What kind of tree branches can be used to make knitting needles?

Question

I was thinking of taking a walk through the neighborhood to try and find some different types of wood to make knitting needles ( not necessarily to use ) but just to have a unique collection of my own, sort if something no one else would have. I guess you could say more for decoration purposes.

Any suggestions?

Answer 1

Any kind will do, as long as it is straight, and of a reasonable size. Once you find the sticks you like, you need to debark them, and then rub them with oil. let the oil soak in, and repeat, otherwise they will be too brittle to even pose as a needle. You can sharpen with a pocket knife, or even use a pencil sharpener for the point. Then use sand paper, or barring that, an emery board to smooth and remove any splinters. Use a needle guide to identify the needle size.
I bet if you had a woody rose bush, that would make a beautiful needle! also birch, which cleans up nicely.

Answer 2

birch and ash and walnut, i have a walnut crochet hook,

Answer 3

bambo