How to use a Awl a Step by Step Guide…Awl you Need to Know.

An awl is a simple pointed tool used to punch holes, mark materials, and guide cuts in wood, leather, and other surfaces. It’s one of those tools that looks basic, but becomes extremely useful once you understand how to use it.

In this guide, you’ll learn what an awl is, what it’s used for, and exactly how to use an awl step by step. By the end, you’ll be able to punch clean holes, mark precise points, and use an awl safely and effectively in real-world situations.

Before we get started on how to use an awl…What even is an awl?

What Is an Awl?

An “awl” is a sharp pointed tool that is used for piercing holes into a variety of materials. In the survival and bushcraft world, we commonly use awls to make repairs in heavy canvas and leather (as seen above). Awls are also a very valuable tool when it comes to crafting items out of wooden materials. Nothing chews a hole in wood quite as efficiently as an awl. (The Joe Flowers Signature Card awl, in particular, is very effective for boring holes into wood when lashed onto a bowdrill.)

An Awl typically consists of:

• a handle for grip
• a metal spike or blade

An awl is a small hand tool with a sharp metal point used to punch holes in materials like leather, wood, canvas, and plastic. Craftsmen, leatherworkers, and bushcrafters use awls to prepare stitching holes, mark drilling points, and create attachment points for cordage or thread.

Why should you carry an awl?

Being able to make repairs to your gear and clothing, in the field, is a necessity to ensure that they do not become further damaged to the point of being unsalvageable. And while a sewing needle and some thread are the first things that many people think of when it comes to repair kits, an awl serves a unique purpose and it’s a must-have because of it’s hole-punching capabilities.

Where This Skill Fits in Real Life

You would use an awl when:

• working with leather or fabric
• starting holes in wood before drilling
• doing small repairs
• building or modifying gear
• working with compact tool kits

It shows up more often than people expect once you start working with materials.

Sure, you could improvise and use your knife blade to drill a hole. But it is always best to have the right tool for the job. And a purpose-built awl that is already your desired diameter is certainly the best option here. If you choose to improvise with a blade of any sort, just know, the hole that you bore could end up being too large and cause more damage to whatever you’re working on.

Check out tools with Awls Here

 

Awl vs Sewing Needle

Awls and sewing needles are both beneficial to carry in your repair kit. However, let’s discuss the differences…Because an awl is not a sewing needle, and a sewing needle is not an awl(*).

• An awl is far superior to a needle for punching holes and tasks that require drilling.
• A needle, on the other hand, is purpose built for stitching up fabrics or leathers with thread due to its slim nature.
• To use the two together, punch a pilot hole with the awl, and run the sewing needle into that same hole to create your stitch.
• One other note:
  Sure, a needle can puncture lightweight fabrics like cotton. But, when you bump up to heavyweight canvas or leather, you will need an awl.

The Main Types of Awls You’ll Encounter

1. Scratch Awl

A sharp, straight-pointed awl used for marking holes, guiding stitches, or starting a puncture. Great for light materials like nylon or cloth.

2. Sewing Awl

Also called a “stitching awl,” this one has an eye (hole) near the point for threading. It’s used for hand-sewing thick materials—like canvas, leather, or heavy packs. It acts like a handheld sewing machine.

3. Curved Awl

A bent or hooked tip helps reach tight corners or angles, such as around buckles, seams, or straps. Excellent for gear repair and stitching rounded surfaces.

4. Diamond-Tip Awl

A four-sided pointed design cuts clean holes without tearing. Best for precision sewing, like making holes in leather for lacing or re-stitching straps.

5. Multi-Tool or Compact Awl

Found on multi-tools or survival cards, these are perfect for field use—lightweight, flat, and ready when you need them.

6. Leather Awl

A leather awl is designed specifically for punching stitching holes in thick leather. These awls usually have a diamond shaped point that cuts clean holes without tearing the leather fibers.

Shop our Tools with Awls

 

 

How to Use an Awl…

Before punching holes and stitching, gather these basics:

• Awl tool 

• Heavy-duty thread, fishing line, or paracord inner strands

• Needle (optional) or skip this if your using a sewing awl

• Scrap leather, canvas, or tarp for practice

• Backing surface (a small wood block or firm ground) Don't place your material your punching through on top of your skin, when the awl goes through it will do so fast, and is extremely sharp

→ Need a compact kit with an awl? The Check out our tools with an awl

Step-by-Step: How to Use an Awl for Stitching (Lockstitch Method)

Step 1: Mark the Stitch Line

Draw a straight line where your seam or repair will go. You can use a pencil, light scoring tool, or even the tip of your awl to lightly mark the path.

Why this matters:
Without a guide, stitches drift. Once they drift, the whole seam looks uneven and weak.

What success looks like:
A clean, visible line that you can follow from start to finish without guessing spacing.

Step 2: Punch the First Hole

Push the awl straight through the material until the eye of the awl passes completely through the backside. Keep the awl vertical and controlled. Do not angle it. A straight hole ensures your stitches sit evenly and don’t twist or bind.

What success looks like:
A clean hole that goes straight through without tearing or stretching the material.

Step 3: Feed the Thread Through

Thread your line through the eye of the awl and pull several inches through, leaving a short tail on the backside. This creates your starting anchor point for the stitch.

What success looks like:
A consistent length of thread pulled through with a short tail remaining behind the material.

Step 4: Create the First Stitch Loop

Before pulling the awl completely out of the hole, slightly retract it to create a loop in the thread on the backside.

Pass your free thread (from the backside) through that loop.

Then pull the awl out and tighten both ends.

Why this matters:
This is what creates the lockstitch. Without this step, your stitches won’t hold properly.

What success looks like:
The thread tightens into a clean, secure stitch that does not slip when pulled.

Step 5: Punch the Next Hole

Move forward slightly (about ⅛ to ¼ inch depending on your material) and repeat the process.

Push the awl through again, keeping spacing consistent.

Why this matters:
Consistent spacing is what makes your stitching look clean and professional.

What success looks like:
Evenly spaced holes that follow your original stitch line.

Step 6: Repeat the Lockstitch Process

Each time you punch a new hole:

• create a loop with the awl
• pass the thread through the loop
• tighten both ends

Each stitch locks into the previous one.

Why this matters:
This creates a strong seam that will not unravel if one stitch fails.

What success looks like:
A tight, consistent seam where each stitch looks identical and holds firm under tension.

Step 7: Control Your Tension

As you work, keep your thread tension consistent.

Do not pull too tight or too loose.

Why this matters:
Too tight = material puckers
Too loose = weak seam

What success looks like:
The material lays flat and the stitches sit evenly without gaps or bunching.

Step 8: Tie Off the End

When you reach the end of your seam:

• tie a small knot on the backside
• pull it tight
• trim excess thread

If using synthetic thread, lightly melt or flatten the end to prevent fraying.

Why this matters:
This prevents your stitching from coming undone over time.

What success looks like:
A clean finish with no loose ends or unraveling thread.

What a Lockstitch Actually Is

A lockstitch is a stitching method where each stitch loops through the previous one, creating a chain that locks itself in place.

This means:

• if one stitch breaks, the rest stay intact
• the seam holds under tension
• it’s much stronger than simple running stitches

This is why an awl is so useful. It allows you to create this type of stitch even in thick or tough material.

Techniques and Tips for Using an Awl

The Straight Punch

The most basic motion—press straight down with firm, even pressure. Ideal for clean holes in leather or tarp material.

The Twist and Press

Rotate the awl as you press, cutting through dense fabric without tearing the edges. Works well on canvas, webbing, and synthetic straps.

The Stitching Lock

Each pass of the awl forms a small locking loop. Keep your tension even—too tight and you’ll tear the hole; too loose and the seam will sag.

The Hammer Blow

Take a small hard object and gently rap the awl to help push it through thick, or stubborn materials.

The Reinforce & Patch Combo

Use the awl to make anchor holes around a tear before applying a Vinyl Repair Patch. Then stitch through the holes to reinforce the patch edge for extra durability.

When to Use an Awl (and When Not To)

Use It When:

• Sewing thick materials like canvas, leather, or webbing

• Repairing backpack straps or belt loops

• Reinforcing corners of tents or tarps

• Making clean lacing holes for cordage or wire

Avoid Using It When:

• Working with thin fabrics (can cause tears)

• Punching near zippers or seams that already have stitching

• Applying force without a backing surface (you’ll stab your hand—ask me how I know)

Field Applications You Can Try

• Backpack Strap Repair: Reattach a loose strap using a backstitch with your awl.

• Leather Sheath Fix: Punch holes and re-stitch the seam.

• Tarp Corner Reinforcement: Stitch around a grommet to keep it from tearing.

• Improvised Lashing Point: Punch a hole and run paracord or wire through to make a loop for hanging or securing gear.

• Be Consistent: Punch evenly spaced holes in scrap fabric and practice stitching a straight seam.

• Experiment with tension: too loose and it unravels, too tight and it rips.

• Test different threads: paracord guts, fishing line, waxed thread.

→ For extra strength, pair your awl with Grim Cordage Maker Tools and create your own repair kit on the spot.

Shop for Cards with Awls 

 

 

How to Improvise an Awl (Materials and Methods)

An awl is a simple tool at its core. It’s just a sharp, controlled point used to pierce or mark material. Because of that, it’s one of the easiest tools to improvise when you don’t have one on hand.

If you understand what makes an awl work, you can recreate that function using everyday objects or materials in the field.

 What You’re Trying to Replicate

Before improvising, it helps to understand what an awl actually needs to do.

An effective awl must:

• have a sharp, narrow point
• be rigid enough not to bend under pressure
• allow controlled, straight force
• be safe to hold and push

If your improvised tool meets those four requirements, it will work.

Common Materials You Can Use as an Improvised Awl

Nails or Screws

A simple nail is one of the best improvised awls available.

• strong and rigid
• already pointed
• easy to grip or mount into a handle

Best use: punching holes in wood, leather, or fabric

Needles (Large or Heavy-Duty)

Thick sewing needles or upholstery needles can function like a fine awl.

• very sharp
• precise
• good for stitching work

Limitations: can bend if too much force is used

Safety Pins or Paperclips

These can be straightened and used as a light-duty awl.

• easy to find
• flexible for small jobs

Best use: fabric, light leather, emergency repairs

Sharpened Sticks or Hardwood Splinters

In a field situation, you can shape a stick into a point.

• carve or scrape to a sharp tip
• fire harden the point if possible

Best use: very light-duty piercing

Limitations: low durability and control

Metal Objects (Improvised Points)

Items like:

• broken tool edges
• thin metal rods
• sharpened scrap metal

can be shaped into a usable awl.

Best use: stronger improvised solution when tools are available

Knife Tip (Careful Use)

A knife can act as an awl in a pinch.

• use the tip to mark or start holes
• apply controlled pressure only

Warning:
This can damage your blade and is harder to control.

 How to Improve an Improvised Awl

If you have a few extra seconds, you can dramatically improve performance.

Add a Handle

Wrap cloth, cordage, or tape around the base.

Why this matters:
Improves grip and prevents slipping

Smooth the Shaft

If the tool is rough or jagged, smooth it down.

Why this matters:
Prevents tearing material instead of piercing it

Reinforce Weak Materials

If using something thin like a needle or wire:

• support it with a stick or handle
• avoid bending under pressure

Survival Cards with an Awl Tool

As I mentioned above, many of our tools come equipped with Awl’s. If you're curious which ones, I have made your job easier and I’ve assembled a cheat sheet for you below…

Buy Grim Survival Cards with Awls Here

That's Awl the Info you Need! 

FAQ: Sewing Awl Frequently Asked Questions

Q. What is an awl used for?
A. An awl is a versatile tool used for piercing, punching, and scribing materials like leather, wood, and fabric. It’s commonly used for sewing, crafting, and survival applications, making it an essential addition to any EDC or repair kit.

Q: What is an awl tool?

A: An awl is a hand tool with a sharp pointed metal spike attached to a handle. It is used to pierce materials and create holes for sewing, drilling guides, lacing, and gear repair.

Q. What types of materials can an awl puncture?
A. Awls are designed to work on a variety of materials, including leather, wood, canvas, plastic, and even some soft metals. The sharp point allows for precise holes, making it perfect for stitching and lacing work.

Q. Is an awl useful for survival situations?
A. Yes! An awl is a great survival tool for repairing gear, creating shelters, making traps, or even as an improvised self-defense tool. Its ability to punch holes in tough materials makes it valuable in bushcraft and emergency situations.

Q. How do I safely use an awl?
A. Always grip the awl firmly and apply steady pressure when puncturing materials. Be mindful of where your other hand is positioned to avoid accidental injury. Using a cutting mat or backing surface can also help control the puncture depth.

Q: What is the difference between an awl and a needle?

A: An awl punches holes through thick materials, while a needle passes thread through holes that already exist. Awls are used to create the hole, and needles are used to stitch through it

Q. Can an awl be used for stitching?
A. Absolutely! A sewing or stitching awl is commonly used in leatherworking and canvas repair. It creates holes for threading heavy-duty stitches, making it a must-have tool for repairs in the field.

Q. How do I maintain my awl?
A. Keep the tip sharp by occasionally honing it with a fine file or sharpening stone. Store it in a protective sheath or wrap to prevent accidental pokes. If your awl has a wooden handle, occasionally apply oil to keep it from drying out and cracking.

Q. What types of awls are available?
A. There are different types of awls, including scratch awls (for marking materials), stitching awls (for sewing), and chisel-point awls (for making larger holes). Some awls even feature interchangeable tips for multi-use functionality.

Q. Where can I buy a high-quality awl?
A. You can find high-quality awls at outdoor and craft stores, as well as through Grim Workshop, where we specialize in compact, durable tools for survival, EDC, and DIY repairs.

Q: What’s the difference between an awl and a needle?
A: An awl punches holes through thick materials; a needle slides through thinner ones. Awls are for heavy-duty gear repair.

Q: What type of thread works best with an awl?

A: Waxed nylon thread, polyester thread, fishing line, and inner strands from paracord all work well for repairs made with an awl.

Q: Can I use an awl for making holes in plastic or metal?
A: Light plastics, yes—with care. Metal, no—you’ll dull or break the awl.

Q: How do I keep from poking my hand?
A: Always use a small block of wood, cutting board, or folded leather as backing when pushing through material.

Q: What’s the best beginner awl to start with?
A: A Here's a fantastic collection of tools with awls a compact sewing awl is perfect for practice and real-world field repair.

Q: What is a scratch awl used for?

A: A scratch awl is used for marking materials such as wood or metal before drilling or cutting. The sharp tip creates a small indentation that guides drill bits and prevents slipping.

Q: What is the difference between an awl and a punch?

A: An awl pierces the material with a pointed spike, while a punch removes a small circular piece of material to create a hole. Awls are often used for stitching holes, while punches create clean round holes.

Q: Can an awl be used in survival situations?

A: Yes. An awl is extremely useful in survival situations for repairing gear, stitching torn equipment, creating lashing holes, and crafting tools or shelters from natural materials.

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About The Author

Based in the Appalachian Mountains, Anthony is a commercial photographer and avid outdoorsman. Whether he's setting up a scene for a photograph or getting things ready to camp, Anthony feels most at home with mud on his boots and a warm campfire burning nearby. Learn more at AnthonyAwaken.com