A sewing awl is a handheld tool with a sharp, tapered point that helps with tough materials and precise placement. It can be handy across leatherwork, canvas, upholstery, and heavier fabrics.

• Start or enlarge holes: Create pilot holes for stitches, rivets, or snaps without tearing.
• Guide stitching: Keep seam allowances aligned and adjust tight areas while hand-sewing.
• Mark placement: Lightly mark pleats, buttonholes, or hardware spots instead of using ink.
• Repair gear: Some stitching awls use a needle and thread to sew lockstitches on items like bags, belts, or outdoor fabrics.

Working on a protected surface and testing on scrap material can help you find the right pressure for your project.

If you don’t have an awl, a few household and craft tools can stand in, depending on the task and material.

• For marking fabric: Use tailor’s chalk or a washable fabric pen for temporary guidelines.
• For starting small holes in softer materials: A thick hand needle (like upholstery or tapestry) or a pushpin can work; grip with a thimble or pliers for control.
• For leather or heavy canvas holes: A rotary hole punch or a small hand drill can create cleaner, consistent holes.

Place your project on a cutting mat or scrap wood, apply steady pressure, and test on a spare piece first. Going slowly can help prevent slips and uneven holes.

These two awls look similar but serve different jobs.

• Scratch awl: A solid, tapered point used to scribe lines, mark placement, and start pilot holes. It’s great for laying out patterns on leather or heavy cloth and for gently opening existing holes without cutting threads.
• Stitching awl: Designed to sew. It typically uses a needle (often with an eye or hook) and thread to form sturdy hand stitches—commonly lockstitches—on items like leather goods, canvas, or upholstery.

If you mainly mark and pierce, a scratch or tailor’s awl is a fit. If you need to repair seams or attach pieces, a stitching awl offers built-in sewing capability.

Match the awl to your projects and the materials you use most.

• Leather or canvas: Choose a sturdier steel awl with a comfortable, nonslip handle. A stitching awl helps when you plan to sew repairs with heavy thread.
• Fabric and quilting: A tapered tailor’s awl with a fine point is helpful for marking, easing holes for buttons/eyelets, and precise placement.
• Upholstery work: A longer shank can reach through thick layers and padding.
• Comfort and control: Look for ergonomic grips and a protective tip cover. Sets with multiple tip sizes can add versatility.

On Walmart.com, filters can help you compare handle styles, tip types, and set sizes to find a practical match.

Basic upkeep keeps your awl performing well and safer to use.

• Clean: Wipe the tip after use to remove fibers, dust, or adhesive. Lightly oil the metal if you store it long-term.
• Protect: Cover the point with a cap and store it in a tool roll or bin to prevent accidental punctures.
• Sharpen: If the tip dulls, lightly touch it up with fine-grit sandpaper or a sharpening stone, keeping the taper consistent. Short, gentle passes work best.
• Inspect: Replace bent or damaged tips/needles to maintain control and reduce slippage.

Test on scrap material before returning to your project so you can gauge sharpness and pressure.