Cross Bone Thread Winders

In the 18th century thread was sold in skeins like embroidery floss is today. For easy use thread would be wound onto a winder. A bit of beeswax rubbed into the loose end of thread will secure it to the winder.

These thread winders are 1 1/4″ across and are similar to the 18th century types shown on page 168 of Swan, Susan Burrows, 1977, Plain and Fancy, American Women and Their Needlework, 1700-1850; Rutledge Books.