Thimbles
with instructor Steve Butler
Class 127
What is it?
You know what they say, “Necessity is the mother of invention.” In the case of thimbles it is certainly true. Thimbles in one form or another, have been around as long as needles have. Why? Well, whether you’re pushing a spike through animal hides in ancient times or a shiny new hand sewing needle through an expensive high thread count cotton fabric today, it still hurts your fingers. The other reason might even be more important, precision. Being able to position and insert the needle in just the right place makes all the difference in our finished project. The thimble allows us to do just that. But it’s not just a matter of using a thimble that’s important, it’s also the style and function of that thimble. Over the years thimbles have evolved into the refined, task specific sewing tools we have now. These thimbles have applications to heirloom, embroidery, appliqué, quilting, beading, decorative top stitching, tailoring, and virtually anything else that involves needle and thread. Special tools for special applications. In its basic form the thimble simply covers the finger to protect it from the relatively sharp eye-end of the needle. Most thimbles have dimples or even edges to keep the end of the needle in place as it is pushed through the fabric. Thimbles come in different shapes, sizes, construction materials and even combinations of materials and all to accommodate the comfort and function desired by the individual sewer.
What do they do?
The thimble is a very personal sewing tool. It’s important that it provides the right comfort, feel and function. One size does not fit all. Or function. Take the time to find just the right one for you. Trust me, it’ll be worth it. Clover has developed a range of thimbles that meet the requirements of the entire spectrum of sewing and craft applications.
Flexible Rubber Thimbles – Flexible Rubber Thimbles can be best described as needle grippers! They can be worn on either your index finger or your thumb to grip the needle and finish pulling it through the fabric. Or if you’re working with heavy fabrics, you can wear the flexible thimbles on both the index finger and the thumb, allowing you to pull the needle through with so much more ease. Available in two sizes.
Natural Fit Leather Thimble – Made of high quality leather with the seam sewn at the top of the finger and away from the needle action. This allows the sewer to push the needle with either the tip or side of the finger enabling amazing multi-directional flexibility for the most demanding techniques. It is very comfortable and allows a great sense of touch. Available in three sizes.
Protect and Grip Thimbles – Constructed with a metal tip to articulate with the needle and “vented” rubber sides to hold it in place on the finger. The metal tip has dimples to hold the needle head in place and a pronounced ridge around the top to provide extra holding should it be required. The vented rubber sides allow circulation to keep the finger cool. The compact size and weight of this thimble makes it a natural for detail work like hand quilting or appliqué. Available in three sizes.
Adjustable Ring Thimble – An adjustable metal ring thimble with dimples on the periphery. This is a very adaptable thimble used for any number of specialized techniques or requirements. One adjustable size.
Leather Thimble – An adjustable thimble made of leather with embossed dimples. Light, cool and adjustable to individual size. One adjustable size.
Double Sided Thimble – A leather thimble with a dimpled metal insert that wraps from the front around the tip to the other side. This allows the comfort of a leather thimble with the durability of a metal thimble. The wrap-around metal insert makes it adaptable to a wide variety of techniques and special requirements. One size.
Coin Thimble – A leather thimble made with a single dimpled metal insert. Allows the comfort and feel of a leather thimble with the durability and stability of a dimpled metal thimble. One size (medium).
Adjustable Ring Thimble with Plate – An adjustable ring with a large dimpled plate. The ring allows positioning of the dimpled plate near the palm of the hand. Used primarily for sashiko or other techniques that require the use of long needles and multiple running stitches. One size.
Open Sided Thimble – An adjustable dimpled metal thimble with one side open. Cool, roomy and even accommodates longer finger nails. Dimples on three sides makes it adaptable to individual preference. Two sizes.
How do I share the?
There are so many possible applications for thimbles. This is the try it and you’ll like it approach. Set out an assortment of different sizes and styles for everyone to try. Your friends will undoubtedly find one they didn’t know they needed (or existed) until they get to experience it. If you find one you like, get it! Clover – adding awesome to creative endeavor.
