Emily, I have a good friend that has quilted since the early 70's and most of her threads are exactly what you are asking about. She picks many of her bundles up at auctions, etc. She tests the threads by pulling and testing how quick they break. If they are strong, she treads on:))She makes about a quilt a day-a serious addict:)). No kiddding! For me personally, I'd opt to keep the wooden spools w/threads due to their decorating prospects and history:)) Skeat