Hello all,
I have been wanting to switch from the stichting chisels I currently use to pricking irons. I would use then for both punching all the way through on small items and I want to get started on learning how to use an awl.
I plan on getting a set of 7spi pricking irons from Kevin Lee, but I'm struggling to find which awl size/brand/shape, etc, would be most suitable for me.
I make mostly smallers items and wallets although I want to dip into the bag world too.
Thanks everyone in advance!
@Leathercraft Masterclass what do you think is a good overall awl size, if I would only buy 1 to start with. 2.0mm or maybe 2.5mm?
Thank you both for the great tips! @Leathercraft Masterclass I think I will send Kevin a message since I will most likely be ordering his pricking iron too.
Cheers!
@lowlandsleathercompany I think Kevin Lee also sells awls, so it may be worth contacting him regarding this so that he can advise.
Note though, that you can use an awl slightly smaller than the prongs on a pricking iron, you just sacrifice the angles on the back of the seam slightly.
An awl larger than the prongs will allow better angles when using thicker thread. I mismatch all the time.
Hello,
for me, there are three choices (Mainly because they are the ones I know):
1- The easiest choice as it is a flat awl (same shape as the european pricking irons): Palosanto (https://districtleathersupply.com/collections/awls/products/palosanto-stitch-awl , also available on Etsy). I would advise you to polish it, maybe even sharpen it a bit
2- Vergez Blanchard all purpose diamond awl (https://www.rmleathersupply.com/collections/pricking-irons-chisels-awls/products/vergez-blanchard-diamond-awl-38mm?variant=1229362415 ). Used by many many artisans, the only issue is that it gives a diamond opening. You can either use it and do not care (it really is not a huge deal), or you can watch Phil's quick course and reprofile and sharpen it to your liking
3- https://www.rmleathersupply.com/collections/pricking-irons-chisels-awls/products/custom-exotic-wood-haft-razor-sharp-square-awl-blade , what Phil calls "The Rolls Royce of awls". also a diamond shaped blade, but i woundnt change anything to this blade honeslty. it's perfect!