crashnquilt

I purchase thread in bulk! I can not afford to buy new thread for each project. I keep my thread in a closed file cabinet unless it is a spool in use.

I have spools I know are over 3 years old and work just fine.

KarenK

I use all my threads and don't throw any out.

I use the stretch test. If it passes, I use it for machine sewing. If it doesn't pass, it is used for hand basting.

goosepoint

I bet I have threads that are 20 years old. If I use something old I do always test to see how easy it is to break. I just recently found an old huge cone of navy. I dusted it off and pulled probably 50 or more yards off then started with the testing. Excellent strength. Once I got down to 'fresh thread' it worked great.

Prettiptibbs

Huh??

Parrothead

[quote=I have threads that say $.15 on the ends!!! my grandmother lived thru the depression, she never threw anything out! So I have thread that she bought at Woolworth's in probably the 40's and 50's, and because of the way she stored it, I am still working on using it up :)[/quote]

Me too! When taking the worn fabric out of our vintage quilts made in the 30's, 40's the thread in the quilting and piecing is still good. And these quilts have been well used and washed often.

Rose L

Exactly!! Even using vintage thread is possible as long as it passes the strength test. I use vintage threads in restoration work when possible.

nangars

I can't believe anyone would tell a person to throw way all there thread if it was from another project and buy new. That person must be related to some of the Chef, that tell you to throw away all you old spices. I have had spices for years and haven't had a problem with them, nor have I had problem with thread. There are some thread that have given me problems, and If I find that I do throw them. I had a lot of thread between regular thread and embroidery type and with what threads cost, it is just to expensive to replace all of them.

tsnana2000

I am so glad someone asked this question because I have wondered how long thread would remain useable.

Karen's Kreations

I don't buy new thread unless I need a specific color that I don't have. If your older thread starts breaking I'd get rid of it otherwise use it until it's gone.

b.zang

Actually, it makes sense to me to remind a student to buy thread when beginning a project. As someone who lives hours away from the nearest source, it's incredibly frustrating to run short of thread somewhere mid-project. I've learned to stock up on those neutral colours that are used most, and to buy thread when I start a project if I plan to use something specific.
But I don't throw away the leftovers.