Casgliadau Arlein

A heel awl was used when joining the sole at the back of the shoe to the body of the heel.It had to be pushed through 1/4 inch of leather, which was heavy work. The blade has a shallow curve, tapers to a point, and flat-oval in cross-section. It made an oval hole for the stitching. Used by Thomas James for repairing shoes and general leatherwork.