Antique Needlework Tools

I love small needlework tools in silver, and I do wish I could have a large and varied collection. However, these things are hard to find, and of course are expensive. This first picture shows everything together, I do have two contemporary thimbles and their cage in this picture, as well as a reproduction silver needlecase, the rest are antique. The front needlecase is Dutch silver, which I have had for many years and was my very first purchase of this kind,
These are the new thimbles, thimble case and needle case I added to my collection for Christmas. I was delighted to be able to find them, and just love them for what they are - I do not have a system of types or manufacturers, just what appeals to me at the time - most of all, I love those that have been used - paradoxically, these are not as valuable generally as the pristine examples, but, as my friend Sharon says, they already know how to sew, and that is why I love them.

Here are some close ups - the needlecase on the left is from Birmingham, England, hallmark dates to 1899. The thimble in the middle, also Birmingham hallmark 1891, is my favorite, as it is the most worn along one side, just the way I stitch myself.

Aren't they beautiful ?

I hope you are enjoying the start of 2010, I went shopping yesterday with my friend and am now set for the New Year ! As with most people, I have a vague list of resolutions, but have purchased calendars, to-do-lists, and notebooks because I am determined to be better organized this year. Of course, I have a long list of works in progress and UFOs, at the very TOP of this list is finishing my large boutis, which has had no attention for some months now. Hope you all get some sewing time today !