DaveP Report post Posted September 28, 2020 I mostly use stitching chisels for my stitching holes. I'd like to try using the diamond awl. Which diamond shaped awl blade should I use for smaller holes? Size? I'm primarily going through 3 layers of 8-10 oz veg tan. Just the blade as I'm going to make my own haft handle. Below is what I've found. Which one? Or is there something better? Thanks again Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
tsunkasapa Report post Posted September 29, 2020 You need to do some more searching. But USUALLY, the smaller the number, the smaller the blade. www.fineleatherworking.com/leather-sewing-awl-blades/ www.etsy.com/market/awl_blades www.mainelineleather.com/products/awl-blades redoxbrand.sagecreeksaddles.com/product-category/handstitching/awl-blades/ Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
zuludog Report post Posted September 29, 2020 (edited) I have a few awls, including an Osborne as you've shown, and it's the best I have. However, even this needed a bit of polishing on a fine stone and a strop - most new all blades do, unless you're getting the really expensive exotica where the maker has done that for you, and accounts for the high price If you intend going through those 3 layers of leather, which would amount to 9 or 10mm I'd get a #43 blade Search YouTube for 'sharpening an awl' there are several videos Edited September 29, 2020 by zuludog Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
DaveP Report post Posted September 29, 2020 Thanks for the replies! I'll research those links. Plus Osborne again. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
billybopp Report post Posted September 30, 2020 On 9/29/2020 at 7:52 AM, zuludog said: I have a few awls, including an Osborne as you've shown, and it's the best I have. However, even this needed a bit of polishing on a fine stone and a strop - most new all blades do, unless you're getting the really expensive exotica where the maker has done that for you, and accounts for the high price If you intend going through those 3 layers of leather, which would amount to 9 or 10mm I'd get a #43 blade Search YouTube for 'sharpening an awl' there are several videos Just a note to add to what @zuludog said. If you are not comfortable with sharpening an awl blade, Leatherwranglers offers sharpened Osborne blades (for additional $, of course)! https://leatherwranglers.com/shop/ols/products/awl-blades - Bill Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
