Handle layout, pilot holes and material piercing with confidence using awls from Ace Hardware. From woodworking and carpentry to leathercraft, upholstery and general repairs, the right awl helps you mark accurately, start fasteners cleanly and create consistent holes for stitching. Explore durable points, comfortable handles and purpose-built designs that fit the way you work.
Different Types of Awl Tools
Selecting the right style helps you get cleaner results and work more efficiently.
- Scratch or marking awls: Create crisp layout lines and starter points on wood, plastics and soft metals.
- Stitching awls: Pierce leather, canvas and heavy fabrics for durable hand-sewn repairs.
- Replaceable-point awls: Swap worn tips to maintain precision and adapt to different materials.
Essential Awl Features and Benefits
Quality awl tools provide several key advantages that enhance project outcomes and user experience:
- Sharp, durable points that maintain accuracy through extended use
- Ergonomic handles offering secure grip and precise control
- Versatile functionality across multiple materials and project types
- Compact design for convenient storage and portability
- Corrosion-resistant construction for long-lasting performance
Look for awls featuring hardened steel points that resist dulling and bending under normal use. The handle design significantly impacts user comfort during extended work sessions, with textured grips reducing hand fatigue and improving control.
How to Use Your Awl Effectively
Awls work effectively on numerous materials including hardwood, softwood, engineered lumber, leather, canvas, vinyl and various plastics. The key lies in selecting the appropriate point size and angle for your specific application. Fine points suit delicate marking tasks, while heavier-duty projects benefit from more robust tips that penetrate dense materials cleanly.
Secure your workpiece and direct the tip away from your body. For starter points or pilot holes, apply steady pressure and twist the handle to gradually open the hole rather than forcing the point. For layout work, use a straightedge or square to guide scribe lines. On leather or fabric, use a cutting mat to protect surfaces and maintain tip sharpness.
Awl Maintenance and Tool Care
Quality hand tools deserve proper care to maintain their effectiveness over time, and your awl tool is no different:
- Keep points sharp through occasional light filing or honing with a fine sharpening stone
- Store tools in a dry environment to prevent rust formation
- Apply a thin coat of oil to metal surfaces between uses
- Regularly inspect tools to help identify wear patterns or damage
- Replace handles that become loose or cracked for safe operation and accurate results
Shop Awls Near You at Ace Hardware
Whether you're tackling precision woodworking, leather crafting or general repairs, the right awl tool makes the difference between amateur and professional results. Visit your neighborhood Ace Hardware to explore our complete selection of quality awls near you and receive guidance from knowledgeable staff who understand your project needs.
Awls work most effectively when paired with other precision tools in your workshop. Consider combining your awl with reliable measuring tools accurate projects, wood chisels for woodworking tasks and work gloves for safer handling of tools.
