What Does It Do? A Mysterious Needle-like Tool

This weekend I went nuts spring cleaning. I opened boxes of things that have been packed away for ages, including my husband’s grandmother’s sewing supplies. I found many wonderful things in her sewing basket, including a wooden egg for darning socks, tiny crane scissors, and lots of vintage bias tape. I also found this strange needle, and I have absolutely no idea what it’s for! I could use your help in identifying it, dear CRAFT readers. Can you offer your ideas in the comments. and bonus points if you have an example of something made with a tool like this. Thanks in advance!!!