The Story of the Thimble: An Illustratied Guide for Collectors (Schiffer Book for Collectors) (Hardcover)

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Editorial Reviews

Product Description

The world's foremost authority on the history of thimbles tells all, outlining the little tool's long history, from ancient Egypt to today. The thimbles' history is interwoven with that of women, giving glimpses of a private, domestic world that history books often overlook. Meet the poor little Victorian seamstresses with their everyday brass thimbles and the tiny children's thimbles worn by early straw workers. Glance at gold and gem-set thimbles worn by the courtesans of Paris and, on the other hand, learn why the thimble was the perfect romantic gift a proper gentleman could give to a lady. Romance aside, this book supplies practical tips on cataloging, maintenance, and display, along with price guides and a list of thimble collectors' organizations throughout the world. More than two thousand thimbles are illustrated in full color, some of which have never been seen before.

About the Author

Bridget McConnel's fascination for sewing tools and accessories of all types led her, with her mother, to start the Thimble Society in 1981 and to open a shop in Grays Antique Market in London, England. She wrote The Collectors Guide to Thimbles, published in London, 1990.

Product Details

• Hardcover: 160 pages
• Publisher: Schiffer Publishing (October 1997)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0764303112
• ISBN-13: 978-0764303111
• Product Dimensions: 11.1 x 8.1 x 0.8 inches
• Shipping Weight: 2.4 pounds (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 5.0 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (1 customer review)
• Amazon.com Sales Rank: #274,078 in Books (See Bestsellers in Books)

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

1 of 1 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars The Story of the Thimble: An Illustrated Guide for Collectors, January 3, 2007

By	L. A. Banks "Glory Days" (Australia) - See all my reviews (REAL NAME)

Fantastic reference book. I use it every day and regard it as an important source when looking for thimbles to add to my collection. Highly recommended for all sewing enthusiasts.