Unless it breaks easily (give it a stress test) I would use it. Thread is expensive and piecing can be done with those assorted threads.

I agree Donna, that it was better made. I know I have thread that is at least 30 yrs. old and it still works just fine.

I've always liked Coats & Clark (cotton covered polyester.) Last week I bought several spools when it was 50% off at Hancock's. I noticed it didn't have as much sheen as it used to. When I sewed with it didn't look nice so I checked the spool. It's now made in Mexico, and is "polyester covered polyester." I don't like it. If anyone wants to donate old thread for charity; I'd be grateful for it and would pay shipping. I make clothing protectors (large bibs) for the Conway Human Development Center (in Arkansas.) This is a residential facility for the handicapped. I put old thread in the freezor and never have had a problem with it.

If it works well I would keep on using it.

I found a whole drawer full of thead when going thru my Moms quilting things, some is 20+ years old. I have been using it for the past 5 years, if it gives me trouble on the machine, I toss it but also save the wooden spools), otherwise I have had no problems either using or with the finished quilts. I too am also too cheap to just toss it since it is older!!!

Thread becomes brittle as it ages. To check if your thread is such, pull out some of the thread with your hands and pull on it. If it breaks easily then throw it away as it's brittle. It will do the same in your seams if any stress is put on the quilt.

I was given a large box of all colors of thread, from a sister-in-laws estate I have used a lot of them they work just fine. I can,t see spending the money for new thread if this works.

The older machines are able to handle the older spools of thread, not like the plastic machines of today, everything was made better way back when.. I am using thread that I have had over 30 years and don't really have any trouble, also inherited my Mother's spools of thread.

What is sewer's aids?

I agree with Maia about the thread wearing well and if the old thread was so bad why are the old quilts still in one piece for the most part and not just a jumble of little pieces waiting to be sewed back together! I am trying to use up some of my mothers threaded since shee passed away 16 years ago. I mostly used it for wall hangings as they will not get the hard wear and tear of a quilt or clothing. So far my machine has not protested.