What it does
Also called a bodkin, this simple needle is useful for teasing materials and precise finishing work.
How to use it
- 1
Use the point to gently tease trapped dubbing fibres out of the finished body.
- 2
Pass it carefully through the hook eye to clear stray thread or varnish.
- 3
Touch the point into varnish or resin, then place a tiny drop on the finished head.
- 4
Wipe the needle clean immediately after using glue, varnish or resin.
Beginner tip
Keep the point clean and sharp; dried varnish makes accurate work much harder.
Common mistake
Do not push the needle towards your hand or use a large blob of varnish — the point is sharp and excess can block the hook eye.