For enthusiasts this brand represents a legend.
Fil au Chinois could have been in danger of disappearing had it not been for two determined textile industrialists from Northern France, Olivier and Bruno Toulemonde. It was apparent to them that the brand, Fil au Chinois, was an important part of France’s industrial heritage. Since 2007 they have undertaken to revive and produce this classic brand, amongst others, once produced by Vrau.
Frédérique Crestin-Billet, a passionate collector and herself at the heart of the Sajou brand revival, is part of this joint venture to restore the quality packaging that was once the hallmark of Fil au Chinois.
In the early 19th century the French Sanjou company developed a way of making linen thread with a tighter twist, which meant it was smoother and stronger. At the time anything Chinese or Oriental was fashionable, so they called it Chinese Thread = Fil au Chinois, even though it was, and still is, made in France. It is excellent thread