A birdcage awl is a tool with a thin shaft with a four sided tip. It was originally used for drilling small holes in thin strips of wood for threading wire to make a birdcage. I use one for marking centers for woodturning projects. A few twists of the handle sure beats pounding with a mallet! It is also a handy tool for marking or making starting holes for screws or nails. The sharp ends of a birdcage awl act like a reamer to cut away wood. This is a fast and fun project and makes a great gift for anyone with a toolbox!
Pick a shape you think would be comfortable in your hand. Make a straight handle for an ice pick variation.