Bodkin –
noun
- an ornamental hairpin shaped like a stiletto
- a sharp, slender instrument for making holes in cloth
- a blunt needle with a large eye for drawing tape or ribbon through a loop or hem
In the second definition, a bodkin is most useful when sewing with heavy duty materials, such as leather. If the leather is too thick to sew through it, you can use a bodkin to create holes and then hand sew lacing or thread through the holes you made.
By the third definition, a bodkin isn’t a necessary item in your sewing kit, but it can be very useful if you make a lot of garments or accessories with drawstrings or casings. Because of its large eye and blunt tip, the bodkin can help you pull elastic or cording through the casing.
Truth be told, this little sliver of metal has gotten me out of a jam on more than one occasion. That little O ring slides down the shaft and really clamps the ends tightly closed on your trim. This allows you to confidently slip it through your casing and not worry about it coming unattached somewhere in the middle.
Bodkin Stats-
- Size: Bodkins are similar in size but vary in texture to make it easier to work with different types of fabrics. Some resemble a giant pair of tweezers.
- When to use: Great for use with pulling items through casings or for making holes in thicker fabrics.
- Where to buy: You can pick up a bodkin during your next visit to your local quilt shop or purchase here online.
Click the below pictures to for projects using bodkins.
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