Jan uses US ring sizes for thimble sizes. Because there are no international standard thimble sizes this seemed like a logical choice for most of our customers. You can request a free acrylic ring sizer, and follow these instructions, or you can use a jewelry store ring sizer. Request by email: Jan.swinton77@gmail.com or by text: 641-751-9061.

   If you don’t want to wait for the sizer… another way to determine size is to cut a strip of paper about 3/8 inch wide and wrap it around your fingertip at the base of the nail. Mark beginning and end, or tape it into a loop around your finger. Cut the loop free then measure its length on a ruler with millimetre marks. I need an exact measurement of the base of the nail and another measurement around the nearest knuckle.

   Open thimbles should fit your finger with the tip of your finger setting solidly on the inside top of the thimble and your nail clearing the nail guard. The thimble should stay on when your fingers point down. It should feel comfortable, not so snug that you feel your pulse!

   We can make adjustments to conform the thimble to the contours of your finger. This is relatively easy at quilt shows with your finger right there and our tools handy, but we can do it by mail too!

   If your finger has special contours or if you have large knuckles, please send a photo of your finger (or thumb) you want to use to push your needle.

   For a closed thimble, neither the tip of your finger nor finger nail should touch the inside top of the thimble. A closed thimble may need to be tall and tapered to accommodate long fingernails.

   For a thumb, follow these same instructions. Thumbs are usually quite oval and we can adjust the thimble oval for your use. A “thumble” may also need to have its front design adjusted outward to clear the first knuckle.