Scratch awls are traditionally used in leather-crafting to trace patterns onto leather. They are sometimes used in the automotive and sheet metal trades to punch holes and scribe lines in sheet metal.

What is a scratch awl and what is it used for?

Scratch awl is a woodworking layout and point-making tool. The scratch awl is basically a steel spike with its tip sharpened to a fine point. Use with the Canvas Backing Board to make holes in wood and th back board to screw in place. Make holes or scribe lines into gesso and gilding grounds.

Should you use a hammer on a scratch awl?

Never use a hammer to anything but unhardened nails and nail sets; use a ball-peen hammer for still chisels and punches 4. Never strike two hammers together. The faces are very hard and a blow might cause a chip to break off and fly out at a high speed.