Bone Bodkin

Bodkins are handy tools used to thread stays or the backs of breeches. These flat bodkins are of smooth bone of about 2 3/4″ long and about 1/8″ (3 mm) thick and 1/4″ (6 mm) on the flat at the eye. They are based on a silver one on page 15 of Taunton, Nerylla, 1997, Antique Needlework Tools and Embroideries; Antique Collectors’ Club Ltd. In The Proceedings of the Old Bailey, London of 1753 “I am wife to the prosecutor, and am a stay-maker, and live in Rosemary-lane; the prisoner worked for me, she left my house, I missed the stew pan, bodkin, and scissors”.