Heirloom Awl

Metal and wood are the basic ingredients in most woodworking tools. As woodworkers, we're familiar with working wood, but what about metal? Actually, the level of metal woodworking required to make some woodworking tools is pretty basic. If you've never made your own tools, give this project a try. There's something enormously satisfying about a tool you made yourself.

We chose the scratch awl for this article because it's an everyday tool that's easy to make. This project will teach you the basic principles of heat-treating steel and turning a wood handle with a metal ferrule. This awl will be the first milestone on your custom tool-making journey.

Note: This project involves metal grinding and working with an open flame, be sure to follow