Timtex ...

To answer the questions I've had about Timtex, from this talented lady of Indygo Blue and others I've had via e-mails I thought I'd post this. It may help but then again........

Timtex has the texture of a squashy type of crispbread that's been exposed to moisture for too long and when you sew it, it squeaks like not quite cooked green beans. (Yuk - I hate that sensation! It rubs on your teeth and ..... yuckky!). The wonder of Timtex has always been it's versatility. It lends itself to being steamed into shape hence it's loved by folk who make fabric bowls, hats ( Think baseball type hats) and by folk who make bags. Particularly loved by folk who make bags. I think the characteristic that always made it so lovely is that it's firm but not hard. It takes stitching and quite dense embroidery beautifully without cracking or snapping. Lovely stuff. I shouldn't rant and ramble on....... but I do have some bad news and some a little better. Firstly, in case you haven't heard, is that they are no longer making Timtex. Why? Who knows? It's bad news for a lot of people who craft because of course you get to know the materials you work with and understand how they perform best etc and know that your lovingly crafted items are going to perform as they should.

The sad demise of Timtex

It's an issue for a great many pattern designers too. Particularly those who believe strongly and with a passion in the products they produce, like Amy Butler. Her bag patterns recommend using Timtex and here in the UK it has been more difficult for us to source. But it has been here, lurking away in craft type stores. Supplies of Timtex around the world are dwindling .... (sorry! does that sound like an announcement of impending doom and disaster?), but just to cheer you up, there are a few metres left in my own shop. Link

On really a GOOD note, Amy Butler is in the process of writing an article about interfacings or interlinings (whichever term you prefer), as she has been 'searching' for a suitable substitute or substitutes for Timtex to recommend on her patterns. Brilliant for those of us who love making her bags! (Has anyone ever told you how lovely she and the folk that work with her are?) An e-mail this week promised it shortly, so when I hear any more I'll post a link or at least share what I find out.

Comments

[Mel]

A thimble holder is a little bag for putting a thimble in...its the tiny bag shown on the giveaway!
Nice to meet you!!
Thanks for popping by!!xxx

[Kim]

Oh there I was getting all excited about Timtex ...!!! Thanks for explaining about it though. Have a good weekend
Kimx

[Sandi]

Pellon makes a similar product called Peltex. Pellon makes a variety of interfacing products, and is widely available in the United States. I don't know about international availability.

[Andrea]

Thank you so much for your email and this post. It is very detailed and helpful too. I make alot of bags, several by Amy Butler but had to use my common sense to buy an alternative. Thank you also for the link too. Have a good weekend and I shall pop back nest week.

[maria]

Hi, thanks for visiting my blog.
I've enjoyed looking at your site. You seem to like the same type of stuff as me.
Maria

[Wild Rose]

Hi Julia,

I have never heard of Timtex and it sounds like a great product. It is always difficult when favourite materials disappear and we have to find alternatives. Hopefully, Amy will have some suggestions of suitable alternatives.

Marie