On Bodkins

[nehmah]

"When they travel on foot the plaid is tied on the breast with a bodkin of bone or wood (just as the spina wore by the Germans, according to the description of C. Tacitus). The plaid is tied round the middle with a leather belt. It is plaited from the belt to the knee very nicely. This dress for footmen is found much easier and lighter than breeches or trews."

- Martin Martin, A Description of the Western Islands of Scotland, 1695.

Some bone bodkins, and an antique silver example:

RE: left-side photo. May I ask if you know where I could purchase bone bodkins (silver or gold is way beyond my budget)? Smooth bone would slide through woolen or silk tunnels much better than plastic. I'm always on the lookout for a better way to handle sewing tasks.
Cordially, Nehmah
I'd try to carve one, but would cut off a finger.