Pricking wheel (leatherworking)

A leatherworking pricking wheel is a hand tool for marking regularly spaced stitch points. A toothed wheel follows the intended seam line. The Museum of Early Trades & Crafts documents its use by shoemakers, while manufacturer Vergez-Blanchard presents versions for several leather trades.

Distinguish marking from piercing. The wheel indicates stitch positions, while an awl can make the holes. Wheel design and tooth spacing affect the marks. Versions with interchangeable wheels and additional guides also exist.

When assessing older examples, inspect the teeth, free rotation, axle and handle. Missing components can make identification harder. Not every toothed wheel is a leatherworking pricking wheel. Documented workshop provenance and comparison with a specific model are more reliable than dating solely from patina. Retain any maker's marks and measurements before cleaning or replacing parts.

Museum of Early Trades & Crafts: The Shoemaker
Vergez-Blanchard: Pricking wheels