Trowels

A trowel is a hand tool with a flat metal blade attached to a handle, used for moving, shaping, and finishing small amounts of material. In masonry and plastering, trowels apply and smooth mortar and plaster and to shape joints. In gardening, a trowel is used for digging, transplanting, and edging.

Common types include the pointing trowel, bricklayer’s trowel, plastering trowel, notched trowel, and garden trowel. Pointing trowels have narrow, pointed blades for precise work in mortar joints; bricklayer’s trowels are larger with a pointed blade for scooping, spreading, and combing mortar; notched trowels have serrated edges for tile setting; garden trowels have curved blades for digging soil.

Construction trowels are typically made of carbon steel or stainless steel; handles are wood, plastic, or composite. Notched trowels have notches in the blade to control adhesive thickness. Some designs include a bolster for strength and a tang that runs through the handle for balance and control.

Maintenance and safety: clean and dry after use to prevent rust, and store in a dry place. Light oil on blades can help prevent corrosion. Use gloves to protect hands, especially when handling pointed trowels.