real gold thread, 10 m

Real gold thread is the typical medieval metal thread. It consists of a silk core thread (undyed or dyed) that is wrapped with a slim, very thin strip of metal in a tight spiral. The metal strip is typically made from gilt silver, pure gold was very rarely used, due to its very high price.

Unlike most modern metallised threads, real gold thread is a little stiffer. The quality offered here, however, is surprisingly flexible. The very thin gold threads (c. 0.2 mm in diameter) can be stitched down or used as brocade weft. For embroidery, it is couched; for brocading, it can be used with all weaving techniques. Two threads at a time can be used to get better coverage quickly

The thread offered here was modeled after a find from the 12th century graveyard in Villach-Judendorf in Carinthia, Austria. It corresponds to the typical gold thread used in the Middle Ages - diameter of about 0.2 mm, undyed silk core thread wrapped in gilt silver. The thread is wound onto a reed core or a small wooden spool (please let me know in the comments for your order if you have a preference).