when your selling vintage spools; please don't go to the trouble of removing the old thread. I especially like the old thread and seldom go for lots of all naked spools unless they are very cheep. when buying vintage thread; don't plan to sew with the old thread it is usually to week to use. If you have a need of it (repair or restoration of antiques) try breaking a length of it first to see how strong it is and if it really is or isn't usable. thread on wood spools is usually to old to be usable for sewing but I love the looks of it