This trowel, used for all types of work, needs to be of first quality and chosen to suit individual requirements, in balance and weight, so that bricks can be correctly laid at an economic rate. Now declining in use the earlier trowels, still available, are made for right or left handed use; trowel lengths are from 225mm to 350mm with variations in the inclination (the lift) of the handle. One side of the blade is straight, for cutting away surplus mortar, while the other has a slight curve at the shoulder for light brick trimming. Traditional trowels are being replaced by increased use of broad bladed trowels that have soft grip handles.