Object number
65/208
Exhibition
Description
A bodkin is a tool used by basketmakers for a variety of jobs, from opening out the weave to insert a rod or handle, to putting stakes in at the bottom, and therefore come in a many different sizes according to the work. This is a shell bodkin, used for putting handle bows into fine baskets, particularly the Southport boat basket. It is a long, curved, gouge-shaped tool with an iron blade, set in a short wooden handle which fits the palm. It was used by Levi Southworth, a basketmaker from Mawdesley, Lancashire.
Physical description
1 bodkin: metal, wood
Label Text
Woodcrafts involved the use of many tools especially when working with harder woods such as oak which is commonly used to make baskets and trugs. Building up the strength and dexterity needed for woodcrafts has been found to be an extremely successful form of physical therapy. When working with brain injury patients' woodcrafts are reported to help lessen the severity of tremors and improve hand eye coordination. Bodkin: 65/208
Archival history
MERL 'Catalogue of baskets' form – 'NAME: BODKIN (shell) // Acc. No.: 65/208 // Group: CRAFT. WOOD BASKETS // Neg. no.: 60/6367 // Place of origin: Mawdesley. Lancashire // Period in use: 1900–1920 // DESCRIPTION // Materials: Iron blade. Wooden handle. // Shape and construction: User: Levi Southworth // Dimensions: L. [length] 7 1/2 ins // Use: For putting handle bows into fine baskets, particularly to the Southport Boat basket. // Dialect names: // Distribution: this type of tool is in general use. // Additional notes:'
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Associated subject
Associated person/institution
External document
- L:\MERL\Objects\JISC 2012\60 series negatives\60_6367.tif - High resolution image
- L:\MERL\Objects\Baskets\65_208_cob.tif - High resolution image
