Bodkins are used to thread cords, elastics, ribbons or tapes through pre-made holes and tubes in a cloth or a garment. They may also be used as hairpins. Bodkins can be made out of a wide range of materials, such as bone, metal, plastic, etc.
The modern English term bodkin derives from the Middle English word boedekyn, which may derive from the Celtic word biodag, meaning a dagger.
Sources:
- Shorter Oxford English Dicitionary: 'Bodkin'
- http://www.jjneedles.com/products/2-Piece-Sewing-Bodkin-Set.html (retrieved 29 May 2016)
Digital source of illustration (retrieved 29 May 2016)
GVE