restringing tentpoles [no problem] here is how to

[knowledge=gain]

there are a few things you can try before purchasing the re-threading tool [as most of the time you will have something at the homestead or on site with you]

first start by numbering the poles to help keep them in the correct order

this first thing to try you will need a needle and cotton thread

1. thread a length of cotton thread to the needle that is a bit longer than the longest section of your tent poles and
2. tie a knot so the thread does not pull out from the needle
3. tie the other end of the thread to the elastic
4. tie a knot in the other end of the elastic to prevent the elastic being pulled completely thru the first pole
5. push needle inside the first pole and let gravity do the work for you
6. when the needle comes out the other end pull needle and the elastic will pull thru the pole
7. repeat process for all poles
8. when at the last but one [1] pole pull and stretch the elastic and tie a loop-knot that can easy be undone to prevent the elastic pulling back thru the poles
9. with the last pole re-threaded tie a knot in the end close to the end of the pole
10. then undo the loop-knot and all should be tensioned well

all the different things you can use follow the same method above just make sure that some will likely need to be a bit longer than the longest pole and some not so much and some may need to be taped to the elastic yet same principle applies

metal strip from a windscreen wiper
copper cable
fishing-line
welding wire
electricians fishing cable [sorry i forget the correct name] you would need to use starting in reverse order so from last pole to first pole in some situations

handy tips

instead of tying a loop-knot you could use a pair of vice-grips also called mole-grips or other suitable clamping tool with cardboard or similar taped over the grips to prevent digging into the elastic

use a flame to help removed frayed end on the elastic for smoother threading just as you would do with nylon cordage

for tension allow for approximately one [1] pole to one point five [1.5] poles un-stretched elastic less than the overall length of your poles [aim for one point five [1.5] poles then you will have wiggle room for adjusting the tension that best suits you]

make sure you check the size of elastic for your poles as they vary from 2.5mm upwards

for those that may not be aware replacement tent-pole kits are reasonably priced and typically comes with what you need again check the size of the elastic and this time the poles thickness as they are generically made and not necessarily by brand of tent

you can get just the elastic or a whole kit depending on your needs and some kits or elastic may come with a re-threading wire/tool

bona-fides