In a message dated 3/13/05 3:30:52 AM Eastern Standard Time, [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes:
> The point is that they store their thread in a cigar humidor. It seems > that > these often come up on ebay, (and no doubt other suchlike places) as > unwanted gifts - so have never held tobacco. They seem to be beautiful > boxes and cabinets, and the humidifying part is optional. It looks to me > like the boxes could be used to store thread, and the cabinets with their > slotted shelves, could show off as well as store bobbins. > > Here's the first catalogue of pictures I came across on a websearch:- > http://tinyurl.com/2sb5n > Dear Lacemakers, These are lovely! It looks to me as if some of these are made of wood. Here are words of caution about wood containers for storage: For threads, if any storage item is made of wood - it is important that you know it has been made and finished specifically for thread. Off-gasing of wood acid fumes and some chemicals that may have been applied to wood for various reasons may discolor and weaken thread. For bobbins, it would probably be best to store without leaving thread wound on them. I wonder how wood boxes (in the long term) might lead to discoloration of bone, paper, and other unique materials that some of our fancy bobbins are made of in the 21st Century? Also, how would painted bobbins react - especially those painted in whites and pastels? We cannot be too careful with such collectibles. Yes, we know that old lace pillows had wood drawers in the base, and that acid off-gasing was not a consideration when they were made. Perhaps not always, but very often the contents show signs of acid burn - weak discolored threads and darkened bobbins (darkened because the bobbins were wood, and getting a double dose from the wood drawer). Though we tend to say this is the result of old age and dirt, it is possible some damage would have been avoided, had they the knowledge we have. Jeri Ames in Maine USA Lace & Embroidery Resource Center - To unsubscribe send email to [EMAIL PROTECTED] containing the line: unsubscribe lace [EMAIL PROTECTED] For help, write to [EMAIL PROTECTED]
