Antique Singer Sewing Machines Linen Thread Box
W. Barbour & Sons c1900-1925

Antique Singer Sewing Machines Linen Thread Box

W. Barbour & Sons, Lisburn, Northern Ireland | c.1900–1925

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A wonderfully evocative early 20th-century Singer Sewing Machines linen thread box, produced for Singer by the celebrated Irish linen manufacturers W. Barbour & Sons Ltd. of Lisburn.

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Constructed from sturdy cardboard with a separate lift-off lid, this original box once housed premium linen thread “specially prepared for Singer” — thread manufactured to exacting standards for smooth, reliable use with Singer sewing machines.

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The lid features a striking lithographed label in deep green, cream and oxblood tones, centred around the iconic Singer red ‘S’ ribbon with seamstress illustration. The bold typography and confident marketing language reflect the pride of both Singer and Barbour in their craftsmanship at the height of the sewing machine age.

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Time and use have given the box a beautifully honest patina. Edge wear, surface rubbing and interior marks are all consistent with age and workshop handling, adding to its authenticity and visual appeal. Despite this, the box remains structurally sound and displays exceptionally well.

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✨ Why we love it

A genuine link between Singer Sewing Machines and the Irish linen industry

Original cardboard construction — exactly as intended for working use

Strong early 20th-century graphic design

Honest wear that tells its story rather than hiding it

Highly versatile as decorative storage or display

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Details

Manufacturer: W. Barbour & Sons Ltd.

Prepared for: Singer Sewing Machines

Origin: Lisburn, Northern Ireland

Date: circa 1900–1925

Materials: Cardboard with original lithographed paper label

Lid: Separate lift-off lid

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Dimensions: approx. 22 cm x 5 cm x 8 cm

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Condition: Good antique condition with age-related wear, edge rubbing, surface loss and interior marks consistent with use

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Perfect for

Sewing rooms or textile studios

Haberdashery and vintage display

Singer or sewing memorabilia collections

Decorative storage for small items or ephemera

Styling for photography, retail or interiors

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All our antique and vintage pieces are sold as found and show signs of age and use. Please study the photographs carefully, as these form part of the item’s description and charm.