The plastic Jobo reels are *very* easy to load(for both 120 and 135 films) if you recognize how to do it right...(posted 8924 days ago)The tendancy will be to first try to load the reel like a stainless steel reel, pushing the film in at the entry point continuously. This proves to be difficult. You'll notice a section of reel where the hard plastic edge is missing, and the slots exposed. Feed the film into the entry point with your left hand, holding the reel with your right hand. You should have your index and middle finger just above the entry slot(guide the film into the slot with these)while your thumb and ring finger hold the reel in the section described above(like a baseball pitcher would hold a fastball). When you feel the film edges poke your thumb and ring finger in this section(right hand), hold it there with these fingers, and let go of the film(from your left hand). Now hold the reel with your left hand and use your right hand to advance the film(the edges of the film are now exposed in the rimless section). Do this by firmly holding the film edges at the far left portion, and "pull" it the the far right(12 o'clock to 2 o'clock position of the reel). The reel should not move, only the film within it. Repeat until film is completely wound. You will be able to feel how many "layers" of the reel are accomodated by film also. The process may seem harder than it really is in this description. It's actually very quick and easy once you get the jist of it. Also, if you are familiar with Jobo reels and the "exposed" section of the reel to which I'm referring, the process will be far more easily visualized. As others have stated, practice in the light first, and make sure the reel you are using is dry. No matter what equipment I use in my darkroom, and how much experience I gain, a four-letter explitive will always be heard at least once every 10 minutes or so. It's those 4-letter words that make darkroom work both fun and humbling. Enjoy, and good luck!