This machine has a short spindle for the large spools of thread. Solved the problem with a drinking straw. Cut it just taller than the large spool of thread and put over the short spindle- voila problem solved. The rest of the machine is great for basic sewing- easy to use-thread- and fill bobbin. I will say as I am older Iuse a threader (the little metal gizmo with wire loop) but for the price of this machine it has many extras.