What are thumb crotch gloves?

"Thumb crotch gloves" refer to a traditional style of glove construction, specifically focusing on how the thumb is attached to the main body of the glove. Here's a breakdown:

1.The Core Idea - The "Crotch":
The term "crotch" in glove-making doesn't refer to anatomy, but to a seam intersection point. Specifically, it's the point where multiple pieces of leather (or fabric) come together.
In this style, the attachment point for the base of the thumb creates a distinct, deep triangular or V-shaped gusset of material between the thumb and the main palm/body of the glove.
Think of it like the "armpit" for the thumb, where it joins the hand.

2.Traditional Construction Method:
This style typically uses fourchettes (small, narrow strips of leather) to form the sides of the fingers.
The thumb piece itself is often cut as a single, relatively wide piece with a curved base.
Sewing this wide thumb base into the opening on the palm creates a significant amount of excess material at the join. This excess forms the pronounced triangular flap or gusset – the "thumb crotch".

3.Visual Characteristics:
The most noticeable feature is that V-shaped or triangular panel of leather situated right where the thumb meets the palm.
This grotch area often has visible stitching lines radiating outwards from the central point of the V.
It gives the glove a distinctive, somewhat "bulky" or generously constructed look at the base of the thumb compared to modern seamless styles.

4.Contrast with Modern Glove Construction:
Most modern gloves use a "clute cut" or "gunn cut" for the thumb attachment.
These modern methods are designed to minimize bulk and create a smoother, flatter transition between the thumb and the palm.
Instead of a large triangular gusset, these methods often involve sewing the thumb directly to the palm piece with little to no extra material forming a visible triangular flap. The seam is cleaner and less pronounced.

5.Historical Context and Feel:
This was a very common construction method for older, often work-oriented or utilitarian leather gloves (like driving gloves, work gloves, or vintage dress gloves).
The design prioritized durability and ease of manufacturing with the techniques and patterns of the time.
While potentially offering good articulation, the thumb crotch can sometimes feel slightly bulkier or less streamlined around the base of the thumb compared to modern seamless designs, depending on the leather quality and sewing.