Using a Scratch Awl blade for Stitch holes

[ElectricHellfire]

Ok, Ive been doing sheaths and holsters for about 5 years now and recently Ive switched from a 4 prong punch to using a smooth scratch awl blade mounted in my drill press for making stitching holes. I get a much improved more uniform hole this way and its easier to go through multiple layers in one pass.

I went to my local Tandy today to get some replacment blades and they dont have any. All they carry are the flattened ones so I had to purchase a whole new kit for $25. The kit has a grip with 4 different blades int it.

My question is, what do you guys/gals use to punch your holes with. Does anyone know where to find smooth, round awl blades?? Can you use a large needle of some kind?

Thanks

[DCKNIVES]

Ok, this is what I do.I also do sheaths and holsters primarily.I sharpen the shank end of various size drill bits and chuck them upside down.Very smooth and little flex. I also do alot of lacing, hence the reason for multiple sizes. A 1/16" should be good for standard thread.It will help you to cut up some wood and notch it for belt loops, as it makes for a very flat surface to punch into.Dave

here's my setup

[strapt]

I punch my holes for stitching most of the time. (I know, that's not the proper way to saddle stitch.....)

I use a home-made awl that is merely a nail cut (or ground) flat on one end and glued into about a 1"d dowel for a handle. The exposed end of the nail is then put to a grinder to get a nice tapered point.

The advantage to the dowel is that it is flat on the opposite end, so I can hit it with my mallet.

I lay out my holes with a stitch wheel, grab the homemade awl and a my mallet and knock the holes in. Piece of cake, and no drill press. I'm too busy using the drill press to slick edges afterall.