I wrote a letter to The Guardian yesterday in answer to someone belonging to a book club but who couldn’t read each book in only four weeks. They published it today, and I discovered this evening that 15 people have joined the ShelterBox book club as a result of reading my letter! I am delighted. 
I needed some red thread to mend my red leather wallet so went to my Mum’s cotton collection and found one to match, of course! I have kept the drawers from the sewing cabinet my Grandpa made for her to her design when she was eighteen. That was in 1933 – I’ve never worked that out before. Almost every reel is wooden and one has the price on it, 23p. 
utesmile
October 16, 2025 at 2:02 pm
That is a great success that make people join the shelterbox.
mybeautfulthings
October 21, 2025 at 7:34 pm
Yes, I was very pleased. I’d like to find out if any more joined up since. It’s a brilliant book club that gets me reading books I don’t think I would have picked up by myself. 🙂
nrhatch
October 16, 2025 at 12:08 pm
I’ve got some of my grandmother’s and great aunt’s threads on wooden reels. Joined to the past via colorful threads!
mybeautfulthings
October 21, 2025 at 7:33 pm
Lovely isn’t it? I love using threads that have been in the family for so long, knowing that my Mum chose them and used them. The tray shows her love of all shades of blue. 🙂