Ferg Report post Posted September 28, 2010 I read so many references to Pricking Irons by folks that have no idea what a true Pricking Iron is. I do not necessarily mean folks on this forum. A well known Japanese site lists the Pricking Irons for a tool that is obviously a diamond hole punch. Another site insists that you must buy a "Pair" of irons to properly mark the stitches. That is pure bunk. $375 for a pair of No. 9's plus shipping from England. Expect your product in over 30 days. BTW: A No.8 iron marks seven stitches to the inch not eight. The number of stitches is one number less than the number of the iron. You DO NOT punch through the leather with a Pricking Iron, only mark the leather for your stitches. I have read several notes saying you must use a Pricking Iron to get a perfectly even stitch. I'm sorry, that simply is not true. I have a background in measuring all kinds of distances and angles etc. so perhaps I can visualize a 45 degree angle better than some. I own Bob Douglas Awls and Haft. The haft has a smooth cut on two sides. You can align the awl with the smooth cut so visually aligning the awl is a snap, you just have to do it the same way every time. Now that shouldn't be too difficult for most folks. I know there is definitely a certain level of expertise needed to make these tools but I see faults in the way they are made, I believe anyone can learn to use the awl without the slanted marks and have a beautiful stitching pattern. Okay, that is Tuesday September 28 rant for me. LOL ferg Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
