Silk Road Needle Arts

                        St. Petersburg, Florida
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Laying Tools--

Simply defined, a laying tool is a device to keep your threads smooth so that they are smooth when you stitch them. You can buy professional laying tools (we sell The Best Laying Tool) or you can use a mattress needle, large tapestry needle, fingernail, or whatever works for you.

A laying tool is quite easy to use; you simply flatten out your thread as you pull the thread through the fabric and slip out the pointed tool as you approach completion of the stitch.

Some considerations: you will need to be working on a stretched piece of fabric or canvas; it requires you to use both hands, one holding your needle and the other holding the tool.

What are the benefits of using a laying tool?
 

• Smoother stitching

• Pliable silks and floss will have a much higher sheen; the individual plies must run parallel

• Ribbon type threads will lay flat and enhance their appearance
  
  Note: Laying tools are very sharp and potentially dangerous. Keep them out of the reach of small children and pets.