When is thread too old to use?
 

I recently read that if thread is two years old you should consider not using it. I can't imagine that. It will certainly continue to "age" so to speak after being used to make a quilt. So what do you all think on this subject?

Fiction! Check the Superiorh Threads website on this subject.

I've used thread that I knew was at least 10-20 years old with no problems and vice versa have had problems with a supposedly brand new spool of thread.
If it passes the "tug test" ie does not break easily when given a sharp tug, then it doesn't matter if you bought it yesterday or it came from King Tut's tomb! Lol!

I agree!!!!!!!

I use a lot of this older thread when I'm making scrappy quilts. If it doesn't break easily, I use it. I have a friend who gave me lots of colors, so I have plenty to choose from. I haven't had a problem with any of them.

I suppose if the thread this "commandment' speaks of were kept outside in the sun and dust and pollution, THEN we could talk about tossing it in 2 years. :D

Be discreet, keep your thread and fabrics behind closed doors!:cool:

Jan in VA

Thank you all. I sure couldn't figure how it could be even close to right. If thread was only good for 2 years practically everything we have in the textiles area would be coming apart at the seams

Sounds like a marketing sales pitch - LOL. Imagine how much thread you would have to throw away! I keep my thread in plastic cases where you can see if the color you want is in there. I would not be surprised if some of that thread was 10 years old! Are they wanting us to throw away the thread after each project?

sounds like something a Thread Salesman might say---but crazy--- I've used lots of threads that were more than 20 years old-and just fine. age has nothing to do with the quality of thread- there are a lot of variables that effect thread's (life) if your thread passes a strength test (pull off a length- hold the ends between your 2 hands & give it a tug) if it doesn't break easily it is still useable. even thread that isn't so strong any more can be used for basting.

If you sew, you wind up with new thread since fabrics change dye lots. i use a lot of burgandy, and every year the color changes. Annoys me as I usually have plenty of the original fabric left.
Serger and quilting thread get the snap test.

I'd say if the thread isn't good to use after 2 years, it wouldn't be good in a quilt anyway. I think machine quilting, we find out pretty easy if a thread is snapping. Stick with quality threads and they should last a long long time.

It's the same marketing ploy used with OTC meds... if the pills are not bubbled or distorted, then the expiration date is bologna. It's just a way to keep the product moving. I have threads I have carried around with me for years, and if they pass the "tug" test, they are used. I cannot afford to run out and buy thread every single time I want to sew something.

Same here. I just bought a ton of thread of a garage sale and if it passes the tug test, I use it.

Just two years huh? Some of mine (inherited) is pushing 75 years and is still strong and healthy! :)

I think the issue with old thread is that it can become dry and brittle and might jam up in your machine, not that it's too old to hold the fabric together. Seems like I read somewhere once about putting old thread in the freezer to "rehydrate" it. Never tried it. I've got some seriously old thread (large spool priced at 15 cents!) that was given to me by my DH's grandmother before she passed away. So far none of it has given me any problems.

I agree, go buy the thread "tug test."

Thanks everyone