ann31039

The only use I've found for them is keeping the spool from flying off when loading a bobbin. And thats only on the older machines with the macho motors.

purplefiend

It helps to prevent backspin on the spool of thread on machines with a vertical spool pin.

mom-6

I use the little felt circle. And on the spools that have a larger center I use a rolled up rectangle craft foam to fill the extra space. Helps the thread feed more evenly.

Cornerstone quilter

I don't remember if I read this or was told at a sewing class. The felt pads are to prevent static electricity from building up on the machine from the spool spinning against the pin base.

Nurse Jan

I have three Vikings and they all came with two felt discs in each machine. And yes they do facilitate the even flow of the thread off the spool. I don't know How old your machines are but I would definitely talk to the sales people and make sure you get the discs you should have.

Good luck!! Jan

DOTTYMO

A friend uses the thick foam pad which fits on bernina spools to put here needle in for sewing ends in. She sews them in as she goes so needle always ready and waiting. Good idea but I only sew ends in if quilt is for a show, I do a few back stitches then plough forward at the ends.
I've only had red felt pad with old machines.

charlottequilts

Now I really feel like a dunce. My Viking DII came with 2 felt circles and 2 different end caps for thread spools. The manual said to use the felt for bobbin winding on the vertical spool pin. I didn't know you were supposed to use the other one the rest of the time on the horizontal pin. I just thought it was an extra.

hugs,
Charlotte