I used to think linen thread was just for show until I tried it on a repair job

For years, I used basic polyester thread on all my repairs, thinking it was strong enough. Then, about six months ago, I had to fix a 100-year-old family bible with really brittle paper. The polyester was too stiff and cut into the pages. I switched to a 25/3 linen thread from a shop in Chicago, and the difference was huge. It's more flexible and seems to put less stress on old paper. Has anyone else found a specific material that changed how you handle delicate work?

3 comments

3 Comments

victor_nelson3d ago

What about silk thread for really thin leather? I had to fix an old wallet and silk just glides through without tearing. It's pricey but feels like butter.

skyler_patel3d ago

Used silk on a vintage book cover last year, it's still holding up perfect. That smooth glide is worth every penny.

the_hayden3d ago

That's why old stuff lasts. Better materials.