How To Use a Sewing Awl – Step-By-Step Instructions

Have you ever found yourself staring at a torn backpack strap, a favorite leather jacket with a hole, or a creative project that needs some precision stitching? It’s a frustrating moment, isn’t it?

Well, what if I told you that you can step into a world of crafting and repair with ease? That’s where the sewing awl comes into play. It might look like a simple tool, but it’s a game-changer. It can mend your torn clothes, breathe new life into your worn-out leather goods, and bring your crafting ideas to life.

In this guide, I’ll show you how to use a sewing awl and every possible thing that you need to know about this amazing tool, so you can repair and create things like a pro!

What exactly is a sewing awl?

A sewing awl is like a special tool used in sewing and fixing stuff like leather, canvas, and thick fabrics. It’s made of a handle with a sharp, pointy metal part on one end, kind of like a mini sword.

When you want to make a hole in something tough, you can use the awl to easily poke a hole through it. Then, you can pass a thread or cord through that hole to stitch things together, making them strong and secure. It’s a handy tool for repairing your favorite leather jacket or sewing heavy materials that a regular needle might struggle with. So, in a nutshell, a sewing awl is like your secret weapon for tough sewing jobs.

Applications of a sewing awl

A sewing awl is like a handy-dandy tool for all sorts of nifty tasks. Here are some cool applications you can connect with:

1. Fixing Shoes: Got a sole that’s coming loose? Your sewing awl can help you stitch it back together like a pro.

2. Leatherwork: If you’re into leather crafting or need to mend a leather jacket or bag, the awl can make precise holes for stitching.

3. Canvas or Tent Repairs: On your next camping adventure, if your tent gets a little tear, don’t worry. The sewing awl can patch it up in no time.

4. Sewing Heavy Fabrics: When your regular sewing machine can’t handle the thickness, the awl can power through heavy fabrics like denim or canvas.

5. Outdoor Gear: Fixing outdoor gear like backpacks or even outdoor furniture is a breeze with the awl.

6. Bookbinding: If you’re into DIY bookbinding, this tool can help punch holes for stitching pages together.

7. Sailmaking: For the nautical folks, a sewing awl is perfect for repairing sails on your boat.

8. DIY Upholstery: Reupholstering a chair or sofa? The awl can be your trusty sidekick.

So, whether you’re a crafty DIYer or just someone who wants to tackle quick fixes, a sewing awl is a versatile buddy to have in your toolkit!

Sewing awl anatomy

In its simplest form, an awl is essentially a pointed tool designed for puncturing, featuring a hole to secure a string. You might already possess a utility knife with a slender blade and a hole, which essentially functions as a basic awl.

But for the more sophisticated ones, these are the common parts:

Wooden Handle with a Hole	The wooden handle provides a comfortable grip for the user. It often has a hole in one end, which allows for the threaded post to be inserted and secured. This handle offers control and stability when using the awl.
Bobbin	A bobbin is a small spool that holds heavy thread, such as waxed thread or twine, and is used for creating strong and durable stitches. Some sewing awls have a tension post to control the thread’s tension, ensuring consistent stitching.
Needle with a Groove	The needle is typically made of metal and features a groove along its length. The groove allows for the passage of thread, making it easier to sew through various materials.
The Chuck	The chuck is a key component that holds the needle securely in place on the threaded post. It ensures that the needle remains stable while sewing and can be tightened or loosened using the chuck lock to make adjustments as needed.
Threaded Post with Chuck Lock	The threaded post is inserted into the hole in the wooden handle. It holds the needle in place and can be adjusted to control the depth of the needle’s penetration into the material being sewn. The chuck lock is used to secure the post and needle in position, preventing any unintended movement during sewing.
Blade or Stitching Awl	Some sewing awls may have a blade attachment on the opposite end of the needle. This blade can be used for cutting slits or holes in the material before sewing or for trimming excess thread after stitching.

How to use a leather sewing awl?

A leather sewing awl and a quick stitch sewing awl are two primary tools used in sewing and leatherworking, but they have different purposes and features.

A leather sewing awl is specifically designed for working with leather. It typically has a sharp, pointed needle attached to a handle. Its primary purpose is to create holes and sew leather pieces together. The sharp needle can pierce through tough leather, making it easier to sew. Leather sewing awls are often used for making or repairing leather goods, such as belts, wallets, shoes, or even leather clothing.

Steps to use a leather sewing awl:

• Prepare your materials: Start by selecting the pieces of leather you want to sew. Ensure they are properly aligned and that you’ve marked the areas you want to sew together, if necessary. If the leather is thick, it can be helpful to use clips or clamps to hold the pieces in place.

• Thread the awl: Take a strong waxed linen thread or a similar type of thread commonly used for leatherwork. Thread it through the eye of the awl’s needle. Make sure to leave a tail of thread hanging from the eye and tie a secure knot at the other end.

• Mark stitch points: Use a leather marker or any other marking tool to create evenly spaced marks along the seam where you want to sew. These marks should be equidistant from the edge of the leather and from each other, creating a guideline for your stitches.

• Pierce the leather: Position the awl’s needle at the first marked point, pushing it through the leather. Depending on your project, you may be sewing through a single piece of leather or joining two pieces together. Push the awl through the leather until it comes out the other side.

• Pull the awl through: Carefully pull the awl and thread through to the other side of the leather. This will create your first stitch. Ensure that the thread is pulled through completely, but leave a small tail on the starting side.

• Repeat the process: Move on to the next marked point along the seam. Insert the awl’s needle, push it through to the other side, and pull it through, creating your next stitch. Keep in mind that the distance between your stitches should be consistent for a neat and even seam.

• Create a secure stitch: After making each stitch, gently pull the thread tight. This action ensures that the stitches are snug against the leather, creating a secure seam. You can use your finger to hold the thread tight while you pull the awl through the leather.

• Knot and finish: After completing your stitches and reaching the end of your sewing line, tie a secure knot on the backside of the leather to prevent the thread from unraveling. Trim any excess thread carefully.

How to use a quick stitch sewing awl?

A quick stitch sewing awl is a versatile tool used for various sewing tasks, including leather, canvas, and other materials. It usually features a handle with a needle and a spool of thread integrated into the tool. The “quick stitch” aspect comes from its ability to create stitches rapidly. By pushing the awl through the fabric and pulling the thread, it can make strong and even stitches with minimal effort. It’s handy for quick repairs on a wide range of items, such as tents, upholstery, bags, and more.

Steps to use a quick stitch sewing awl:

• Thread the Awl: Choose a suitable thread that matches the fabric you’re working on. Take one end of the thread and pass it through the eyelet at the end of the awl’s needle. Leave a small tail of thread hanging out.

• Prepare the Fabric: Align the edges of the fabric that you want to sew together. Ensure they are positioned correctly and evenly.

• Insert the Awl: Hold the awl with the threaded end in one hand and the handle in the other. Carefully puncture the fabric from one side to the other, pushing the awl through. The pointy needle should go through both layers of fabric. Make sure to keep your fingers away from the path of the awl to avoid injury.

• Stitch the Fabric: After you’ve created the hole with the awl, pull the awl out from the first hole. This action will leave a small loop of thread behind. Now, insert the awl again close to the first hole, bringing the needle out through the fabric. Pass the needle through the loop of thread to create a basic stitch.

• Repeat: Continue this process by repeating the steps to create a running stitch. Insert the awl, pull it out, pass the needle through the loop, and pull tight to create a stitch. Keep stitching along the length of the seam or repair you’re working on. The spacing between stitches can be adjusted based on your needs.

• Knot the End: Once you’ve stitched the desired length, tie a knot at the end of the thread. You can do this by making a simple loop and passing the needle through it a few times to secure it.

• Trim Excess Thread: Trim any excess thread, leaving a neat and tidy finish. Be careful not to cut too close to the knot to prevent it from unraveling.

Types of sewing awls

Let’s explore the variety of awls available for your sewing and crafting needs. Here’s a comprehensive overview:

Type	Purpose	Suitable For	Individuals who typically use these awls
Straight Awl	A straight awl is a pointed hand tool with a straight shaft, often made of metal or wood, used for piercing small holes in materials like leather, fabric, or wood. It is commonly employed in tasks such as sewing, leatherworking, and woodworking.	A versatile choice for individuals at all levels of expertise.	Those new to crafting and sewing are advised to begin with straight awls, which serve as ideal introductory tools.
Curved Awl	A curved awl, sometimes known as a bent awl, is a hand tool with a curved or bent shaft and a pointed end. It is used for similar purposes as a straight awl, such as piercing holes in materials like leather, fabric, or wood, but the curved shape of the shaft can make it easier to work in tight or hard-to-reach areas.	Crafters seeking precision for hard-to-reach areas and intricate holes in materials like leather or fabric.	The curved awls are tailored for seasoned leatherworkers and shoemakers, facilitating complex leatherwork.
Diamond Awl	A diamond awl has a sharp, diamond-shaped point on the end of its shaft, which is typically made of metal or another durable material. Diamond awls are commonly used in leatherworking, upholstery, and other tasks. The unique shape of the point allows for more precise and controlled hole-punching and stitching in materials like leather and fabric.	Skilled leatherworkers and shoemakers interested in unique patterns and stitching designs.	The diamond awls are tailored for seasoned leatherworkers and shoemakers, facilitating complex leatherwork.
Saddler’s Awl	A saddler’s awl typically features a straight or slightly curved shaft and a sharp, pointed end. Saddler’s awls are designed for tasks like punching holes in leather, creating stitch holes for sewing, and making adjustments to saddles, harnesses, and other leather goods.	Professionals engaged in heavy-duty tasks, such as saddles, harnesses, and substantial leather projects.	The saddler’s awls are tailored for seasoned leatherworkers and shoemakers, facilitating complex leatherwork.
Tapered Awl	A tapered awl is a type of hand tool with a pointed end that gradually tapers to a fine point. It is commonly used in various crafts, such as leatherworking and woodworking. The gradual taper of the point allows for more control and precision when working with materials like leather, fabric, or wood.	Those working with delicate materials, such as dressmakers requiring precision.	Crafters handling fine fabrics, buttonholes, and intricate details will find the tapered awl most appropriate for their needs.
Automatic Awl	An automatic awl typically refers to a powered or motorized tool designed for hole-punching or stitching in various materials, especially in industrial or heavy-duty applications. These tools are more efficient and can significantly speed up the process compared to traditional manual awls. Automatic awls can be electric or pneumatic, and they often come with features like adjustable speed and depth control, making them suitable for tasks like leatherworking, upholstery, and even industrial sewing.	Experienced leatherworkers or those who appreciate automation in their craft, and are willing to invest in advanced tools.	The automatic awl caters to the proficient crafters, offering precision and efficiency in their work.
Speedy Stitcher	The Speedy Stitcher is a specific brand of sewing awl, and it’s also a commonly used term to refer to any sewing awl tool with a similar design and purpose. The Speedy Stitcher is a hand-held tool that consists of a handle with a needle and thread. It’s widely used in various crafts, including leatherworking, outdoor gear repair, and sailmaking. To use the Speedy Stitcher or a similar sewing awl, you load a spool of thread onto the handle, pass the needle through the material, and then pull it back through, creating a stitch. This tool is particularly useful for making strong, secure stitches and repairs on heavy fabrics or materials where regular sewing machines might not be practical.	Outdoor enthusiasts who need to swiftly repair tents, sails, canvas, and outdoor gear.	Campers, hikers, and adventurers often carry the Speedy Stitcher for on-the-go gear repairs during their outdoor pursuits.

Sewing awl risks and safety measures

Let’s discover how to use a sewing awl safely. Start by keeping your sewing awl out of the reach of children. That ought to be your top priority. But adults too need to exercise caution. 

What risks do sewing awls present for adults? Let’s find out:

• The pointed end of a sewing awl is extremely sharp and can easily pierce the skin, causing puncture wounds that may be painful and require medical attention.

• While using the awl, there is a risk of small particles or debris being dislodged, potentially injuring the eyes. This is especially true if you’re working with materials like leather or tough fabrics.

• If not used with proper technique, the awl can slip off the material you’re working on. This can lead to injuries, especially if the sharp point veers towards your body or fingers.

• Applying excessive force when using the awl can cause accidents. Exerting too much pressure can lead to uncontrolled movements, making it challenging to maintain precision.

• If your work surface is unstable, there’s a risk of losing control of the awl. This could result in unintended damage or injury.

And the safety measures? Just be mindful of these effective safety instructions, which can save you from major catastrophe:

• Protect your eyes by wearing safety glasses. The sharp point of the awl can produce flying debris, which can be hazardous to your eyes.

• Adequate lighting ensures you can see your work clearly and reduces the chances of accidents.

• Use a stable workbench or table to provide a solid foundation for your work. A wobbly surface can lead to instability and accidents.

• Take the time to learn the correct technique for using a sewing awl. This includes holding it correctly and making precise, controlled motions.

• Avoid applying excessive force when using the awl. Let the tool do the work, as excessive force can lead to slippage and accidents.

• Keep your non-dominant hand well away from the path of the awl’s point to prevent accidental punctures.

• Maintain a secure grip on the handle with your dominant hand to ensure control and minimize the risk of the tool slipping.

• Secure the material you’re working on using clamps or similar methods to prevent it from shifting during your work.

• Regularly sharpen the awl’s point to keep it in optimal working condition. A sharp awl requires less force, reducing the chances of slippage.

• When not in use, store the awl in a safe place. A sheath or a designated storage area can prevent accidental contact and injuries.

Summary

The sewing awl in your hands opens up a world of inventiveness rather than merely serving as a tool. Don’t give up if your first few stitches with the sewing awl aren’t perfect as you start using it. Push your limits, keep exploring, and use various materials. You’ll gain knowledge and self-assurance in your sewing skills with each project.

The importance of safety when using your sewing awl can not be understated. Keep your fingers away from the needle, cover your thumb with a thimble, and work on a sturdy platform at all times. With these safety considerations in mind, the sewing awl can be a tool that gives you the power to give your possessions a new lease on life. So go ahead and utilize this remarkable tool. Happy sewing!

Frequently Asked Questions

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