handwelting technique of inserting the first bristle as one retracts the inseaming awl, so the point of the bristle follow the path of the awl blade through the hole
Chasing the awl can improve smoothness and efficiency in a few ways:
- The hole does not have time to close up.
- The awl blade holds the holes through the insole, lining, upper, and any stiffener in alignment.
Some makers press the tip of the bristle to the point of the awl, attempting to “ride” the awl through the hole, rather than simply follow it. There are also grooved awl blades made specifically for this technique.