only have vertical pins on my machine–now I know to only use the stacked threads. Thanks for the info!
My old, favorite machine only has a horizontal pin. My new machine has both…and now I know why…and understand some challenges I have had. Thanks for the info!
Mine is vertical – and thanks for this post! I never knew this; it’s very useful information!
My Singer has a vertical spoolpin but both stacked and crosswound spools work very good on it! But this was very informative.
My spoolpin is Horizontal. I learned a lot from this site. I now know what to look for in Thread spools
My machine has both types of spoolpins, and I’ll be sure to make use of the correct one, as I have various types of thread, some wound stacked and others crosswound.
Thanks for the reminder of when to use vertical/horizontal spoolpin!
Thank you I have both a top feeder and a horizontal feeder. Very informative and helpful for some problems I am having.
My machine has both types of spool pins – and now I know where to put either type of spool!
I have both types of spool pins. I did know that thread is wound two ways.
I have been sewing for 50 years, I knew thread was wound different but didn’t have a clue as to why…so yes I learned something that I think will be very helpful now. All 5 of my machines have both ways to feed thread and now I will know which one to use when doing a project. Thank you very much for this information.
Thankfully, my machine – Phoebe Pfaff – works with threads in both directions and I don’t have some of the trouble I have heard of from other quilters. My machine and I are best friends! She likes thread and I like thread!
I knew about the cross wound threads but did not understand how to work with the stacked spools. Also never understood the reason for the felt pad under the spool. It all makes sense now. Thanks.
Both of my machines (a kenmore and a hobbyquilter midarm) have top feeder. Thanks for the info on which way spools are supposed to feed.
My machine has both types of spool pins. I did not know the difference. Great to know how best to use my machine and thread. Is one way of winding thread better than another?
Thanks for the outstanding info.
Sulky is my favorite thread. Thank you for the additional information in using Sulky. I was not aware of the differences between the stackable and crosswound thread. The quality of thread can make the difference in end result of any sewing project.
I love the blendables. They make some very nice colorings.
Thank you for the explanation about the differences with the way the thread feeds from the spool and the correct way to mount thread on the machine. My machine came with two spool pins, one for each direction.
I have eight machines and spool pins are in various places. Three have both horizontal and verticals. And yes I learned some new things. The problem will be REMEMBERING. Thank you.
I’m new to quilting so everything I read teaches me something new! I had no idea that thread was wound differently on the spools. My machine only holds the the spool vertically, so its a good thing I’ve only used stacked thread! Thanks for the useful info!
Yes, I learned quite a bit about thread and the orientation of the spool on my machine. Interesting info.
My spool has always been horizontal. I never realized there was a difference in how thread was wound. I will be sure to be look at it now! Glad my machine has the option for the spool holder to be either way…
My spool pin is horizontal, but I have a vertical snap in spool pin, I use both depending on way thread is wound.
My machine can be oriented both ways. I learned about the two ways spools are wound and that I have been treating them both the same. Starting now, I will be placing my stacked thread upright on my spoolpin. Thanks so much for sharing this information. In my 20+ years of sewing, I saw the difference but never knew there was a difference. I am anxious to start. Again Thanks for the information as well as the opprotunity to win thread. I love it!!! Also, today is my birthday so maybe the April 20th winner could be a nice birthday present, Lord willing.
Usually I use cross wound thread into a thread stand next to my machine. It is a easy and comfortable way to sew my quilts and other stuffs
Thank you for show us diferents on how it is wound
I didn’t know that thread was different, guess I just never paid any attention. My machine only does vertical but would love to try some of your thread.
I have been taught how the thread is wound before, but have not paid that much attention before, so thank you! I just love blendables or as I used to say, varigated threads. Are they the same?
I did not realize that thread can be loaded two different ways. Thank you so much for this easy to understand lesson. I have a thread stand, but haven’t really used it. I will now!!
Even after so many years of sewing, I am always glad for information. So many new and wonderful items have come on the market through my 67 years of sewing. Sewing is still my passion and I love what is out there to help the process.
I’m fairly new to the quilting world. I grew up with my mom’s sewing machines and have never known until now that there was a difference in how/why they are straight (stacked) or (crosswound)crisscross wound. I just thought it was a matter of different manufacturers. Also, I did not know until now that it made a difference since they have always been vertical (on moms machine) over the years. Thank you for helping me learn on this long quilting road. It’s always nice to learn the “why” behind something and not just the “because that’s the way you do it”. Thank you again!
I love Sulky thread and have been using it for years. I use 12 wt Sulky for doing redwork which is so much easier to use than embroidery thread. For several months I have been searching unsuccessfully for the new variegated red that I have seen advertised. I even had one dealer at a quilt show in Hampton, Va. tell me that you didn’t make one. I will continue to look. This article was very informative. My machine has both spindles but I did not know that there was a difference. Thank you so much. I will definitely use the proper one in the future.
Mae
My machine has a horizontal spool spin. I didn’t know that about the different ways thread should come off the spool. Great post!
Thanks for this great information – quilting for years and never gave thread “winding” a thought. All my machines ar vertical and 90 per cent of my thread is crosswound (not my Sulky which I save for the “special” quilts (I know every quilt is special however some are “specialer!!!”) I am off to get a thread holder Cheers
Learn sumpin’ ever’day!!! Thanks, I bet it makes a huge difference in my thread tension…..
LOL, have been sewing for decades, knew to have thread come off the top of my ‘stacked thread’ spools but have Always used the set-in Horizontal spool holder on my sewing machines, thought the Vertical spool holder was only for winding bobbins! [Just got lucky w/'cross wound' smaller spools and using tall off the machine holder for cross wound cone thread.] Not too old to, and Happy to, learn something new! Mahalo!
I have both types of spoolpins. I have noticed both types of winding of the thread. And I have encountered frustration when choosing the wrong combination. NEVER, did I put the two together and did not even know the question to ask. I did not feel just one light bulb go off after reading this lesson…. I had stadium lights flashing! Thank You. I look forward to getting started on my next project this week.
Been using Sulky for years in my machine embroidery. Had no idea the differences in the thread wound on the spool. Thanks for the information.
Thank you, I will talk to my Janome dealer and see what is available for my Janome 1600!
Great information about stacked and cross-wound thread! I have known this for years, but I do plan on printing this out and sharing with some of my guild members.
That was very interesting information. My old machine has a vertical pin for stacked spools, but my newer machine has the option for either stacked or crosswound spools. I am glad I now know the reason for the difference.
I always thought you could use either the vertical or horizontal spool pin with your thread. I didn’t know that it mattered which one to use with the way the thread had been wound. Thanks for letting me know.
Thank you a lot for good information.
I love sulky threads; they add a special touch to my quilts.
Wow! I wonder if this was the cause of some problems I had with my machine! The spindle can be changed for either, but I did not know why. I will look more closely at the threads I purchase from now on. I am copying out this article and will post it on my peg board and will send it to my sister as well. Thanks for the lesson. I love learning new things from my quilting friends and Quiltmaker magazine is a marvelous source of patterns, information and inspiration.
Yes, yes, yes, this was definitely helpful. My machine has both spool options. I can now picture my crosswound spool lying on it’s side; curled up and asleep, getting rested up and ready to pounce on my project.
I always love learning new things I thought I already knew everything about. I have both on my machine.
Wow, I did not know the difference. I never thought about the why behind the cross threaded spool. Thanks.
My spoolpin is horizontal and I learned that I need to figure out if it can go vertical or if I need to get an attachment. Great info to know because now I know why my stacked spools sometimes snag when I’m using them. Thank you for the great info!
The spool pin on my old Bernina is vertical; don’t know if it has a horizontal feature, but will check. I learned I probably need a bit of felt or flannel under my thread as it sits on the pin.
I did not know there was a difference in using stacked and crosswound thread! Thanks for sharing such helpful information.
Thanks for the good information. I think many people did not realize there was a difference in the way thread is wound.
I never realized it made a difference! My main spool pin is horizontal, but there is a vertical spool pin. I’ll try using that now for my stacked spools. Thanks!
My machine has both a horizontal and vertical pins. I learned the difference in how the thread is wound and pay more attention to this in the future. I generally just switched the spool of thread from one pin to the other if I was experiencing diffuculty, to see if that resolved the isue. sometimes that was all that was needed. Many thanks!
I love to use the Sulky blendables in my embroidery; now I will know which spool pin to use!
I have both spool options on my machine. Thanks for the info…it just reinforced it in my memory.
I’ve been sewing for 40+ years and didn’t know it made a difference. I have used both, stacked and crosswound thread on my vertical spool pin. Who say’s you can’t teach an old dog new tricks!!
Thanks for the information and the giveaway!!
I’ve been sewing for years and never really paid attention to how the thread was wound. I just checked and see that they are stacked. Since my spool pins are vertical I guess I’m in good shape. But, I’ll have to work out something different if I ever get thread that is crosswound.
I had no idea the differences in thread…my machine had a side feed. Thanks, for the giveaway, winning Sulky thread would be great!
I have both vertical and horizontal spool pins on my machine, but I didn’t know about the different ways thread was wound. I will definitely use the different pins from now on. Thank you for the information.
I got lucky I guess, my spool pin is horizontal and I always use crosswound thread! This is very informative. I just recently realized I am not very savy about thread & needles, so this helped.
Wow – this is so interesting. I have the side feed but will definitely pay attention to the spools and use an attachment if necessary. Thanks for the information.
My spoolpin is oriented upright. But, with an attachment, I alo have the ability to the vertical spoolpin.
I didn’t realize that the thread was wound two different ways.
As I have multiple sewing machines I have various spool pin orientation. Great information to know about the thread and how to properly place them on the sewing machine – makes for better sewing.
Wow, I didn’t know that! Wouldn’t have ever guessed that how a spool is wound makes a difference. I know I have a vertical spool pin but don’t even know if there’s a horizontal one on my machine. Will be checking THAT tonight! Thanks for the great information and the giveaway!
All my spool pins are vertical. The article really helped me to understand why there is a difference in how the spools are wound and why. It also helped me to see why some of my friends who use stacked threads on a horizontal spool pin often complain of problems with their thread.
I never really understood why the two spoolpins on my machine. I just put thread onto whichever one the spool would fit. Maybe this is why I have issues with some thread. You learn something new everyday, thanks
I use a Viking Designer 1 sewing machine and it has both vertical and horizontal thread pegs. I knew that some threads just work better vertically and others horizontally, but I never knew why. Thank you for such a concise description of the properties of crosswound vs stacked threads.
I’ve known about the difference for several years now. My spool pin is a vertical one and feeds off the top of the spool through a tall guide. My husband made me a horizontal pin adaptor to use for stacked threads so they come off the spool correctly and still go through that first tall thread guide.
I am so fortunate to have a new machine with vertical and a horizontal spool….I also have a thread stand for cone thread.
I did not know this!! I have a vertical spoolpin, and will check more closely in the future! Last spool of some brand X kept breaking and breaking ! Got rid of it now cause got fed up!!!!
Opps, forgot to mention that my dealer told me the different uses for horizontal and vertical spool pins – love that thread btw.
One of my machines have both spindle types but I thought the vertical one was for large cones. Now I know the difference. Thank you.
My machine has both options and I learned about them when I bought it. This was a good reminder, though, because it’s been a while and I do have some stacked thread spools.
I loved your information on how thread is wound. I have the horizontal spool holder. It sometimes causes thread problems, I have one of those tabletop thread holders but that too can get my thread tangled. I used to have a spool holder that fit into a spot on my machine but I didn’t do any embroidery for a few years and have lost track of it. Thank you again for the wonderful information.
My machine has only a vertical spool pin. While I’ve often seen the vertical thread stand, I always thought it was to accommodate for the large size cones. Horizontal spool pin attachments? I never knew that existed or about crosswound v. stacked thread. Thanks for the informative post and chance to win your beautiful Sulky thread!
Thank you for the wonderful information. I’ve always wondered, but never asked or researched.
Thanks for the reminder about the thread. My machine gives me the option and so I try to remember which goes where. This written info should help.
Thank you for the useful information! My machine has a horizontal spool pin. I did learn something as I was not aware of the differences regarding how the thread is wound. My machine does not have the vertical option.
Thank you so much for the great thread lesson! It was greatly needed by this quilter!
Read the article and then changes the spool pin to vertical. My thread problems are solved! Thanks foor the info.
Thanks for the info. My machine has both and I use them both!
What great information! I had been having trouble with certain threads on my new sewing machine (Horizontal spoolpin built in; vertical spoolpin included in accessories – manual indicates it is for use with twin needles). I had never had any trouble with them on my old sewing machine (two vertical spoolpins). After reading this I checked the threads I was having trouble with: All Stacked! I attached the vertical spoolpin to my new machine, and the “problem” threads worked wonderfully! Thanks for the valuable information.
My thread pin is horizontal my Pfaff but on my featherweight and other Singers it is vertical. I also use a thread stand as most of the thread that I use is on larger cones.
I never knew why thread was wound two different ways. My short arm quilter
uses the crosswound thread (vertical spoolpin). I just bought a used Brother and I’m not sure which works best (vertical spoolpin.). My older Viking works best with stacked thread (horizontal spoolpin). I would love to try some new Sulky Blendable
threads.
My spoolpin in oriented vertically for the stacked thread spools. I would have to purchase a thread stand for crosswound spools. I would love to win the beautiful blended threads for use in my quilting.
I did not realize that there was a different orientation for the two variations of spools. I understand why some machines have a spool pin which is adjustable to either horizontal or vertical positions now. Thank you for the information I always enjoy adding to my pool of knowledge.
My machine has both orientations for the threads and now I know how and when to use each one. Thank you for the info. I am going to pass this info to my friends.
I sure didn’t know this! Amazing information and I’m so glad I read it. Have to share this with my guild!!!
I have a vertical spool pin on my machine but I also use a thread stand. Thanks for the information.
Thank you so much for this information. I teach quilting and have had students ask me if it matters if their spool sits upright or not and I could not answer them until now. I used a blendable to quilt a project for the first time recently and am so pleased with the results. I will be using them a lot more.
Thanks for the very helpful information. I’m very lucky to have both, but now know a lot more about the differences.
I was unaware that the pin orientation made a difference. I usually use the horizontal pin but my machine is equipped with a vertical as well. I will use it going forward when I use stacked thread. Thanks for the tip!!
My machine has both spool pins, but I didn’t know why you would use one over the other. Now I know, thank you! I occasionally have problems with certain threads on my machine and I blamed the thread. Now I’m wondering if the reason was the spool orientation on the spool pin. Hmmm.
mine is a vertical spool sit, very interested information makes you think more about thread and the which way it should go on the machine. i usually just put it on now i will make sure it is going the right way
My Pfaff has both ways and now the guessing is over, I know what goes where ! it was about time …. Thanks !
My machine allows for both horizontal and vertical placement but I honestly didn’t know that there was a specific was thread was wound and should be place on the machine! Always learning! Thank you!!
I have both vertical and horizontal orientation. Thanks for all the great tips- it is always good to have a little refresher course.
My machine has both options, but I usually use the horizontal. It`s nice to know the difference.
My sewing machine only has vertical and the same for my quilting machine. They both have a loop so they feed from the top. The quilting machine would cause major problems with stacked spools. So my husband made a horizontal spool holder to put on my quilting machine so it would go through the eyelet and spin off the spool. Your article was very helpful. I love the blendable line of thread because of the short color changes!!
Thank you for the information. I didn’t know the difference so yes, I did learn something. I have both spool holders as well as a tall cone holder. And I love sulky threads.
my machine is for crosswound, but has the stacked available. i use a cone off the back of the machine most of the time on a stand.
i have many of your blendable threads for my machine quilting. love the look.
i had no idea there was a meaningful difference in the way spools were wound. i have both pin types on my machine and was not previously aware of what they were for…thank you
I have two spool pins on my machine. One is adjustable the other is only an upright spindal that tucks away when not in use. I also have two thread stands!
Thanks for the refresher, it is always nice to do. We tend to not look and just do things!
Thanks for that information – all new to me, hopefully I will remember this when I use my thread!! I have a horizontal spoolpin (I never knew that had a name) and I also have a detachable vertical spoolpin, which I don’t really use – but might now, especially when I use the Sulky thread (which I really like to use)
My machine has a horizontal spoon for crosswound thread
My machine has both orientations
I have known that the threads were wound differently, due to fantastic teachers! Now I know why some threads feed better vertically and others horizontally! Thank you for helping with that! My thread is crosswound, and my machine allows for vertical feed and horizontal, so I am okay!
Makes total sense to me now! My machine has a vertical pin, but the crosswound spool actually work better on it because of the placement. I have had to make some adjustments for the stacked spools to work better.
My machine has horizontal feed, but I can add the vertical. Thanks for the information.
Good information. I had noticed some spools worked better vertically but didn’t realize why. Now I know! Thanks.
My machine has a horizontal spool pin. Learned alot. Love your thread.
I have both vertical and horizontal crosspins on my 4 year old sewing machine. So, if I have thread that is stacked I use it on the vertical crosspin and if using a crosswound thread I place it on the horizontal crosspin. The spool is kept secure on a base with foam in it and then at the other end of the spool a little plastic cap keeps everything nice and secure and away we go!
I understood about not wanting your thread to twist up and how it would twist if you let it rest on it’s side while machine stitching….so I always made sure to keep it posted upright. I have a machine that lets me take advantage of both horizontal and vertical positions. I learned something new – crosswise thread and how it works better when it is placed on it’s side!!
These are the small techniques I so love to learn! Thanks 
My Pfaff has both but sometimes I have to change the way I use it depending on the brand of thread. It was a nice reminder for me to see your visual demo. sewpatsy1
My Pfaff Creative 2.0 has both a horizontal and vertical spool pin. I did not there reason before reading your information.
Thank you
My Brother machine has the spool orientation lying sideways but I have an attachment that holds the spools upright. I had learned this in a Sulky class last summer and it definitely makes a difference as I have spools of both kinds. I also have a spool holder that accommodates larger spools when sewing quilts. I love Sulky for my embroidery machine – it is just amazing.
Didnt know this. Even if I don’t win the thread (which I really would like to) it was definitely worth checking this out for the good info. My machine can handle both ways but I never paid attention to the need.
Sheila
The spool pin on my machine is horizontal. I now know how to use the differntly wound spools of thread. Thank you for the information!
Now I know why my machine has both types of spool holders. Thanks for solving that mystery.
How interesting! So that begs the question, are there both types of winding in every color and weight etc so you can use the best type for your machine? My spool pin is horizontal and purely by chance, I use cross wound thread 90% of the time.
Thanks for the great info. Always wondered about spool orientation, now I what know what way works best.
I have a horizontal spool pin. I must admit I never have heard this information before. Thanks for sharing this.
That would be so cool. Love the different threads… Thanks for the chance…!
My newer machine has a convertible pin, and even a thread stand attachement so I there are many vairations on how to let the thread unspool. This article reminded me to use my felt discs which I never do.
My machine has 2 vertical thread pins, but I also use another thread stand/feed for larger spools that I can adjust. Thanks for the tips – something many sewers and quilters are not aware of !
I recently obtained a vertical spool to use rather than the horizontal spool that came with my machine. I had encountered a little hesitation before when I used the horizontal spool, but never understood the orientation of the thread on the spool. Now I understand….Thank you.
My machine uses both vertical and horizontal. Learned something new about stacked and crosswound threads. I will definitely pay attention to this in my future projects.
Thanks for the information. I love sulky thread.
I knew that I should use the thread stand for the cones… now I know why! Thank you so much for the information.
My machine has both horizontal and vertical pins for thread, but I was not sure which thread type went where, until now. Thank you for your great explanation. I hope my thread work goes better now.
I’ve been sewing for may years buyt never knew the reason behind vertical vs. horizontal thread feeds. Thanks for the lesson!
I’ve learned something new. I use stacked thread but was told “not” to use the thread on
a vertical position.Thanks for the info. BJ
Thanks for the information! I had heard of it before, but it is a good review for me, and good information for everyone.
I learned a lot from this information.
I never realized this could be part of my tension problems…..what a load off my mind…all this time I thought I was having machine problems! I mostly use cross-wound threads, so will use a thread holder now. Thank you for this info.
I have both spool pins on my Bernina. I have heard this information but I tend to forget which type of thread goes where!
I love the way you showed how to use the different threads. I will not have so many problems now. Thank you.
I have both on my machine, but was not aware of the reason. Now I know and thank you.
I like your information. Now I know how my spools should be on my machines.
My machine has a horizontal feel but I also have a lovely thread stand in the form of a flower that I can use. Thanks for the info–I truly didn’t know it makes a difference.
I definitely learned something new. I have never heard about thread being wound different ways. I don’t think I have ever seen any spools that were crosswound. My old machine that recently broke layed the thread on it side, but it could also stand up. I recently had to buy a new one and it lays on it’s side and has another spoolpin that can be put on for double needle sewing, which also lays on it’s side. I’m a little confused at why the machines would be made to use thread on its side if the thread should be standing to work better. I never noticed a problem with how it fed off the spools, though. I may look at getting a vertical stand and try thread cones when I get started machine quilting. So far I only hand quilt but am in the process of learning to machine quilt. Sulky threads are beautiful and I hope to try them soon.
I never knew there was a difference but I’m lucky I’ve been doing it correctly. My machine has both vertical and horizontal so I’ll know which to use in the future. Thanks for the interesting update.
good information. had forgotten the difference.
I have the option for both.
My spool lays horizontally. I had no idea there was a difference. Thanks for the info.
Oh my i didn’t realize there there was a difference. My brother machine states on the horizontal spool to have it wind from the bottom. I need to check with brother to see what recommendations they have for this. Thank you so much for this information.
I have two spool pins on the top of my machine. One is a stationary vertical pin and the other (the main spool pin) can be horizontal or vertical. This information was extrememly helpful and will be heeded for easier stitching in the future.
My machine will unspool thread either way.
Thanks for that info on the difference in the windings and unwindings. I knew that you were suppose to do them differently but never knew which went on which spool pin. My machine has both horizontal and (a removable) vertical pins. I know that I will be more concious of how it works now.
Love these threads – I do have both vert. & horz. pins, so this is very good information to know.
I learn something new every day! Thanks for the info and the giveaway.
Great info! Didn’t know there was a difference. I have a new used Phaff machine that I’ve yet to use (unbelievable I know) but I believe I have the option to use the spool peg either way. Thanks!
I have both horizontal and vertical spool feeds on my regular machine and my embroidery machine. But I use a metal stand becauce I use cone thread 90% of the time on my regular machine and I use the horizontal on my embroidery machine. As a seamstress for over 30 years I always knew about the different needle sizes to use for different types of fabrics, but never realized the difference in how threads were wound. I have learned something new today that will definitly make a differance to my sewing in the future. Thanks for this opertunity to win a bundle of sulky threads.
Thank you so much for this information. I did not know there was a difference in the way thread was wound.
My spoolpin is horizontal. I didn’t realized the thread was layered differently on the spools until I read this article. I will pay more attention to how the thread is loaded on the spool from now on.
My machine has both vertical and horizontal spoolpins, but I was never quite sure why. Now I know, so that is what I learned.
My machine has both the vertical and the horizontal spool threads. I did not know you were supposed to put different wound threads on different ones. Now I know and maybe my thread will not break as much when I embroidery. Thanks
I always have trouble remembering which spools should be upright and which should come off the side. Stacked = side – they both start with “s”. That should help me remember….
My Bernina 830LE only has upright spoolpins. My favorite piecing thread is Aurifil which is crosswound so I’m good. My Bernina 580 has both spoolpins. I sometimes sew on an older Pfaff with a horizontal spoolpin but it also has an adapter for a vertical spoolpin.
my spoolpin is horizontal; and yes I learned new things from this post, thank you for such clear photos..the also help me learn.
The spool spin on my machine is horizontal. I did learn that the thread should unwind from the top. Thanks for the information.
I had no idea the way the thread is wound could be so important. My sewing machine has places for two different spools of thread — one spoolpin lies horizontally and the other is vertical. But I think I’m only supposed to use the vertical one if I’m sewing with two spools of thread, and that the first spool of thread always goes on the horizontal spoolpin; I may have it backward. In any case, the first, or only, spool of thread is always supposed to go on one of the spoolpins, which means I need to pay better attention to the thread I buy and make sure it has been wound the way that is best for that spoolpin (and then that I buy thread wound the other way whenever I’m going to be stitching with two threads at the same time).
Thank you for the information! I learned something new today; guess you really are “never too old”.
I learn something new every day. My machine feeds the thread horizontal. I have to set something up special to feed vertical. now I know why.
My machine has the option for both vertical or horizontal spool pin, but I had no idea that it made a difference when sewing. Thanks for the info & a chance to win.
Wow, I didn’t know about stacked and crosswound thread. It makes so much sense. My spool pins on my Ellisimo are horizonal with an optional upright spool pin. I have purchased the 10 thread stand to go with it and it takes the thread off the top of the spool.
Thank you so much for the post about crosswound and stacked thread. I feel so much more knowledgeable now!
I’m using a stacked spool, so my orientation is up.
I never realised there was a need to take into consideration the different ways that the thread was wound… always wondered why you had two differently orientated spool holders. thanks for the info
Thanks for the info on stacked and crosswound thread. You learn something new every day.
My machine has both vertical & horizontal spools. Now I know the difference between them. Thanks for the tutorial & the chance to win.
I learn this in a class given by a Sulky educator that our guild brought in. But always have to go back to handouts to remember which goes where. My machine has both type of spool holders. Seeing information like this helps enforce what we have learned.
Your Sulky was very informative. My Bernina machines have both post and horizontal thread holders. Thanks for expanding my sewing knowledge.
I have both spoolpins but only learned the difference last year. Yes it does make a difference.
I too always have trouble remembering which way to use the thread. Thanks for the reminder.
My Husqvarna has two spool pins, one of which can be oriented either way,
My machine has both spool orientations. Very helpful information.
boy do we learn alot on hear and about threads, can’t wait to get different colors of threads. thanks again.
My spoolpin is vertical. I knew some threads were wound differently but didn’t know there was a name for it. Thanks for the info on stacked and crosswound thread.
I have both types on different machines; good to be reminded of the differences in threads.
Thank you – I never ever noticed that thread was wound differently. Now I know!!! I recently attended a Sulky course and was introduced to your thread – Wow -I love it – especially the blendables, they are beautful. I am hoping our store gets in all of the blendables soon, as I want them all. I ordered the “Tropics” and I can hardly wait to receive them.
Thanks again…
I had no idea there was a difference! Mine has only 1 horizontal position. Wonder if this is where my bobbin winding issue is coming from. Very informative article.
My spool pin is horizontal and ironically without knowing I have been using it for crosswound thread. My machine also has an extra pin that can be used vertically and I use that mostly for machine quilting and the threads are stacked. The information was very useful and I will be purchasing a stand up thread holder for my larger spools. Thanks for the opportunity.
Just read about this great idea and I had no idea there was a difference in spools of thread. Thank you Diane for the handy tip.
I did learn something…my machine has both kinds of spool pins, but I usually only use the horizontal one for both kinds. I’ll try the vertical today.
I had no idea. I will need to pay attention to my thread from now on.
This was great. I had heard that there were two different ways to have the thread feed but was never sure which was which. This really helped. My machine has the capabilities to do it both ways. Thanks so much for clearing this up for me.
Thanks for the very informative lesson.
I have both a horizontal and a vertical spoolpin. Never really knew why. I regularly use the horizontal one and only the vertical if I have to wind a bobbin with a different thread than what’s on the horizontal pin. Duh! Good to now be informed of the real purpose and I hope to use them appropriately from now on!
This is very good information! Never knew that it made any difference! thanks!
I knew there was a difference but never knew which was which. Its a great help as I do have both pins. Love Sulky thread and would love to win some as I make a lot of quilts for charities. Thanks for the opportunity.
I have a horizontal spool pin. I did not know that there were two ways thread could be wound on a spool. I will have to check mine out once it is unpacked. We just moved in three weeks ago. I would love to win some of your thread. Thanks for the giveaway.
I had no idea it makes a difference how the thread is wound on the spool. Nor did I know that the felt piece for the spool the purpose of it and what it does. Never too old to learn something else. I am self taught sewist. lol
I have used this type of thread on both of my machines (bernina and baby lock) and I just love the way it makes my applique standout I have also used sulky for free-standing lace doll clothes for fashion dolls my daughter collects. All your threads are great and I need more !!!!
My machines have spool pins that can be either horizontal or vertical. Good to know which to use for the way thread is wound. Thanx.
I had no idea that the way a spool of thread was wound would effect the way the thread should pull off the spool. I thought that spools of thread were all created equal. One spool may have more thread on it than another but I thought that the size of the spool is what dictated as to where it would go on a sewing machine. Thank you I HAVE learned a lot form the information.
My pin can be either vertical or horizontal however I didn’t know the difference in how the thread is wound. Thanks for the info. Hope I win. Carol
Oh and by the way I have spool pins both ways on Bernina and use a thread stand for babylock. Thank for the information as I did’nt know this, but would change to what worked best with my thread.
Thank you! I never new the difference between the cross wound thread and the diagonal wound thread spools. You learn something new every day. Thank you again.
I have both types of spool pins – but did not know this information about the way thread is wound. Very interesting. Thanks for the information. Now I can look for this in my sewing when having problems.
My wonderful Janome has both types of spool pin. It does make a difference which pin you use. It also makes a difference whether the spool is placed so that the thread goes over from front to back on the horizontal pin or around from the back on the vertical spool, so I am always careful to check the spool orientation as well.
My machine has both a vertical and a hortizontal spool pin and now I understand why.
I didn’t know that it made a difference, thanks for the tip. Kathy
My machine has 3 vertical pins but also a threadstand. Love your thread!
I had forgotten this hint. Thanks for the reminder to pay attention. My Janome has only vertical spindles but I do use a stand often.
Since I am a long arm quilter I use the crosswound spools most of the time on that machine. On my Baby Lock I can use either stacked or crosswound as it has adapters for both. I have to admit at one time I did not know the difference and could not figure out why my tension would go off. Once I learned the difference I was good to go and my tension (headache) problem went away.
Love Sulky threads and would love to win. I have a horizontal and vertical thread holder which comes in handy!
learned something new today, thanks very interesting read
I was so glad to finally get the truth about which side the thread should come off of. I have a drawer of Sulky thread and keep buying more. I really love it.
My machine only has a vertical spool pin. I didn’t realize that I should be using a stand on the side of my machine for the crosswound spools. Looks like I have another excuse to run to the quilt store!
P.S. I should always have my thread coming from the right side toward the bobbin
Thank you for the valuable information. I have a horizontal thread holder but am going to look around in my attachment box for a vertical one. If not, I will purchase one. I am new to Sulky thread and love it!
Well, I just learned something I didn’t know-and I have attended a Sulky Workshop! Thank you.
I have two spool pins. One flips up for upright use, and the other can be either horizontal or upright, very handy so I don’t have to worry how the thread is on the spool.
Good information, I did not know this.
I learned that I want a stationary spool pin for my second machine. The horizontal pin is not very sturdy.
I didn’t know that. My machine has 2 pins, one vertical, one horizonal. I thought it was for personal preference. Now I know. thanks for the info.
I have both a vertical and horizontal spoolpin on my machine and I also use a freestanding thread holder. I don’t know is more amazing that there are more ways to unwind the thread from the spool or that someone thought up the concept.
Thanks for the information on how to position the spool of thread depending on whether it’s stacked or crosswound. I knew this information and my machine allows me to lay the spool on its side or stand up and come off the spool from the side. However, I remember when I first learned this and I was not a beginner at sewing. This is important information.
I have two locations too and found this very helpful. I also have a free standing spool holder for using some of those really big spools on my machine too. I love thread!
My spoolpin on both of my machines are horizontal. I had no idea that there was so much difference on the way the thread needed to come off the spool according to the way it was wound onto it. So, I guess you could say, I learned something today from this post. Thanks, Linda
I learned that I am not using Blendables correctly, my spoolpin is horizontal. I will make a change that next time I use Blendables. Thank you !!!!
My sewing machine has both kinds of spool pin. I have been using the horizontal for everything. I will try using the vertical for stacked from now on. Yes, I learned a lot from this article. Thank you!!!!
My machine can do both but I usually use the horizontal pin. I learned something new today. Thanks for sharing that info.
My machine has a verticle thread mount. I think that most of the thread that I have used is cross wound. I really didn’t know that there was a difference and how those differences make a difference on your machine. Great information!!!
I have 2 machines,one a sidespool & the other a straight up.Been sewing for 36 years & learned something new,i never realized there was a difference when you are using both stacked & crossed.I love my sulky threads for my quilt appliques as they have so many choices you can always find the one to set off my blocks to the best advantage.
my spoolpin is oriented for stacked threads, but all I use is cross-wound. This could be why I have tension problems!!! I have to get an attachment!
I thought that the spool of thread always sat on top of the machine. But since I have a Babylock embroidery machine the position of the spool of thread does make a difference in what you are making. Now here I am stitching out all my stitches on the machine on black a white fabric and I look up to see the thread spool. It’s on the wrong holder. It’s a good thing I read your blog. Really! Now I’ve been wanting to see about those Sulky blendables. Thanks for the blog.
Wow! I did not know any of this! Thanks for the education!!!!!
~~Beth
WOW…Just goes to show you CAN teach old dogs (me!!! LOL) new tricks! I have often wondered what the difference may have been between the two, but put it down to manufacturer preference…….
LIVE and LEARN……It’s great.
My machine has a vertical stack pin. I learned the difference between stacked and crosswound thread.
Thanks for the chance to win.
I have noticed for years that thread is woven differently on spools but I just figured it was the manufacturers option! Now that you have taught me why, I am anxious to see the difference it makes in my sewing. I have both vertical and horizontal spool holders on my machine but thought it was just a choice of which one I use, not for anything in particular. Thanks for the lesson in making my sewing projects look better than ever!
My machine has two spool pins – one oriented horizontally, and the other, vertically. From this article I learned how to properly choose a spool pin, depending on my choice of thread. Thanks!
I never knew that thread was wound differently. I have a horizontial spool pin on my machine that I have always used. I need to dig out my vertical spool pin and start using it. This was a very informative lesson, Thank you. Also thank you for the giveaway. I would love to win.
A great tutorial – It settled once and for all my ambivalence about orintation of thread spools. Thank you so much!
It is good information to have especially if you have different machines and they all have different threading. I will try each way tomorrow and make note of the difference. I need all the help I can get some days!
After reading your tutorial on which spool to use I had my thread on the wrong one!
Now after I put it on the right one my thread no longer comes out of the needle when I start sewing. I am so happy now and not frustrated anymore. Thank you.
I am new to quilting and sewing am teaching myself. The lesson in thread was great and now I understand my my sewing machine has 2 different spool pins. Now, I can use my thread more effectively and with less frustration. Thanks so much!
My spool pin is horizontal but I do have an adapter pin for use in a vertical orientation. I will switch to using that one when I am working with the many beautiful Sulky threads I have collected. It’s so hard to resist them when they are on special! Thanks for the lesson on thread behavior
The information on stacked and crosswound thread is something I sort-of knew, but the explanation and especially the pictures (I am a visual learner) has ingrained it in my brain. Thanks.
I have a spool pin on the top and on the side of my machine. I’d not really thought about why spools were wound differently, but will pay attention in the future. Thanks!
Very interesting information. I have been doing as it says to do but did not know the reason behind it until recently. I use the vertical pin for the small spools that are stacked and the large freestanding spool holder for the cross wound spools.
My spool pin is oriented horizontal. I was have some difficulty with stacked spools of thread, so I purchased a vertical thread holder. Definitely improved my thread feeding! Now I know why!! Very good lesson!
This confirmed what I was taught when I got a new Bernina (QE 440) in 2007. I had not heard that before, but have followed it ever since. It’s nice to see it confirmed here, and to know that I wasn’t remembering it backwards!!
I have both spool pins, but never realized there was a difference. Maybe that’s why I’ve had trouble at times with filling bobbins and tension. Love the Sulky threads!
I always knew there was a difference and yes, my machine can convert to either method. I just didn’t know which way to use it – Now I DO!
Great information!! I will check with the dealer for a vertical spool pin holder or buy a stand alone. ~~Thanks for the chance to win~~.
I use 2 different machines and I’m lucky enough to have one of each orientation. I have a wonderful sewing machine dealer here in Richmond and she has given her classes this information for a long time. Less frustrations holding up classes makes for happier students.
I have both spool orientation available on my machine and have learned a lot about which thread to use on each of the thread pins
Last month’s speaker at our Guild talked all about threads and needles. I knew the one was called cross wound but didn’t know the other is called stacked. My machine’s spool pin is horizontal and there’s one that can be flipped up for stacked thread. I use that for filled bobbins since I don’t use stacked thread very often.
Thanks for educating us about thread, it’s good to know.
Interesting article! It is good to know some of these technical things.!!
Great information! Getting in a hurry sometimes I forget to check the wind on the spool I have both spool pins on my machine. It does make a great difference in the choice I use the thread on the pins. Sulky makes a great product and not loading the thread the correct way shows in the quality of my work. I have learned the wright choice in threads makes the all the difference in my final outcome. Thank you Sulky! My job just that more speacial.
My machine has both spool pin orientations so depending on which type of thread I’m using, I use the appropriate pin. I knew about the different winds, but wasn’t aware there were specific names for them. Thanks for the information.
I am happy to learn the information about the different winds on spools and the orientation of the pin. I have always used the horizontal pin on my Bernina.
Hope I win the threads!
My machine has a spool pin that can be rotated either way. I noticed that when I used different types of threads that I had better stitches and the thread didn’t break as much when I would adjusted the origination of the spool Now thanks to sulky I know why. I love sulky 12 weight, I have just started a class on thread painting. I tried different threads to see what looked the best and sulky won out. I also like to use the blendables on my Serger projects. The new 42 colors that sulky has are a prefect addition can’t wait to have them all.
Fortunately I have both. Sulky is the only thread I use for embroidery and most everything else.
I knew there was a difference in the winding of the threads but did not know about using the vertical/horizontal pins, will do so now. I love the suky blendables and would love to add some new ones to my collection.
Thanks for the info! I knew thread came off differently, but I didn’t know the difference! Makes a real difference when using the pin the correct way!! Thanks!
Thank you for the informative lesson, they don’t teach this when you first start quilting or machine embroidering. Now I know why some days I have so many problems! My quilting machine Janome MC6600P has vertical spool pins, whereas my Janome DC3050 for taking to class has a horizontal spool pin. My Elna 8200 embroidery only machine has both horizontal and the capacity for vertical spool pins as well. I am going to put a post-it note at each machine to remind my self which way thread needs to be feeding into my machine for better stitching results and less breakages!
This is very useful information. My machine has two thread pins – now I know why
Yes, I certainly learned more from this article. Had never heard the term “stacked” and didn’t realize that thread should be used in a vertical position; you explained the concept well. My machine has two spool pins. One can only be used in a vertical position but the other can be used horizontally and vertically.
my machine has a horizontal spool position and an optional vertical spool holder – your article explaining the two types was very informative.
It is always helpful to hear this again! Thank you. I can accomodate both types of thread winds on several of my machines.
My machine’s spoolpin can be postitioned vertical or horizontal. I also have the thread stand in the picture. I use large cone shaped spools of thread (3000 yds.) that will not fit on my machine’s spoolpin.
Sulky Blendables are the best for Free Motion quilting. The colors are so lush it would be hard to choose a favorite. However I’ve used a box (3 spools) of a beautiful varigated green, #713, and a box of a lovely pink/lavendar blend. Not sure of the color number on it. I’ll keep a bit on the spool so I can match it later.
So, a few more colors would add to my thread stash brilliantly!
My machine’s spoolpin is vertical. I learned that I shouldn’t use crosswound thread on it and will look into getting thread stand to use with them. The Sulky blendables would be a wonderful prize to win. Thanks for the give-away.
Thanks for the info about the different ways that thread is put on the spool. All I have ever used has been stacked, but my Mom worked in a sewing factory that used huge cones of crosswound thread. I would love to win some of this thread, as I am going to invest in an embroidery machine in the near future and this would give me a good start on getting all the threads I will need for some beautiful embroidery work.
I have 2 spoolpins on my sewing machine. One can be used for vertical & horizontal. The other is just vertical. I have been using the Sulky Blendables when doing free motion quilting. I just love the colours. I also use these in my bobbins. My favorite colour is #4010 Caramel Apple. I have the 3200yd cone which I use on the spool stand.
Your article was very informative. I have never really paid any attention as to how thread is wound on a spool. I will keep this in mind next time I use my Sulky 30wt.
Thanks for for the info
My spool can be both directions and I also have a stand for big cones.
I did not know the difference in the thread winding. You can always learn something new. Thanks for the great information.
Ava
I’ve wondered how the different machines used the same threads. It’s great to have the new knowledge. My old machine only has the vertical pin. I tried the Sulky threads and love the subtle color they add to my quilts.
I have both kinds of spool pin on my machine, and I have been using them correctly! Good info! Thanks!
I learned to put my spole on the upright pin with the blendable spole.
I will get a piece of felt to put under it at my next goaround.
Thank you for the tip, keep them coming.
Sol
Frankly, I don’t think I can be reminded too often about the different winding styles for thread. Often I forget to check this until I am well into a particular project. So, thanks for the reminder!
My Janome6600 has the virtical thread option and I mainly use the industerial size cones on that machine. The other Janome has both horizantal and virtical spool holders so will have to pay attention to which I use.
My spool pin is horizontal but can be changed to vertical. My dealer did a good job explaining the different wound threads & how to put them on the machine. Thanks for the contest.
My machine has a spoolpin that works either way. Now I know which position to use when. Thanks!
I use thread both ways, but prefer crosswound on a cone stand, as sometimes stacked thread has “drag” as it unwinds. I use Sulky embroidery threads & never have had a problem. I am anxious to try the blendables on one of my quilting projects.
My spoolpin is vertical. I never new the difference between stacked and crosswound spools. Thanks, Diane!
My machine has vertical and horizontal pins. Thanks for the information.
My spool pin goes horizontally. I learned that you should use spool pins for thread wound in different ways. Very interesting!!!!
Nice reminder of how thread is wound and how to position it when using. Its something that a person can forget if one is not paying attention to the thread.
Yes, I did learn something new. I guess you can teach an old dog new tricks. As far as I know, my machine is horizontal. I must look to see if there is an attachment for vertical loading.
My spoolpin is vertical, but I also have the option to set up for the crosswound spools.
I noticed that the threads seem to work better using either vertical or horizontal but I did not understand why. Thank you for your help I will now know what to look for and how to use this information to help me.
This past weekend I went to a sewing machine maintenance short demo and thread was discussed. Your information just reminded me of the types of wound thread and was very helpful. Thanks again for keeping us informed.
I am so delighted that you provide such useful information, I keep learning new things each time I visit your site.
Thank you for keeping us informed and now I know how to look at threads differently.
Thanks for the valuable info. The spool pins on my sewing machine are vertical. I knew there must be a reason for the different orientations of spool pins, and thanks to you I now understand why it sometimes seems that my thread is fighting itself and twisting into kinks. This is especially annoying when I am doing machine embroidery. I will ask my dealer how I can adapt my machine for horizontal thread.
I definitely learned something new!
My machine has a horizontal thread pin. Now I understand why I need to look for crosswound spools. This article was very helpful and enlightening.
Well! You taught me something I did not know! My spoolpin is horizontal on my Singer 2210 and vertical on my Singer 401. Thanks for the info!
I learned more than I ever thought I wanted to know about thread in this post, LOL.
I guess I’m one of the lucky ones. My machine’s spoolpin can either be left down in the horizontal position or pushed up into the vertical position.
I tend to leave it down in the horizontal position all the time just because then I don’t have to remember to put it down when I cover the machine when I’m done.
My 2 newer machines have both options. My older machines have only vertical. I had heard this before but forget which thread should be on which spool. Thanks for the reminder
Mine is vertical. I had no idea this affected the way the thread fed into the machine. This was very helful. Thanks…..
My machine has both vertical and horizontal spool holders, but I did not know why there were two. I don’t think the difference in the way thread is wound on the spool was covered during the class I took on how to use my machine at the time of purchase. Thank you for this information.
The spool pin on my Janome is vertical .but I also have one I can put on that is horizontal.
Thanks to the knowledgeable workers at Branum’s Sewing and Vacuum Center in Augusta, Georgia, I did learn the proper way to place the thread for sewing different thread orientations whether stacked or wound. Each bit of sewing information helps make a person a better seamstress. I do appreciate all those willing to help increase the art of sewing.
i never know there was a diffidence in how the thread was wound and always wondered what the felt circle was used for thank you
I have both a vertical and horizontal spoolpin on my machine and I also use a freestanding thread holder. Thanks for the information about how the thread is wound and for the giveaway!
Learned something new today about thread. Very interesting. Now I’ll know how to put the spool on my machine for best results.
Thank you for the information on threads. It was so very helpful.
I love Sulky threads. I have been using a lot of the blendables for quilting. The thread choices are incredible. Keep up the good work!!
Thank you for the information above on threads. I found it to be very helpful.
I have been using the blendable threads for my quilting and I love the look. There are so many threads to choose from but I always pick the Sulky brands. Thank you for a great product.
I have both a vertical and horizontal spool pin on my machine and I also use a free standing spool stand. It’s nice to know how thread unwinds. Maybe now I won’t have as much trouble with thread shredding.
IF you take the time to read your tutorials, you will learn so much about thread. My spoolpin is vertical. Still, I learned about stacked spools being horizontal. Good source of information comes for you. Thank you for your tutorials and a chance to win.
Sandi T.
sandit1@sbcglobal.net
I never knew about this! Thank you for the good lesson.
OMGoodness! I have been sewing for about 50 years – quilting for more than 37 years – and this is the first explanation I’ve read about stacked and crosswise wound thread! Amazing! This may explain the tension issues I’ve encountered over the years. I’m just amazed that I am only now reading this. Thank you! Hope I win the Sulky thread – my favorite quilting thread by far!
This helped out alot. I did not know you needed them in two different positions. I am still looking to get a spool stand.
Thanks for the great info, I am new to machine embroidery and I am sure this tip will help prevent any problems.
Two of my machines, which are both fairly old, have vertical spool pins. Until I got my third machine, which has both vertical and horizontal spool pins, I was unaware of the significance of the orientation. Thanks for the explanation. It made it much more clear than any I’d encountered previously.
I love the Sulky Blendables! They are truly beautiful threads.
I never knew there was a specific way to put thread on a spool holder based on how it was wound on the spool! My Sewing machine has oriented so that I can put the spool on either way, but I always used the same way(creature. Of habit) and no one ever suggested another way of doing it. Well now I know and you can betcha I’m going to be thing about it when I sew in the future.thank you ever so much for the tip.
I like many of the other readers have just lucked out with thread, but I will be sharing this blog with my quilting friends. We have various types of machines with assorted thread feeds.
Well now I know why some of my spools of thread I was having such problems with. I need to get an adapter for those spools. My machine has a vertical spool pin.
these threads are terrific. I love Sulky. And these colors are beautiful.
Horizontal. May explain some previous problems.
Great information! My machine has a vertical spool pin and I also have a freestanding spool stand.
I have both spool pins on my machine and thanks to you I now know the correct way to use them.
wow in all the years that I have been sewing I have never known this! Thank you for the information. I will deffinately put this to the test. Thanks again
This is great info. I have two vertical thread holders so I am all set. I recently started using Sulky thread and I am soooo impressed. Keep the great info coming!
I use a great deal of thread in threadpainting.There is a definite difference in how thread feeds off the spools. When using 2 or 3 threads through one needle you can really notice the difference in stacked or crosswound threads. I would love to try the Sulky Blendables.
I did know about this informations but always good to have a review. These threads are beautiful.
I’ve been sewing for thirty years and this is something I never knew. My spoolpin is vertical but I will look into a horizontal or stand to use with crosswound thread. Thanks so much for this tip
I have both a vertical and a horizontal spool pin. I did not know about the different ways thread is wound on a spool. Thanks for the informative article.
My spool pin can be horizontal or vertical – nice to have the option!!
I love those variagated threads! My machine has a horizontal spool holder and
I have been using the wrong thread! Thanks for the tip!
I have both spool pins on my machine, but I didnt know that different threads used different spool pins. Thanks for the education!
My Pfaff has both but my small babylock only has the vertical.
I love the blendables. they work with every thing I make.. can’t wait to see who wins
wow, learn something new everyday – my spoolpin is vertical and I don’t know if it can be horizontal. I will check in the morning. I didn’t even know there was a difference in how the thread was wound.
Thank you for another great lesson!!
My machine has both a vertical and a horizontal spool pin. Thanks to your very good explanation I now know which pin to use with the proper spool type.
Thanks for the great information. I never knew this…I learned something new. I have a very old Bernina and it only has vertical spool pins. I will ask the dealer if there is an attachment for a horizontal spool pin for my machine. Thanks for the giveaway too.
My Janome has both vertical and horizontal spoon pins so I use them according to which way the thread is wound. Great giveaway! Thanks for a chance to win.
Great information! I am a beginner, and had not learned that yet, not in any of the classes I have taken so far.
Learn something new every day!! This is so true. Sometimes we look ,but do we see? I would have never known that the way that the thread is wound on the spool would be so inportant. Thanks for the info.
My spool is oriented horizontally. This would explain why the sulky thread I used was a bit difficult to get a good stitch with…I will now go back and have another go and put into practice what I have learned from this post. Thanks for the information and the great giveaway
Well, you are never too old to learn something new. I try to learn something new about anything daily. Like long time Sulky threads, my machine only handles stacked threads and I was aware of the difference. I guess I’ve been lucky to date. Keep up the easy and interesting information on Sulky! Marjorie
My machine has both spool pins and I do have a thread stand that I use when I am using the larger spools of thread. Thanks for giving all the information, especially to those who didn’t know about different wound spools.
Thanks for the synopsis. I was aware that different threads work better in either the horizontal or vertical position. This is especially useful when using metallic threads. My Husqvarna machines offer both options.
I really enjoyed this information! While I do a lot of sewing and quilting, I didn’t make any connection with thread in this manner. I’ve used the blended threads in some of my quilts and they add a great dimension.
Thanks for the thread lesson. My machine has two spool stands, sideways and upright, plus I just purchased a spool stand for my Featherweight. Great tutorial.
Good information. I have machines with both types of spool pins.
My machine has both, but I usually use horizontal
My machines have vertical holders and I have the cone stands to use for the crosswound spools.
My spool is horizontal, and I’m so glad to have this info.
My Designer 1 spoolpin can be used for both stacked and crosswound thread. I love it and would love to win Sulky thread. It’s the best!
I have both type of spool pins on my machine. 2 sideways ones(one for threading the bobbin) and an upright thread spool that attaches to the top of the machine. Very convientent. I use both depending on the type of thread and the size of the spool.
I have both orientations of spool pins, but was not aware why I needed both. Thanks for the great information. And thanks for the chance to win some great thread.
I never realized that how the spool was wound made such a difference. I’ve noticed the difference, but now I know that I need to match the spool to the way the thread is wound. I’ll really use the felt cushions now as well on my spool holders.
I have machines with both kinds of thread pins. I like using the thread stand the best.
MY SPOOL HOLDERS ARE LOCATED ON TOP AND SIDE OF THE MACHINE-WORKING FINE FOR ME. THANKS FOR THE INFO. AND THIS NEAT GIVEAWAY!
HAPPY STITCHING!
I had no idea and always wondered why some threads seemed to feed better than others, and now I am very anxious to try this out using different threads and see the difference.
WOW! Thanks so much for the information. My spoolpin is horizontal, and it seems the thread is always catching on the plastic edges of the spool. I will see if I can get a vertical spoolpin attachment for my sewing maching that allows the side-wound thread to feed correctly. Thanks so much! Jeanne
I have both vertical and horizontal spool pins. I learned some majorly invaluable info from this post/giveaway! I always thought that the vertical pin was for secondary thread when sewing with twin needles, loading the bobbin, or for tricky thread like metallics or invisible. I looked through my thread and have noticed that the more expensive thread like Gutterman or Metrosene are all crosswound while the less expensive C&C are all stacked. I’ve made a note and will be using either spool pins accordingly from now on. Thank you!!!
I love creating different effects with thread. These would be great! Give me tons of creative ideas!
My Janome has a vertical holder which I always use to sew with, and the horizontal is used to wind bobbins from. And sometimes for sewing also, if the spool is way too big, or the thread just doesn’t want to come of the spool. Thanks for the giveaway.
I have 2 Janomes and one has 2 vertical pins and the has both vertical and horizontal. Thanks for the information and the chance to win such great thread!!
My spool pin is mounted vertically… and yes, I did learn something. I learned that a machine I have that does not have an extra horizontal spool pin position can still be used with the cross-wound spools by simply purchasing a vertical thread guide and stand that can be placed beside my machine — yay! I cannot believe I did not think of this. I always assumed those vertical guides were for use only with the very large spools used by long-arm quilters. And I also never knew that the way a spool was wound determined whether to use vertical or horizontal spool pin position. Thanks for the important lesson!
My machine has both spool pins but thought that the machine needed the thread horizontal now to have better tension and less thread breakage and the thread winding really wasn’t a factor. I love Blendables and use them for everything, quilting, heirloom, beautiful decorative stitches and especially machine embroidery so I will now stand my Blendables up horizontally to feed and lay my crosswound embroidery & cotton threads like Gutterman down. Thanks for this important information and I will pass it on!
My machine has both a vertical and horizontal pin, but I find using a thread holder next to the machine much more convenient than the vertical pin which is often too short.
I’m glad you gave us the information about the felt piece that goes over the spool pin before the thread. I’ve never used the piece that came with my machine – I’ll start using it for my stacked threads now!
My machine has both, but I never realized that threads were wound differently. Learned something new. Again! Thank you.
I am really grateful for this info. I am learning more and more everyday. This is perfect timing for me too. I gota new machine yesterday and found out the importance of this. I would love this thread soooo much and test out this brand and make some great quilts with it
Fingers crossed
How interesting. I’ve only been quilting for a few months and had no idea to even look for the difference in how the thread is loaded onto the spool. My machine has a horizontal spoolpin and I have been using crosswound loaded spools of thread which I’m relieved to see are the correct ones. Many thanks for this useful information!
I have both spool pins, and now I know what to use where. I knew that sometimes the thread would give me as little bit of problems but I never dreamed it would be this. It just goes to show you are never to old to learn. Thanks for the info and I will pass it on to my friends and realitives.
I had heard this before but never paid a lot of attention to it as it was not explained as well. I will pay attention now. My machine has orientation for both.
My machine allows for both types of thread release. It is certainly helpful to know why it’s set up that way. Thanks for the lesson on threads.
My machine has a horizontal spool pin – and I am also using crosswound thread — need to correct that situation! Useful information. Thank you.
Learning is Growing! Now I know why the crosswound threads work better on my horiziontal thread holder! Thanks for the new knowledge and helping me grow!
My machine is set up with both types of thread holders. I usually use crosswound threads on the horizontal holder but on occasion end up with stacked threads and use the vertical one. It makes a small but noticeable difference.
I did learn something today. Thanks, I do have both spool pins.
I have always used a horizontal spool pin for stacked spools. Using a vertical spool pin makes a lot more sense.
vertical. I learned that I could get an attachment for horizontal.
Yes, I had learned this at the Bernina shop. Mine is vertical.
My Janome has both spool posts. Good info on their uses. Thanks.
I have two machines. Both have vertical pins & one also has a horizontal one. Good info here. Intend to read more before closing.
My Janome has vertical pins, but it also has metal thingies (technical term) like the one in the thread stand pictured. I have used these for both types of thread. I will have to look at the set-up and at my manual to see what to do.
Thank you!
PS– I was pleased to see some Canadian winners. A few times I have answered long surveys or entered contests only to find at the very end that only US entries were accepted.
Thanks for the tip. I had no idea.
I had noticed that thread was wound in two different ways, but didn’t realize that they were to be handled differently on the machine.
My spoolpin broke off (it was plastic). Since that was the only thing wrong with the machine, I bought a thread stand. I’m still trying to adjust to it as it handles thread a little bit differently from the spoolpin. However, it sounds like I can use it with both types of thread.
I learned that I need to change the set up of my spool pin. the new spool I put on is crosswound and I have it vertical. Thanks
I have only one spool pin on my machine. It has a vertical orientation. I’ve been thinking for awhile about finding a way to adapt to the crosswound spools. I learned that the dealer may help me even though I have an older machine.
Thank you for the information. I am trying to learn everything about sewing and using my machine with a new thread.
The spool pin on my machine is horizontal. Thanks for the great information I’ll have to put my thread stand to use. Love the Sulky Blendables!
Very useful information. I have been sewing for 61 years and never come across this information before. I have a new Bernina and the spool holder is horizontal. I am sure there is a second one but I haven’t used it yet, so I am not sure of its orientation.
My machine only has a horizontal spool pin, but I frequently use a thread stand. This will be helpful to know when it comes time to get a new machine. I will check to see that it has both vertical and horizontal spool pins!
Love the sulky threads! Thanks for the information!
Wow – I certainly did learn something! I have sewn all my life from toddler age up – and am from a family of professional seamstresses – and I never knew about various orientations regarding various thread winding patterns! THANK YOU SO MUCH! I love to make discoveries ~ My spoolpins are all vertical – but now I’m gonna make sure to have each orientation available!
I am accustomed to vertical orientation – but not opposed to horizontal! Every machine I’ve ever had – from my first Kenmore portable to my current Pfaff – have vertical pins. I would like to invest in a convertable add on spool pin.
Thanks a Bunch! Today I learned about spool orientation – vertical v. horizontal – and the applications of each!!
Interesting!!!! I have a Husqvarna Madison (like the Prelude model) and it has a horizontal pin, with an optional vertical pin that I admit, I only used for filling the bobbin. Now I know!!! New info for me, but looks like I’m in good company, glancing at the others’ comments. Thanks for the assume info!!!
Wow! I had no idea. I’ve been fighting a certain thread for awhile on my lovely BabyLock Espire, and maybe that has something to do with it. I think I have a spool adapter, so I’ll try that. Fifty years of sewing and there’s still something new to learn!!
My machine has both. I think I had learned the difference in the thread winding but had forgotten. Thanks good advise.
A learning experience.
I have the thread stand and will need to make use of it from now on.
Doreen
Great information on stacked and crosswound thread! I learned that my stacked spools should be on a vertical spindle. Thank you so much, I didn’t know any of this. I now know why I have been having problems with my thread.
My machines have both vertical and horizontal spool pins. Used to watch America Sews and Joyce Drexler appeared there frequently so I knew the proper way to place my thread but it was good to have my senior memory refreshed. Love all of the Sulky threads. Thanks for the article and the opportunity to enter the contest.
Just got the email today. Hope I can still register for the thread.
I have a vertical spoolpin, but I guess I’d better get an adapter or attchment for my machine. Thanks for the info.
I needed this information, as I did not know the difference and I have been sewing for 43 years and quilting for 7. My machines mostly are horizontal feeds. Maybe this is why I have had some thread issues. Now I know and I can adapt. Thank you for this information to improve our skills. Shirley Woods
My spoolpin is verticle. I did not ever notice the difference in the way the thread was wound. I’m glad to know this. I’m wondering if the ‘wire’ top thingy on my Janome 6600 is to allow stacked thread to be used to better advantage?
I have horizontal thread or I can use vertical. Thanks for the info. I was shopping this week for sulky blendables and wondered what was going on with the thread and thought it must have something to do with lot numbers. Learn something new every day, Thanks!
Thank you once again for the very important thread infomation. For years now I have been buying whatever, using the incorrect stacked. Aaooo.
Thanks for the information, this was very helpful. I will find my thread stand and keep it closer to us from now on.
That was helpful and as I have both orientations I’ll remember to not just use the horizontal one. Thanks!
Thanks for the timely lesson. Did not realize that the spools are ment to be used in different directions. Since my Singer has a horizontal holder I will have to finish building my vertical holder before I use the next stacked spool. ( I did start to make one some time ago so now I have an incentive to finish it.) The blendable threads are wonderful. Thanks for keeping the user in mind when designing new threads. Thank you also for the providing these draws.
Both my Bernina and my Janome have two thread holders, one vertical and one horizontal. I will be more mindful of which way I put the thread from this point one. Such good information for all of us to be reminded of. I use a tall thread stand for large cones but find I often don’t get enough tension using the tall thread stand.
sew interesting! I have a Janome which keeps me in stitches. Never thought about whether my thread was stacked or crosswound. What wonderful information you have provided to all of us in the world of sewing. My sewing machine has the vertical spoolpin. I will be purchasing a horizontal spoolpin. I will be using this new information on my next quilting project. Thank-you. SULKY THREADS! and SULKY BLENDABLES!
All my machines have a vertical spool holder but only my newer models have a horizontal. I never realized that a crosswound spools are not suppose to move. Will be using my thread stand more often now. Thanks for the information and the giveaway.
I love Sulky thread. My machines love it too. My sister brought me the plastic container with lots of different spools of thread recently. Love it.
I didn’t know there was a difference in the way thread is wound on the spool. Now that I know that I will look more closely. Never realized that was why my machine has both horizontal and vertical holders.
Thanks so much for the lesson and hope I win spome of that lovely thread!
shirley
My machine has both a vertical and a horizontal thread holder. I have learned something new today after reading this blog. I have noticed the two different thread windings but never knew the reason why. Now I do. Thank you!
I learned today that thread has two wingings I did not know that.
That was very interesting to know ,.
And about different needles and different sizes to use with different thickness of threads.
I am going to copy this page and put in my folder of imformantion.
Thank You