Thimbles: Metal Sewing Thimbles Found in Britain – by Brian Read

This landmark reference book by Brian Read is the first of its kind dedicated solely to sewing thimbles found in Britain. Covering copper-alloy, silver, and even a rare gold example, this work spans thimbles from c.1270 through to the 19th century.

The book showcases hundreds of full-colour photographs alongside detailed archaeological illustrations, with examples ranging from domed and ring-type to open-top thimbles – the latter newly classified as a type in this volume. Each item is examined in depth, with a focus on construction, form, and historical use.

Highlights:

• Thimbles dating from c.1270 to the 19th century
• Extensive coverage of domed, ring-type, and open-top thimbles
• Features rare gold and hybrid metal examples
• Includes sailmakers’ and sailors’ palm-irons (17th century onwards)
• Describes 18th–19th century finger guards in silver and copper-alloy
• Archaeological line drawings for clear constructional analysis
• Contributions from detectorists and Thames mudlarks

This reference is invaluable for metal detectorists, archaeologists, museum professionals, and sewing-tool collectors alike, helping identify and date thimbles and related artefacts with precision.