Old Thread / Estate Sale Finds.....OK or Avoid?
#11
Super Member
Join Date: Oct 2015
Location: Va.
Posts: 5,753
I use old thread if it passes the snap test. I have used thread on old wooden spools as well as thread on plastic spools. I haven't noticed any more lint with the vintage thread than what I see in my bobbin area after using other cotton threads. Thread can dry rot or get light struck and it can also mildew. In the case of mildewed thread, you'll smell it. I throw that out. In the case of dry rot or light struck- I often find that the top layers of thread on the spool don't pass the snap test, but there is often good, useable thread underneath the top layer. That said, I use the vintage threads in art quilts, rather than in quilts that will be used and washed often.
Some of the thread I've used has been on spools that I guesstimate to be in the range of 80 to 100 years old. Just depends on how it was stored and quality to begin with.
Rob
Some of the thread I've used has been on spools that I guesstimate to be in the range of 80 to 100 years old. Just depends on how it was stored and quality to begin with.
Rob
#15
Someone just "passed along" a big bag of old cones of thread to me. They are dirty on the outside but I planned to unwind that part and use the clean inside thread if it passes the snap test.
She also gave me a bucket full of white fine crochet cotton, like used for making bedspreads and tablecloths... or I suppose tatting. Have no idea what to do with that.
She also gave me a bucket full of white fine crochet cotton, like used for making bedspreads and tablecloths... or I suppose tatting. Have no idea what to do with that.
#18
Senior Member
Join Date: Jul 2017
Posts: 809
Incidentally, the serger didn't even seem to notice at all.
#19
Super Member
Join Date: Dec 2009
Location: Somewhere in Time
Posts: 2,697
I also do this; however, I also purchase empty wooden spools for display or crafts.
#20
Super Member
Join Date: Dec 2012
Posts: 1,857
I often tell students first learning to sew that if they were given their grandmother's stuff, the machine is probably great (just get it serviced) but the thread should probably be thrown out. 100% cotton thread can be a problem when it gets very old and especially if stored in the attic or garage for years. Poly covered will outlast the cockroaches! The bigger question is do you want to risk all that work for the cost of a spool of new thread?
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08-23-2019 11:27 PM