Crawford 4 ply is the preferred thread for bookbinders making exposed spine bindings. These include the Coptic, Longstitch, Secret Belgian and Japanese Stab Stitch bindings.
You can also use Crawford linen thread for a variety of creative stitching projects, leather work, beading, small weavings, macrame and jewellery making. The linen is very strong and it is pre-waxed (suitable for vegans) for your convenience.
You can buy this waxed linen thread in a choice of 10 colour-themed packets. Each contains 5 yards of 3 colours, 15 yards in total. For example, the Autumn packet contains 5 yards each of Rust, Orange and Yellow.
Alternatively, choose a custom packet with your own choice of 3 colours, or just 15 yards of one colour. You could even order the Entire Collection to save 15%.
I use this thread to bind most of my books, so if you have any questions please do get in touch and I'd be happy to answer your questions. I've included some tips for using waxed linen thread in this blog post and I've also made a colour-conversion chart, which I hope you find useful.
Susan
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What do those professional bookbinding terms mean? Can I use any kind of glue? Where do I find waxed linen thread? Do I need special paper? Is that awl as good as the one I already have? I hear you. I was you.
Susan Green
August 07, 2017
Hi Olive, thanks for the update, that’s really helpful! It means that this Crawford thread is ideal for vegans.
If you’re looking for natural waxed thread (i.e. with beeswax), I think buying non-waxed thread and waxing it yourself is the most likely solution. I believe there are some French brands of non-waxed linen thread that come in a variety of colours.
I recommend Gold & Black Candles for beeswax blocks https://www.goldandblackcandles.co.uk The beeswax blocks aren’t listed on their website, but if you contact them and said Susan Green sent you, they will happily supply.
Hope that helps & thanks again for the update!
Susan