California-based Etsy Store 'Needles In The Nest,' run by Ellen Steiger, has taken a very thrifty twist to DIY. Ellen Steiger created these knitting needles from ordinary toothbrush handles, and even made some beautiful classic loop rugs from using them. The 'Toothbrush Rug' as she likes to call it, was created from 8-9 yards of scrap pieces of cotton and weaved together using the toothbrush needles alone.
Ellen Steiger describes her process of creating the simple toothbrush needles as three-step process, which includes stripping the bristles off the brush, shaping the point and buffing so that the edges will be smooth. 'Needles In The Nest' have made a variety of needles available in every colour of the rainbow through the Etsy store.
Toothbrush Bodkin Tools
'Needles in the Nest' Transforms Hygiene Brushes into Knitting Needles
Trend Themes
1. Upcycling - There is a trend of repurposing ordinary objects, such as toothbrush handles, into innovative tools like knitting needles.
2. DIY Knitting - The popularity of DIY knitting projects has created a demand for unique tools like toothbrush needles.
3. Thrifty Crafting - Crafters are embracing thrifty and cost-effective techniques like using toothbrush handles to create functional tools.
Industry Implications
1. Home Decor - The home decor industry can leverage the trend of using toothbrush needles to create innovative and sustainable products like loop rugs.
2. Craft Supplies - The craft supplies industry can explore the production and sale of toothbrush needles as a creative alternative tool for knitting enthusiasts.
3. E-commerce - The e-commerce industry has an opportunity to showcase and sell unique products like toothbrush needles through platforms like Etsy.