Unique features of the gloving thread
The Fil Au Chinois gloving thread is a solid, waxed sewing thread n° 120. It can be used for patchwork, appliqué, trapunto and quilting. It is also recommended for Lunéville hook embroidery, a type of artistic embroidery with beads and sequins, often seen in haute couture.
It is extremely popular for very fine cross stitch on 12 or 16 count linen.
This 100% cotton thread is mainly intended for hand stitching.
History and traditional uses
This thread was traditionally used for glove making and repair.
It was once sold on small wooden spools.
Here is a collection of vintage spools from J. Thiriez Père et Fils (J.T.P.F.), one of the first French companies to manufacture thread for sewing machines in 1862. That same year, they patented a wax covering for cotton threads. This company originates from Lille and was founded by Julien Thiriez in 1832. The founder was joined by his son, Albert Thiriez, in 1857.
Shortly after, the company started producing cotton threads. Hand looms were replaced by horse-driven contraptions. To celebrate the event, they launched the brand À La Tête de Cheval (The Horse's Head). On the right photo, you can also see a clamp used for glove making.
Availability and assortments
This gloving thread is available in 30 colours on 150 metre spools.
We also offer four assortments of 12 spools in different tones presented in gorgeous boxes, as well as a gift box containing a selection of 8 spools.
For larger projects, this thread is also available on 1000 metre cones.
A printed colour chart is available, and the storage boxes can also be purchased empty.
As with all the Fil Au Chinois threads, labels and packaging were designed by Frédérique Crestin-Billet.
Cross stitch samplers made on 12 count linen with gloving thread.
These samplers come from the Sajou blue albums.
Do you love vintage haberdashery? Discover the book by Frédérique Crestin-Billet, Mercerie Au Rayon des Fils, which is available in both French and English.
