Final answer:
Tapestry needles are used in lacing and couching for their blunt tips which do not tear the fabric, surpassing their historical counterparts made from materials like wood and ivory.
Step-by-step explanation:
The needles used in lacing and couching are called tapestry needles. These needles have blunt tips that are designed not to pierce or tear the fabric. Historically, needles have been made from various materials including wood, and ivory. They featured sharp points for piercing and holes for the thread, which was sometimes made from animal remains or wild flax. The invention of needles allowed humans to produce more sophisticated clothing from the soft hides of animals such as foxes, rabbits, and deer, enhancing their ability to survive in different environments. Tapestry needles continue this legacy by enabling intricate textile work without damaging delicate materials.