Thread Maker
Making threads is always done with soaked splints that have been pulled across a pair of scissors to remove some of the pith and soften them. This video shows how to make straw threads with a Cord Maker, a tool you can get from Lacis.com it can make up to four ply cord but we will only use two of the post.
Hand Drill
You can pick up a very inexpensive hand drill it is better in some respects because you can count your turns so that if you are doing threads you want to match you can start with splints of the same length and to a counted # of turns on your hand drill. You need a drill with a chuck the lighter weight the better and something to hold the other end. I use a table top vice but you could use any sort of clamp or, a sewing brick or, another person. Video below. Prep your straw the same way. Soak it, split it, remove pith, and pick two matching (width and length) splints.
Electric Hand Drill
Electric hand drill can be used. If your drill has a slow speed then use that. You need a drill with a chuck the lighter weight the better and something to hold the other end. I use a table top vice but you could use any sort of clamp or, a sewing brick or, another person. Prep your straw the same way. Soak it, split it, remove pith, and pick two matching (width and length) splints.