Welcome
Do you collect thimbles? How about needle cases or pincushions? Or perhaps you collect another type of needle work tool. Or maybe you are an embroiderer, quilter or cross-stitcher who has always been interested in sewing items. This webpage was created to let interested parties know there is a club just for you in Illinois.
If you live in the northern Illinois or the Chicago area, you might consider joining our thimble and needlework tools collectors club. In addition to meeting other collectors on a regular basis, you’ll have an opportunity to share information and learn more about the items you collect.
Thimblefools of Northern Illinois, T.O.N.I. for short, was formed in 1978. "Thimblefools” is the resourceful result of turning “thimblefuls” into a fun loving noun. Since gems can be measured by the thimblefuls and the members considered themselves to be “gems”, the notion of being a little foolish and enjoying their collections so much, somehow produced Thimblefools of Northern Illinois (T.O.N.I.). The name has stayed with us ever since.
T.O.N.I. members have varied and detailed interests in sewing tools including but not limited to different types of thimbles, needle cases and pincushions. The scope and intensity of interests from our members make each meeting rewarding.
We have a great time at our meetings. T.O.N.I. meets ten times a year on the second Wednesday of every month from February through November. Our meetings take place in the western suburban area of Chicago from 10:30 a.m. to around 1:30 p.m.
We'd love to have you join us. Click on the email address below to send us a message for more information.
