The Lame: Scoring Your Sourdough
A lame (pronounced LAHM) is a blade holder used for scoring bread before baking. While you can use a sharp knife, a proper lame gives you more control and creates those beautiful, professional-looking cuts.
What Is a Lame?
Traditionally, a lame is simply a holder for a double-edge razor blade. The blade is:
- Extremely sharp (sharper than any knife)
- Replaceable and inexpensive
- Flexible for curved cuts
Why Use a Lame?
Sharpness
- Razor blades are sharper than even the best knives
- Clean cuts that don't drag or tear
- Easier to maintain—just replace the blade
Control
- Designed for the specific motion of scoring
- Angle is easier to control
- Curved blades create ears naturally
Results
- Professional-looking ears and patterns
- Consistent cuts every time
- Enables complex scoring designs
Types of Lames
Straight Lame
- Blade held flat in a handle
- Good for: Geometric patterns, batards, deep cuts
- Easier for beginners
Curved Lame
- Blade bent into an arc
- Good for: Creating ears, single main score
- Traditional for round loaves
UFO/Designer Lames
- Ergonomic shapes for comfortable grip
- Various angles available
- Often more expensive
Blade Options
| Blade Type | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Double-edge razor | Cheapest, sharpest | Must curve manually |
| Single-edge razor | Pre-curved, safer to handle | More expensive |
| Specialty blades | Perfect curve, premium steel | Most expensive |
How to Use a Lame
- Hold at 30-45° angle to dough surface
- Use swift, confident motion
- Don't press hard—let the blade do the work
- Cut 5-10mm deep
- Complete each cut in one motion
Creating an Ear
For the classic sourdough ear:
- Use a curved blade
- Hold at 30° angle (almost horizontal)
- Cut is more of a flap than a straight cut
- The undercut creates a thin skin that lifts
Blade Maintenance
- Replace blades frequently (every 5-10 loaves)
- Dull blades drag and create ugly cuts
- Wipe blade clean after each use
- Store safely—these are razor sharp!
Alternatives
If you don't have a lame:
- Sharp paring knife: Works but harder to control
- Razor blade alone: Works but hard to hold
- Serrated knife: Not recommended—tears dough
Budget Pick
A basic wooden lame with double-edge blades costs around $10-15 and works excellently. Fancy lames are nice but not necessary.