Depends on how old it is. However, I use old thread all the time. As long as it is still strong and doesn't break easily then I believe it is ok to use it. Some however,will tell you to toss out any thread x years old. I have quilts made before the 20th century with cotton thread that is still strong. Some will also tell you the poly thread will cut the fabric. I've never seen this happen. I buy and use older thread all the time and find it both inespensive, economical and worthy of use. Test it and if it is strong.....buy buy buy it.
I get thread from the thrift shop and flea markets all the time and if a shop is going out of business and they have the older Coats and Clark thread - I buy all they have.
You will get many opinions about this question. Do your own testing and make the decision.
Last edited by Holice; 12-01-2012 at 09:07 AM.