[staceyk]

Hi,

I got some brown wax thread and was all set to practice button braids this weekend, using a method where the needle is run through the braid (skewered/shishkabobed) per the video I watched. The needle I have (standard, plastic, comes with braiding kits) is waaaay too big and ruins the braid.

Is there another type of needle that is used? A tapestry needle maybe?

Thanks for any advice.

[Quest52]

I've used a tapestry needle before, but I always dull the end. They can be very sharp and you don't want to accidentally poke the horse ever with that.

[mpsbarnmanager]

I have never done button braids, only hunter braids, but I use either a metal yarn needle (they have blunt ends) or you can make a pull through with baling wire. Good luck!

[cllane1]

Go to Wal-Mart, look in the crafts/notions section. There should be a packet of needles that looks like this: http://www.hancockfabrics.com/Repair...VVviewprod.htm
One of these needles has a large eye and a blunt end...perfect for braiding!

[KatherineC]

I bought a pack of large needles at Joanne Fabrics. It is large and already has a dull point.

[Mallard]

I have used the plastic needles...they do come in various sizes.
I have also used a 'bodkin' ...this is what you use -if you are a knitter- to sew seams together.

[Foxhound]

I second the use of the plastic needles. They are less damaging if you lose one in the bedding.

[fatorangehorse]

BTW - I use a stud magnet if I drop a metal needle. If you do use a metal needle, you should have something like that with you. I've seen one freak result of a lost metal needle - yikes.

[allpurpose]

Unfortunately you can't use a bodkin or pull thru if you're doing button braids. You literally have to sew the braid together with a needle; no room for pulling through like hunter braids. Joann Fabrics is your friend. You'll find large eye needles (but not too large!) with blunt ends easily.

[purplnurpl]

I have never done button braids, only hunter braids, but I use either a metal yarn needle (they have blunt ends) or you can make a pull through with baling wire. Good luck!

bold.

I go to Walmart and find 2" needles with blunt ends.