Thread wrapped wire. What was this used for? When?

Maybe this should be in the metal forum but this was in my mother's sewing stuff. She did a lot of sewing all her life but I don't recall anything where she might have used it, and judging by the spool it was likely her mother's or even her grandmother's. The wire is steel and the spool is 2.75" high. I think my brother used a little bit of it as electrical wire when he made a crystal radio back in the 50s.

 

Possibly used in crafting, floral arranging, etc.



Could also have been some sort of conduit? Or would that have used copper wire?

 

I think some of my petticoats in the early 60s used to have wire in the hems, maybe that is what it was used for.

Yes.

 

It is also used in millinery work... the wires are cut and connected to other wires to construct the framework for certain hats... especially bridal crowns...

Leslie