Dritz 253 Machine Needle Inserter & Threader

This item works great to thread the needle on a sewing machine. It is well made. You do need to be careful not to bend the apparatus that pushes the thread through the needle. It is unfortunate it didn't work for my purpose. It was purchased to a senior with low vision. They lack depth perception so it made it difficult to use and is a learning curve for some seniors. We are holding onto the device for now and will keep working to see if we can get it to work for our purpose. Don't purchase cheaper versions. They are exactly that, cheaper and of poor quality.

This review is for first-time users and people who have encountered problems.This, from one who spent many years on a HELP DESK.I wanted to test this threader out so I could possibly help out an elderly parent who is no longer able to thread her sewing machine the old-fashioned way...and she does love to sew.The first thing I would suggest is to learn how this threader works.Hold the blue outer shaft in one hand. Place the thumbnail of the other hand on the outer edge of white plastic hook and gently push down until you see the ultra-thin metal band appear from the center of the threader. Notice the tiny tip is concave so that it will grasp the thread. This is where most people have a problem.If you do not push the threader VERY gently as you slide it down the needle searching for the eye, this metal band will bend. I did it twice. Unless the band is straightened, the threader will never work.A good set of fine-pointed tweezers are needed to bend it straight again.It takes a very delicate touch at first. One you get the hang of it, practice a few times and it becomes simple.Another thing I discovered was that once the thread is through the eye, it wants to pull back through when you remove the threader. Insert your seam ripper through the loop in the thread before pulling the threader back. This works like a charm. Go ahead and slowly pull the thread on through the eye with the ripper.Another thing I would suggest is to have excellent light. Most sewing machines seem lacking for old eyes.Check this out on Amazon for $8.99. I use batteries so I can easily position the lamp where it is most convenient, usually behind the machine. It works great.SE FL89030L 30 LED SILVER LAMP LIGHTI tested several different threaders on a Schmetz 90/14 needle and this was my choice.There are ways to help folks enjoy the things they love to do for as long as they possibly can. We just have to find them.

This device works for holding the machine needle while you screw it into place but doesn't work AT ALL for threading any needle but one with the largest eye, in which case I wouldn't need a device. It's described as for threading the machine needle, front-to-back, while it is on the machine. The small piece which is supposed to push the thread through the needle eye doesn't fit through any of my standard machine needles' eyes. I even took the needle off the machine to try it that way. Useless

I have not used my sewing machine for a few months because I got fed up with changing my thread. For a while I tried working on all my projects that would be ok with mauve thread, but I have other things I wanted to work on. I finally decided that I would find out how other people like me (old eyes) were getting this done. The tool looks harder to use than it is. It is way less frustrating than trying to hand thread and the little look actually does get through the hole in the needle. I found this recommended on YouTube and I recommend it to you.

I can't say enough about this Dritz needle inserter and threader. It really does work and is worth more than I paid for it. I am going to purchase another one just in case I loose this one. I'm almost 80 years old and my eyesight is not like it use to be and threading a machine has become difficult. I am so grateful this little device was invented. I have tried numerous other threaders which everyone has proven to be useless and cost more than this little jewel. I have a very hard time in changing my needle and haven't been able to use this part of it yet but I will. I will get back and update this once I have. I couldn't wait to share what I have experienced with the little threader. It's wonderful!!!

There are cheaper, simpler needle threaders that I (later) found easier to use. These are delicate and either I was doing something wrong or they're just not all that much of an improvement over just threading without an aid.