If you’ve recently stumbled upon a vintage knitting or crochet pattern that calls for “gimp,” you’re not alone in wondering what it is. Gimp was a popular crafting material in the early-to-mid 20th century, used for creating structured and decorative accessories like hats, bags, and belts. In this post, we’ll explore what gimp is, its purpose in crafting, why it was so widely used, and some common substitutions for this unique material.
What is Gimp?
Gimp is a cord-like material traditionally made from a blend of rayon and cotton. It is firm, slightly stiff, and has a subtle sheen, making it ideal for projects that require structure and durability. Unlike soft yarns used for garments, gimp is designed to maintain shape, making it perfect for accessories that benefit from a crisp and defined appearance.
Why Was Gimp Used in Vintage Patterns?
Gimp became a favorite among crafters during the 1930s and 1940s for several reasons:
- Structural Integrity: Gimp’s firmness made it ideal for creating sturdy items like handbags, belts, and decorative trims.
- Shiny Finish: The rayon in gimp added a touch of sheen, giving projects a polished and elegant look.
- Durability: Its strong composition ensured that accessories made with gimp would withstand daily use.
- Design Versatility: Gimp could be used for intricate crochet patterns and decorative embellishments, allowing crafters to experiment with unique textures and designs.
Today, using gimp in your projects can lend a vintage flair and timeless appeal, perfect for anyone looking to recreate the charm of yesteryear.
How Was Gimp Typically Used?
Hats
Gimp was commonly used in crochet patterns for hats, providing the structure needed to maintain shape and form. Its stiffness allowed for intricate designs that held up well over time, perfect for stylish vintage headwear.
Bags and Purses
Gimp’s firmness made it a popular choice for handbags, clutches, and other accessories. It ensured the bags could hold their shape while adding a touch of sheen for an elegant finish.
Belts
In the 1930s and 1940s, gimp was frequently used to craft belts. The material’s strength allowed for detailed patterns that were both decorative and functional.
Trims and Edgings
Decorative trims on garments, tablecloths, and home décor items often featured gimp. Its polished appearance and durability made it perfect for embellishments that stood out.
Home Accessories
Gimp was used in crafting home accessories like coasters, placemats, and decorative doilies. Its sturdiness allowed these items to be both functional and ornamental.
Jewelry and Accessories
Vintage patterns often included gimp in bracelets, necklaces, and decorative brooches. Its versatility allowed for intricate details that mimicked more expensive materials.
Passementerie
In decorative textiles, gimp was used as ornamental cords for upholstery, drapery tiebacks, and furniture trims. Its ability to hold intricate designs made it ideal for high-end decorative work.
Lampshade Covers
Some vintage patterns featured gimp for crafting lace-like coverings for lampshades, giving them an elegant, handmade look.
Why Was Gimp Popular for These Uses?
Versatility: Whether used in accessories, garments, or home décor, gimp offered endless possibilities for crafters.
Structure and Durability: Gimp’s stiffness provided the necessary support for projects that needed to retain their shape.
Shiny Finish: The rayon component in gimp gave projects a sleek and elegant appearance, perfect for fashion and home décor.
Ease of Crafting: Gimp was firm enough to work into defined stitches, which made it ideal for intricate patterns in both crochet and knitting.
The History of Raphael Brand Gimp
One popular brand used was Raphael brand gimp. You can still find it second-hand online. The Raphael brand was a prominent name in the gimp industry, produced by Fraser Manufacturing Co. in New York. Known for their high-quality materials, Raphael gimp was a staple in many vintage patterns. Typically, Raphael Brand Gimp consisted of rayon and cotton, with each spool containing about 90 yards per ounce.
Raphael gimp was widely available and featured in popular pattern books of the era, including titles like “Crochet with Gimp, Hats, Bags and Belts” (1936). The company’s commitment to quality made their products a go-to choice for crafters across the United States and beyond.
Gimp in Modern Crafting
While gimp isn’t as commonly used today as it was in the 20th century, it’s still possible to find vintage spools of Raphael gimp through specialty shops or online marketplaces. Modern crafters interested in using gimp can also experiment with substitute materials like macramé cords or other firm, shiny threads.
If you’re new to gimp, consider starting with small projects like bags or trims to familiarize yourself with its properties. The experience will give you a better understanding of why this material was so beloved by vintage crafters.
Recreating Vintage Patterns with Gimp
Many vintage pattern books featuring gimp are now in the public domain, making them accessible for modern use. These patterns offer a glimpse into the artistry and creativity of the past, allowing today’s crafters to recreate or adapt these timeless designs.
Here at [Your Website Name], we’ve modernized several vintage patterns, updating the instructions with today’s crafting terms to make them more accessible for contemporary makers. Whether you’re a seasoned knitter or a beginner, these patterns are a wonderful way to bring a piece of history into your crafting.
Alternative Names for Gimp
Gimp has been known by various names over the years, depending on the context, material composition, and region. If you’re searching for gimp or its modern equivalents, here are some alternative names and terms that may be useful:
- Rayon Cord – Reflecting its common material, this term emphasizes the smooth, shiny quality of gimp.
- Craft Cord – A generic term often used for materials with similar stiffness and sheen.
- Hat Cord – Refers to its popular use in making structured hats.
- Decorative Cord – Highlighting its role in embellishments and trims.
- Macramé Cord – While not identical, macramé cord is sometimes referred to as gimp due to its similar structure and firmness.
- Plastic Lacing – Used in some crafting contexts as a modern, synthetic equivalent.
- Braided Cord – Describes gimp’s interwoven structure, particularly in thicker variants.
- Crochet Cord – Reflects its use in vintage crochet patterns for accessories and trims.
- Lustratex – An old brand or descriptive term emphasizing the shiny, lustrous appearance.
- Passementerie Cord – A term from decorative textiles, referring to ornamental trims and cords similar to gimp.
Historical or Regional Terms
- Silk Cord – In earlier periods, silk was sometimes used in gimp for a luxurious finish.
- Binding Cord – Refers to gimp’s use in binding edges or as a structural element.
- French Gimp – A term used in decorative passementerie, referring to fine, ornamental cords.
- Trimming Cord – Highlights its role in decorative trims for garments and accessories.
Modern Equivalents or Related Materials
- Paracord – Used in contemporary crafts, this durable cord offers a similar structured quality.
- Waxed Thread – While softer, this material can provide some of the firmness associated with gimp.
- Embroidery Cord – A smooth and shiny option for fine decorative work.
- Soutache – A decorative braid often used in jewelry or clothing embellishment, similar in appearance to flat gimp.
Gimp Substitutions: What to Use and How They Compare
While vintage gimp may no longer be widely available, there are several modern materials you can use as substitutes. Here’s a list of options along with an explanation of how closely they resemble gimp in terms of structure, sheen, and functionality:
1. Macramé Cord
- How Similar Is It?
Macramé cord shares gimp’s firmness and durability, making it a strong substitute for projects requiring defined shapes like handbags and belts. However, macramé cords are typically thicker and less shiny than traditional gimp. - Best For: Structured bags, belts, or large decorative trims.
2. Rayon Cord
- How Similar Is It?
Rayon cord closely mimics the sheen and texture of vintage gimp. Its smooth surface and flexibility make it an excellent choice for projects needing a polished, elegant look. - Best For: Projects where shine and a slight stiffness are important, like decorative trims or smaller accessories.
3. Nylon Cord
- How Similar Is It?
Nylon cord offers strength and a bit of shine, similar to gimp, but it is often more slippery and less rigid. It works well for projects requiring durability but may need more tension control during crafting. - Best For: Durable items like totes or outdoor accessories.
4. Mercerized Cotton
- How Similar Is It?
Mercerized cotton provides a slight sheen and firm texture, though it is softer and less rigid than gimp. It’s a versatile option that works well in projects where stiffness is less critical. - Best For: Hats, bags, or projects that don’t require heavy structure.
5. Crochet Thread (Size 3 or 5)
- How Similar Is It?
Crochet thread can be a thinner, softer substitute for gimp, especially for decorative or lace-like patterns. While it lacks the firmness of gimp, it provides a smooth finish and works well in smaller, intricate projects. - Best For: Lightweight accessories, doilies, or embellishments.
6. Paracord
- How Similar Is It?
Paracord is highly durable and firm, making it a functional but bulkier substitute for gimp. It lacks the characteristic sheen of vintage gimp but excels in projects where durability and structure are key. - Best For: Utility-focused accessories like belts or sturdy bags.
7. Embroidery Floss (Tightly Doubled)
- How Similar Is It?
When doubled or tripled, embroidery floss can mimic the sheen of gimp but will not provide the same stiffness. This option is better suited for decorative details rather than structured items. - Best For: Fine trims or embellishments.
8. Waxed Cotton Cord
- How Similar Is It?
Waxed cotton cord offers a firm structure similar to gimp but has a matte finish instead of a sheen. Its durability and slight rigidity make it a solid alternative for projects needing shape. - Best For: Structured bags, belts, or decorative accents.
9. Plastic Craft Cord (Boondoggle or Lanyard Cord)
- How Similar Is It?
Plastic craft cord shares the shiny appearance of gimp and offers a firm, rigid texture. However, it is often thicker and more slippery, requiring careful handling. - Best For: Structured items where shine is a priority, like bags or bold accessories.
Tips for Using Substitutes
- Adjust Tension: Some substitutes, like nylon or rayon cord, may require tighter tension to achieve the structure vintage gimp provided.
- Experiment with Thickness: If the substitute feels too thick, consider splitting or doubling threads to match the original pattern’s look.
- Test First: Always make a small swatch to ensure your substitute material produces the desired effect.
By experimenting with these modern alternatives, you can recreate the charm of vintage gimp-based projects while using materials readily available today.
Gimp, a Versatile Vintage Crafting Material
Gimp is a crafting material that serves as a window into the ingenuity and creativity of past generations. By incorporating this versatile material into your projects, you can get a truly vintage look to your creations. You’ll also be honoring the legacy of vintage crafters while creating something truly unique.
So why not dive into a vintage pattern featuring gimp? Whether you’re crocheting a stylish handbag or embellishing a modern creation with a vintage twist, the possibilities are endless. Happy crafting!
