Flea Market Item 26-320

Vintage W. & J. Knox “Gimp” Linen Thread

A lovely unused skein of vintage linen thread by W. & J. Knox, still retaining its original rich ochre-yellow paper label. 

The label reads “W. & J. Knox’s ‘Gimp’ Linen Thread.” The thread is a beautiful warm ivory/cream with a smooth, slightly lustrous finish and a firm twist.

W. & J. Knox was a well-known Scottish linen-thread manufacturer associated with Kilbirnie in Ayrshire, an important centre of the Scottish linen-thread industry. 

“Gimp” refers here to a strong, tightly twisted linen thread rather than decorative modern gimp braid. Threads of this type were used for lace-making, crochet, embroidery, sewing and other fine needlework, depending on the particular weight.

The skein is still remarkably full. The original label is particularly appealing and makes this a lovely little piece of historic haberdashery as well as a very usable textile material.

Date: approximately 1920s–1940s.

Condition: Very good vintage condition. The thread appears largely or completely unused, retaining a lovely sheen and its original paper wrapper. Some minor age-related wear to the label.