This is a highly attractive example of a Bakelite woolholder made by NB Ware in conjunction with Patons & Baldwins in the 1950s.

The woolholder has been made in two parts. The upper portion is of domed form with horizontal ribbing. This gives it the appearance of a beehive. The top is dome and has a large circular hole as well as two small holes. The larger hole is for the wool and the smaller holes would have has a ribbon through them to allow the wool holder to be hung when not in use, or to be put over the knitter’s wrist to allow for easy access.

The interior of the base of the upper portion has threads that allow for it to be screwed on to the lower portion. The lower portion is shallow and has threads on the top for it to be screwed to the upper portion. The underside has a central hole and is moulded with the words ‘H. W. 748 NB WARE MADE IN ENGLAND’. In addition, it is pierced in an arch with a needle gauge.

The interior of the base is moulded with the words ‘THE DESIGN OF THIS BEEHIVE WOOLHOLDER HAS BEEN APPROVED BY PATONS & BALDWINS.. MAKERS OF BEEHIVE WOOLS. AND IS MARKETED WITH THEIR CONSENT’. In the centre is has the registered design numbers ‘856057’ and ‘856077’.

The wool holder has a maximum height of approximately 9.3cm and a diameter across the base of about 10.8cm.

It is in good condition, although there are some small graze marks around the edge of the base from use. These are only noticeable on close inspection but this wear has been reflected in the price.