AWL IN A DAY'S WORK

Toolmaking in a woodshop

- Ken Burton

As much as I like working with highend hand tools, my budget for them can only stretch so far. That’s why I started making some of my own tools, a passion that has grown over time. While I am still primarily a woodworker, I find making tools to be a nice change of pace and scale from the rigors of furnituremaking. If you’re looking to try your hand at tool making, an awl is a great place to start. Not only is it a useful tool, it doesn’t take a lot of time or materials, and you probably already have the necessary equipment in your shop. The most exotic thing you’ll need to acquire is a length of water-hardening drill rod. As far as equipment goes, you’ll need a grinder, a corded drill, a propane torch, and a lathe. After a little grinding and turning, the next thing you know, you’ll be ready to try out for the History Channel’s Forged in Fire.

A three-piece tool

This awl consists of a blade epoxied into a wooden handle, with a metal ferrule for added strength. The blade is made from a tool-steel rod tapered to a point. The ferrule is a short length of 1/2" I.D. copper pipe.

Make the blade/tang