Size 5 Bamboo Circular Knitting Needles From Disposable Chopsticks

by susanrm in Craft > Knitting & Crochet

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Size 5 Bamboo Circular Knitting Needles From Disposable Chopsticks

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Tools and Materials

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You will need:
  • A set of the better kind of disposable chopsticks (separate, not attached)
  • Pencil sharpener
  • Drill with small bits
  • Sandpaper
  • Cord (I used plastic lacing)
  • Glue
  • Stain or paints and paintbrush (optional)
  • Varnish or polyurethane

Step 1: Prep the Sticks

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First, drill holes in the bottoms (flat side) of the chopsticks. I started with a narrow hole, then used a wider bit so the hole would fit the lacing. The hole should be about 3/4" deep. Do this part carefully; there isn't much wiggle room. I have a clamp and a flexible shaft tool that came in handy.

Next, use a pencil sharpener to make a sharper point on the pointed end of the sticks. Then sharpen the ends with holes, gently and carefully, so the sticks taper toward the holes. Best to use a good manual sharpener for this step.

Sand the sticks with fine sandpaper until they are nice and smooth. Leave a little texture if you are painting to help the paint stick.

Decorate

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Paint or stain and varnish or polyurethane the sticks as desired. I used acrylic paint and water-based polyurethane for mine.

Glue in Cord

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Insert the cord as far as it will go, and use strong glue to make it a permanent bond.

Now you can knit. Enjoy!

These will make needles that are longer than standard flexible needles. If you need to shorten them, cut before drilling the holes.