Sail maker's palm thimble
Date made: early 20th century
Description: Sailmaker's 'Palm Thimble' dated 1912, Mr Peel Initial J. W.
This is a type of thimble known as a sailmaker's palm. It would have been used when making repairs to the sails of a fishing vessel, protecting the user's hand from the tip of the needle when pushing it through the fabric.
It comprises a leather strap to fit over the hand, inset with a metal disc in the centre of the palm.
Although a large number of secondary trades such as sailmaking and netmaking surrounded the Manx fishing industry, it would have been important for the fisherman to be able to carry out his own running repairs from time to time. Fishing vessels often travelled hundreds of miles from the Isle of Man in search of a catch, and if damaged in a storm for example, crews would need to be able to patch up torn sails in order to get home.
Measurements: overall: 24 x 6 x 3 cm
Materials: animal: leather, metal
Object name: Palm Thimble
Collection: Social History Collection
ID Number: 1954-4821
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