Originally Posted by
Pennyhal
The reason why some say that old threads should not be used is that the newer machines with a higher stitch speed put more wear/stress on the thread and can break the thread
So what constitutes a "higher stitch speed"? I ask because I have a DSM that does 1500 spm. I also have an Innova longarm, which is plenty fast. I have only had an issue with one thread, which I later found out was taken out of production because so many other quilters were having problems with it.
There
are other (more common) factors that will cause multiple thread breaks; using the wrong size needle, a burr on the needle or elsewhere along the thread path, etc. You can also decrease the stress and friction on the thread by using a topstitch needle. They have a larger eye. They also have a longer scarf, which is a groove in the side of the needle where the thread sits as it moves in and out of the fabric, reducing friction.
I'm with those that say to determine if the thread is good or not, do a break test. If your break test is fine but the thread breaks as you're sewing with it, then switch to a needle with a larger eye.