c.1910–1920 – John James & Sons Leather Sewing Needle Wallet

An early twentieth-century leather folding needle wallet by John James & Sons of Redditch, England, containing assorted sewing and embroidery needles in their original labelled compartments.

John James & Sons of Redditch, England,were among the world's leading manufacturers of hand sewing needles during thelate nineteenth and twentieth centuries. Redditch, Worcestershire, was internationally recognised as the centre of the British needle-making industry.

This antique leather needle wallet dates to approximately 1910–1920 and was designed to organise a variety of sewing and embroidery needles. The interior is printed in gold with labelled compartments including 'Sewing Needles' and 'Needles for Art Work', with types such as Wool, Crewel, Darners, Betweens and Chenille. Many original needles remain in place.

The wallet is covered in brown leather with an embossed grain finish and secured by a leather retaining strap. Although the strap shows wear from ageand use, the wallet remains an excellent example of an early domestic sewing accessory.

Historical Notes

Founded in the early nineteenth century, John James & Sons became one of Britain's best-known needle manufacturers. Their products were exported worldwide and were widely used by dressmakers, embroiderers and households. Needle wallets such as this helped organise specialised needle types before plastic needle cases became common.

Features

Measurements: Closed:80 × 110 × 30 mm, Open: 180 × 110 mm

Condition: Good - Leather retains attractive patina. Original compartments and many needles remain. Retaining strap is worn with age.

Markings:Sewing Needles., Wool, Crewell, Darners, Betwa, Chenille, Needles For Art Work, John James & Sons. Redditch. England

Date Note: Date is an estimate based on available research and stylistic features. If you have additional information, please contact us to help update our records.

‍

Made from the following materials

Metal has played a significant role in the history of dolls and toys, with materials like cast iron, tin, and brass being used for centuries to create durable and appealing playthings. Each type of metal has distinct characteristics that have influenced its application in the toy industry, leading to a variety of designs and styles.

Cast Iron

Cast iron was one of the first metals used in toy manufacturing, particularly during the 19th century. Its strength and durability made it ideal for creating toys that could withstand the rigors of play. Cast iron toys were often made using molds, allowing for mass production and the creation of intricate designs. Popular cast iron toys included figurines, toy cars, and trains, many of which featured detailed craftsmanship and decorative paintwork. These toys were not only popular with children but also became collectible items over time, cherished for their historical significance and nostalgic appeal.

Tin

Tin, often used in the form of tinplate, became a favored material for toy manufacturing in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Tin toys were lightweight, affordable, and could be produced in large quantities, making them accessible to a wide audience. Tinplate was often stamped or lithographed with colorful designs, bringing characters and scenes to life. Classic examples of tin toys include wind-up cars, robots, and playful animals, many of which featured moving parts that delighted children. Tin toys remain popular among collectors today, valued for their charm and the artistry involved in their design.

Brass

Brass, an alloy of copper and zinc, has been used in toy making for its attractive appearance and durability. It is particularly well-suited for creating smaller components, such as gears and mechanisms in wind-up toys. The shiny, golden hue of brass gives toys a sense of elegance and sophistication, often seen in decorative pieces and collectibles. While brass dolls are less common than those made from other materials, some artisans have crafted beautiful dolls with brass accents, adding a touch of luxury to their designs.

Throughout history, the use of metal in dolls and toys has allowed for a diverse range of creations, each reflecting the technological advancements and artistic trends of their time. The durability of metal ensures that many of these toys have stood the test of time, allowing them to be enjoyed by new generations of children and collectors alike.

At our museum, we celebrate the legacy of metal dolls and toys, highlighting their role in the evolution of play and the craftsmanship that goes into creating these timeless treasures. From the strength of cast iron to the whimsical designs of tin and the elegance of brass, these materials tell a rich story of creativity and innovation in the world of toys.

‍

Country:

England

England has a long and distinguished history of toy-making, from the grand Victorian dollhouses of the 19th century to the enduring charm of Merrythought teddy bears. The country became a hub for innovative toy production, introducing classics like Hornby model trains, Meccano construction sets, and Action Man figures. English toy makers have blended craftsmanship with creativity, producing cherished toys that continue to captivate generations.

John James & Sons Ltd. was a British manufacturer best known for producing high-quality sewing needles, pins, knitting and crochet accessories, and other haberdashery items. Founded in the early 19th century in Redditch, Worcestershire—once known as the centre of the world's needle-making industry—the company earned an international reputation for precision craftsmanship and reliability. John James products were exported throughout the British Empire and beyond, becoming a familiar household name for generations of dressmakers, embroiderers and knitters. Today, vintage John James tins, needle packets and sewing accessories are valued by collectors as reminders of Britain's rich textile and manufacturing heritage.

Produced by:

John James and Son

Product Code:

H0030

Dimenions:

180(h)

x 110(w)