patchy-at-best

On a vertical spool pin, the felt circle cushions the spool, reducing its capability to bounce around. This is turn improves your tension and stitch quality.

ManiacQuilter2

I have a Bernina 1530 and when they were missing, they were replaced when I had the machine serviced.

quiltmaker52

I have a Janome 6600 and a Brother 6800 (I think, not home to check). Neither came with the felt. I think the spool cap makes a huge difference when the thread is vertical. It is much more stable. Once when sewing fast, long straight seams, the thread spool actually flew off the vertical spindle because I forgot the cap!

Reba'squilts

My diamond came with the pad. I don't know if it serves a good purpose. The machine works the same with or without!

LilaKay

A very good quilting friend of mine crocheted 3 for me, one for each of my most used machines...they look great and are functional at the same time! I am crochet challenged so was very happy with the thoughtful gift!

Weezy Rider

The Pfaff 2100 series doesn't need one. The spool pins are horizontal, so you need the end clips. The separate upright spool holder didn't come with one. The Brother PQ1500 came with a ridiculous foam cover. It's altogether unusable with some cone thread - the kind with straight up and down "cones" I have a King Tut spool like that, so I bought a Deelybob to make the cone fit better. It won't fit on the serger type cone adapters. I like the thread.

maviskw

That is stunning! Now I am going to look in my stash of hundreds of tatted snowflakes to see if I have one small enough with a big enough hole in the middle. All my machines will wear tatted doilies.

BettyGee

The felt disc keeps the spool steady and allows the thread to flow evenly. Seems like a small thing, but it works. Every machine I've ever owned/or now own has the disc. Easy to make if it becomes worn.

Mousie

love this answer!

mckwilter

I crochet spool pin doilies for all of my machines. You can make them as large or as small as you like. This one is about the size of one of those red felt circles. I have one on both Berninas and on each of my Featherweights. I take them to quilt guild meetings, retreats and workshops, and if someone helps me in some way, I thank them with one. So far, everyone I've given one to has been thrilled and immediately put it on her spool pin.

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