Have you ever struggled to trace/scribe around your cardboard template pieces with a cutting knife?Surely, there is an easier method/ way to do this? With a simple little tool called a scratch awl you can trace almost any shape.
A scratch awl is a sharp steel pin pointed tool with a wooden handle that you use to scribe/ scratch around the outline of your leather template pieces in order to define the shape of the pieces onto your leather. You can also use a scratch awl to make your stitching holes.
This is not the only function of a scratch awl. Read on for more information on how to sharpen them, the different types and where you can buy them.
How to use a scratch awl
A scratch awl is easy to use and it’s similar to using a pen or pencil, except it has a sharp steel point instead of a lead point.
Firstly, place your leather flat on your work surface and then place your cut outs of your template pieces on top of the leather. Next, use the scratch awl to trace around the outer edge of your template pieces by applying enough force to leave a scratch mark outline on your leather.
Take your time and trace around all your template pieces until complete. You can also use your scratch awl to mark out where your stitching holes should go. It has a sharp enough point to easily leave an impression on your leather. Getting the position of your stitching holes correct is a crucial step in any leathercraft project. Once you have traced out all your leather pieces you can now use your cutting knife and steel ruler to cut out all the separate pieces.
The scratch awl can also be used to unpick your leather stitching if you make a mistake. It is small and manoeuvrable enough to get into and under your thread in order for it to be unpicked.
How to sharpen your scratch awl
Like all tools your scratch awl will eventually need to be sharpened. There are a number of ways to do this. The best method is to use a leather strop and some fine grit sandpaper in order to sharpen your awl. Your awl should be super sharp so that it can easily pierce 3mm thick vegetable tanned leather without much effort.
Caring for your scratch awl?
When you are finished using your awl remember to put the protective cover back on the tip, that way it should be protected if it rolls off the work bench or if you accidentally pick it up on the wrong end
you won’t prick yourself.
Different Types of scratch awl’s and where can you buy them?
There are different types of awls available on the market and their prices vary. Generally, it’s a fairly inexpensive tool which you will use on almost all your leather projects. Some scratch awls come with interchangeable blades/tips and depending on what you are using it for (make your stitching holes bigger) you can change out the tip and put in a different shaped tip.
The prices vary from about $2 for the cheapies and topping out at about $20 for the one with the inter changeable ends. You can buy scratch awls from Amazon or Tandy leather as well as many other suppliers across the US. If you have a leather store near you then pop down and check out the variety they have available. If you are new to leatherwork there is no need to go out and buy the most expensive awl you can find. They all work pretty well and should perform adequately.
Difference between a scratch awl and a stitching awl.
A scratch awl is very different to a stitching awl, although they do look very similar. A stitch awl, is also known as a sewing awl or speedy stitcher and is usually used for stitching. A stitching awl is an aid to help make stitching easier and faster. Both scratch awl and stitch awl will make holes in your leather but that’s where the similarities end.
A stitching awl usually has a hollow handle where a bobbin for stitching thread is located. You will need to attach your thread to the stitch awl as it has an “eye” that allows for this and then you can begin stitching. Stitching awls generally have curved ends whereas scratch awls have sharp pointed ends. It’s important not get the two tools confused as they have completely different functions. Check out my post on what is a stitching awl if you would like to learn some more.
Conclusion
A scratch awl is a very useful tool that has many different functions and can help you perform a variety of tasks. It is definitely worth investing in one as you will be using it for many years to come. I hope you found this post useful and good luck with your leather work projects.