If you’re using a chopstick, use a good, long one made of bamboo. The cheap, break-apart ones that you typically get with your Chinese takeout probably won’t sand to a finish that is smooth enough. Different materials will handle somewhat differently. For instance, wooden and plastic hooks will be different from the commercial metal hooks. Try to experiment to see which ones suit your needs best. See the “Things You’ll Need” section below for a list of the other items you’ll need.
Make the neck as smooth, even, and symmetrical as possible. Cut with long, smooth strokes following the grain of the wood, and rotate the material as you go. If you are rounding out the end of a rectangular chopstick, take more off the short sides and little or nothing off the long sides. Make the neck at least an inch and a half (about 3. 5cm) long. The exact length doesn’t matter. If you did shape the end with a pencil sharpener, use the shape of the point as a guide to help get the neck round.
The shape and size of the point of your hook is a matter of personal preference. Try several different shapes or continue to adjust it until it feels right to you.
