An elongated element (10) is transferred from a second (full) spool (13) to a first (empty) spool (14). A gripper (16) is positioned on the elongated element (10). The gripper (16) catches the elongated element (10) and the elongated element (10) is cut between the gripper (16) and the second spool (13) thereby leaving a leading end (19). Thereafter the gripper (16) is positioned with the leading end (19) at the level of the first empty spool (14). The gripper (16) is rotating around the axis of the first spool (14) to form first windings to fix the elongated element (10) on the first spool (14). The method allows full automation and assures the use of the wound element (10) until its final end.