Why Linen Thread?

Linen thread has a number of qualities that make it superiorto man made alternatives. It has been the traditional choice of thread within the saddlery trade for a number of centuries.

• It has just the right amount of give when stitching - that is it is neither too elastic nor too inelastic.
• It does not cut the leather when stitching - very important as the strength of the stich line would be graetly impared.
• It is tough enough to cope with years of use. 

Which Linen Thread?

We typically use 18/4 for structural work, and 18/3 for lining.

 18 is a number that means 1 pound of flax is used to spin a thread 5,400 yards long. 4 means that 4 of these threads are spun together to produce the desired thread - 18/4

How is it used?

Invariably linen thread is waxed with a pure beaswax block before use. This helps the stiching proccess as it helps prevent a needle being passed through the thread whilst stiching, but also goes a long way to helping preserve the life of the thread in the finished garment, preventing rot.