Do you get cotton all twisted when sewing on buttons. Try wiping the cotton a couple of times over a small block of beeswax. No more knots and gives extra strength to cotton. cheers Penny.
I recently bought some 'easy thread' needles Maisie, they are open at the end and you just push the thread in, it can't come out again as they have one way 'barbs'.
I have a packet of the needles mentioned but still prefer the old type. Remember to cut the cotton at an angle, not break, and thread the needle over a piece of white card. This enables one to see the hole a lot easier. Also easier to thread machine needle with a piece of white card behind the needle. cheers Penny