Found in a box of old sewing stuff at a garage sale. It looks like small metal tongs with padded discs at the end and a loop for a chain. What on earth is this thing used for?

with some skirt lifters utilizing a simple spring tension, while others might incorporate more complex locking systems to ensure a firm grip on thick or layered fabrics. This variety makes each piece unique, and collectors often delight in the hunt for unusual or particularly ornate examples.

To the untrained eye, a skirt lifter might be confused with other vintage sewing or clothing gadgets, such as hemming clips or glove stretchers. However, the key distinguishing feature of a skirt lifter is its dual padded discs designed for gripping fabric without damage, combined with a chain loop for attachment.

Unlike hemming clips, which are typically smaller and lack the chain loop, skirt lifters are specifically designed to hold larger sections of fabric. Glove stretchers, on the other hand, are elongated tools meant to fit inside gloves, making their shape and use