How to improve your needle in Hollow Knight Silksong: Free upgrade guide
In Hollow Knight: Silksong, the needle is Hornet’s primary weapon and upgrading it is crucial for dealing with tougher enemies as the game progresses. Unlike the original game where nail upgrades required currency and rare materials, Silksong introduces a simplified yet meaningful process that still reflects character progression. The first upgrade can be obtained in Bellhart, but only after meeting specific conditions.
Players must locate Pinmaster Plinney, the game’s dedicated needlesmith, and complete certain story milestones to unlock his services. By defeating the Widow boss and freeing Bellhart, you’ll gain access to the bellhouse where Plinney offers to sharpen your needle for free.
This guide explains the exact steps, requirements, and benefits of upgrading your needle so you can maximise Hornet’s combat power and tackle upcoming challenges more effectively.
The first needle upgrade becomes available in Bellhart through Pinmaster Plinney. He can be found in the bellhouse on the right side of Bellhart, easily recognised by the three white pins above the door. This location remains reliable once prerequisites are completed, making it the key destination for weapon improvements.
Steps to reach the upgrade location:
Progress through the story until Bellhart is freed.
Defeat the Widow boss to unlock the town.
Travel to the bellhouse marked with three white pins.
Enter and speak to Pinmaster Plinney.
Requirements for needle upgradesBefore you can request the upgrade, ensure the following conditions are met:
Defeat the Widow boss to liberate Bellhart.
Unlock access to the bellhouse.
Interact with Pinmaster Plinney and choose the dialogue option “Sharpen Needle?”.
Confirm the request to sharpen your needle at no cost.
Benefits of sharpening the needleSharpening the needle directly increases Hornet’s damage output. This upgrade is especially useful when exploring late-game areas where enemies have higher health. With the improved needle, combat becomes faster and more efficient, allowing you to focus on exploration rather than prolonged battles.
Revisit earlier zones after the upgrade—tough enemies will fall more easily.
Experiment with Silk-based abilities, as they also benefit from the damage boost.
Prioritise Bellhart’s resources and shops once the area is fully accessible.