Tools Every Constant Crafter Needs From The Hardware Store
Creating something with your own two hands that shows off your artistic talent is one of the reasons why crafters love to do what they do. If you are a constant crafter, you probably have several containers, a closet, and maybe even a room dedicated completely to your crafting supplies and tools. However important all of that stuff may be, there are specific tools you should have on hand that will serve multiple purposes during your DIY endeavors. Some of these tools are found at a hardware store and not the typical craft store.
Rotary Tool
Rotary tools, often called Dremel tools because of the typical brand name that is associated, are small handheld tools that have a rotating head that can be outfitted with different attachments. The rotary tool can have several different attachments, including small bits that can
- sand away rough spots on a surface
- carve markings into dense materials like wood
- create texture on metal with a steel brush
- sharpen edges of metal with a grinding stone
The multiple tool attachments give you the power to do magic on all kinds of different projects and materials. Therefore, if you want a versatile multitool that will come in handy for multiple projects, a rotary tool is something you need in your repertoire.
Heavy-Duty Staple Gun
You can pick up a staple gun at just about any craft store, but most of the time, the heavier duty versions will serve you better, and these are oftentimes only found at a hardware store. Heavy-duty staple guns are built out of tougher materials and deliver staples with a more powerful blow when you squeeze the handle. Therefore, you can use these staple guns to attach fabrics to denser materials, for example, without worrying about having to tap down the staple when you're done because it didn't sink all the way.
Heat Gun
Heat guns are often used for things like heating the adhesive behind flooring tiles so they can be removed. However, heat guns can also be really useful in crafting. You can use this tool instead of an iron for heat-activated fabric appliques, for example. You can also use a heat gun to soften hot glue once it has hardened if you want to reposition something you have glued in place. Heat guns can even be used to mold plastic beads or other heat-sensitive materials that you want to manipulate.