Thimbles

Thimbles are protective covers or shields worn around one’s thumb or the other fingers. Thimbles have adorned the fingers of mankind since ages and have also been an object of fashion. Thimbles are generally made of metal, wood, clothing, leather, glass, rubber or even China. In the past, they were also made of whale bone, ivory or animal horn.

Initially, thimbles were used for sewing to push the needle through the fabric or leather. However, by 19th century, people started using thimbles for different purposes like spirit measuring or as love tokens or simply as collectibles. Red topped thimbles were also used for advertising in the 1930s and 40s whereas sandalwood thimbles were kept with fabric to protect them from moths. Silver thimbles were particularly popular in those times.

Thimbles, though being utilitarian objects, are much valued by thimble collectors. Collectible thimbles featuring exquisite designs and styles or with a plain, simple structure are available in the market. Old, antique thimbles bearing the style of their times are always in demand and so are the new ones specifically made as collectors items. Specially created thimbles from diamonds, sapphires, mother of pearl, Connemara marble and rubies are considered rare. Various related accessories like thimble rack and thimble holder are also sold along.