Hi Arachnids I have been following the discussions on dyed threads with interes. I am surprised that no one has mentioned that bleaching also has an effect on the thickness and properties of threads. The first time I came across 140/2 Bockens linen the trader told me that the thread is spun before bleaching and that bleaching removes some of the fibre, hence a highly bleached pure white thread is finer than a lightly bleached half bleach thread and the unbleached thread is the thickest. Intrigured I bought some of each and, sure enough, found that the thicknesses vary substantially. Bleaching also affects the flexibility of threads and their strength. Needless to say the size was calculated before bleaching but I'm not sure if the EU have changed the rules.
Happy lacemaking Alex - To unsubscribe send email to [email protected] containing the line: unsubscribe lace [email protected]. For help, write to [email protected]. Photo site: http://community.webshots.com/user/arachne2003
