I have used a lot of my older threads, even cottons, to do quick embroidery stitch tests. Many end up just being a flap on a purse, but if it passes my stretch test, then the embroidery test, it's strong :) I don't use the old old stuff to do my piecing or final quilting. But have done many decorative thread designs on shirts & shorts for daughter and she loves the unique clothes no one else has :)