Size 5 Bamboo Circular Knitting Needles From Disposable Chopsticks

Step 1: Tools and Materials

You will need:

A set of the better kind of disposable chopsticks (separate, not attached)
Pencil sharpener
Drill with small bits
Sandpaper
Cord (I used plastic lacing)
Glue
Stain or paints and paintbrush (optional)
Varnish or polyurethane

Step 2: Step 1: Prep the Sticks

First, drill holes in the bottoms (flat side) of the chopsticks. I started with a narrow hole, then used a wider bit so the hole would fit the lacing. The hole should be about 3/4" deep. Do this part carefully; there isn't much wiggle room. I have a clamp and a flexible shaft tool that came in handy.

Next, use a pencil sharpener to make a sharper point on the pointed end of the sticks. Then sharpen the ends with holes, gently and carefully, so the sticks taper toward the holes. Best to use a good manual sharpener for this step.

Sand the sticks with fine sandpaper until they are nice and smooth. Leave a little texture if you are painting to help the paint stick.

Step 3: Decorate

Paint or stain and varnish or polyurethane the sticks as desired. I used acrylic paint and water-based polyurethane for mine.

Step 4: Glue in Cord

Insert the cord as far as it will go, and use strong glue to make it a permanent bond.

Now you can knit. Enjoy!

These will make needles that are longer than standard flexible needles. If you need to shorten them, cut before drilling the holes.

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7 Comments

ttowngirl

9 years ago

That's a good idea. I probably would make shorter sticks tho, because I'm used to them. Also, there are some cute plastic and bamboo sticks that look good the way they are. Now I'm itching to try! Plus, I have glow in the dark laces! It will be even cooler! Woot! Thanks so much!!!