Bobbins! Bobbins! Bobbins!

Now, I know your new sewing machine came with four bobbins. It's also very likely that you bought a multipack of fun colored threads! (if you haven't you'll have to check out my upcoming thread blog post) This post is here to help you sus out your bobbin use, supply, and management.

1. How do wind a bobbin? Quick version is to follow the dotted-line diagram on the top of your machine. For more details check out my upcoming video on the CraftingByJam YouTube channel.
   

2. How do I load the bobbin? There are two ways to load a bobbin and it depends on your sewing machine. If you have a top load sewing machine, the bobbin will be loaded with the tail draping from the top to the left, forming a "P" shape. Check out this upcoming video for details. If you have a front load sewing machine, the remove the bobbin case with the little metal pulltab and face the opening to you, The bobbin should be oriented with the tail draping from the top to the right. For more details check out this upcoming video
   

3. Can I use a metal bobbin? Short answer, probably not. I know many people want to buy the metal ones because they seem more durable and well. they are. Unfortunately, your machine only works with metal bobbins if it came with metal bobbins.
   

4. What type of bobbin should I get then? The best way to shop for bobbins is looking for the same bobbins, your machine came with. Most home sewing machines made in this century use Class 15 bobbins. Also oftentimes, your machine cannot wind the bobbin properly if the wrong size is used due to different inner diameters.
   

5. My sewing machine came with four bobbins; do I need more? If you plan on sewing with more than 4 colors, then yes. Each actively used thread spool (not counting multiples) should have it's own bobbin. You may have thought to layer the threads onto the bobbins to save thread, and you wouldn't be alone. DON'T DO IT.
   

6. But why shouldn't I layer thread on my bobbin? If you're a fan of headaches, then go ahead and layer those bobbins. Not only is it an organizing nightmare but you risk harming your machine with loose threads in the bobbin area. Additionally and obviously, the bobbin thread runs out quickly. At the end of any bobbin thread stitching generally doesn't have a chance to backstitch leaving your stitching un-secure. So like I said, layering bobbins leads to headaches and if you want an excuse to call out of work, layer those bobbins folks!
   

7. Ok so, How do I store all these bobbins? You have a few options. And I don't want to start with a negative, BUT please for the love of all that is good, do not throw them loose in the bottom of your sewing box or in a little tin! They get tangled which looses time in detangling or rewinding. Please have Present You take care of Future You. This bobbin storage is my personal favorite because it doesn't explode into a mess when I inevitably drop it and they don't come unwound on my own.