Abstract: A thread supply device for a textile machine, in particular a knitting machine, having a thread drum upon which a thread issuing from a thread bobbin can be wound to form an intermediate thread supply and from which the thread can be unwound at an unwinding speed equal to the speed of winding. A winding shaft is set in rotation by a driving means in order to wind the thread up onto the thread drum. The driving means engages the winding shaft via a clutch which can be released when the driving means is at a standstill. The winding shaft is provided with a connection member for engaging an auxiliary driving means for setting the winding shaft in rotation when the clutch is disengaged.