Awl or Eyelet Punch: Opening a Gap or Cutting a Hole?

Eight Needles Journal · Punching & finishing

An awl and a hole punch may both create an opening, but they do it differently. A punch cuts material away to form a hole; an awl's action depends on its point and intended use. Choose according to the result your construction needs.

Bunka Eyelet Punch (3mm hole). Photo from the Eight Needles collection.

Read the project requirement

If hardware needs a hole of a specified size, follow that fitting's instructions. If the method calls for separating threads or guiding fabric, a suitable awl may be relevant instead. Do not assume these operations are interchangeable.

Inspect the point type

A ball-point, smooth-edge and sharp awl serve different purposes. Read the exact product description before approaching delicate fabric. Test the point on representative scrap and inspect both sides for damage.

Keep the work supported

Use the handling and backing appropriate to the tool. Keep hands away from the point and never push towards an unsupported hand beneath the material. Stop when resistance suggests the tool or method is unsuitable.

A practical example

A construction method asks you to separate threads rather than remove a circle of material. Choose a suitable point and test the opening, rather than substituting a punch just because it also creates a hole. The two results can behave differently in the finished work.