A wimpel is a cloth binder that is wrapped around the Torah scrolls to hold it together. It includes a child’s name, date of birth and usually a verse that expresses hopes for a rich and fulfilling life, surrounded by meaningful images.
In many Jewish communities in Germany and Eastern Europe, dating back a few hundred years, it was customary for a male baby to be swaddled in a wimpel during the brit milah. It was often constructed from a piece of clothing from a deceased family member. Additional panels were added over the years and then presented to the child on his or her bar/bat mitzvah and again at the auf ruf. In more religious traditions, a boy was given the wimpel at his upshernish (cutting of the hair at the age of 3.) The wimpel has made a comeback in recent years and is a wonderful gift to be treasured and passed down as an heirloom garment.
These are examples of very old wimpels from a Jewish museum. Check this link from the Manges Museum of Jew Art to see some old wimpels:
Each of the wimpels in the gallery were made for special occasions, usually a new baby!
These are a few other wimpels I have made and were donated to a synagogue to hold the toral scrolls:
This latest wimpel was custom made for the High Holy Days at a synagogue. The pomegranate tree matches the design on the Torah mantles. Hebrew says “Ufros aleinu …” Spread over us the shelter of your peace.
There are two rows of velcro sewn at the ends so that the wimpel fits tightly around the scroll.
If you have any questions about my custom designed wimpels for Torah scrolls, or would like to place an order for a custom designed wimpel, please complete my order form.
