how I hate paterson reels

Had the same problem. Solved it (dry and clean, of course), by advancing the film on to the reel in very small increments. Try about one or two inches at a time at most. I found that advances more than this led to stoppage or bunching up, but short advance, even though it takes a little more time, gave less grief in the end.

I can't say I have ever had trouble with Patterson reels with either 35mm or 120/220. I have certainly never had one damage a film. As everyone says, they have to be dry, clean and sound, but otherwise they just load. I guess one man's meat, etc. I find it easier to pull the film on at first, rather than trying to push it, I don't know if that helps.

David.