I pick up thread at garage sales etc. sometimes. I have found if you pull the thread and it breaks that it's too old to use but....if you remove the top layer you'll often find the rest of the spool is still good. The dust mites will get to the outer layer eventually and weaken the thread. If it's a new spool and raveling/breaking then it's probably a manufacturing defect and I would return it to the place of purchase.