Silk Pluckers
Silk pluckers are similar in size and shape to crochet hooks, with spools near the handles. They are used to catch, pull, and collect silk and webbing without ensnaring the user or damaging the silk. Made of smooth materials like metal, they are used to manipulate silk strands while keeping hands away from any glues. With a sufficiently pacified spider or caterpillar, they can even be used to pull strands straight from silk glands or spinnerets.
Silk pluckers are generally made of metal, as organic materials are usually not smooth enough to avoid sticking. Sometimes these tools are made of Amber, which can be polished to prevent the natural glues from tangling the precious threads. Silk pluckers are used in sets, with multiple hooks used to gently pull silks onto the spools, switching as needed when one sticks to webbing. When a spool is filled, it can be pulled off and an empty one is fitted for collection.
History
These were invented in multiple regions and cultures through history, the similarity in needs making the form fit the function. The earliest known creation of these tools is credited to the nomadic elves of The Fungal Steppes, who were able to pull crude metals from the shelf fungi there to make silk pluckers to fashion Fairyflight Suits. It is thought that lack of other resources in the steppes led to more focused attempts to make use of the spider webs available.
Significance
This humble tool has led to some incredible feats of craftsmanship, and allowed people to survive in places that would be otherwise uninhabited. These hooks allowed places like Weavewood to transform from a weather-battered twig hanging in empty sky to a living work of art supporting tens of thousands of people. Clothing, bedding, ropes, flags, and even cities have been made with the help of silk pluckers.
Item type
Tool
Rarity
Silk pluckers are fairly simple and easy to create, making them a common staple for tool kits all over Arboreus.
Raw materials & Components
Usually metal
Several hooks and spools
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