Dear Arachnids I was interested to see the comments about writing the name and number of the thread on the spool, I have done this for many years. It works. A couple of points to add. Not all felt tip markers are permanent, so check before writing. You don't want the number to rub off. I have a few dark spools and, again careful not to get any on the thread, I paint a patch of white Tippex on the spool and then write the name in felt tip pen when it is dry.
A warning about storing thread. Cotton and linen are natural fibres and should not be sealed in plastic or polythene for long periods of time. Microbes will multiply in the stale air and attack the fibres thus weakening the thread, it's surprising how brittle it can get. Use the same advice for storing thread as for storing lace that you will be making from it. Wrap in tissue (ideally acid free) or fabric (well washed to remove dressing, well rinsed to remove the washing agent, ideally with a final rinse in chlorine free water) and store in cardboard or wooden boxes. Merry Christmas everyone, make lace if you have time. Alex - To unsubscribe send email to majord...@arachne.com containing the line: unsubscribe lace y...@address.here. For help, write to arachne.modera...@gmail.com