What is a Bodkin and How Is It Used in Corset Making?

What is a bodkin and how is it used in corset making? A super quick blog post but hopefully, a very helpful one!

Have you ever heard of or used a bodkin? There are different types of bodkins but the one I’m referring to today is like a large hand sewing needle. If you have ever used a safety pin to pull elastic through a waistband, well, a bodkin can get the job done much easier and faster. The same goes for using a bodkin for corsetry.

Again, a bodkin is a needle-like tool that looks like an oversize hand sewing needle, and it is used to help lace up a corset. It is not only helpful but also greatly reduces the time it takes to lace up a corset. All you do is feed one end of your lace through the eye, leaving about a 1” tail. Then you feed the bodkin through each eyelet. See picture below.

Corset history – Women used to place bodkins in their hair to keep them close at hand. This has led to a decorative type of hairpin bodkin that does not include the eye but often has a small jewel hanging off the end.

Want to get a bodkin for your corsets? Click here to shop all Madalynne’s lingerie and corset making list on Amazon for my favorite supplies!

Want to learn more about corset making supplies? Click here to read Madalynne’s blog post all about corset boning, fabrics and more!