Abstract: An apparatus for monitoring consumption of a supply of thread includes entry keys for allowing a user to input an initial supply of thread, and a minimum allowable supply of thread, and a detector for providing signals indicative of the rate of thread consumption. The apparatus also includes a control circuit for receiving the initial supply, the minimum allowable supply, and the signal indicative of the rate of thread consumption. The control circuit then calculates a consumed amount of thread and an actual supply of thread remaining, and produces a display signal indicative of the actual supply and/or the consumed amount, and an alarm when the actual supply of thread is equal to or less than the minimum allowable supply. The apparatus further includes a display panel for displaying the actual supply and the consumed amount upon receipt of the display signal from the control circuit.