What is a thimble and how to use it?

2024 Author: Sierra Becker | [email protected]. Last modified: 2024-02-26 03:47

It may seem strange, but many seamstresses do not use a thimble at all and do not even know what it is for. Meanwhile, this little thing can become indispensable for hand sewing.

What is a thimble and how is it used? This thing can be simply indispensable when working with thick fabrics or leather, when you need to create a lot of pressure to push the needle through the material. A thimble is a small cap that is put on the finger to protect it from being stung by a needle during hand sewing.

How to use it

The thimble can be used for any kind of handicraft, but it is mainly used for sewing and quilting. If it has never been used before, there may be a strange and uncomfortable sensation at first. But finger protection is very important. Therefore, as soon as you start sewing, putting on a thimble, you quickly get used to this feeling, and a foreign thing on your finger stops interfering, becoming a useful addition to the process.

Most thimbles have a lot of small indents so that the end of the needle does not slip whenpushing. Usually a thimble is worn on the middle finger, but you can put it on the index or even thumb, if it is more convenient for a particular style of sewing.

By observing your hands, you can determine which finger is pushing the needle. Having put on a thimble, you should use it to push the needle through the fabric. You can work with the top of your finger or the side, whichever is more comfortable.

Which finger to wear?

Thimble is most often worn on the middle finger. However, some people prefer to wear the thimble on their index finger and sometimes on their thumb. You can also wear two thimbles at once or wear gloves instead. The reason why the first option is better than the second is that they do not hinder the movement of the hand.

The choice of finger is also influenced by its size, because they are not the same for everyone. You may have to try a few thimbles before finding one that fits perfectly. If your thumb is preferred, you will need to look for and buy one that is made specifically for it.

What are they?

There are two main types of thimble: closed, which covers the entire finger, and open-top, which is comfortable for those with long nails.

Thimbles can be made from a variety of materials. Many have probably seen the traditional metal thimble. But it can also be made of plastic, leather or a combination of materials. Leather, for example, are popular for quilting and hand embroidery,because they are more flexible. Over time, they take the form of a finger, which makes them even more comfortable.

When buying a thimble, you can ask to try it on or read reviews about using different types for a particular job. Since it can sometimes be difficult to find the perfect fit, many people choose thimbles made from cloth because they are flexible.

Now I understand what a thimble is and how to use it. You can buy it at any sewing store. Thimbles tend to be cheap, but you may need to test a few to choose the one that is perfect and comfortable for long sewing.