Tool, for stripping hemp or flax

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This metal tool was for stripping the outer coating from flax or hemp stems. The stems were placed between the hinged arms which were then closed and the flax or hemp drawn through.

Tool for stripping hemp

There are several stages in processing flax. After being pulled, soaked and dried, the flax stems have to be broken open and the fibres separated, before combing (heckling) and spinning.

Record details

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• Online ID: 000-100-000-047-C
• Image Rights Holder: National Museums Scotland
• Project: National Museums Scotland
  Project description   View all records in project
• Ref: National Museums Scotland  W.RA 2
• Date: 18th or 19th century
  
• Material: Tool
  
• Dimensions: 1180 mm L x 400 mm
  
• What: Tool
  
• Subject: Preparation of wool and flax before spinning (skutching, hecklin (NMAS Classification)
  
• Who: John Paton (Possibly donor)
  
• Where:
• Event:
• Description:
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