What is this needle called?

Question

I have this old needle, that I found in a box at a car boot sale and cleaned for rust, and I wonder what it is called? It is ~12cm (5") long, and the eye is large enough that I can use it to sew with something like baling twine, and it has turned out to be very good for an ancient technique called 'nålebinding' (ie. 'needle binding' translated) with thick yarn. The fact that it is somewhat flattened and bent at the sharp end is actually a helpful feature, in my opinion. I'd like to buy some more in different sizes - but what are they called?

Possibly related: Why are needles designed for sewing thick canvas or heavy leather three-edged? — agarza, Dec 17 '22 at 16:21
These are also used for closing sacks and wool bales with baling twine. — Criggie, Dec 19 '22 at 00:20

score 10 · Accepted Answer · answered Dec 17 '22 at 16:19

10

It looks a lot like an old sail/sailing/sailor's/sail maker's needle:


"A rare and interesting Welsh Sailors or Sail Makers tool kit. A full set of sail makers needles, string and large for penetrating the heavy canvas along with two net making/repairing tools. All houses in an original case." The length of the case is 19 cm. ^source

answered Dec 17 '22 at 16:19

Joachim

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I think that is the answer! Thanks! – j4nd3r53n Dec 18 '22 at 10:42
1

Being familiar with rope splicing, this is absolutely the right answer. – SE - stop firing the good guys Jan 08 '23 at 20:40

score 6 · Answer 2 · answered Dec 17 '22 at 16:23

6

It could be a leather working needle:

^source

The ones in this picture are 7"/17.8 cm, but are described as 'large'.

answered Dec 17 '22 at 16:23

Joachim

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These do have the shape, but I think the tips are triangular - mine only has two edges, which aren't sharp. – j4nd3r53n Dec 18 '22 at 10:38

What is this needle called?

2 Answers2