This is the first reference book that deals specifically with all types
of sewing-thimble made from copper-alloy or silver, or either of these
metals combined with iron or steel, and found in Britain: also included
is a seemingly rare gold specimen. Domed, ring-type and open-top (here
the latter classed as a new type) sewing-thimbles are described, among
them unusual examples and others previously absent from the known
record. From Britain the earliest reliable dating for these humble yet
fascinating tools is between c.1270 - c.1350, and continues through the
medieval and early post-medieval period and into the 18th and 19th
centuries. Dating from at least the 17th century, subjected to detailed
attention is the largely neglected sailmakers' and sailors' palm-iron, a
heavy-duty tool made from either iron, steel or copper alloy. Also
described are the two known types of silver or copper-alloy finger
guard, an 18th - 19th century tool used in conjunction with finer
sewing-thimbles. The majority of sewing-thimbles and other sewing-tools
catalogued here are credited to metal-detectorists or members of The
Society of Thames Mudlarks, who also use metal-detectors. To show
constructional detail, each object is archaeologically drawn. This
information is essential for metal-detectorists, archaeologists, museum
curators, sewing-tool collectors and dealers, or anyone with an
interest, seeking to gauge the type or age of any particular
sewing-thimble or palm-iron.
