So, what is a thimble? A sewing thimble is a small cover that goes on the end of your finger to protect it from being pricked by a needle when hand sewing. This is especially important when you are sewing thick fabrics or leather and need a bit of pressure to push the needle through the fabric.
They are also essential when you are doing prolonged hand sewing or beading where there is an increased risk of you pricking yourself repeatedly.
What is a Thimble Tutorial
What is a Thimble?
A thimble is a cup-like finger protector used for sewing both by tailors and home sewers. Most thimbles have a pitted cap with lots of little indents so that the end of the needle won't slip when you push it through, thus protecting your finger.
What is a Thimble Used For?
A thimble is a small metal cap used for protecting your fingers from needle pricks when hand sewing or doing embroidery or beading.
What Finger is a Thimble Worn On?
They are generally worn on the middle finger of your dominant hand but you can put it on your index finger or even thumb if that is more comfortable with your sewing style. I tend to favor wearing mine on my index finger. While the cap style is worn on the end of the finger, some leather styles can encase the whole length.
What is a Thimble - Types
Modern sewing thimbles are made of metal, leather or rubber. Years ago I remember my mother having some ceramic ones with tiny little paintings on them. They weren't very practical to use but were beautiful to look at. Some thimbles or finger guards can even have cutouts for your nails to poke through, so no need to reach for the nail scissors!
- Metal thimbles look like a small cap with a pitted or indented surface. These are cheap and readily available at sewing and craft shops.
- Leather thimbles are popular for quilting and hand embroidery as they are more flexible and your finger tends to sweat less. Over time leather finger coverings mold to your finger making them even more comfortable.
- Rubber Thimbles or plastic thimbles are not only used for hand stitching but also for leafing through paper or money. They protect from paper cuts and provide grip.
- Antique thimbles are often considered valuable collectibles and were often made from brass or silver and even bone, glass, wood, and porcelain. Many have intricate carvings and designs. Pure silver tends to dent and mark easily as it is a soft metal so many antique thimbles were silver plated over steel for durability.
If you want to start collecting thimbles then eBay is a great place to start. The nice thing about collecting thimbles is that they are small and easy to display even if you have limited room.
Trivia - Did you know that thimble collectors are called digitabulists
Where to Buy Sewing Thimbles
Thimbles can be purchased from your local haberdashery store or online from Amazon. There are usually very cheap but you may need to test a few to get one that fits perfectly and is comfortable for prolonged sewing.
What is a Thimble - In Conclusion
I hope that clears up the question, "What is a Thimble" since you now know, it is an essential sewing tool for protecting your soft fingers from needle pricks. Leave any questions you still have in the comments.
More Hand Sewing Articles
If you are looking up what is a thimble, then I assume you are about to do some hand sewing! Start by learning how to thread a needle and all about needle threaders which can make your job much easier.
Here are some more articles that might help you:
Charlotte Fleet
My mom has recently taken up sewing and was wanting to look into buying some thimbles to protect her fingers and to maybe start collecting them. Thanks for your comment about thimbles having indents in order to keep the needle from slipping and poking any fingers, and how it is popular to have them as collectibles. I will recommend that my mom invests in some thimbles for her benefit.
Jeya
I find it helpful that you said I could purchase a thimble at a local haberdashery store or online. My mom is turning 68 soon, and she spends most of her time sewing clothes for her grandchildren. I plan to buy some antique thimbles for her, so I'll definitely check online and local stores. Thanks!
Treasurie
A rubber thimble is just more comfortable. It also is great for gripping slippery fabric.
Tori Raddison
I had no idea that you could have a thimble made of leather or rubber but it makes sense. Just as long as your finger is protected. What is the benefit of getting a rubber thimble?