I have always used 4" bobbins and never paid much attention to the fact that they are made in 3" as well. Inadvertantly, I purchased two 3" Dr. Slick bobbins in a recent catalog order. Haven’t used them yet, as I am wondering about sending them back for a refund or exchange. So, I am curious about what the preferences are of others? Do you prefer the 3"? 4"? Are there some situations where the 3" model is a better tool?
I like the long ones myself. The only disadvantages i can see might be greater thread breakage potential due to greater leverage, and threading. Using the inhalation method, I would think it would be easier to get thread through a tube of shorter length, assuming the same features inside the tube.
I have a whole bunch of bobbins, no two alike (of course). I kinda like the shorter ones. Besides, you can never have too many bobbins. Saves thread changing time.
Hi Peter,
I have several standard bobbins and a few midge bobbins from Matarelli that use sewing machine spools. I prefer the small ones even if I have to rewind the spools. The small size in my hand is a great advantage.
The fact that the small spools are metal makes up for weight.
I am not really sure, why there are bobbings of different lengths, but I have some ideas of why, having been involved in tool design engineering.
I believe the longer tubes (4") where designed, so that when you were dressing the hook and applying material to the hook, the thread spool would be in front of the eye of the hook. This way, you would not be revolving motion, involving your whole hand and arm, as you wrap the thread around the shank of the hook when tying (similar to using a pencil sharpener that has a crank handle). Instead you would would hold your hand in a stationary position, and rotate the tip of the bobbin around the hook shank (similar to stirring sugar and cream in a cup of coffee). Doing this would create a faster wrapping of the hook, with less movement of the hand in arm.
herefishy, you poke the end of the thread into the tube, with a couple inches of slack in the thread, and then suck on the other end of the tube, like it is a straw. Works pretty good if the tube is smooth inside. Just make sure that you do not have more than an inch or two of extra thread, or it goes into your lungs. LOL Also known as the poke-and-suck method.
I have 2 long and 1 short and find myself reaching for the short one most of the time. Now that I’m thinking of it I probably should go out and get a couple more. When I do they will be the short ones. Like Dennis says you can never have too many.
You are the only judge who matters on this question. Try them both. If you detect any difference in either comfort or ease of use, go with that size. I have several bobbins in different sizes and I just use which ever one has the right color thread on it. 8T
You had better learn to be a happy camper. You only get one try at this campground and it’s a real short camping season.
The 3" Dr. Slick bobbin is what I use most of the time. I started out with the 4" ones, but ever since trying a 3" a couple of years ago it’s about all I use. I just like the feel of it better.