F What Tools Do You Use? | tamdoll's workspace

What Tools Do You Use?

April 13, 2010
Tamdoll's red tool box
We all use tools; from needle and thread, some scissors, sometimes a glue gun.  What kind of tools do you use all the time? Sometimes?
In my workspace I have my:
  • sewing machine
  • jewelry making pliers and cutters
  • wrenches
  • heat gun
  • soldering iron (wiring my art for electricity - want to see, get a laugh?  - go back in time.) 
In the basement workroom there's:
  • a vice
  • Dremel tool
  • screwdrivers
  • hammers, chisels
  • X-acto blades
  • saws (regular & coping)
I've used these all in my crafting adventures.   I'm a hack and tend to grab whatever is nearby for my purposes, making it work somehow (like, here).  I’m not always comfortable using them – layering on the goggles and face masks when I’m unsure what will happen – but when I’m determined to get a project done, there’s not much that will stop me.
I know I have a few readers outside the U.S. - do you tend to buy tools that are made where you live or do you have another preference?  My inclination is to "Buy American" even when I can find less expensive items at the store.
tool box

Why am I asking all this??  Because I've invited Stuart from ToolGuyd to offer a few crafting tool tips and suggestions every Tuesday for the next few weeks.  I thought that it would be best to make this series somewhat interactive, so please ask some questions, send any topic suggestions or requests you have, and tell us a bit about the tools that you use in your crafting projects.
So, give me your feedback and let's get to know our tools a little better.  Be on the lookout for tool shopping and selection tips, usage examples, and perhaps a giveaway or two!

10 comments:

  1. I have a sewing machine, and if I wasn't constantly moving I'd buy a glue gun and soldering iron.

    Although I don't check for country of origin I try to buy things from corner stores instead of big box stores.

    I have two questions:
    1. What's the difference between a heat gun and a hair dryer?

    2.How do you pronounce soldering iron? Is it pronounced different in the US/UK.

    ReplyDelete
  2. Dear Tammy, this is exciting news! I am gonna love this new column you have here! :) I have a lot of tools around my creative workspace..from fabric tools to paper tools to beading tools. :) I am looking for a nice small iron for my little craft projects, any recommendation? :) Have a lovely merry happy day and love to you!

    ReplyDelete
  3. Hey there!
    My favorite tool is my awl. It's got this rounded wooden handle that fits perfectly in my hand and I use it for a lot of poking. I do that a lot--poke holes in things for various projects. I use it when I embroider paper (which I do all the time) and other non-fabric stuff.
    I just got a sewing machine, and we're going to be great friends--as soon as she stops giving me attitude... :(

    ReplyDelete
  4. I don't have many tools... it's always been a needle and thread, and a tabletop magnifier - very important! I used to use small hand tools for my jewelry making. Now with my bookmaking, I use a paintbrush, an awl and bone folder.
    I try to use things around the house - my telephone book comes in handy! And don't forget the computer.

    ReplyDelete
  5. Hmm, let's see...
    Jewelry pliers & cutters
    Jewelers chasing hammer & anvil
    aligator clips
    this tool that I swiped from my hubby's Snap-On tool box that twists wire (he's a mechanic)
    I also have a Dremel, torch & soldering iron, but don't really use them much. I'm kind of scared of them, lol :)

    ReplyDelete
  6. I have multiple paper cutters, scissors and adhesives.
    I also have rulers, exato blades, and even a scroll saw that I hope to perfect using one of these days.

    ReplyDelete
  7. My awl is my lifesaver as a jewelry artist. I do not like to have to add, so I usually use about 9' of string material. Every once in a while a knot forms, and no matter how tight, I can work my awl into the knot and viola, the knot is easily opened!

    Another favorite: light

    ReplyDelete
  8. hmm sounds like I need to get an awl.

    I use:
    jewelry pliers & cutters
    thread, needles, seam ripper
    sewing machine
    and the one everyone is forgetting my hands!

    -
    I'd like to get a "chain sta" for charm bracelets.

    Id love to know more about different jewelry tools and what they can be used to make.

    ReplyDelete
  9. @ Thea,

    Those are great questions! In short, the difference between a heat gun and a hair dryer is the amount of power and level of heat that can be delivered by the tool. A more detailed response is on its way!

    Solder is pronounced like "sodder" in the US, and I have heard not heard it pronounced differently by British-english speakers.

    It sounds like many of you are fond of awls. In upcoming posts, we'll take a look at awls, jewelry making tools, and more!

    Please keep the comments and questions coming!

    ReplyDelete
  10. Jacqueline - not sure Stuart will address this in a future post, but wanted to reply about your request for a small iron. I use my regular clothing iron for craft projects and a mini-one - Clover brand for fine detail ironing.

    Tammy

    ReplyDelete

Thanks for stopping by!

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