Also known as the Sewing Awl. This is a tool that has been around for a long time that makes it easy to stitch up heavy fabrics and leathers, things that would be difficult to stitch on an ordinary sewing machine. It is also very good for repairing things that wouldn't fit under a sewing machine foot, such as a torn tent canvas, or a leather strap. It is simple to use, and makes a very strong stitch using the heavy duty waxed thread. It is small enough to be carried with you if you are an outdoors type person, and need to make repairs when you are miles from any store. I experimented yesterday with mine, making some stitches on the thick handle of a canvas shopping bag. It stitched it easily without any problems. Something like this should be kept in the car, and in all emergency kits, and anywhere you might need some simple stitching done.
Here is a video showing how it works: The Sewing Awl
Edey
