What Are the Best Crafting Awl Tools in 2025?
The ZXIIXZ 3 Pack offers the best overall value for beginners, while the Klein Tools 650 is the top choice for professionals. The General Tools awl provides the best balance of quality and price for regular crafters.
What are some popular crafting awl tools? (Quick Decision Guide)
- Best Overall Value: ZXIIXZ 3 Pack
- Professional Quality: General Tools
- Budget Friendly: CRAFTSMAN CMHT65012
- Premium Professional: Klein Tools 650
- Complete Starter Kit: PLANTIONAL (Best Crafting Awl Set)
Check More: Best Awl Tool In 2025
Table of Contents
Comparison Table: 5 Best Crafting Awl Tools (2025 Guide)
| Tool | Price | Rating Highlights | Durability | Usability | Best Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ZXIIXZ 3 Pack | $5.68 | Sharp and functional | Good for light tasks | Three handle options | Best overall value |
| General Tools | $7.29 | Professional grade | Excellent heavy duty | Contoured hardwood grip | Best mid range quality |
| CRAFTSMAN | $8.48 | Great for the price | Good basic construction | Dual awl screwdriver | Budget friendly option |
| Klein Tools 650 | $12.99 | Made in USA quality | Excellent professional grade | Cushion grip comfort | Premium investment |
| PLANTATIONAL Kit | $7.99 | Complete starter set | Good kit components | 31 piece complete setup | Best beginner package |
5 Best Crafting Awl Tools & Sets: Quick Comparison & Buying Guide
Discover the 5 best crafting awl tools and sets in 2025, perfect for leatherworking, woodworking, and general crafting. Durable, versatile, and beginner-friendly.
1. ZXIIXZ 3 Pack Leather Scratch Awl Set (2025 Review & Key Features)
ZXIIXZ 3 Pack Leather Scratch Awl Tool, Awl Tool Sewing with Gourd Shape Wooden Handle for Stitching Punching Sewing, Scratch Awl Tool Supplies for DIY Leather Sewing Punching Craft Repair.
Key Features: Three handle designs: long straight, single gourd, and double gourd Stainless steel needles with smooth surface to reduce friction Suitable for leather, fabric, paper, and bookbinding Compact size makes it portable for travel projects
Pros: Great value with 3 different handle designs Stainless steel needles are sharp and rust resistant Lightweight and comfortable to hold Multiple handle options for different grip preferences
Cons: May not be as durable as premium single awls Smaller size might not work for heavy duty projects
Why Choose This Awl: Perfect for beginners who want to try different handle styles before investing in premium tools. The variety pack lets you find your preferred grip style.
User Feedback: “Perfect for my DIY projects. The wooden handle is very comfortable.” – Lisa M.
2. General Tools Scratch Awl with Hardwood Handle
General Tools Scratch Awl Tool with Hardwood Handle – Scribe, Layout Work, & Piercing Wood – Alloy Steel Blade
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4.6) out of 5 stars (4,248)
Key Features: 8.75 inches overall length with 3.5 inch blade Steel blade secured to plated steel ferrule and cap designed for scribing, hole marking, and perforating wood professional grade construction
Pros: Durable alloy steel blade runs through entire handle contoured hardwood handle provides excellent grip designed to withstand heavy pressure and challenging workloads rust resistant construction
Cons: Single tool design means less versatility More expensive than basic options
Why Choose This Awl: Ideal for crafters who need a reliable, heavy duty tool for woodworking and serious leather projects. Built to last for years of regular use.
User Feedback: “Love the hardwood handle! Makes it easy to use for long periods.” – Mike T.
3. CRAFTSMAN CMHT65012 Scratch Awl (Currently unavailable)
CLOVER-Straight Tailor’s Awl. Use this for piercing small and even holes.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5) | Price: $8.43
Key Features: Made of heat treated alloy steel comfort optimized handle for both high and low torque Includes screwdriver functionality Lightweight at just 0.01 ounces
Pros: Very affordable entry level option Heat treated alloy steel for strength Dual functionality as scratch awl and screwdriver Comfort optimized handle design
Cons: Basic construction may not handle heavy use Limited to simple crafting tasks
Why Choose This Awl: Perfect for occasional crafters or those just starting out. Good backup tool to have in your crafting kit without breaking the budget.
User Feedback: “Great tool for the price! Works well for my leather projects.” – Jane D.
4. Klein Tools 650 Scratch Awl
Klein Tools 650 Scratch Awl – 3.5” shank, cushion grip, durable USA-made tool for leatherworking, woodworking, and crafting.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4.8)
Key Features: 3.5 inch chrome plated tempered steel shank Full reinforcing bolster for extra strength Cushion grip handle with pocket clip Overall length of 7.875 inches
Pros: Made in USA with lifetime warranty Professional heavy duty construction Cushion grip handle for comfort during extended use Chrome plated heat treated steel shank
Cons: Higher price point May be overkill for light crafting projects
Why Choose This Awl: Best choice for professional crafters or those who use awls regularly. The lifetime warranty makes it a long term investment.
User Feedback: “This awl is a game changer for my leather projects. Highly recommend!” – Sarah L.
5. PLANTIONAL Leather Repair Sewing Kit (Best Crafting Awl Set)
PLANTIONAL 31-Piece Leather Repair Kit – Waxed Thread, Large Eye Needles & 3 Versatile Awls for Leather, Vinyl, Canvas & Upholstery.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4.6)
Key Features: 31 piece complete leather working kit Three multifunctional awls with wooden handles Large eye needles for easy threading Includes waxed thread, storage case, and accessories
Pros: Complete kit with everything needed to start leather crafting Three different awls included for various tasks Premium waxed thread and large eye needles Waterproof storage case keeps everything organized
Cons: Individual tools may not be as high quality as standalone options Kit might include items you do not need
Why Choose This Awl: Excellent choice for beginners who want a complete setup. Provides everything needed to start leather crafting immediately.
User Feedback: “Great kit for the price! Everything I need in one place.” – Tom R.
Awl Tool Buying Guide: How to Choose the Right Tool
Step 1: Determine Your Budget Start with your price range. Budget options like CRAFTSMAN CMHT65012 cost around $8. Premium tools like Klein Tools 650 cost $13 but last longer.
Step 2: Consider Your Experience Level New crafters should pick ZXIIXZ 3 Pack for $6. You get three handle styles to find what works best. Complete beginners benefit from PLANTIONAL Kit with 31 pieces for $8.
Step 3: Match Tool to Purpose Light crafting: CRAFTSMAN dual function awl works well. Heavy leather work: Choose General Tools with hardwood handle for $7. Professional daily use: Klein Tools offers lifetime warranty.
Step 4: Check Durability Needs Occasional use: Basic tools work fine. Regular crafting: Invest in General Tools or Klein Tools. They handle pressure better and last years longer.
Step 5: Think About Comfort Long projects need comfortable grips. Klein Tools has cushion grip. ZXIIXZ offers three handle shapes. General Tools features contoured hardwood.
Quick Tips: Buy multiple awls if you craft often. Sharp tips matter more than fancy handles. Read reviews for real user experiences. Start cheap, upgrade later if needed.
ZXIIXZ 3 Pack vs General Tools vs CRAFTSMAN vs Klein Tools vs PLANTIONAL Kit
| Feature | ZXIIXZ 3 Pack | General Tools | CRAFTSMAN | Klein Tools | PLANTIONAL Kit |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Price | $5.68 | $7.29 | $8.48 | $12.99 | $7.99 |
| What You Get | 3 different awls | 1 professional awl | 1 dual function tool | 1 premium awl | 31 piece complete kit |
| Best For | Trying different grips | Heavy duty work | Basic tasks | Professional daily use | Complete beginner setup |
| Durability | Good for light use | Excellent heavy duty | Basic construction | Professional grade | Kit components vary |
| Handle Comfort | 3 wooden options | Contoured hardwood | Basic acetate | Cushion grip | Standard wooden |
| Warranty | Standard | Limited | Limited | Lifetime | Standard |
| User Rating | Sharp and functional | Professional quality | Great for price | Made in USA quality | Everything included |
Key Customer Insights:
ZXIIXZ 3 Pack – Users love the variety: “Sharp and functional, different tips useful for various tasks.” Perfect for hobbyists who want options.
General Tools – Praised for durability: “Professional grade construction handles heavy pressure.” Best for regular crafters.
CRAFTSMAN – Value focused: “Great tool for the price, works well for basic projects.” Good starter option.
Klein Tools – Premium choice: “Made in USA quality with lifetime warranty.” Investment for professionals.
PLANTIONAL Kit – Complete solution: “Everything needed in one package.” Ideal for beginners wanting full setup.
Care Guide: Maintenance, Storage, and Usage
Crafting Awl Tool Maintenance
Keep your awl tools in top condition with these simple steps:
- Clean after each use – Wipe metal parts with damp cloth to remove leather residue and dirt.
- Dry completely – Prevent rust by ensuring all moisture is removed before storing.
- Check sharpness regularly – Sharp points work better and are safer to use.
- Oil metal parts monthly – Apply thin coat of machine oil to prevent corrosion.
- Inspect handles – Look for cracks or loose connections that could cause injury.
- Sharpen when needed – Use fine grit sandpaper or sharpening stone at proper angle.
- Replace damaged tools – Never use awls with loose handles or bent points.
Awl Tool Storage
Proper storage extends tool life and prevents accidents:
- Use protective caps – Cover sharp points with cork, rubber caps, or cardboard tubes.
- Store in dry place – Moisture causes rust and handle damage over time.
- Keep tools separated – Prevent points from dulling by avoiding metal-to-metal contact.
- Use tool roll or case – PLANTIONAL Kit includes waterproof storage case.
- Avoid extreme temperatures – Heat can loosen handles, cold makes metal brittle.
- Store upright when possible – Prevents pressure on points that could bend. them
- Label your tools – Mark different awls for specific materials or projects.
Awl Tool Usage
Use awl tools safely and effectively:
- Start with light pressure – Let sharp point do the work, avoid forcing through material.
- Hold firmly but relaxed – Klein Tools 650 cushion grip reduces hand fatigue.
- Work on stable surface – Use cutting mat or scrap wood underneath for safety.
- Pierce at 90-degree angle – Straight entry prevents tearing and ensures clean. holes.
- Rotate for round holes – Twist gently while pushing to create circular openings.
- Practice on scraps first – Test technique on waste material before working on projects.
- Keep first aid nearby – Sharp tools require careful handling and emergency preparation.
Pro Tips: ZXIIXZ 3 Pack offers three handle styles to find your preferred grip. General Tools hardwood handle provides excellent control for heavy-duty work.
FAQs
What is the best crafting awl tool for beginners?
The ZXIIXZ 3 Pack is perfect for beginners, offering three handle styles and lightweight, versatile use.
Which awl tool is best for professional use?
The Klein Tools 650 provides professional-grade durability, a cushion grip, and a lifetime warranty.
What is the best mid-range awl tool for regular crafters?
The General Tools awl balances quality, durability, and price for frequent use.
Are there budget-friendly crafting awls?
Yes, CRAFTSMAN CMHT65012 offers basic functionality at an affordable price for casual use.
What kit is best for beginners needing a complete setup?
The PLANTIONAL Leather Repair Sewing Kit includes all essential tools and accessories to start crafting immediately.
Conclusion: Top 5 Crafting Awl Tools for 2025
After reviewing the top 5 crafting awl tools, the ZXIIXZ 3 Pack emerges as the best overall value for beginners, offering three handle styles and versatile use at just $5.68.
For professionals, the Klein Tools 650 is the top choice, featuring premium construction, cushion grip, and a lifetime warranty. The General Tools awl balances quality and price, making it ideal for regular crafters.
The other two—CRAFTSMAN CMHT65012 (budget-friendly) and PLANTIONAL Kit (complete starter kit)—serve specific needs but don’t match the top three for versatility and performance.
Top 5 Crafting Awl Tools for 2025 – Our 3 Favorite Picks
- ZXIIXZ 3 Pack – Best overall value
- Klein Tools 650 – Premium professional
- General Tools – Best mid-range quality
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Best Awl tools Short lists by job categories:
- Awl Tool Kit for Beginners
- Best awl tool for Woodworking
- Best awl tool for leatherworking
- Best awl tool for Bookbinding
- Best awl tool for Tailoring
- Unique Applications (Carpet awl, Plastic)