After trying many different techniques from collaborations between my readers and me, I decided that I would take the simplest route possible. You can make this type of Lacing Needle with little more than a screw driver, drill and something to cut the needle material (i.e. hacksaw or Dremel).
MATERIALS
- Single-Point Knitting Needle, Size 5 or 6 (I picked up both sizes from Walmart)
- #43 Drill Bit (pick a drill bit that is the same size or smaller than the screw size)
- 4x¾ Metal Screws
TOOLS
- Screwdriver
- Drill
- Hacksaw (anything that will cut the needle)
- Vise (anything that will securely hold the needle)
INSTRUCTIONS
I have included this tutorial in PDF form so that you can store it on your hard drive. Download by right-clicking the mouse on this link and select "Save As..." and save it on your hard drive.
Once you've acquired the tools and materials, the rest is fairly easy.
CAUTION: ALWAYS WEAR SAFETY GLASSES WHEN WORKING WITH METAL AND FOLLOW SAFETY GUIDELINES OF THE SPECIFIC TOOL YOU ARE USING.
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| Please excuse the mess in my workshop |
- Determine the length that you want the needle to be and mark it and then cut it.
- Place the needle in an upright position in the vise.
- Using the #43 drill bit, drill down the center of the shaft of the needle to a depth of ¼" (be careful to drill straight down the center). I used a smaller bit before using the final bit so that it is easier to drill the center point.
- Use one the 4x¾ Metal Screws, screw in the screws with the screwdriver until you reach the total depth
- Remove the screw and you're pretty much finished. If you want to produce the polished look like my final result you will need to remove the paint from needle. I used my Dremel, but you can use sandpaper in a pinch. Once sanded, use a polishing compound to bring the needle to a brilliant shine (I recommend using Flitz, it's the best polish on the market).
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| Perma Lok Needle, Size 5 Needle, Size 6 Needle |
SOURCES AND REFERENCES
- Download this Tutorial in Adobe PDF Form
- Flitz Polish
- Single-Point Knitting Needle, Size 5
- Single-Point Knitting Needle, Size 6
- Unique Lacing Needles for Paracord
Hi,
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Thanks for the support!
Great tip - and if you have a drill press, the easiest way is to clamp the bit down (so it stays straight and stationary), insert the knitting needle into the chuck, and slowly lower it onto the drill bit! I have made mine this way, and it works a treat.
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Gonna give this a try later today, thanks!