This is a very popular thread and I do my best to keep all colors in stock. In the event that a color runs out I will notify you as soon as possible and offer replacements if available.

Londonderry Linen Thread is one of Colophon’s most popular items. The variety of available colors and weights makes it great for structural, decorative, or decoratively structural sewing applications. It is a softer thread than both Colophon’s Best and MDL, which means it causes less swell (allows for more compression) while sewing.

Known for its strength, durability, and beautiful sheen, flax linen has been bookbinders’ preferred thread fiber for centuries. Londonderry Linen Thread comes unwaxed, and binders often pair it with natural beeswax for sewing.

Available in 27 colors and five* weights. (Iris will has been discontinued by the manufacturer)

18/3, 12 meter roll $2.20; one of every color - not available at this time.
(This thread thickness is changing to a larger spool size (40meters)! You will see this change take effect over the course of the next few months as colors are restocked.)
30/3, 20 meter roll $2.40; one of every color $62.00
50/3, 30 meter roll $2.50; one of every color $64.00
80/3, 50 meter roll $2.80; one of every color $72.50
*100/3, 50 meter roll $2.95; one of every color $14.00 (Only available in Ash Gray, Beige, White, Ivory, and Black)

Unsure which thread you need? Sample cards can be found here.

If you’re curious to know more about number system used to describe thread sizes, check out this post by book conservator and toolmaker Jeff Peachey.

photo credit: detail of an endband on a historic model sewn with 80/3 Ivory and Clove Londonderry Linen Thread. Other detail photo shows 18/3 Londonderry Linen threaded through a darning needle. Embroidery by Carlos Velásquez of CAVtaller. Both photos taken by Brien Beidler.