It IS a tatting shuttle used for making little flowers boarders etc. Yes, the center comes out (bobbin) and you wind the thread on and start tatting. There is a pointy point on one end and that is to draw the thread up a little to make a pedal or to pick out a mistake. They make them in colors of plastic now(without the deadly point that jabs your hand if not held properly. but if you are lucky enough to know someone that tatted for years and is in the late 90s they may have a BONE shuttle. A friend of mine gave me all of her grandmothers. I tat but only make the cute little flowers and glue them to note cards and draw stems....they are adorable and always a welcomed gift.