Materelli "bobbins"

[Ray Kunz]

I have several Materelli "bobbin holders" that are designed for using the small sewing machine bobbins. I have been using them for about 40 years with no problems at all, having bought them from Eric Leiser when he had a shop near Croton, NY. I'd like to buy a few more that I see are now advertised. My misgiving is that I also see comments that they are not as good as other brands with ceramic tubes. Does anyone have comments on the present Materelli's versus the older ones? Thanks.

[billyspey]

I have never had a problem with metal tube bobbins . But have had problems with those that just have a ceramic bead in the tip those always come loose than I lose them and the bobbin is useless.
Ps I have matterelli bobbins that are over 30 yrs. old with no problems.

[narcodog]

The Matterelli are as good today as in the past. I have some 30 years old and I have some newer. Some are not made by Frank any longer but his son.

[redietz]

I've never had a problem with them, and I have a bunch of them.

[Jayatwork]

I think the problems you have heard about have to do with cheap knock-off metal tube bobbins not true Matarelli's. Some people have had trouble with metal tube bobbins fraying thread. I have never had this problem with real Matarelli bobbins. But I should say that my Matarelli bobibns are all over 20 years old.

[narcodog]

There are many knock offs of Franks stuff. To tell the difference he marks everyone with FM. Whether is a bobbin, whip finisher whatever.

[Fixer]

Totally agree with the crowd. I use older and newer FM's with thread and silk. I use them for all of my soft hackles tied with Pearsall's with no shredding or sticking. As mentioned above, just look for the FM stamped on the side.

Happy tying,
Fixer (Bruce C)

[Fishin' Jimmy]

Quality,quality and durability what more can you ask for? I have never herd about any complaints ever.
They are thrifty on the pocketbook, i do not remember what what I paid in the late 70's but
After many years of use they will cost you only a few cents per year to use. When we are not around anymore
You can pass them along and they will keep on tying!! Fishin'Jimmy[

[AlanB]

I wish I could get hold of them here. It is at least 6 years since I've seen one for sale in the UK and then it was 35 ukp (about $47). They were never cheap here but worth while. Now just unavailable.

Cheers,
A.

[bowfin47]

I too own a bunch of 'em.

Still my favorite bobbins.

After 30 yr.s they still preform wonderfully, that is as long as ya' stay away from Kevlar... But even then, a little polishing of the tube with emery paper and all's fine in the world again!