Erin, I would agree with the post above that urges that you practice with a roll in daylight even if you have to waste a roll. You can see how the film is put togeather and practice loading a reel. When I replaced my old tank and reels I bought a Patterson system and had trouble loading my first reel. I found that cutting two strips of thin cardboard about 1 1/4 inches by 3 1/2 inches and inserting them through the reel slots just below where the film is inserted would help stabilize the reel and, at the same time, help guide the film into the correct groove. I remove them after the film is started. (I hope this makes sense!)(posted 8746 days ago)I would have to disagree with the above post that recommends the see- saw method. I used it years ago in a situation where there was no other option and would never do it again if I had a choice. (I use Xtol at 1:3 for almost sixteen minutes. Can you imagine see-sawing the film that long?)