bjbwt2 Report post Posted March 8, 2009 Hello, I have a hand sewing awl from tandy and I feel like I've got a question for you more experienced people. I have a couple problems with how it is functioning and was hoping someone could clarify if I just got the rotten apple. The basic problem is that I have to use a pair of pliers to tighten up the needle so that it won't spin around and wrap up my thread as I am sewing. Then, when done I have to take the cap all the way off and pry the prongs that hold the needle away from eachother to get the needle out. I can't imagine this is commonplace, but thought I would check before getting another one. thanks Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
TrooperChuck Report post Posted March 8, 2009 (edited) I've had the same problems. The only way to cure it is to buy a better quality awl. You wouldn't think there'd be much difference with tools that are so basic and simple, but there are! The ones from Tandy are kind of the bottom of the line. Look through the postings in the hand sewing section of this forum and you'll see several recommendations for good awls. -------- Oops... now that I've re-read your posting, it seems like you're talking about one of those stitchers that have a spool of thread in the handle. If that's the case, I highly recommend you only use that for quick fix-it jobs, and learn to use the two-needle saddle stitch for most of your work. With a little practice, you can saddle stitch something just as easily and as fast as with one of those stitcher gadgets. Edited March 8, 2009 by TrooperChuck Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
whinewine Report post Posted March 8, 2009 (edited) If you are talking about the 'thing' with the thread on a spool in the handle and the thread goes through the needle at the other end, there are numerous threads here about how useless they are. It's something you would use in an emergency to fasten 2 things together if you couldn't do a real hand stitch (or didn't want to throw the item away). Best recommendation is to return it to tandy & get your money back for it. TrooperChuck is right about real awls. (And Bob Douglas awls are the best, if you don't want to search the threads.) russ Edited March 8, 2009 by whinewine Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
