Thimbles

Thimbles (and loom weights) are common finds, probably because weaving and other cloth-related activities were so widespread. However, in age, design, material and method of manufacture they can vary a great deal. Here's a small selection.

Silver Thimble

Not a treasure find, as it is less than 300 years old. Unfortuantely it is also sqaushed, and the top is missing!

 

Cast Bronze Thimble

Early thimbles were cast rather than stamped out of sheet metal. This one dates from the late 1600's, towards the end of the 'cast' period. After casting, the decorations would have been stamped onto it by hand. The inset shows the detail on the top.

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'Beehive' Thimble

This is the earliest sort of thimble that can be found buried in the UK. It's a 'beehive' thimble, quite heavy and coarse, and made of bronze. It dates from the 13-1400s.

Stamped Thimbles

These are later thimbles, Victorian and beyond, and are stamped from thin sheets in one piece. Some of them are so small that they are surely indications of child labour.

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