BREAD LAMES
Do You Really Need One?
A bread lame can make scoring your sourdough easier, but you don't need a fancy tool to make a beautiful loaf. I personally use a simple razor blade tool - it is inexpensive, minimal, and gives me great control. A handled lame is an optional upgrade, not a requirement.
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CLEAR CREEK TIP
You don't need every sourdough gadget you see online.
A sharp blade and good scoring technique matter more than having an expensive tool. Start with what works for you and upgrade when you actually feel like you need to.
MY APPROACH
I like to keep things simple. I score my loaves with a simple magnetic razor blade. It gives me a clear view of the dough, excellent control, and takes up almost no space in my drawer. When I'm finished, it can be stored closed on the refrigerator or another metal surface.
If you prefer a handled tool, there are good options. Below are three ways to score sourdough so you can choose what fits your style.
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WHY SCORE YOUR SOURDOUGH?
Scoring isn't just about making a beautiful loaf. Those cuts give the dough a controlled place to expand as it rises in the oven.
Without scoring, expanding dough may burst wherever the surface is weakest, which can lead to uneven expansion or a misshapen loaf. A well-placed score helps guide that oven spring while also giving you the opportunity to add your own decorative touch.
Score for structure. Decorate for beauty.
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3 WAYS TO SCORE YOUR SOURDOUGH
WHICH ONE IS RIGHT FOR YOU?
SIMPLE RAZOR
Best if you want the simplest, most affordable option and like having a clear view of the dough while scoring. This is the option I personally use. Its magnetic design also allows it to be stored closed on the refrigerator or another metal surface.
CURVED-BLADE LAME
Best if you prefer a handled tool and want the control of a curved blade.
2-IN-1 LAME
Best if you want flexibility and would like to experiment with both straight and curved scoring.
There isn't one right choice. The best scoring tool is the one you can control confidently and comfortably.
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SIMPLE RAZOR BLADE
The Simple, Practical Option
This is what I actually use. It is simple, inexpensive and takes up very little space. Great control, great visibility, no fuss. The magnetic blade can be stored closed on the refrigerator or another metal surface, which makes it especially convenient to keep safely out of the way.
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CURVED-BLADE LAME
My Pick
If I wanted a handled lame, this is the style I would choose.
• Curved blade
• Stainless steel
• Easy to clean
• Protective hard case for safety and storage
A curved blade also makes it easier to hold the blade at the angle many bakers use to create a pronounced ear—the lifted edge of dough that develops along a well-scored loaf.
If developing a defined ear is part of the look you want, a curved lame can give you more control over the angle and depth of your score.
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2-IN-1 LAME
Best for Experimenting
This option lets you switch between straight and curved blades in one handled tool. It is a great choice if you want to try different scoring styles without buying two separate tools.
(paid link)
KEEP BAKING 🌾
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