Nalbinding needle – horn

This horn nalbinding needle is made from water buffalo horn and is polished so it glides especially well through wool. The length of the needle measures 8 cm.

These nalbinding-needles were used in the Viking and Medieval era to practice the knitting technique of nalbinding. In contrast to sewing needles, nalbinding needles are flat. This technique of knitting is a precursor of the more modern crocheting techniques. The difference from traditional weaving techniques is that with nalbinding you can produce textile products like socks, gloves, and caps. Nalbinding fabricates a dense, warm textile. 

Historically these valuable needles were stored in designated needlecases/boxes from wood, brass, or other metals for example.