Usually I am making things with knitting needles. Today I am actually making the tools of knitting. Why? First, I had lots of dowels left over from a craft class. Second, I noticed these dowels were the same size as US size 8 knitting needles. Finally, I will need needles for a dozen students this fall at a homeschool cooperative.
The dowels are easily sharpened in a quality electric pencil sharpener. I sharpened them just a little, enough to help me force fit the end into a wooden bead. The open end of the bead is filled in with Elmer's Glu-All. (Any wood glue would work.)
After the glue dries, I will sharpen the points to a blunt tip similar to my Clover bamboo needles from the store. A light sanding and a rub with some vegetable oil should make great needles.
