What is a Laying Tool?

Lula from Wooly Dreams Design gives this excellent explanation:

Laying tools are thin pencil shaped or rod like tools to help a stitcher lay multi-strand threads smoothly and straight while they're stitching.

One can buy very simple to fancy laying tools or use a darning needle and similar implements---as long as they are smooth and won't snag the threads.

The stitcher holds the tool in the opposite hand they are stitching with—the tool is placed under the threads as it is drawn through the fabric to flatly "lay" the stitch. The threads will usually lie parallel to each other and be smooth looking. Using a laying tool becomes automatic after a little practice and each person develops their own style of using it.

Anne Christopherson a fellow RCTN'er has a DH who makes polished exotic wooden laying tools. You can contact her at AChrist787@aol.com. I bought one and it is quite nice.

Or you can call your local shops and see what's available and order one. I think Shay Pendray has one in her line that shops can order.

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Needlepoint designer Sharon G added:

By using the laying tool, you will develop a good stitching habit of going straight down into the fabric of canvas with the threads ... not at an angle. This will cause less drag on the threads and they will stay in much nicer condition. The blending filament will hold up much better too.

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On the Stoney Creek site is a good description and images of how to use a trolley needle: http://www.stoneycreek.com/Newsltr.html

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Martha Beth Lewis has a nice article on her webiste entitled How to Use a Laying Tool that is worth a peek.