Finding A Thimble With A Metal Detector (Everything You Need To Know)

A rare and interesting object that can be discovered with a metal detector is a thimble. Whether you have already come across one or you’re eager to find one, it’s worthwhile to enhance your knowledge about thimbles.

What are thimbles and where can you find thimbles with your metal detector?

A thimble is a small, protective cap that was traditionally worn on the fingertip while sewing to prevent needle pricks. Thimbles come in a variety of types, with either an open or closed end. They are typically made of materials such as iron or bronze.

Interestingly, there are also thimbles crafted from more precious metals like silver or gold. Throughout the centuries, thimbles have evolved to become more durable and resilient.

In this article, I will provide you with comprehensive information on how to successfully find thimbles using a metal detector. One of the key aspects I will focus on is determining the age of a thimble, allowing you to gain insights into its historical significance.

I hope you enjoy reading and find the information valuable for your metal detecting adventures!

The background of a thimble

In the past, when most clothing was handmade, thimbles played a crucial role in protecting the fingers of seamstresses. By wearing a thimble on their finger tips, seamstresses could avoid injuries from sewing needles.

Thimbles held significant importance within families, particularly for housewives who sewed on a daily basis. As a result, a wide variety of old thimbles can still be found today.

The diversity of thimbles makes them a popular collectible item among many enthusiasts. There is a vast range of different types of thimbles available, each with its own unique design and historical significance.

What kind of thimbles are there?

There are a lot of different thimbles out there. The two main types of thimbles that were used back in the days are the open thimble and the closed thimble. The open thimble has an open end and the closed thimble has a closed end.

Thimbles have undergone various shape variations throughout history. They could be found in thin and smooth designs, as well as rough and bulky forms. However, the bell-shaped thimble was the most prevalent and commonly used shape.

Thimbles were often adorned with elegant decorative edges, showcasing the notion that sewing was not a mundane or insignificant task in the past. These thimbles were crafted from a variety of materials, including iron, silver, and gold. In modern times, thimbles can also be made from plastic.

How do I know the age of a thimble?

Determining the precise age of a thimble can be challenging, but certain characteristics can provide clues about the time period in which it was used. Therefore, I will explain the characteristics of each thimble in each century from the 14^th century till now.

14^th century

Thimbles from the 14^th century were often relatively short and wide and they have a pointed top. Except the pointed top, they are designed with a lot of little dots. Furthermore, the pointed top may also have a small hole in the middle.

The sides of these thimbles were very thin because these thimbles were made by hand. Therefore, you will often find these thimbles deteriorated nowadays.

15^th / 16^th century

In the 15th century, thimbles became slightly larger, wider, and heavier compared to previous centuries. The pointed shape of the top transitioned to a more rounded shape, and the small hole in the middle disappeared.

One notable characteristic of 15th-century thimbles is the presence of small dots. These dots are found on the sides of the thimble and are positioned in a way that they deviate to the left when viewed from the bottom to the top.

Moving on to the 16th century, thimbles continued to increase in size, width, and weight compared to the previous century. There was a greater variety of patterns for the dots on the sides of the thimble.

Interestingly, the dots on 16th-century thimbles deviate to the right when viewed from the bottom to the top, unlike the leftward deviation seen in the 15th-century thimbles.

17^th century

In the 17th century, the majority of thimbles retained similar characteristics to those of the 16th century. However, there were notable variations as well. In Amsterdam, a new thimble shape was invented. These thimbles were constructed using two separate pieces, with a vertical dividing line in the middle.

18^th century

In the 18^th century the thimble machine was made. This means that there were way more homogeneous thimbles in this century. The dots on the sides of the thimble didn’t have a direction anymore; they were randomly positioned.

The vertical dividing line disappeared. Instead of a vertical dividing line, there appeared two horizontal dividing lines. The first silver thimbles appeared. However, there were not many silver thimbles.

19^th century

In the 19^th century the horizontal dividing lines disappeared. This means that the thimbles became more robust. Sometimes, a text was written on the thimble. Therefore, you will often find inscription on these specific thimbles.

Where can I find a thimble with a metal detector?

You have the highest chance of finding a thimble when you search at places where many people gathered back in the days. Think about old fairs, old farms and nearby old paths.

Of course, it is really difficult to accurately find the best spots for finding a thimble. However, there are some common places where thimbles have been found. Let me explain these places to you.

Firstly, you should search at old fairs. At these places, many people came together back in the days. In the crowd someone may have lost a thimble.

Secondly, you should search at old farms. The family used to be very large on the farm. This was because everyone had to do chores on the farm. Very often, the older girls had to sew clothes.

This means that these seamstresses could have lost a thimble during their work. Therefore, old farms are a good place to search for thimbles.

Thirdly, you should search close to old paths. Back in the days, many people used the paths to get from a to b. During a walk, someone could have lost a thimble that fell out of his or her pocket.

In general

Of course, there are way more other places where you can find thimbles. The main rule for finding a thimble is that you should always search close to places where many people have lived in the past.

Another important thing to keep in mind is that the most people used to live on high-altitudes close to a water source. Therefore, you should also consider to detect at these places.

Final Conclusion

All in all, thimbles are commonly found with a metal detector by hobbyists. Thimbles were used to protect someone’s fingertips from the needle. The thimbles have gotten bigger and stronger over the years.

You can still find old thimbles if you are lucky. You have the highest chance of finding a thimble on places where many people gathered back in the days. Think about old fairs, old farms and near to old paths.

Frequently Asked Questions