I had the same problem trying to get things started at first, and I've come up with a way to start that works well for me. I wrap with the thread coming from the far side of the rod over the top. I take the thread end and wrap once away from the guide, and then once near the guide (not turning the rod). Then cross the thread from the spool over the last wrap toward the guide and turn the rod one revolution (keeping light tension on the tag end) until it crosses the tag end. The thread should be locked in at this point. I usually spin a couple more wraps to be sure, then cut off the tag end and continue with my guide wrap. I hope these instructions make sense. It really isn't complicated, and is an easy way to get your thread started. Deciphering my instructions is usually the most complicated part.