Hello, leather lovers! In this blog post, I'm going to show you how to use a leather stitching awl, one of the most useful tools for leather crafting. A leather stitching awl is a metal tool with a sharp point and a wooden handle that helps you make holes in leather for sewing. It can also be used to widen existing holes or to mark where you want to stitch. Here are some tips on how to use a leather stitching awl effectively:
- Choose the right size and shape of awl for your project. There are different types of awls, such as diamond, round, or chisel, and they come in various sizes. The size and shape of the awl will affect the size and shape of the holes you make in the leather, so pick one that suits your design and the thickness of your leather.
- Sharpen your awl regularly. A dull awl will make it harder to pierce the leather and may cause damage or uneven holes. You can sharpen your awl with a fine whetstone or a leather strop. Just rub the point of the awl on the stone or strop until it is smooth and shiny.
- Hold your awl correctly. The best way to hold your awl is to grip the handle firmly with your dominant hand and rest the tip of your index finger on the metal shaft. This will give you more control and accuracy when making holes. You can also use your thumb to push the awl through the leather if you need more force.
- Use a cutting mat or a piece of scrap leather under your work piece. This will protect your work surface from scratches and also prevent your awl from going too deep into the leather. You don't want to make holes that go all the way through the leather, unless you are sewing two pieces together.
- Mark where you want to make holes before using your awl. You can use pricking irons, a compass, or a stitching wheel to mark where you want to stitch on your leather. This will help you make even and consistent holes and avoid mistakes.
- Pierce the leather with your awl at a 90-degree angle for a regular stitch. This will ensure that your holes are straight and not slanted. You can also use a stitching clamp or a stitching pony to hold your leather steady while you work. Pierce the leather with enough force to make a hole, but not so hard that you damage the leather or hurt yourself.
- Pull out your awl carefully and repeat as needed. After making a hole, pull out your awl slowly and gently, twisting it slightly if necessary. Don't pull it out too fast or too hard, as this may tear the leather or enlarge the hole. Repeat this process until you have made all the holes you need for your project.
That's it! You have learned how to use a leather stitching awl like a pro! Now you can sew your leather pieces together with ease and create beautiful leather crafts. I hope you enjoyed this blog post and found it helpful. If you have any questions or comments, feel free to leave them below. Happy crafting!
You can purchase a range of awls right here on my website!