A thread brake comprises two brake elements (26) pressed resiliently against each other and receiving the thread 12 passing through between them, the brake elements being eccentrically suspended on bearing means (47) which engage the periphery of a central opening (27) and only fill out a small part of the opening. Thread guide means (45) are also arranged in the region of this central opening. The suspension allows the brake elements to rock in pendulum-fashion under the section of the thread. As shown the bearing means (47) are provided on a wire bracket (43) which is bent (at 45) to guide the thread. In alternative embodiments, a)a bolt like member is formed with both bearing surfaces and a slot to guide the thread and is adjustable; b) the bearing means and thread guide are provided by respective pins. The resilient force acting between the elements (26) may be provided by cooperating magnetic means on the elements, of which may have a screw adjustment. <IMAGE>
