Correct Thread for USAAF Flight Jackets

[384thBG]

This is my first post here, so please bear with me. I've searched the site but was unable to find related topics. I'm replacing a shredded knitted cuff on my original B-10 jacket with an original cuff from a donor jacket of the same age. I don't have sewing thread specifications for the jacket, so I'm left guessing or matching the size of the thread it used. My best guess is cotton 40/3 thread. I have old thread that was removed from the jacket that I can use as a reference.

 

A second part of my request is regarding sourcing and using original period thread. I'm watching Ebay, but someone here may have a source or be willing to share, compensated of course.

 

This is for a display at the 384th Bomb Group Reunion at the 8th Air Force Historical Society Reunion in New Orleans Sept 27 - Oct. 1, 2017.

Thanks in advance for any assistance!

 

Chris Wilkinson