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Quantity in Package

Each package has 18 inches of silk purl

Thread Structure

Silk Wrapped Purls are crafted by wrapping copper wire with delicate filament silk, then coiling the silk-wrapped wire around a mandrel, or “needle,” to form a tightly wound spring shape known as a purl. The diameter of the purl is determined by the size of the needle used during the coiling process. These exquisite elements are part of the Cabinet of Curiosities Historic Colors Collection, showcasing both traditional craftsmanship and the rich, vibrant hues of history. They are available in a range of sizes: Super, #2, #4, #5, and #8, from smallest to largest.

Uses of Silk Purl

Silk Wrapped Purls are couched into place using matching silk threads, such as Au Ver Soie 100/3 or Soie Paris. These purls can be couched to outline and fill figures, creating detailed designs. When stretched, they also serve as perfect material for depicting hair in stumpwork, such as the flowing manes of lions or the hair of figures. Often, the purls are cut into shorter segments, threaded onto silk, and sewn in place to form raised loops that stand proud from the fabric. This technique is especially effective for filling entire flowers, adding texture and dimension to the embroidery.

The Cabinet of Curiosities Historic Colors Collection
Where Time Meets Thread

Step into a world where history is not just studied but touched and transformed. Thistle Threads, in collaboration with the legendary Au Ver Soie and Access Commodities, brings you The Cabinet of Curiosities Historic Colors Collectionan exquisite line of silks that evokes the artistry of a bygone age. Drawing inspiration from the rich hues of the 17th and 18th centuries, this collection is a tribute to the centuries-old art of natural dyeing. A living, breathing palette, now reimagined for modern hands to create.

Imagine, if you will, the painstaking artistry of the periodsamplers stitched by candlelight, stumpwork caskets with intricate designs whispered from one generation to the next. This collection is made to capture that same spirit. Each strand, custom-dyed to perfection, replicates the natural tones that once graced the silkwork of a gilded age, enabling you to recreate those delicate shades in your own work. Bask in the depth of hues meticulously crafted to mimic the nuances of ancient dyes. Thistle Threads has curated a selection of threads designed to evoke the historical richness of the past, offering a stunning array of fibers in a wealth of shaded color families.

In perfect harmony with this ethereal array is a thoughtful, structured system designed for maximum flexibility and precision. The tones flow seamlessly from one thread line to the next, ensuring that whether you are working in fine detail or full coverage, there is a perfect match to suit your needs. Each family, carefully organized for every possible application, guarantees the perfect balance between delicate accents and bold statements.

The inherent beauty of this collection lies in its versatility. The colors are not just a reflection of nature but a carefully crafted framework to complement all forms of needlework. The ease with which you can match couching threads to your work ensures that every stitch is a harmonious note in a well-composed symphony, with no discordant stitch to break the flow.

As you thread your needle, know that you are not simply recreating a pattern. You are stitching a piece of history, where every thread is a tribute to the artistry of a time long past. Whether you are creating a historic sampler or an embroidered casket, The Cabinet of Curiosities Historic Colors Collection brings an age-old palette to life once again. Let each thread tell a story, and may your needle carry it forward, stitch by stitch.