• Skip to primary navigation
  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to primary sidebar
  • Skip to footer

Comfy Zen

for interior design enthusiasts

  • Home Décor
  • Home Furnishings
  • Crafts
  • About Us

Crafts

Get ready to unleash your creativity with our crafts selection! From DIY projects to handmade gift ideas, we've got you covered. Whether you're a seasoned crafter or just starting out, we have something for everyone. So grab your glue gun and let's get crafting!

How to Finish a Beaded Bracelet (On or off Loom)

August 14, 2020 by Comfy Zen 1 Comment

So you’ve just completed a really nice piece of beadwork, either on or off a bead loom, and you’re now faced with the problem of how to turn it into a finished bracelet you can proudly wear.

You’ll find there are a ton of helpful tutorials on how to set up and use a bead loom but when it comes to finishing your beadwork and adding a clasp, there’s really not much out there to help you.

This easy to follow guide is here to take you through the finishing process, and show you how to add a fastening, whether your beadwork is created on or off-loom.

Table of Contents

  • Adding a Crimp Clasp or Ribbon End to a Bead Loom Bracelet (The glue and cut method).
  • Adding a Slide, Toggle, Button or Bead Clasps to an On or Off Loom Bracelet
    • Sewing in Your Weft and Warp Threads
    • How to Add a Toggle Clasp, Bead Clasp, or Magnetic Clasp

Notes:

The bead fastening will measure approximately 1 1/4″ in length. The toggle clasp will measure approx 1 1/2″. For a ribbon clasp, you should measure your clasp and adjust your bracelet length accordingly.

Bead Loom Bracelets

If you have the Ricks bead loom, we featured in our bead loom guide, you find you’ll only have two warp threads to deal with at the end of your project.

With most looms, however, you will have several warp threads at each end of your beadwork – as well as the weft thread (that’s the one your seed beads were threaded on to).

In this section, we’ll look at how to add a ribbon crimp to finish your beadwork.

Adding a Crimp Clasp or Ribbon End to a Bead Loom Bracelet

Sterling Silver Ribbon Crimps from Amazon

OK, I have to be honest, this method is not one of my favorites. To be frank, it’s a bit messy and fiddly – mostly because it involves glue.

But also, because it’s really easy to accidentally dent the clasp when you close it – and you don’t really get a second shot if you don’t place it exactly straight and where it needs to be.

If you go for this method I strongly recommend you choose a good quality crimp or at least one you like enough to really want to wear as part of your bracelet or necklace.

The cheap findings don’t do it for me. They tend to let your work down a bit and a beautiful piece of beadwork can so easily be spoiled by the wrong clasp.

That said, if you find a pretty clasp and you’re feeling confident you can do a good job, the process (in theory) is pretty straight forward.

For this method, start with your beadwork still on the loom.

Your thread will be exiting the last bead from the left.

Weave with your weft thread which should be still threaded on your beading needle.
Continue to weave to about 1 cm in depth. Backstitch to secure. Add a thin layer of beading glue and trim warp threads when set.
Close your ribbon clasp over the entire area. The transparency in the image above shows how your ends would look inside the clasp.

Here’s what to do:

  • Starting on the next row following your final row of beads, weave your thread in and out of your warp threads as if you were weaving a tapestry.
  • Continue until you have approximately 1 cm of woven tapestry. Backstitch several times for extra security and then tie-off and cut your thread.
  • Now add a thin layer of beading adhesive over the woven area, leaving it overnight to set.
  • You can then trim the warp threads close to the woven/glued area and you are ready to add your crimp clasp to cover the entire area.

If you have Julia’s Beadalon Jewel Loom be careful when you cut the beadwork from the loom because the loom is under tension.

A nice touch is to add a small strip of ribbon or recycled sari over your woven area before gently and evenly closing the crimp over the end.

Toggle Clasps, Bead Clasps, and Magnetic Clasps for On or Off Loom Bracelets

For each of the following methods, you will need to sew in your threads first.

This will give you a neat stip of woven beadwork ready to add virtually any clasp of your choice.

In this section, we’ll take you through how to sew in all your threads, and then we’ll look at some options for adding different types of clasps – including my personal favorite, the beaded clasp you can see in the photo above.

How to Sew In Your Threads

Cut or remove your beadwork from your loom leaving enough on your warp threads to sew in.

And remember if you have Julia’s Beadalon Jewel Loom, take care when you cutting the beadwork from the loom – the loom is under tension and it can release with quite a snap.

Sewing in Your Weft Thread

Your thread will be exiting from the left side.

Sew your weft thread back through your beadwork.
Change directions but always sew in right angles so your thread doesn’t show. Tie a half hitch knot here and there. Sew through a couple more beads and cut your thread close to the last bead you exit.

Here’s what to do:

  • Sew back up through a couple of beads in the row above.
  • Now, sew up to the previous row changing direction and tie a half hitch knot before continuing along the row and up to the row before that.
  • Continue doing this for a few rows before tying off your thread. Go through a few more beads before cutting or burning off your thread with a thread burner close to the last bead you exit.

There is no specific path you need to take. Just remember to follow the natural path of your beadwork so your thread virtually disappears.

Sew In Your Warp Threads

Here’s what to do:

  • Thread your beading needle onto the first warp thread.
  • Sew into the next bead up, on the previous row, and continue to sew through your beadwork following the natural path of your beads. Tie a couple of half hitch knots here and there. Continue through the next few beads and then cut the thread close to the last bead you exited from.
  • Repeat the process until all your warp thread are sewn in.

Tried to avoid going over the same path more than a couple of times or the thread will build up and you will no longer be able to get your needle through.

You may need to use a finer needle (from a size 10 to a size 12).

You are now ready to add a clasp.

How to Add a Toggle Clasp, Bead Clasp, or Magnetic Clasp

The bead fastening will measure approximately 1 1/4″. The toggle clasp will measure approx 1 1/2″.

Adding a bead, toggle, or magnetic clasp is easy, and once you get the idea, the process is very similar for whichever fastening you choose.

For off-loom beadwork, you can use any beading thread you have still left on your needle (providing you have about 12″ left). Just make sure you thread exits where you want to add your fastening.

Alternatively, you can start a new thread. For bead loom bracelets, you will need to add a new thread.

Add a new thread several rows up and work your way down to the bottom row. You can then add your beads to make the fastening.
The illustration above shows the path you should follow to reinforce your bead fastening.
Reinforce your loop as you did for the clasp.

Here’s what to do:

  • Add a new thread to your beadwork several rows up and work your way down to the bottom row.
  • Exiting the bead where you want your fastening to begin, Pick up 7x 11/0 Miyuki seed beads and 1x Swarovski crystal round bead. Size 8 is probably better though I used a size 6 for mine.
  • Pick up 3x 15/0 Miyuki seed beads to make a picot.
  • Sew back through the Swarovski crystal round bead and then pick up 7 more 11/0 Miyuki seed beads.
  • Reinforce the fastening by going round the path again.
  • Now reinforce the connection between the bracelet and fastening as shown in the center illustration above.

To make the loop enclosure for the opposite end, the process is very similar.

However, you will need to test how many beads you need in order to (only just) allow the Swarovski crystal bead to pass through the loop.

Add 5x 11/0 seed beads. Then add either a 3mm fire polish or a 3 or 4 mm Swarovski bicone crystal before creating a loop of around 16 or 17 11/0 beads (depending on your brand of beads and tension).

The silver toggle clasp was added in a similar way or you could choose a magnet fastening for this method too.

I’ve also added a bead and loop closure to my beaded lacy necklace tutorial which you may find helpful.

So there you have it. It’s easier than you think. And if you made it this far, one thing I really do recommend for beadwork is to get yourself a good craft light so you can properly see what you are doing – especially one with a magnifying glass. That way you’ll cut down on mistakes or be able to spot any more easily and backtrack before you’ve gone too far.

Check out our reading room for beading inspiration.

Filed Under: Crafts

Best Wood Burning Kit (2022)

August 2, 2020 by Comfy Zen Leave a Comment

If you want a cheap kit so you can dabble in the art of wood-burning, you’ll find a ton of them out there. All pretty much the same – with just slight variations in the number and type of accessories, you get with them. They’re cheap because the wood burner is basically a repurposed soldering iron. And soldering irons don’t cost much to make.

It’s not necessarily a bad idea to get one if you’re a complete beginner. They will let you try out a bunch of different techniques. But sooner or later you’re going to want something that will let you really get into the craft and explore your potential.

So whether you want to just have a go or really master the craft, I’ve done all the hard work and research for you to find the best wood-burning kit out there depending on your criteria.

Updated January 2022

Here are reviews of my recommendations:

What We ThinkBrandProduct
Seriously GoodTRUArt Stage 2 Single Pen Professional Woodburning Detailer
A Good Choice for ArtistsProfessional Wood Burning Kit, TEKCHIC Pro1
A Budget Friendly Kit for BeginnersPETUOL 110 Pieces Wood Burning Kit
Smoke Extractor for Your KitKOTTO Woodburning Smoke Extractor

Table of Contents.

  • Our Top Picks
  • Smoke Extractors | Why You Need One
  • Frequently Asked Questions
  • Other Wood Burning Kits We’ve Reviewed
The TRUArt Stage 2 from Amazon

Seriously Good: TRUArt Stage 2 Single Pen Professional Woodburning Detailer

The TRUArt Stage 2 is for creative people who don’t want to be limited by their tools

This one will never hold you back.

Frankly, it’s the best “price point” wood burner for what you get – without having to commit to an expensive kit that does more than you need.

Check Price

It doesn’t have lots of different types of tips like the cheap kits.

But that’s not actually a downside because you’ll be able to use the set of 40 wire tips it comes with for a wide variety of applications. Much like the pencils and brushes you use for drawing and painting.

It also comes with 5 assorted files, pen holder, pliers and tweezers and a brush.

This kit doesn’t have any stamp tips, because you won’t be using stamps as an artist. You’ll be drawing things yourself, you see. That’s the difference in the focus of this kit.

Our top choice is the single pen version. But we have to say, it would be worth going for the two-pen version if you can. That way you’ll be able to have the two tips you’re using most often for your project at hand.

You can basically swap between them – without having any wait time for one tip to cool down before being swapped and then swapped back when you need it. This will save you a lot of hassle in the long run.

You get a good selection of quality wire tips in this kit. Wire tips are much better than stamp tools – or the various solid-shaped tips you get with the cheaper kits.

They’re designed for you to draw with and add your own detail – unlike those that have chiseled ends in various shapes that make a standard – pre-shaped mark for you.

You’ll be able to work with these tips in a way that’s not unlike the way you would use your pencils and brushes in traditional artwork.

And you can make minute heat adjustments with the digital control to easily achieve depth and shading to your work.

What We Like:

  • Cooler to the Touch, Ergonomically-Shaped Pyrography Pen | The pen has a heat-resistant rubberized wrap. That means will remain cool enough for you to hold the pen much closer to the heated tip, than other brands on the market. Even for long periods. The pen is also more oval-shaped than some of the chunkier round-shaped pens out there. That means it will fit more naturally in your hand, allowing for greater control and a steadier hand.
  • Good Heat control and a Fast Heat-Up Time | The Kit comes with a very accurate 60W voltage dial. This means you can control the temperature and therefore the amount of burn to get the perfect mark. The tips heat up super fast which will also help speed up your workflow. They do obviously take longer to cool than heat up. However, they still cool faster than the thicker solid tips of the cheaper kits. And if you go for the 2 pen set, you won’t have to interrupt your workflow while you wait for the tips to cool.
  • Professional Wood Burning Kit | TRUArt are a company that just specializes in wood-burning kits, spare parts, and accessories. You know with them you are getting a professional artist quality product. If you require any extras, such as additional tips, spare parts, or even an extra pen, you will find that they’re all easily available to buy.
  • Carry Case| Most other kits don’t come with a carry case. This might seem like a no big deal detail but you’ll want to look after your equipment. Therefore, having the correct size case that you can put everything away into when you’ve finished using your kit is both helpful and sensible.

A Good Choice for Artists: Professional Wood Burning Kit, TEKCHIC Pro1

We found the TEKCHIC Pro1 to be a good compromise between the TRUArt Stage 2 and the ton of cheaper kits out there.

For a start, the TEKCHIC Pro1 is, at the time of writing, over $80 less than the TRUArt Stage 2.

Check Price

It also comes with two pyrography pens which make swapping between nibs so much easier and faster than waiting for one pen to heat up and cool down.

Because different types of wood burn more or less easily the ability to accurately adjust the temperature of the pen could make all the difference to mark the pen makes. Unlike the PETUOL 110 Pieces Wood Burning Kit and indeed all the cheaper kits out there the TEKCHIC Pro1 has a 30W voltage dial. In comparison with the TRUArt 2 it’s about half the wattage but the pen still reaches 700 degrees at its highest which is more than hot enough. The actually glows molten red hot!

Cheaper kits do tend to have temperature control but it’s a standard, tiny (and fiddly) dial on the side of the pen itself.

What We Like:

  • Good Accessories | 20 Different wire tips, with ball tips that make drawing accurately a breeze. The kit also comes with 2 tool stands, sponges, a screwdriver, 2 kinds of wood to get you started plus a carry case.
  • Dual Wood Burner | By its nature, wood-burning takes longer than drawing by hand with a pencil. Having two pens increases your workflow which would otherwise be slowed further by the time it takes for a single pen to heat up and cool down.

Buying Factors to Consider:

The kit doesn’t come with the array of extras that the PETUOL 110 Pieces Wood Burning Kit or others like it. So beginners or people who don’t want to draw freehand might prefer to skip this one and go for the cheaper option below. But for anyone who enjoys drawing this is a good mid-price range option.

Budget-Friendly Kit for Beginners: PETUOL 110 Pieces Wood Burning Kit

One of these kits will let you try out lots of different wood-burning techniques to get a feel for what you can achieve.

Beginner kits come with lots of different tips and stamps so are great for this. They are all pretty similar to each other, whichever one you go for, and they’re also unbelievably cheap.

Check Price

As we’ve mentioned, these pyrography pens are pretty much-repurposed soldering irons and can even be used as such.

That’s not to say they’re not good for wood burning. They may be very basic – you plug ’em in, they get extremely hot pretty quickly, hot enough to make decorative marks on wood and with all the different tips you can attach to them, you can get some great results.

You may be more creative than artistic. In this case, you’ll find having lots of stamps and stencils useful.

Just bear in mind that unless the stencils are metal, and with the cheaper kits they mostly aren’t, you should just use them to trace your design onto the wood. The reason is you’ll melt the plastic if you use the pen directly on them.

If you lean more towards the artistic side or you like the artist’s sketch look and want to have a go at drawing, you should look for a kit that has a good selection of pencil-shaped tips.

The 110 Piece Wood Burning Kit shown above left has quite a few of those but it also has several stamp tools too.

In our opinion it’s a good all-round kit with a bit of everything in it.

One thing we really like about this kit is that it does have temperature control. This is something you’ll find useful in order to achieve the right amount of burn for the type of wood you are using and the type of mark you are trying to make. A word of caution though, like all the kits in this low price range, the controls are a bit fiddly and not as accurate or sensitive as the digitally controlled ones you get with the more professional pens.

These pens also tend to get hot so they aren’t ideal for using over prolonged periods. Another big plus point about this kit is that it comes with heatproof gloves. If you choose a similar kit that comes with different accessories, you might find a heatproof glove a good idea.

Not a criticism of this kit in particular but I do need to point out that these cheaper pyrography pens are less efficient. They tend to take longer to heat up and longer to cool down than our top choice.

This will, unfortunately, slow your workflow down considerably and you’ll need to be patient while you’re waiting for the tip to cool down enough to swap it.

What We Like:

  • Lots of Tips and Accessories | This makes them ideal for experimenting with. You’ll be able to find your own style and learn what works for you so you can achieve something to be proud of. Not only that but if you find a good tutorial or have a project in mind you want to create, chances are, you’ll already have everything you need in one of these kits to go ahead and make it.
  • They’re Super Cheap | Most of these kits are around the $20 mark which makes them worth going for, even if you’re not sure whether you’ll like your new hobby or not. In any case, even if you don’t commit to wood-burning and go on to create amazing and stunning masterpieces, you’ll certainly get your $20 worth of fun out of one.

Buying Factors to Consider:

  • Pyrography Pen Can Get Hot | These pens as we’ve discussed are primarily soldering pens. They’re pretty cheap and not that well insulated. This means they can get uncomfortably hot if you’re using them for a long period of time. If you want to complete large projects or you think you’ll be using the pen quite a lot you should consider going for a professional kit like our best choice

Smoke Extractors | Why You Need One

KOTTO Strong Suction Hose Fume Smoke Absorber

Though we generally only review the best stuff out there and make recommendations, in this case, we are saying – If you buy a wood-burning kit, you MUST buy one of these!

Check Price

However, pleasant the smell of wood smoke is, it’s not good for you.

And once you get totally absorbed in a project, you’ll forget that the air around you is getting smokier and more unhealthy by the minute.

It’s only sensible to get yourself a fume exhaust rather than to risk any short or long term health problems from something that should be relaxing and enjoyable enough to be actually good for you.

This one by KOTTO isn’t expensive it will sit happily next to you on your craft table and it’s designed specifically for all types of wood-burning projects.

Alternative Wood Burning Kits:

These are the products that didn’t quite make our top picks. But they’re still pretty good so you might like to take a look:

TEKCHIC 60W Professional Wood Burning Kit

This one’s cheaper than our top pick and it’s a good wood burning kit suitable for detailed work on any medium like wood, leather, gourds, and paper.

It just doesn’t come with as many tips and there are no files. We just found the handle was a little chunkier to hold.

Key Features:

  • Good price for a professional kit
  • Comes with 20 tips ball tips are also included
  • Includes a carry case
Check Price

Colwood Super Pro II Woodburning KIt

This one has a tip system with two replaceable tip handles. Only one handle heats up at a time and you toggle between two switches.

Key Features:

  • Comes with the Pyrography Workbook by Sue Walters
  • Includes 3 tips – a skew, rounded skew, and writing tip
  • Alo has a tip puller and 2 abrasive tip polishers 
Check Price

Filed Under: Crafts

The Best Craft Light for 2022

August 1, 2020 by Comfy Zen Leave a Comment

I’ve been on the hunt for the ultimate craft light for what feels like an eternity. I’ve tried all the different options, from anglepoises to flimsy clip-on lamps to bulky floor lamps that take up half my studio. I’ve even dabbled in those trendy “daylight” bulbs that promise to give you the same lighting as the outdoors, but all they did was give me a headache. Having had enough of subpar craft lighting, I was ready to find the one that truly reignited my passion for crafting. That’s why I decided to embark on a mission to find the best craft light out there.

In this quick, straight-to-the-point guide I will tell you exactly what to look for when choosing a craft light for whatever it is you love to create.

Ultimately I chose the Neatfi XL Bifocals magnifying light – a purchase I’m especially pleased with. It has made the world of difference for me. I’d even go so far as to say it’s taken my craft skills to the next level. Now I can really see what I’m doing up close in detail (thanks to the magnifier), even if it’s the only light source in the room. The photo below was taken at night in a totally dark room of my Neatfi Bifocals magnifying light.

close up of craft light-Comfy Zen
The Neatfi XL Bifocals Craft Light from Amazon

Choose a good craft light and it won’t matter how poor your surrounding lighting conditions are. Evening or late-night crafting projects are as easy (and eye-strain-free) as working in daylight.

Neatfi XL Bifocals 

Neatfi Bifocals magnifying light

Neatfi XL Craft Light

Dimunt LED Floor Lamp

Extra Contents:

  • Handy Diopter Magnification Converter
  • Other Worthy Mentions

My Top Pick


Neatfi XL Bifocals 

I can’t find any fault with this one. Love it!

The extra large 7″ wide lens is a game changer, providing an even spread of bright light over a large area and allowing me to focus exactly where I need it.

Check Price on Amazon

And the bifocal feature is a total bonus, with the 5 Diopter lens for distant vision and the 20 Diopter lens for close-up work.

But what really sold me was the 1,600 lumens of bright, glare-free light. It’s perfect for reading small prints or working on delicate projects, and the color temperature of 5600K-6000K is just right. Plus, it’ll last up to 100,000 hours and doesn’t get hot, which is a major plus.

And the dimmable feature is a godsend. I can adjust the brightness level by 25%, 50%, 75%, or 100% depending on my task, which is a must-have for anyone looking for the perfect lighting for various projects. Plus, it comes with a 3-year warranty, so you know you are covered. All in all, I’d say this is the best craft light I’ve come across.

Pros:

  • Extra large 7″ wide lens provides even spread of bright light over a large area
  • Bifocal feature with 5 Diopter lens for distant vision and 20 Diopter lens for close-up work
  • 1,600 lumens of bright, glare-free light ideal for reading small prints or working on delicate projects
  • Color temperature of 5600K-6000K is just right
  • Dimmable feature allows for adjustable brightness levels
  • Lasts up to 100,000 hours and doesn’t get hot
  • Comes with a 3-year warranty

Cons:

  • More expensive than the next option, but you get what you pay for and it’s a better light.
  • Maybe more than you actually need.

Alternative Top Pick

Neatfi Bifocals Craft Light

Neatfi Bifocals Craft Light

A slightly cheaper option but still a hit!

If you want the flexibility to work late into the evening, you’re going to need lumens. Lots of them. Anything over 1,000, is the gold standard and this one has 1,200 lumens.

Check Price on Amazon

If you find a cheaper craft light that looks just as good, chances are the lumens, or brightness, just won’t be enough.

You’ll notice that this one has a clamp rather than a standard base. Clamps are ideal if you have a desk that you can clamp it to – but don’t worry if you don’t, you can easily get a compatible mounting bracket that will allow you to fix it flush to your desktop or even to a wall.

As you can see in the photo below, this light is designed for maximum flexibility. The clamp, or other means of fixing it, means you can pull it into the exact position you need and it will stay put. There’s no chance of it toppling over onto your work.

Neatfi Bifocals Craft Light product image

The 5-inch, 5-diopter magnifier, will make everything 225% larger for you. It’s ideal for detailed work, but if you need to zoom in further – miniature/model painters, knitters, crocheters, and beaders will love the built-in 20 diopter spot lens which will zoom in by 6x, which means the smallest of details will look 600% bigger.

The lamp’s also dimmable by pressing the power button you can adjust the brightness level to 25%, 50%, 75%, or 100%.

Though for most crafters this 5″ lens version is just perfect, I can crochet and knit – or rather see where to pick up my all too frequently dropped stitches, work on detailed hand-drawn illustrations, and work on my beadwork with ease, but if you really want to go bigger and even brighter, Neatfi XL Bifocals is the way to go.

Pros:

  • High lumen count of 1,200
  • Clamp or mounting bracket options for flexibility in placement
  • 5-inch, 5-diopter magnifier and built-in 20 diopter spot lens for detailed work
  • Dimmable with four brightness levels
  • 7-inch lens version available with even higher lumen count of 1,600

Cons:

  • May not be suitable depending on the type of craft you want to do

 A full three-year (3) warranty is included.

Runner Up

Neatfi XL Caft Light

Neatfi XL Craft Light

The extra-wide 20” shade on the Neatfi XL means it will easily light up the largest workbench or craft table.

A whooping 2,200 lumens of 5600K-6000K daylight light, is the perfect solution to the poorest of lighting conditions and with a choice of several color options to match your craft room decor, we think it looks good too.

Check Price on Amazon

And don’t worry if you think it’s too bright, the light is dimmable from 100% to 75%, 50%, and 25%, so you can turn it down when you don’t need the full brightness. A handy tip is that you can switch it off with a double click of the button, instead of cycling down through the brightnesses

As with the Neatfi Bifocals Craft Light, the clamp can be replaced with a mounting bracket alternatively it can be converted to a floor light.

Pros:

  • Extra-wide 20” shade provides good coverage for large workbenches or craft tables
  • High lumen output of 2,200 lumens in 5600K-6000K daylight light is ideal for poor lighting conditions
  • Dimmable from 100% to 75%, 50%, and 25% for adjustable brightness
  • Can be turned off with a double click of the button
  • Clamp can be replaced with a mounting bracket or converted to a floor light
  • Designed to last for 20 years without a bulb change, and uses 80% less energy than a standard bulb
  • Comes with a 3-year warranty

Cons:

  • Doesn’t have a magnifier.
  • Maybe larger than you need.

 A full three-year (3) warranty is included.

Best Budget Option

Dimunt LED Floor Lamp

A great option if you’d like to work on your craft project while relaxing in an armchair.

This gooseneck floor lamp has a weighted base and it’s easy to adjust. It even comes with a handy remote.

And with 1,000 lumens of light and a low price point, this one is a great budget option.

Check Price on Amazon

A control panel on the stem allows you to adjust the light from 100% right down to 10%, and you even have the option to change the lighting effect from a warm white to a cool white.

The gooseneck head is fully flexible allowing you to position the light precisely and there’s even a handy 60-minute timer to automatically switch the lamp off after one hour.

Pros:

  • Only uses 15 watts LED, which is the equivalent of burning 100 watts of halogen.
  • High Lumen Output with 1,000 lumens of light means it’s perfect for working in low light. The energy-saving light is designed to give you 50, 000+ hours of use, and save you up to 75% on your electricity bill -compared to the cost of using a standard light.
  • Multiple Lighting Options

Cons:

  • The lamp doesn’t have the lumen brightness that others have.

Diopter Magnification Converter

DiopterMagnification
21.5X
31.5X
41.75X
52X
72.25X
82.75X
93.25X
206X

Other Ones We’ve Reviewed:

These are the products that didn’t quite make our top picks, but they’re still pretty good so you might like to take a look:

Six Inch Magnifier

AzFocal LED Magnifier Lamp

AzFocal LED Magnifier Lamp

This one has a slightly larger magnifying lens than our top pick. It doesn’t have a lens cover, however, but you can remove the lens if you wish.

Key Features:

  • 6 Inch, 3 diopters magnifying lens
  • 12 Watt -1200 lumens
  •  3 color temperature ranges cold white, warm white, and sunlight
Check Price

Budget Alternative

Addie LED Magnifying Lamp with Clamp

Addie LED Magnifying Lamp with Clamp

This one is cheaper than our top choice, but it has a smaller magnifying lens and no spot magnifier.

Key Features:

  • 1200 lumens and dimmable
  • A 4-inch lens with 225% magnification
  • 6000k white light
Check Price

 6.5″ x 4″ Magnifier Floor light

Brightech LightView Pro

Brightech LightView Pro

This is a nice option for hand sewing, weaving on a lap loom, knitting, and more.

It’s not as bright as our top choice but if you are in a family living room it will just light what you are working on without disturbing others.

Key Features:

  • 9W, 540 lumens
  • The gooseneck is fully adjustable
  • 2.25X magnification
Check Price

Biggest and Brightest Option

Neatfi XL Bifocals

This is the sleek black version. For serious crafters, this is the bigger and bright version that is our top pick.

Key Features:

  • 16 watt, 1,600 lumens but it is also dimmable so you can reduce the brightness when not needed
  • Full 7-inch Magnifier with a 5-diopter lens
  • 5600K-6000K color temperature
Check Price

Filed Under: Crafts

Lavender Massage Oil Recipe

June 13, 2020 by Comfy Zen Leave a Comment

There have been several promising but so far, small scientific studies indicating the effectiveness of using lavender to alleviate anxiety and improve sleep quality.

Whether you find yourself wound up in a tight knot at 3 a.m. wondering if you will ever be able to fall asleep normally again or you would just like to relax, unwind and enjoy the wonderfully soothing benefits that pure essential lavender oil has to offer, this natural lavender massage oil recipe is perfect to help you relax and melt away the stresses of the day.

It’s quick and very easy to make and best of all, it’s 100% natural with no nasty chemicals added!

Lavender essential oil, as with all essential oils, should never be applied to the skin undiluted. This 1% dilation recipe will give you the wonderfully relaxing sweet aroma of lavender, without being too overpowering.

You Will Need:

6 Drops of Pure Lavender Essential Oil – Steam Distilled see below for a guide to choosing your essential oils

  • 1oz/30ml of Organic Sweet Almond Oil or Organic Jojoba Oil 
  • 1oz/30ml Aromatherapy Cobalt Blue Glass Bottle for storing your Natural Lavender Massage Oil

Method

Now with a steady hand, add 6 drops of pure lavender essential oil to your carrier oil – and that is it! You now have a wonderfully sweet lavender massage oil ready to use. Store your oil in a cool place away from direct sunlight, or better still, keep it in the refrigerator.

Carefully fill one cobalt blue glass bottle with the carrier oil of your choice. I recommend Jojoba or Sweet Almond oil but there are others that would work equally well.

Jojoba it lighter than Sweet Almond and is rich in Vitamin E. Sweet Almond which is my favorite doesn’t smell of almonds, in case you were wondering but it is rich and deeply nourishing.

Make sure you don’t overfill the bottle. The best way to do this is to hold the glass bottle up in good light, you should then be able to just see through it enough to avoid overfilling.

Please note: you should always store your carrier oil in the refrigerator.

How do you know this is a 1% dilution?

This is easy to calculate. It would take 600 drops of essential oil to fill a 1oz or 30ml bottle and 1% of 600 drops is 6. To make a 2% dilution, add a total of 12 drops of pure lavender essential oil to your carrier oil. This will give you a much stronger scent which is suitable for smaller areas, such as your feet or wrists. Personally, I find this dilution is a little too strong for me.

How to Choose Your Lavender Essential Oil

Be cautious when buying essential oils, there are a lot of fakes and/or questionable selling techniques out there! 

Be cautious when buying essential oils, there are a lot of fakes and/or questionable selling techniques out there! 

Tisserand is a well known and trusted company. Robert Tisserand is well known, author, international speaker, and consultant on aromatherapy. Tisserand has a website that has clear and transparent information about their products and all of their essential oils are 100% pure organic, wildcrafted or ethically harvested.

Tisserand is the brand I have used many times over the years and the one I am using at the moment.

Tisserand is available in the US here, or for the US organic version, click here.

And if you are in the UK, it’s available here.

Firstly, always read the label. Choose your essential oil by its botanical name.

Don’t buy anything that doesn’t say 100% pure essential oil on the label. There are many cheap synthetic copies out there that are made mostly from petrochemicals.

The companies that make these synthetic copies, artificially reproduce the smell of the oil. 

Obviously, you don’t want these chemicals on your skin and you don’t want to breathe them in either. 

But also make sure the label doesn’t say anything like “blend” as it will already have been diluted and mixed with something else. 

In the case of Lavender Essential Oil, look for “Steam Distilled.” If you were buying citrus essential oils you would look for “Cold Pressed.”

Therapeutic Grade: There is no regulation what-so-ever that decides what is therapeutic and what isn’t.

So basically the word is meaningless. To be magnanimous you could say that the company is trying to convey their product is produced in a way to preserve its therapeutic benefits, but the words mean nothing on their own.

USDA Certification: The USDA do not regulate essential oils, if they did, it would be for food standards and these essential oils are NOT to be taken internally.

USDA Certification can, however, be applied to the growing conditions of the plant or flowers used to make the essential oil.

It should be noted that harvesting that takes place in countries other than the US would be unlikely to be awarded USDA Certification regardless of whether they are organically and ethically produced or not.

And finally, you would think that as long as you can spot a synthetic oil, the world of essential oils would be fairly free of controversy, but you would be wrong.

I will just say that personally, I would never recommend buying any product from an essential oil company that uses Multi-level Marketing (MLM) techniques.

While I have no reason to think that there is anything wrong with the essential oils these companies produce, please do not ever allow yourself to be pressured into paying to become a distributor, unless you want to turn all your friends and family into prospective customers and then have to try to convince them to become distributors too.

If you are interested in learning more about aromatherapy, Susan Burgess has a great little ebook with some easy to follow recipes to get you started.

View here.

Filed Under: Crafts

Easy Pom Pom Garland

May 23, 2020 by Comfy Zen 2 Comments

Let’s face it, no one wants to see a limp, straggly, uneven pom pom. That’s just gonna bring everyone down. Pom poms should be adorable, round, fluffy balls of fun that’ll brighten up the dullest of days – and there’s a little secret to getting them to fluff up perfectly…

The secret is all in the trimming.

Not convinced? Why not have a go – following the steps below.

It’s actually so easy and super cheap to make perfect, fully fluffed pom poms every time. And it’s super fast too.

No doubt you’ll have already had a go at wrapping yarn around two donut-shaped pieces of card, at some point.

And if you do have the patience to thread your yarn through the hole every time, the donut method (the one without the slit) will give you a nice round fluffy pom pom every time. It’s pretty time consuming though, and you do have to cut the yarn first so it’ll fit through the hole, and that means you can easily get yourself into a tangle.

Cutting a slot in the card makes things much easier and quicker, but it’s tricky to keep your yarn from slipping off the card when it gets too near the opening – and you kinda get a lopsided pom pom.

By far the quickest and easiest method is to use a flat, rectangular-shaped, piece of card. Any card will do, but a simple toilet roll, folded in half, turns out to be absolutely perfect for a 2″ pom pom – and that’s just right size for a pom pom garland.

I used DK yarn for my pom poms. It’s just what I had leftover from another project, but you can pretty much use any yarn you like.

Just remember – if you use a thicker yarn you won’t need to wrap it quite as many times as mentioned below. Just as long as it looks similar to the photo shown in step 3, your pom pom should be plump, round, fluffy, and totally adorable.

Ok so let’s get started.

Materials List

For a Pom Pom:

  • Yarn – DK, crochet, or any craft yarn
  • Empty toilet roll
  • 2 x 2″ card circles
  • Scissors

For the Garland:

  • Garden or craft string for threading your garland
  • A yarn needle to thread your string through your pom poms
  • Craft glue

How to Make an Easy Pom Pom Garland

Step 1

Gather your materials as listed above.

Step 2

Fold the toilet tissue roll in half and begin to wrap your yarn.

Step 3

Wrap your yarn 110 times around the card.

Step 4

Gently slide the yarn off the card.

Step 5

Place your bundle on a (approx) 10″ length of yarn.

Step 6

Tie a tight double knot. (you may need to borrow a friend’s finger)

Step 7

Cut through all your loops.

Step 8

Your pom pom will look pretty uneven, but don’t panic – all is well…

Step 9

Place your pom pom centrally, between your card templates to make a pom pom burger. And trim around the edge.

Now turn your pom pom 90 degrees and repeat this process.

Step 10

Give your pom pom a haircut. Trimming by eye until you a you are happy there are no more sticky out bits.

Step 11

Admire your perfectly fluffy, round pom pom.

For the Garland:

If you are threading your pom poms to make a garland. You can use any kind of craft string as long as it can be threaded through a yarn needle.

Tips:

Make sure you thread your string through the center of your pom pom. You should be able to feel the hole with your fingers.

Grip your pom pom tightly as you thread, to keep any yarn strands from coming loose.

Trim any extra sticky out bits and add a spot of craft glue to your string (near the center of your pom poms) to keep your pom poms in place.

Filed Under: Crafts

The Best Candle Making Kit 2022

May 4, 2020 by Comfy Zen Leave a Comment

Luxury Candle Making Kit by Scandinavian Candle Co. from Amazon

This is a simple guide to the best candle-making kit. It’s super fun and much easier than you’d think to make your own handmade scented candles when you use a kit. And the best thing about them is that they are all made from soy (or beeswax) – so not only will they give you a much cleaner, healthier burn than paraffin but you’ll also get a cleaner, purer scent throw.

To help you choose which kit is right for you, we’ve put together comprehensive reviews for the best candle-making kits on the market today. Our research showed that there were four clear winners.

Reviews for the Candle Making Kits We Picked

Editor’s AwardBrand
Our Top Pick/ Best Over All Candle Making Kit
Soy Candle Making Kit for Adults by DIY Gift Kits
Alternative Top pick
Luxury Candle Making Kit by Scandinavian Candle Co.
Best Beeswax Candle Making Kit

Scented Candle Making Kit DIY Gift Set by YINUO LIGHT
Best for Colored Candles
Candle Making Kit by StorageMaid
Soy Candle Making Kit for Adults by DIY Gift Kits

Our Top Pick for the Best Candle Making Kit: Soy Candle Making Kit for Adults by DIY Gift Kits

This comprehensive 49-piece kit allows you to practice with a variety of different candle sizes.

The kit comes with two 8-oz tins, two 4-oz tins, as well as 10 tea light tins.

Check Price

This kit comes with three 100% therapeutic grade luxury oils: lavender, lemongrass, and cedarwood essential oil, which you can either use to make single-note scented candles or combine to make your own scent blends. And there are helpful recipes in the instruction booklet to get you started.

The kit is nicely packaged, having been designed to give to someone as a DIY gift. If you go for this kit for yourself, you can also bear it in mind as a future gift for someone else.

You get all the essentials to make your candles, including an 8-oz pack of soy wax, a melting pot, braided paper wicks, mounting stickers (to stick the wicks in place), clothespin wick holders, and well-designed labels for your tins.

You also get 2 color blocks in orange and burgundy so you can add color to your candles.

What We Like:

  • Three Therapeutic Grade Oils | Lavender, lemongrass, and cedarwood essential oil. The kit includes a recipe booklet so you can try different blends.
  • Includes Tea Light Tins | The kit comes with two 8-oz tins, two 4-oz tins a well as 10 tea light tins.

Buying Factors to Consider:

Unlike our alternative pick coming up next, this kit doesn’t come with a thermometer. But they’re very cheap to buy and aren’t strictly necessary.

Alternative Top pick: Luxury Candle Making Kit by Scandinavian Candle Co.

This Luxury Candle Making Kit by Scandinavian Candle Co. is another beautifully designed kit that would make a lovely DIY gift for someone.

That said, you will definitely want to keep one of these kits for yourself.

Check Price

The kit contains a generous three, 8 oz bags of natural soy wax, (our first choice only has one). However, you only get two fragrance oils. But they are the ever-popular basil & mandarin, and wood sage & sea salt – reminiscent of the gorgeous Jo Malone scent range.

This kit also comes with a thermometer, so you can check your wax is heated to 180 to 185 degrees recommended before adding your fragrance. You can, as you become more familiar with the process, also use your thermometer to experiment, for example, with the low temp method.

Also included are a 2 lb wax melting pitcher, 6 gold candle tins, cotton candle wicks, centering devices, glue dots, stirring sticks, and an instruction booklet.

Additionally, you get 2 high-end-looking fabric gift bags, and 12 designer labels. The kit also includes 6 warning labels, handy if you are selling or giving away your candles as gifts.

What We Like:

  • Kit Includes 24 oz of Soy Wax | In comparison, the DIY Gift Kits one only comes with one, 8 oz bag.
  • Two Blended Fragrances | Basil & mandarin, and wood sage & sea salt.
  • Two Fabric Gift Bags | And 12 high-end-looking labels.
  • Includes a Thermometer | A thermometer takes the guesswork out of the melting and cooling process.

Best Beeswax Candle Making Kit: Scented Candle Making Kit DIY Gift Set by YINUO LIGHT

If you’d like to try your hand at making beeswax candles, this is the kit you should choose.

For a start the kit comes with six adorable individually designed tins that you can reuse or repurpose when your candle has burnt down.

Check Price

You also get four 7 oz packs of pure organic beeswax, six fragrances, and six candle dye colors to complement each scent.

If you are wondering how beeswax candles compare to soy. They do have some advantages.

While both soy and beeswax are healthier, more clean-burning, and naturally last much longer than regular candles, beeswax candles last even longer than soy and are the least likely of any candle to cause allergies.

They also have a very faint (almost undetectable) honey scent of their own, making them the best choice if you don’t want to burn a scented candle.

As far as this kit goes, cotton wicks, glue dots, centering device droppers, a melting pitcher, as well as a thermometer, are all included in the kit so you have everything you need.

What We Like:

  • Four 7 oz Packs of Pure Organic Beeswax | Beeswax candles last even longer than soy and are the least likely of any candle to cause allergies.
  • Six Candle Dye Colors | The colors compliment the scents that come with the kit.
  • Six Pure Fragrances | The kit comes with rose, lemon, lavender, eucalyptus spearmint, and ocean.

Buying Factors to Consider:

Beeswax candles are very easy to make. They require a lower temperature (just above the melting point (66ºC – 70ºC) and you should let the candle cool slowly.

Best for Colored Candles: Candle Making Kit by StorageMaid

If you’d like to make some colorful soy candles, this is the kit for you.

It comes with 16 color blocks so you can experiment to get the perfect color blend.

And the kit comes with four 8 oz bags of soy so there’s plenty of wax to get you started.

Check Price

The four fragrances that come with the kit are clean cotton, coconut lime, cinnamon, and lavender.

You also get a melting pitcher, a thermometer, 2 round, and 2 square 8 oz candle tins, cotton candle wicks, centering devices, glue dots, stirring sticks, and an instruction booklet.

The kit comes complete with warning labels and even includes silicone finger protectors.

What We Like:

  • The Kit Includes 16 Color Blocks | So you can experiment to get the perfect color blend.
  • Includes Four fragrances | Clean cotton, coconut lime, cinnamon, and lavender.
  • Comes with a Thermometer | Not all kits include one.

Buying Factors to Consider:

It’s a good starter kit and a great option if you are making candles with children, they will love the strong colors you can get.

Unlike the other kits, this one doesn’t come with labels. But it’s a starter kit, as are all the kits we have featured here. Once you get into candle making you’ll want to design or make your own brand labels.

Nature’s Blossom Candle Making Supplies Kit

This is a lovely kit for making double wick candles.

Key Features:

  • Three scents: lavender, lemon, and chamomile.
  • 1.5 Lbs of soy wax.
  • Three wide 8 oz tins.
Check Price

3 Jar Kit

Blue Aurra DIY Candle Making Kit

This classy-looking kit will make three jar candles with lids.

Key Features:

  • 3 x 8 oz bags of soy wax
  • 3 dye blocks – blue, purple, and cinnamon.
  • 4 fragrances – lavender, ocean, and cinnamon.
Check Price

Soy Melts/Tarts Making Kit

This is a great little soy melts kit. It has everything you need to make soy melt snaps.

Key Features:

  • The kit comes with two scents but you can choose which combination of scents you prefer. Orange bliss & vanilla dreams are just one of the choices.
  • Scent refills are available.
  • Makes 36 wax melt snaps.
Check Price

Candle Making Accessories

12 Pcs Candle Tin Jars

The Scented Candle Making Kit DIY Gift Set by YINUO LIGHT featured above comes with similar tins. I think they are adorable so it’s good to know you can buy a 12-piece set separately.

Key Features:

  • 2.5 oz tins to make mini candles.
  • The tins are reusable so you can use them to store other things after use such like beads for example.
  • 12 unique designs.
Check Price

Cotton Wicks

EricX Light 100 Piece Cotton Candle Wick 6″ Pre-Waxed

Made from 100% cotton, these 6 inch wicks come ready waxed and tabbed.

Key Features:

  • Pre-waxed and pre-tabbed.
  • 100, 40 thread cotton cords.
  • Wick length of 6 inches.
Check Price

Filed Under: Crafts

The Best Soap Making Kit 2022

April 26, 2020 by Comfy Zen Leave a Comment

As an enthusiastic soap-maker myself, I would highly recommend that the best way to get started is to choose a good soap-making kit. These kits use the melt-and-pour method which makes the process easy, fun, and above all safe. That’s because the saponification process has already been done for you. So there’s no need to use the harsh chemicals that are required in the lye process when making soap from scratch.

And don’t worry, it’s super easy to make beautiful artisan soap. I regularly make my own soap, you can check out my favorite homemade honey oatmeal soap recipe if you like. Let me tell you, it doesn’t take too much time out of your day, – preparation is about 30 minutes or less. It’s also practically foolproof and a fun activity for kids too.

There are tons of soap-making kits on the market to choose from, so we’ve done the hard work and chosen our top 5 recommendations for the best soap-making kit on the market.

Choosing a Soap-Making Kit

One thing to note about soap-making kits is that they don’t all contain the same basic items. In other words, some kits are more complete than others. The DilaBee kit, for example, includes a bowl and pitcher for melting the soap base whereas the Chelseas kit doesn’t. I have mentioned any additional items you might need at the end of each review.

Melt and Pour Soap Bases

The most important factor to consider is the quality of the soap base – as well as the quality of any fragrances included.

High-grade kits are made with vegetarian or vegan-based SLS, SLES, and paraben-free oils. The fat content of the base has two purposes:

  • Saturated fats increase a soap’s lathe.
  • Unsaturated fats moisturize and nourish the skin.

As you probably already know, each type of fat has its own unique properties and therefore provides its own benefits. Bases include:

  • Shea Butter
  • Aloe
  • Olive Oil
  • Charcoal
  • Coconut Milk
  • Avocado Butter
  • Hemp Seed Oil
  • Glycerin

Molds

Some kits it has to be said, contain cheap plastic molds. They are not my favorite as they can make releasing the soap from the mold more difficult. Silicone molds in comparison are much more resilient and because they are more flexible it makes it easier to remove the soap. Fortunately, they are easy to find separately and you may want to experiment or diversify your soap shapes anyway. So you can always buy additional molds for future soap-making ventures.

Price

Soap-making kits are inexpensive and are pretty good value for money average prices are between $30 – $50. They make great gifts for like-minded crafty friends or as a treat for yourself if you fancy trying something new.

Our Top Pick
DilaBee Soap Making Kit
ZenseMe Soap Making Kit for Adults

Custom Melt and Pour Glycerin Soap Gift Kit by Glory Creek

Complete DIY Soap Making Kit by Nicole

Saponify Melt and Pour Soap Base Sampler Kit

Pifito Melt and Pour Soap Base Sampler Kit 2

Our Top Pick

DilaBee Soap Making Kit

The DilaBee has got everything you need to get your soap-making game on point:

2 lbs of Shea Butter Soap Base, 4 essential oils, 4 liquid dyes, 2 plastic molds (choose between standard shapes or flower designs), a pouring pitcher, 2 stirring sticks, a mixing bowl, and 4 soap boxes for gift-giving or re-selling. Plus, the instructions are clear and easy to follow.

Check Price on Amazon

But the best part about this soap-making kit? It’s for everyone. Whether you’re a seasoned soap-making pro or just starting out, this kit has everything you need to create your own luxurious soap bars. And if you’re not thrilled with the process, no worries – your purchase is covered by a 100% Money-Back Guarantee.

So if you’re looking to get creative with soap making, this kit is the way to go.

Pros:

  • Comes with 2 lbs of Shea Butter Soap Base, 4 essential oils, 4 liquid dyes, 2 plastic molds, a pouring pitcher, 2 stirring sticks, a mixing bowl, and 4 soap boxes
  • Clear and easy-to-follow instructions included
  • Suitable for both beginners and experienced soap makers
  • 100% Money-Back Guarantee

Cons:

  • Comes with plastic molds which are less practical than silicone.

Also Great

ZenseMe Soap Making Kit for Adults

This kit has everything you need to get started on your soap-making journey.

Introducing the only luxury melt-and-pour soap making kit you’ll ever need.

Check Price on Amazon

With all-natural ingredients and 6 therapeutic essential oils, you can create about 8 colorful and luxurious homemade soap bars that are organic, vegan, and great quality. Plus, the included silicone mold allows you to turn out beautiful and unique soaps (with ease) in endless scent combinations. And if you run out of the included 2lbs of Shea Butter soap base, you can buy goat’s milk, glycerin, and Shea Butter soap bases to try with this kit.

Pros:

  • Comes with everything you need to get started on your soap-making journey
  • All-natural ingredients and 6 therapeutic essential oils included
  • Can create about 8 colorful and luxurious homemade soap bars that are organic, vegan, and of great quality
  • Silicone mold allows for easy creation of beautiful and unique soaps in endless scent combinations
  • Includes Shea Butter soap base, but other soap bases such as goat’s milk, glycerin, and Shea Butter can be purchased to use with the kit

Cons:

  • Additional items may be needed, such as a spray bottle of rubbing alcohol, measuring cup, and wooden spoon

Best Kids Kit

Custom Melt and Pour Glycerin Soap Gift Kit by Glory Creek

It’s so easy to get into making embeds with this super-cute fun kit.

The Glory Creek is a step up from children’s soap kits but your kids will definitely want to join in.

Check Price on Amazon

The kit comes with 4 stars, 4 hearts, and 4 seashells. You also get squigglies and ribbons, so you can really get creative with your designs.

You get a generous 2 lbs of white and clear soap base. The kit also comes with 2 craft sticks for stirring, a silicone mini loaf pan, 8 gift bags, with jute ties, and gift cards.

Pros:

  • Fun kit with lots of embeds to get creative with
  • Comes with 2 lbs of quality glycerin soap base
  • Includes gift bags and tags for handmade soap gifts
  • Easy to use and great for practicing soap-making techniques

Cons:

  • Additional items may be needed, such as a spray bottle of rubbing alcohol, measuring cup, and wooden spoon
  • May not be suitable for advanced soap makers looking for more complex techniques

Also Consider

DIY Melt & Pour Shea Butter Soap Making Kit

Create soaps that are more fun and visually appealing than the typical bar

This kit contains the same molds that I use when making my favorite recipes.

Check Price on Amazon

This package includes everything you need to create your own homemade soap. You’ll get 2 lbs of shea butter soap base, 2 silicone square containers, 6 fragrance oils, 6 liquid dyes, a glass measuring cup, a silicone stirring stick, 2 dry flowers, and 12 homemade wrap labels. Plus, there’s a detailed introduction to guide you through the soap-making process.

But what sets this kit apart from the rest is the ability to get creative with your soaps. You can mix and match scents and colors to create your own unique soaps. Plus, with the included dry flowers and other fun embeds, you can create soaps that are more fun and visually appealing than the typical bar.

And don’t worry if you’re a beginner – this kit comes with step-by-step instructions to ensure your soap-making experience is a successful one. So don’t be afraid to dive in and try your hand at soap making.

Pros:

  • The kit includes a variety of fragrance oils and liquid dyes, allowing you to mix and match scents and colors to create your own unique soaps.
  • The kit includes dry flowers and other fun embeds, giving you the opportunity to create visually appealing soaps.
  • The kit includes step-by-step instructions, making it suitable for beginners.
  • Contains silicone Molds (preferable to plastic).

Cons:

  • Additional items may be needed, such as a spray bottle of rubbing alcohol.

Other Worthy Mentions:

Pick No 1

Complete DIY Soap Making Kit by Nicole

This kit even goes one step further. If you want to make soap from scratch you can use the lye method with this kit too (it includes safety glasses, gloves, a ph test kit and thermometer, and glass rod for stirring, etc).

Check Price on Amazon

What we love about this kit is that it comes with a food-grade loaf soap mold, a wave knife, a soap knife (for a straight edge), and a wooden beveler for chamfering your edges, so you can make artisan soap slices. Also included are 4 sizes of measuring cups, two pipettes, a silicone scraper, and a stainless steel whisk for blending your essential oils, botanicals, and minerals. If you intend to make soap using the lye process you will need to invest in a stick blender, and of course, you will need lye, distilled water, and a spray bottle of rubbing alcohol (to remove bubbles from the surface of your trace).

The kit also contains a 500g soap base to get you started with the melt-and-pour method. The soap base provided isn’t the best quality in our opinion. So If you go for this kit we recommend buying a good quality soap base.

Pick No 2

Saponify Melt and Pour Soap Base Sampler Kit

If you’d like to make soaps to sell, this sampler kit is the ideal way to get started.

I know from the photo you might think the kit only gives you a small sample of each soap base but this is a big kit.

Check Price on Amazon

The kit consists of 8 different, 1lb soap bases allowing you to sample and try out different the different varieties including shea butter, avocado butter, coconut milk, olive oil, charcoal, and aloe.

The kit includes a leaf-shaped mold that will give you up to 12 guest-sized bars from each 1 lb block of soap base – that’s a total of 96 bars.

We love the scope this kit gives you to experiment and develop your soap-making skills. You can keep things simple or create multi-layered combinations. You can add your own botanicals, like flowers and herbs, or add skin-safe fragrances, and colors up to 3%.

You will still need a small spray bottle containing rubbing alcohol if you want a bubble-free surface on your trace. You’ll also need a microwave-safe measuring cup, a wooden spoon, and of course, any botanicals or scents you want to add.

Pick No 3

Pifito DIY Hand Soap Making Supplies Kit

This is a great little starter kit if you want to experiment with different bases.

The best part about this kit is that it takes all the guesswork out of soap making. You don’t have to go around trying to figure out which base is the best one for you.

Check Price on Amazon

You can just try them all and see which one works best for you. And the best part is, you get a whole bunch of each base, so you can make a ton of soap and really get a feel for which one you like best.

Filed Under: Crafts

The Best Craft Organizer for 2022

April 13, 2020 by Comfy Zen Leave a Comment

Whether you’re an occasional crafter or you are lucky enough to have your own craft room, having the best craft organizer for all your materials is essential.

You don’t need to spend a fortune to be well organized either, most craft storage solutions are very affordable.

There are tons of different craft organizers on the market to choose from, so we’ve done the hard work for you and narrowed our research down to our best recommendations for each category.

Editor’s AwardBrand
Best Craft Storage Cart
Giantex 15 Drawer Rolling Storage Cart
Best Craft Bag
Everything Mary Craft Bag Organizer Tote
Best Storage Drawers
ArtBin Art Bin 0365498 Store-in-Drawer Cabinet
Best Bead Storage
Elizabeth Ward Bead Storage Solutions
Best Knitting Bag
Teamoy Knitting Bag, Yarn Tote Organizer
Best Yarn and Fabric Storage
ClosetMaid 4167 Cubeicals Organizer
Best Craft Organizer Cabinet

Craft and Hobby Cabinet with Drawers by Best Craft Organizer
Best Small Craft Organizer Cabinet
Winsome Halifax Storage

Reviews of the Craft Organizers We Recommend

If you need a craft table or sewing cabinet to complete your craft room we have in-depth guides for those too. You can also find a good craft light here.

Best Craft Storage Cart: Giantex 15 Drawer Rolling Storage Cart

Best Craft Storage Cart

This colorful rolling storage cart is the perfect way to keep all your craft supplies and tools close to hand, whether you’re working at a craft table or just in a comfortable chair.

Check Price

The cart comes in a range of different draw configurations and sizes, that will comfortably accommodate virtually any number of crafting materials.

The fifteen drawer cart version, shown above, has five deep drawers, for yarns, fabrics, (A4) paper or card supplies, craft books, magazines, and more. As well as ten standard-sized drawers – great for craft tools including plyers, scissors, pencils, paints, knitting, crochet needles, etc.

Giantex 20 Drawer Rolling Storage Cart

And if you prefer a more understated look – this Giatex rolling cart also comes in plain black or white as shown below.

Giantex 10 Drawer Rolling Storage Cart

Whichever size or configuration is the most suitable for the craft you specialize in, they all share the same structural features. Namely a sturdy metal frame with a chrome finish, four 360-degree swivel wheels – two of which are lockable, and an integral handle design – making the cart easily portable, so it’s handy for moving the cart to just where you need it.

What We Like:

  • Portable Storage | This cart design means you craft anywhere – your tools and supplies can move to wherever you want them.
  • Different Drawer Sizes and Configurations Available | It has sturdy plastic trays and also comes in a choice of rainbow colors, black or white to match or contrast your craft room decor.
Giantex 12 Drawer Rolling Storage Cart

For other sizes just click on the images in this section.

Best Craft Bag: Everything Mary Craft Bag Organizer Tote

This cute tote is ideal for crafters on the go.

If like me, you work on your craft projects whenever you get the chance, you can simply pack your craft essentials in this adorable bag and take them with you – wherever you go.

…So handy – even if you’re just working on something creative in your backyard on a warm sunny day at home.

Check Price

Made from high-quality 300 denier polyester fabric, this super roomy craft bag, has a total of seventeen different compartments, and it comes in a choice of colors to suit any taste – each as stunning as the two gorgeous color options shown above and below.

What we really love about this bag is the compartmented interior which organizes your crafting tools and materials into sections. The design makes it so easy to see everything at once and prevents a big jumble from forming at the bottom of your bag.

And there’s more than meets the eye too, the interior compartments are collapsible, two of them fold flat to make more space, and two form corner pockets – how clever is that?

There is one big zippered pocket to the rear of the bag and two pockets have flaps to safely store small items.

Dimensions: 11.75″ by 9.5″ by 7.25″

What We Like:

  • Collapsible Interior Sections | The collapsable design gives this bag a fully customizable interior.
  • Lots of Storage Pockets | The bag has seventeen different storage pockets.
  • Attractive Design | This back is stylish and chic. It comes in a range of lovely colors or fabric options.

Best Craft Storage Drawers: ArtBin Art Bin 0365498 Store-in-Drawer Cabinet

These stackable drawer units with transparent drawer fronts make organizing small craft items a dream.

There’s nothing more frustrating than wasting your time, looking for a particular button or color bobbin you know you have, but just can’t find.

With these drawer cabinets, you can see everything at a glance.

Check Price

Available in either a 9-drawer or a 30-drawer unit, the cabinet is ideal for beads, cabochons, jewelry findings, threads, bobbins, scrapbooking stamps, stamp pads, inks, or other small craft supplies.

The 30-drawer cabinet has drawer dimensions of 1.5 x 2.25 x 5.5 inches and the larger drawer unit has 9 drawers measuring 4.75 x 5.5 x 2.5 inches each.

What’s great about the design of this cabinet is that you can customize the drawer size with optional dividers, perfect if you want to add more than one type of craft item per drawer.

The cabinet itself is stackable in whichever drawer configuration you choose, and the cabinet is wall-mountable to save on space

What We Like:

  • Wall Mountable and Stackable | For neat storage and saving space.
  • Customizable Drawers | There is an option to add separately available dividers – ideal for adding more than one type of item to a drawer.

Best Bead Storage: Elizabeth Ward Bead Storage Solutions

I have to confess, I have become a bit obsessed with beading recently, you can see my just completed projects below and I’ll will post more soon.

I’m just waiting on a whole bunch of new beads, for a beaded bezel ring I want to make.

My bead list currently includes a beautiful 12mm square chaton in light turquoise, chrysolite opal shimmer bicones, and about a ton of 11/0 and 15/0 Miyuki seed beads.

Check Price

But then, as long as you have everything well organized, you can never really have too many beads, can you?

The Elizabeth Ward stackable 45, or 82-piece – bead storage tray is the perfect way to organize and store your beads.

What I particularly love about this bead tray is that each drawer is an individually removable storage container that you can take out and use for whatever beads you are working with.

With the 45 – piece bead tray you get 3 large, 10 medium, 16 small, and 13 tiny bead storage containers.

The 82-piece has 78 tiny containers. The trays are stackable and come with a clear lid and a sheet of labels – handy for noting down color shades or bead types and sizes. and if you need more they are easy and cheap to buy.

The containers themselves have a secure closure but aren’t awkward to open (they open by lifting a flap on the side).

I love how easy it is to color coordinate beads for new projects. Just by placing a few containers next to each other, you can get a good idea of how well your colors will work together.

Dimensions:

  • Tray 13.75 x 10.5 x 2 inches
  • Large Container 0.75 x2 x 1.125 inches
  • Medium 1.75 x 2 x 1.125 inches
  • Small 1.0667 x 2 x 1.125 inches
  • Tiny 0.75 x 2 x 1.125 inches

Best Knitting Bag: Teamoy Knitting Bag, Yarn Tote Organizer

If you are a knitter or a crocheter, you will love this cleverly designed knitting bag.

Just over half of the interior is divided into 6 compartments to separate your yarns and each compartment has a matching hole on the transparent lid.

The holes allow you to feed your yarn through (for straight from the bag use) and you can secure the ends via tiny velcro strips.

Your knitting or crochet project can then be safely stored in the adjoining interior section, so there’s no chance of tangling, and your project won’t end up pilling before it’s even completed.

Check Price

There’s plenty of pocket storage including a zipped pocket containing two strips of MOLLE webbing, (one for 9 larger hooks and one for 6 smaller hooks,) you also get side pockets and a zippered top pocket for different-sized needles too.

For your knitting or crochet patterns, there’s a back pocket that’s perfectly designed for the purpose.

The bag is made from strong nylon and has carry handles as well as a shoulder strap.

This adorable bag is perfect for keeping everything you need for your project in one place.

And the best thing about it is you can take everything you need wherever you go – handy even if that’s just to another room.

What We Like:

  • Separate Yarn Compartments with Feed Holes | This is great for knitting straight from the bag. Your yarns will never get tangled.
  • Knitting Needle and Crochet Hook Storage | The back has multiple pockets for different-sized needles and MOLLE webbing strips for your crochet hooks.

Best Yarn and Fabric Storage: ClosetMaid 4167 Cubeicals Organizer

A storage cube is the best way to store and organize your yarns and folded fabrics.

Why? Because you can see all your materials at a glance. You can group them by batch, organize them by weight, fiber, color, or simply by the project.

And of course, you’ll be able to admire your growing collection of fabrics or yarns (especially if you spin your own) that you’ve lined up for forthcoming projects for knitting, crocheting, weaving or quiltmaking, etc.

Check Price

There are a number of cube options out there, including the customizable KOUSI Portable Storage Cube Organizer, which is featured in our main image at the top of this page.

The KOUSI (top main image) is made up of blocks that be assembled/stacked however you like. It’s not as sturdy as our top pick for this section, but once it’s put together it’s a good choice.

The ClosetMaid 4167 however, is a solid piece of furniture. You can choose any number of cubes to make up the finished cabinet, from a 3-2-1, combination to a 2, 3, 4, 6, 8 or 12 cube design, like the one shown below.

Back pieces come with all cabinets (except the 1-2-3 combination) and are a nice touch to the overall look of the design, as you can see in to photo above. They also help to add extra stability to the structure.

What’s great about the design of this cubed cabinet is that you can customize it with fabric bins to match or contrast your craft room decor.

The fabric bins are sold separately but any bin that measures 10.5 x 10.5 x 11″ will fit – so you can shop around for the best deals and get just the right color to match your craft room decor.

Royexe Storage Bins

What We Like:

  • Can be Used Vertically or Horizontally | This cubical storage cabinet has several configurations to choose from.
  • Compatible with Fabric Storage Bins | Any 10.5 x 10.5 x 11″ Fabric storage bin will fit so you can shop around for just the right shade.

Best Craft Organizer Cabinet: Craft and Hobby Cabinet with Drawers by Best Craft Organizer

Designed specifically for crafters, this cabinet would make the perfect addition to any craft room.

Whatever your craft, it’s ideal for organizing and storing all your craft supplies in one place.

Check Price

The drawers included are twelve, 1-inch drawers, six, 2-inch drawers, and four, 3.5 -inch drawers.

You can easily arrange them in any way you like, by adjusting the drawer rails closer or further apart. There are pre-drilled holes, positioned at 1-inch increments, designed specifically for the purpose.

The cabinet’s frame is made from 3/4″ thermofused melamine and it is available in either a maple or white finish. The drawers are made from high-impact polypropylene.

Though not the cheapest option we have looked at, the cabinet will last for years and give any craft room a stylish, contemporary look.

Dimensions: 14″ deep x 27″ wide x 24.5″ high.

Best Small Craft Organizer Cabinet: Winsome Halifax Storage

If you’re an occasional crafter and don’t have a designated craft room this 26.3″ high, 5-drawer cabinet has plenty of drawer space, it’s portable, and would look good in any room.

If you do have a craft room, it would make the perfect accompaniment to your craft table – when it’s not needed, you can just roll it away.

Check Price

The cabinet is well made from composite wood and features cut-out handles and lockable castor feet.

We love the design of this cabinet (which is also available in black). Add one more unit and you could easily make your own craft desk by simply placing a tabletop above.

However, you use it, it’s one of the most stylish and convenient ways to organize your craft items.

Dimensions: Inside drawers 15.9″ wide x 11.8″ deep x 2.6″ high.

Other Craft Storage Solutions We’ve Reviewed:

These are more specialized storage solutions:

For Storing Vinyl

ArtBin 6864XL Storage Tower

Such a simple design and it’s stackable too.

Key Features:

  • Holds 36 Vinyl Rolls.
  • Stack two together to hold 72 Rolls.
Check Price

Scrapbooking or Quiter’s Storage

ArtBin Semi Satchel Box

Store stamps, punches, dies, card or fat quarters and co-ordinating threads, etc.

Key Features:

  • Removable compartments to customize your space.
  • 15.25 x 14 x 6.25 inches.
Check Price

Craft Paint Storage

ArtBin 6828AG Paint Storage Tray

A great way to store your craft paints, and it just looks so pretty.

Key Features:

  • Wall mountable or stand in a tabletop.
  • One tray fits into 6925AB and two trays fit into 6990AB Super Satchel.
Check Price

Stained Glass Storage

Studio Pro Organizer

Safely store your stained glass sheets with this Studio Pro Organizer.

Key Features:

  • 15 slot organizer.
  • 1/2-inch openings with rubber tips.
  • Perfect for 12″ x 12″ sheets.
Check Price

Wooden Yarn Bowl


Wooden Yarn Bowl

We couldn’t resist this cleverly designed yarn bowl. It’s beautiful even if you don’t knit.

Key Features:

  • Real wood with smooth edges.
  • Preventing tangles.
  • Two holes for your needles to stop them from falling out.
Check Price

Ink and Paint Rack

OPHIR Wooden Paint Rack Stand

Perfect for your airbrush inks and tools.

Key Features:

  • 16 large, 42 small and 22 mini holes (0.28, 0.98, and 1.46 inches).
  • Two drawers for airbrushes and other tools.
  • Fits Tamiya paints, AV Vallejo paints and more.
Check Price

Ink Pad Storage Holder

Ink Pad Storage Holder and Stamp Pad Storage

You can see all your colors easily with this ink pad display stand.

Key Features:

  • Holds 36 pads.
  • Elevated for easy access and view.
  • Can be positioned two ways.
Check Price

Filed Under: Crafts

The Best Stained Glass Grinder for 2022

March 30, 2020 by Comfy Zen Leave a Comment

This is a quick guide to the best stained glass grinder. Maybe you want to use the copper foil method for your stained glass projects and you need the edges of your glass to be super smooth without any burrs. Or maybe you want to make perfectly shaped pattern pieces for mosaics etc. Either way, we’ve selected the best ones on the market today.

Stained glass grinders are simple in design and while they do all look pretty similar, some grinders, do have features that make them much easier to work with, as well as more efficient than others.

Before we take a look at the best ones out there, you should know that just like tile saws, lapidary saws, and cabbing machines, etc they do all require water to operate. This is to cool the glass and protect and cool the grinding bit, as well as prevent glass dust from becoming airborne.

So to get started, we’ll take a look at the most popular stained glass grinders on the market and take you through what exactly makes the best stand out from the rest.

Editor’s awardBrand
Best All-round Stained Glass GrinderGryphon Convertible Professional Stained Glass Grinder
Runner Up for the Best Stained Glass GrinderGlastar All Star G8 Grinder
Best Budget Stained Glass GinderGryphon Studio Stained Glass Grinder
Best Mini Stained Glass GrinderGryphon Gryphette Diamond Glass Grinder

Click below to jump to each topic in this guide.

  • Best All-round Stained Glass Grinder
  • Runner Up for the Best Stained Glass Grinder
  • Best Budget Stained Glass Ginder
  • Best Mini Stained Glass Grinder
  • Frequently Asked Questions
  • Other Stained Glass Grinders We’ve Reviewed
  • Accessories and Essential Equipment

Best All-Round Stained Glass Grinder: Gryphon Convertible Professional Stained Glass Grinder

The Gryphon Convertible is our well-deserved top pick not least because it has a simple but ingenious two-position design so that you can work either in the flat position or at a comfortable 30 ° angle – ideal for those who feel more comfortable working while sitting down.

This can be achieved simply by rotating the base 180 degrees.

But what truly sets it apart from more basic models, however, is its highly efficient water cooling system whereby, regardless of the angle you work at, a hose drips a constant supply of water directly over the grinding bit to keep it cool.

Check Price

This eliminates the need for the wet sponge method of cooling the grinding bit that the majority of power grinders use.

The Gryphon Convertible does give you the option to use a sponge if you wish, and when used, it’s held in position against the grinding bit via the winged brackets behind the bit.

So what’s the deal?

While grinders that use sponges work perfectly well and many glass artists are happy using this method, this is no longer necessary with a grinder that has a built-in water pump, and to be frank, it just makes life so much easier than having to deal with a sponge that so easily clogs up with sludge (glass dust) reducing the life of your bit.

Several YouTube tutorials on how to rig up a homemade device (usually involving a plastic bottle) to drip water onto the bit are a testament to the inefficiency of the sponge.

The sponge method also requires you to make sure the sponge is kept consistently wet, or in the case of cheaper basic stained glass grinders, (which we don’t recommend even for beginners,) physically hold the sponge against the grinder bit while holding your pattern piece in your other hand.

After all, for any skill level – but especially if you are new to the craft – the last thing you want is to be wrestling with a wet sponge when you need to concentrate on smoothing and shaping your pattern pieces.

The grinder has a 0.67 amp DC motor capable of 3000 rpm and it delivers 67 oz. per inch torque. That is slightly less RPM than the All Star’s 3,560 RPM’s that we’ll be will be looking at next, but it has an impressively higher torque – thanks to its 1/5 HP DC motor.

Simply put, it’s a powerful stained glass grinder – capable of heavy and prolonged use and even with denser glass or larger pattern pieces, you will get a smooth, clean edge every time.

Other features we love about this power grinder are the large 13.5″ by 10.5″ platform for working with larger pattern pieces and the included addition of a second-story platform.

This comes in handy when working on small scale projects when a second (smaller) grinding bit is installed above the primary grinding bit.

The second story platform takes seconds to install. It clips onto the lower platform when required and the water hose can easily be adjusted accordingly.

The Convertible comes with two diamond bits. One 1″ grinding bit for general use and one 1/4″ grinding bit for finer detailed work, – the grinder is also compatible with other bit sizes too.

What We Like:

  • Unique Adjustable Angle | Not everyone feels comfortable (or is able) to work standing up so having the option to adjust the angle of the grinder so that you can work sitting down is a great feature – and clearly shows the grinder was designed with thought for the user.
  • Two Grinder Bits Included | It’s worth pointing out that cheaper models only come with one grinding bit.
  • Highly Efficient Water Cooling System | It has a built-in water pump that drips a constant supply of water directly over the grinding bit to keep it cool. This is a feature that cheaper and more basic models don’t have.
  • Second-Story Platform Included | This comes in handy when working on small scale projects – when a second (smaller) grinding bit is installed above the primary grinding bit.
  • High-Torque Motor | It won’t slow down under pressure or prolonged use. The grinder has a powerful 1/5 HP DC motor which is capable of 3000 RPM and delivers 67 oz. per inch torque.

Buying Factors to Consider:

While not the cheapest stained glass grinder on the market, it’s excellent value for money (and cheaper) than our runner-up. And to be frank, it’s well worth the investment. Grinders are not a piece of equipment that get more complicated to use the higher your skill level.

The better features, most notably the built-in water pump, make these higher-spec power grinders much more user friendly especially for those new to the craft, who just want to concentrate on shaping edges and smoothing out burrs.

And don’t forget you do get 2 (most commonly used) grinder bits included with the kit which adds to the overall value of this option.

The Gryphon has a five-year limited manufacturer’s warranty.

Runner Up for the Best Stained Glass Grinder: Glastar All Star G8 Grinder

The Glastar All Star G8 Grinder has all the features you’d expect from a quality stained glass grinder.

It supplies an impressive running speed of 3,650 RPM and a 42 in-oz maximum torque thanks to its 1/9 HP motor.

So it’s more than capable of holding up to heavy duty grinding and can handle frequent and prolonged use with ease.

Check Price

It does cost a little more than our top choice which is why it missed our top spot but it’s an exceptionally well-made machine and does have a couple of features along with a higher RPM that may appeal to some stained glass artists.

This model has a built-in accessory drawer to keep everything tidy and in one place. It has an adjustable straight edge guide for precise grinding of straight edge pattern pieces and it also has a flexible rubber splash guard – handy when working with irregular or awkwardly- shaped pattern pieces.

Additionally, it features a large 8″ x 9″ scratch-resistant eye shield (though this isn’t a replacement for your safety glasses).

Like our top pick, it has superior bit cooling by means of a built-in water pump which eliminates the need for a sponge. Though again you can, if you like, use a sponge and there is a built-in holder specifically for the purpose.

The G8 doesn’t skimp on features. It has a large working surface of 11″ x 13″, a second story mini table for small and delicate pattern pieces and it comes with two grinding bits, a 1″ and a 1/4″ bit.

What We Like:

  • Built-in Water Pump | It has a highly efficient water cooling system using a built-in water pump to keep the grinding bit cool. Again, this is a feature that cheaper, more basic models don’t have.
  • Second-Story Platform Included | This comes in handy when working with small and delicate pattern pieces. A second (smaller) grinding bit can be installed above the primary grinding bit. The mini table can then be quickly and conveniently clipped onto the main platform when you want to use the smaller bit higher up.

Buying Factors to Consider:

This is an excellent choice and we have nothing negative to say about it. It does cost more than our top pick but is a well made sturdy machine. You may just want to consider whether the few extra features are worth the extra cost.

The Glastar All Star G8 Grinder comes with a full 5-year warranty

Best Budget Stained Glass Ginder: Gryphon Studio Stained Glass Grinder

The Gryphon Studio is ideal for any skill level but comes with a more affordable – entry-level price tag.

While there’s no water pump with this model, it does have its own gravity-fed water cooling tower that meters water directly onto the sponge to keep the grinding bit cool – most grinders rely on the sponge to draw water up for the reservoir below.

Check Price

This is a much more efficient method. And if you choose to mount a second grinding bit over the first? Both heads will be kept wet – even if the heads are different diameters.

Despite the lower price point, you get the same powerful 1/5 HP DC motor as the Gryphon Convertable which is capable of 3000 RPM and delivers 67 oz. per inch torque.

That means the motor won’t stall as soon as you put more pressure on the bit.

The Studio only comes with one (1″) grinding bit and the platform surface area is a little smaller at 9.75” by 9” but that’s only likely to be a limiting factor if you consistently work with large pattern pieces.

What We Like:

  • Affordable Option for a Stained Glass Grinder | There’s quite a big jump up in price to the Gryphon Convertable, making this a great option for beginners or those on a budget.
  • High-Torque Motor | Despite the lower price point, you get the same powerful 1/5 HP DC motor as the Gryphon Convertable which is capable of 3000 RPM and delivers 67 oz. per inch torque.
  • Gravity-fed Water Cooling Tower | This allows water to drip directly onto the sponge to keep the grinding bit cool.

Buying Factors to Consider:

To sum up, you’re getting a great little grinder with this option. You’ll have the same amount of power behind this glass grinder as our top choice.

You are compromising on some accessories like the second story platform, an extra grinding bit, table size, and you don’t get a water pump but the essentials are there and it’s a great machine for a low price.

Best Mini Stained Glass Grinder: Gryphon Gryphette Diamond Glass Grinder

This is the ideal stained glass grinder for those who work on small-scale stained glass projects, are limited on space, or for those who would like to have an additional power grinder – perfect if you want to have a second grinder set up with your favorite specialist bit.

Check Price

For its small size, the Gryphon Gryphette has a powerful 0.67 amp motor delivering 3000 RPM. So you don’t need to worry about a step down in performance.

The 6.75” by 6.75” platform has an integrated space to hold the sponge which keeps the bit cool by drawing water from the reservoir below.

The Gryphette comes with one 3/4″ bit but is also compatible with other sizes too.

What We Like:

  • Compact Size | Its size makes it perfect for occasional glass artists, students, or for the classroom. It’s also great for those who want a second machine.
  • Powerful Motor | You’d expect a mini grinder to have a much less powerful motor but the Gryphon Gryphette has a powerful 0.67 amp motor delivering 3000 RPM.

Alternative Stained Glass Grinders:

These are the products that didn’t quite make our top picks, but they’re still pretty good so you might like to take a look:

Inland

Inland Wiz CG Stained Glass Grinder

Not to be confused with the WizlingCG, this one is a little more powerful.

Key Features:

  • 30 oz.-in. torque motor.
  • Lift off reservoir – easy to remove for quick cleaning.
  • Includes ¾” and ¼” diamond grinding bits.
Check Price

Diamond Tech

Diamond Tech Studio Pro Grinder

You get a whopping 6-year warranty with this power grinder. It has a Super Sponge water cooling system.

Key Features:

  • 1/4″ and 1″ silver bullet bits included.
  • Powerful 1/8 HP, 2300 RPM Motor. Torque: .42 N.m Watts.
  • Includes a light.
Check Price

GLASTAR Superstar II

GLASTAR Superstar II Glass Grinder

It’s a step down from the All Star but it’s a decent machine and much more affordable.

Key Features:

  • The work surface is 8″ x 9″.
  • 1/12 HP motor.
  • Roller-type adjustable straight edge guide.
Check Price

Accessories and Essential Equipment:

Professional Seven Piece Stained Glass Tool Kit

Great for getting started with stained glass cutting.

It includes everything you need for stained glass, glass fusing, and mosaic glasswork.

Key Features:

  • Includes a 50 min instructional video.
  • Spring-loaded handles on the Breaking and Grozer Pliers
Check Price

You will need to add a stained glass coolant to the water:

Stained Glass Coolant

Coolant for grinder water reservoir

You will need to add a stained glass coolant to the water in your grinder’s reservoir.

Key Features:

  • Increases coolness.
  • Increases the life of the diamond bits.
  • Faster cleaner cutting.

Size: 8 Oz. bottle.

Check Price

Premium Glass Cutting Oil

Premium Glass Cutting Oil

This is not just regular mineral oil, it’s custom-formulated for glass cutting. It prolongs cutter blade/bit/wheel life, makes cleaner cuts.

Key Features:

  • Suitable for virtually any glass cutting project.
  • A twist top provides maximum ease of use.
Check Price

Copper Foil Tape 

Copper Foil Tape 

72 Yard Pack with Conductive Adhesive.

Key Features:

  • Suitable for indoors or outdoors.
  • Two roll pack.
  • Its 1/4” width is the perfect amount of overlap for standard stained glass (1/8”).
Check Price

Stained Glass Sheets

Blue Variety Stained Glass Pack

This variety pack has some gorgeous shades of blue.

And if you need a nifty and safe way to store your glass sheets, hop over to our craft organizer guide and head down to the bottom of the page.

Key Features:

  • 6″ x 8″ sheets.
  • Pack contains eight different pieces.
Check Price

Lastly, if you like some inspiration, hop over to our reading room, we have some good book recommendations.

Filed Under: Crafts

The Best Spinning Wheel for 2022

March 17, 2020 by Comfy Zen Leave a Comment

This is a straight-to-the-point guide to choosing the best spinning wheel. If you are a fiber artist – a knitter, crocheter, or weaver, for example, and you want to take your craft to the next level, the single best way to do this is by spinning your very own yarn.

The joy of blending your own colors and textures, of two or more ply and then handmaking something unique and beautiful with yarn you’ve handspun, can never be matched by using a store-bought yarn.

While it must be said, that spinning is an art that does take a little practice to learn the various techniques – it is technically easier to set up and use a spinning wheel than it might first appear.

And one of the best things about it is that there is a real charm in the slightly uneven or slubby homespun yarns you produce.

Get yourself a good tapestry loom and you can make some stunning projects with it. After all, if you wanted perfectly uniform yarn you might as well have just bought it from a store.

And if you’d like a free printable yarn label, please do hop over to our free printable page.

So if you like the idea of spinning your own yarn but you’re a little bewildered by the many different makes and styles of spinning wheels out there, don’t worry, we are here to guide you through them. We’ll take a look at the best ones out there, and help you choose the right one for you.

To get started, let’s get familiar with the most common types of spinning wheels out there and that we have compared in this guide:

The Kromski Prelude

The Saxony Spinning Wheel

The Saxony spinning wheel is easily recognizable by the placement of the wheel which is positioned at one end of a sloping frame. This gives the Saxony its horizontal appearance.

The Ashford Traveller

It has the largest footprint of all the commonly used styles so it does take up a little room.

The Castle Spinning Wheel

Castle Spinning Wheels are distinguishable by their compact, vertical appearance. As you can see to the right, the flyer is positioned above the wheel.

The Schacht Matchless

Modern Spinning Wheels

Designed to improve on traditional spinning wheels, modern spinning wheels come in a variety of non-traditional styles.

Electric Spinners

The
Ashford E-Spinner 3

Since electric spinning wheels don’t require a flywheel or foot peddle to work, their compact size makes them great for traveling and easy to store away.

They are super fast and are easy to learn – since they don’t require the simultaneous hand and foot coordination required by traditional spinning wheels.

Charkha Wheels

The eTradeIndia
Spinning Wheel Book for Amazon

Charkhas are the oldest known type of spinning wheel. Worked on a tabletop or often on the floor, they have a hand-turned wheel and the yarn is spun off the tip of the spindle. They are more of a specialized niche and most suitable for spinning cotton and other fine fibers.

Editor’s awardBrand
Our Top Pick – Best Affordable Option / Best for Beginners
Ashford Kiwi Spinning Wheel 3
Best Saxony Spinning Wheel for Beginners to Advanced Spinners
The Ashford Traditional
Best Affordable/Alternative Saxony Style Spinning Wheel
Kromski Prelude
Best Castle Spinning Wheel
Ashford Traveller Spinning Wheel
Best Electric Spinning Wheel
Ashford E-Spinner 3

Click below to jump to each section in this guide.

  • Our Top Pick – Best Affordable Option / Best for Beginners
  • Best Saxony Spinning Wheel for Beginners to Advanced Spinners
  • Best Affordable/Alternative Saxony Style Spinning Wheel
  • Best Castle Spinning Wheel
  • Best Electric Spinning Wheel
  • Frequently Asked Questions
  • Other Spinning Wheels We’ve Reviewed

Our Top Pick – Best Affordable Option / Best for Beginners: Ashford Kiwi Spinning Wheel 3

Ideal for all skill levels including complete beginners, the new Kiwi 3 is a nice step up from the ever-popular Kiwi 2. It can now be adjusted to 3 (instead of 2) different single drive ratios, (I’ll talk more about that in a second). It’s also now foldable, having folding treadles for portability and easy storage.

Check Price

As far as affordability goes, the Kiwi spinning wheel costs quite a lot less in comparison with many spinning wheels on the market. But that doesn’t mean there’s a compromise on features or quality. In fact, the new Kiwi 3 has a veneered wood finish on the flywheel, and that’s again, another step up from the Kiwi 2.

It’s super easy to use, having easy-learning ratios. This means the take-up won’t be too fast while you’re getting used to the spinning process. The 5.5, 7.5, and 9.5 to 1 flyer ratios are a measurement of how many times the flyer or bobbin spins per single revolution of the wheel. The higher the ratio the faster the yarn twists.

Generally speaking, you need a higher ratio for finer yarns, which require more twists, and a lower ratio for chunky yarns. So you see going fast isn’t always an advantage and this spinning wheel is great for spinners who want to spin chunky yarns or those just starting out in the craft. And if you get creative and want to spin either finer or super chunky yarns later on? There’s an inexpensive adapter kit to give you ratios of 7.5, 10, and 15 to 1 – suitable for finer yarns or you can add a super flyer kit with a huge 1⅛ inch orifice for spinning jumbo-sized yarns.

The double treadles are a nice feature too as they are easier on the legs and hips than a single treadle would be.

This single-drive, (Scotch tension) spinning wheel comes with 3 large 4-5ozs bobbins and a built-in Lazy Kate. 

And lastly, the central flyer is great for either right and left-handed spinners.

What We Like:

  • Great for Beginners or for Thicker Yarns | The 5.5, 7.5 and 9.5 to 1 flyer ratios mean the wheel doesn’t spin too quickly for beginners. It’s also great for medium to thicker weight yarns. And remember if you want to spin finer yarns you can always add an adapter kit.
  • Foldable and Portable | This is a great option for travel or simply for folding away at the end of the day. A big improvement on the Kiwi 2, are the foldable treadles.
  • Affordable Option | Spinning wheels do tend to be quite pricey, which is understandable given the workmanship involved. This option, however, is very affordable in comparison.
  • Double Treadles | Two treadles are much better for your legs than one. After all, spinning is a fairly lengthy process it can take several hours to spin enough yarn for a sweater.

Buying Factors to Consider:

Like virtually all spinning wheels, this one will require assembly. It will also require a finish to condition and protect the wood. That said, Ashford have very comprehensive instructions and so it’s not difficult to put it together.

Dimensions: 17½” wide, 28¾” tall, 19¾” deep.

Best Saxony Spinning Wheel for Beginners to Advanced Spinners: The Ashford Traditional Single Drive

If you’d like to learn to spin on a traditional Saxony-style spinning wheel, this is a great one to go for. Though Ashford sells a double drive option, we’ve specifically chosen the single drive.

That’s because with a single drive (one that has 1 drive band) you always have the option to convert it to a double drive if you wish. And the single drive is cheaper too.

Check Price

As a single-drive spinning wheel, the Ashford Traditional is easier for beginners to master. The Scotch tension system is just easier to get to grips with. Having a separately adjustable brake and drive band makes the control of the yarn twist and take-up much easier to handle.

The single drive ratios for this 4-speed flyer are 7, 9, 12, 17 to 1 which means this model can spin a wider variety of yarn thicknesses (including finer yarns) than the Kiwi featured above.

When used as a double drive, the ratios are 7.5, 10, and 14 to 1. Double drive spinning wheels increase yarn consistency and uniformity so it’s a nice option to have. And if you want to spin very chunky yarns, ply thick yarns or spin large quantities of yarn, you can always add a Jumbo Flyer.

We should warn you it’s not small, the wheel dimension is 22″ but it’s a beautiful piece so it’s not something you’d ever want put away. The Traditional comes with 4 large 4-5ozs bobbins and has a built-in Lazy Kate for plying. 

What We Like:

  • Single Drive Scotch Tension | With an option to use it as a double drive. Broadly speaking, single drives are great for beginners and double drives offer greater yarn consistency.
  • Good for a Wide Variety of Yarn Thicknessess | Ratio of 7, 9, 12, 17 to 1 means this model can spin a wider variety of yarn thicknesses including much finer yarns than the Kiwi.

Buying Factors to Consider:

This spinning wheel does cost more than our first option so it is a more considered purchase but it’s a beautiful spinning wheel and not something you’ll ever outgrow. If, however, you are on a budget, you might want to consider the Kromski Prelude, next.

The Traditional will require assembly, but it’s pretty straightforward forward and this option (which is cheaper), does require finishing. There is, however, a finished version of this spinning wheel though as you’d expect, it does cost more.

Check the latest price for The Ashford Traditional Single Drive on Amazon.

Best Affordable/Alternative Saxony Style Spinning Wheel: Kromski Prelude

Saxony spinning wheels tend to have a larger footprint than other styles. The Kromski Prelude, however, is more compact than most with a wheel diameter of just 18 inches.

What’s more, the mother-of-all even folds/swivels in line with the bench for storage or travel.

This makes the Prelude much easier to take to events or classes …And for those on a budget, it’s also more affordable too.

Check Price

This single-drive, Scotch tension spinning wheel combines all the traditionality of a Saxony style wheel with the features and optional extras, such as a jumbo flyer kit and fast flyer, to take it from a slower to mid-speed spinning wheel with whorl ratios of 6, 10.5 and 13 to 1 (great for beginners who are developing their skills), to a versatile spinning wheel with additional whorl ratios of 5.5, 7.9, 11, 14.5 & 16.5 to 1 – a spinning wheel capable of spinning most thicknesses of yarn.

The frame is made from unfinished European alder and birch wood and the Prelude comes with three 4 oz bobbins and a built-in Lazy Kate.

What We Like:

  • Affordable | The Kromski Prelude is a great option for those who would like a traditional Saxony-style spinning wheel without the high price tag that usually comes with one.
  • Good for a Wide Range of Yarn Thicknesses | It’s great for beginners but you won’t outgrow its capabilities and you can increase them even more with additional flyer options.
  • Compact Size | It’s one of the smallest Saxony Spinning wheels you can get and the mother-of-all can be folded in line with the bench. This makes the Prelude great for taking to events or classes.

Best Castle Spinning Wheel: The Ashford Traveller

The Ashford Traveller is cute as a button. A perfect blend of traditional design with modern style. It’s similar to the Traditional but the compact arrangement of the mother of all, positioned over the 18″ wheel makes it ideal for those who are limited on space.

Check Price

Available as either a single or double drive, this single drive Scotch tension wheel with whorl ratios of  6, 7.5, 10, 14 to 1 is ideal for spinning medium or finer yarns. And if you want to spin chunky yarns – you can just add a Jumbo Flyer. Other options include a lace flyer and a turbo kit so you’ll never feel limited by choosing this model.

One of the advantages this style has over the Traditional spinning wheel is that this one has double treadles. These are easier on the legs and hips than a the single treadle – especially over a prolonged period of time.

What We Like:

  • Compact Design | Ideal for those with more limited space.
  • Ideal For Medium to Finer Yarns | It’s ideal for spinning medium or finer yarns but with the addition of a Jumbo Flyer, you can spin chunky or thick yarns too.

Best Electric Spinning Wheel: Ashford E-Spinner 3

If you’d like an amazing little spinning machine that practically does all the hard work for you, this electric spinning wheel is the one for you.

And it’s great for anyone who would find treadling impractical or uncomfortable.

Check Price

Its compact size and light weight (only 4.4 lbs) make it ideal for travel. It even has its own padded carry bag with shoulder straps.

The E-Spinner comes complete with a tensioned lazy kate for plying and the machine is very easy to operate having just three control buttons – an on/off switch, a forward or reverse switch for plying and a fully adjustable speed dial so you can go as fast or as slow as you like – anywhere from 0 up to 1800 rpm.

The knob above the control buttons that you can see in the photo above opens the front gate so you can easily change your bobbin.

Included in the kit are three jumbo (8oz) bobbins, a tensioned lazy kate, one bottle of oil, and a handy on/off foot controller which you can use optionally.

Dimensions: 10¼ by 5½ by 8½ inches.

What We Like:

  • Motor for slow to Superfast Spinning Speeds | It has a quiet 12 volt DC 2.0 amp 70-watt motor that can give you a spinning speed of up to 1800 rpm – which is super fast for spinning.
  • Portable | It’s the smallest spinning wheel on the market – ideal for RV, caravan, or car, with an available adapter kit or power pack.
  • No Treadles | Great for those for whom treadling would be uncomfortable or impractical.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the best spinning wheel for a beginner?

Modern-day spinning wheels are generally well designed and built for easy use. So as a beginner, you can technically, learn to spin on any style of spinning wheel you like the look of or feel most comfortable with.

That said, you will need to take it slowly until you become more confident with the technique so you don’t want the take-up to be too fast.

Choosing one that has lower ratios of up to 10 to 1 (a measurement of how many times the flyer or bobbin spins per single revolution of the wheel) denotes a slower spinning wheel.

On a slower spinning wheel, you will be able to spin thicker yarns. Often there are adapter kits or flyer kits that you can easily add to enhance the capabilities and (for thinner yarns), increase the speed of your spinning wheel.

Alternative Spinning Wheels

These are the products that didn’t quite make our top picks, but they’re still pretty good so you might like to take a look.

And if you need somewhere to store and display your homespun yarn, hop over to our craft organizer guide.

The Flatiron Can Be Set up to All Three Tension Systems

Schacht Flatiron Spinning Wheel

This super modern Saxony-style wheel is fully customizable.

Key Features:

  • Set it up for Scotch tension, double drive, or Irish tension.
  • It can be adjusted to either have the flyer on the left or the right.
  • Super-versatile spinning ratios of 4.6:1 to 26:1
Check Price

Portable and Great for Beginners

Schacht Ladybug Double Treadle

It comes with medium and fast flyer whorls so it can be used for a wide range of ratios.

Key Features:

  • An optional attached tensioned Lazy Kate.
  • Ratios: 7, 9, 10.5 & 12.5 to 1.
  • Built-in carrying handles in the legs for portability.
Check Price

Foldable

Schacht Sidekick Spinning Wheel

This is a popular and portable spinning wheel.

Key Features:

  • It comes with fast and medium whorls for ratios of 4:1 to 13:1.
  • Scotch tension with a control knob.
  • Foldable treadles for portability.
Check Price

Comes with a Carry Bag – Great for Classes

Kromski Sonata Spinning Wheel Walnut

Though intended to be portable it’s a good, substantial spinning wheel.

Key Features:

  • It comes ready assembled with a padded travel backpack bag.
  • Walnut lacquered finish European alder and birch woods.
  • Single drive with Scotch tension.
Check Price

Traditional look in a compact upright design

Kromski Minstrel Mahogany

The Minstrel has a traditional look with a space-saving upright design.

Key Features:

  • It’s fully finished in mahogany.
  • It comes with 2 whorls for ratios of 6.5, 8.5, 12, and 16 to 1.
  • It comes with double drive and scotch tension.
Check Price

Filed Under: Crafts

The Best Rigid Heddle Loom for 2022

March 14, 2020 by Comfy Zen 2 Comments

Rigid heddle looms are ideal for all skill levels. You can sample hand-spun yarns or weave something fabulous and unique for yourself or a friend – without the hassle of setting up a large complicated loom.

When it comes to choosing the best rigid heddle loom, there are two brands that really stand out as being the gold standard. So here we will focus on the Schacht and Ashford rigid heddle loom.

And just so you know, you really can’t go wrong with either of them, but there are some important differences between the two that you absolutely should know about before you buy.

TypeBrand
For BeginnersSchacht Cricket Loom
Available as in 10″ wide or 15″ wide.

Lowest Price: Blick Art Materials
Our Runner Up/Alternative Pick for BeginnersAshford SampleIt Weaving Loom 10″ or the SampleIt Weaving Loom 16″

From Amazon
Foldable Weaving loomSchacht Flip Rigid Heddle Loom 15″ or the Schacht Flip Rigid Heddle Loom 25″

From Amazon
Foldable Weaving Loom/Alternative PickAshford Knitter’s 12 ” Loom or the Ashford Knitter’s Loom 20″

From Amazon
Larger LoomsAshford Weaving Rigid Heddle Loom 48″

From Amazon

Below is the number of rigid heddle dent sizes available for each brand. The larger the number the finer the yarn and vice versa. For example, 5 dent is perfect for bulky yarns, 8-dent for worsted yarns, and 12-dent for lace-weight yarns.

BrandAvailable Dent Sizes. Dent Included
Schacht Cricket 8, 10, 12, and 15 dpi8 dpi
Ashford SampleIt 2.5, 5, 7.5, 10, 12.5, and 15 dpi 7.5 dpi
The Schacht Flip5, 8, 10 and 12 dpi 10 dpi
Ashford Knitter’s Loom 2.5, 5, 7.5, 10, 12.5, and 15 dpi 7.5 dpi
Terms used

For Beginners: Schacht Cricket Loom

Schacht Cricket Loom (10″ or 15″)

The Schacht Cricket Loom is the perfect choice for beginners.

Easy to warp and very simple to use, it’s also a very affordable loom to learn on. But don’t worry, you won’t outgrow its capabilities any time soon.

In fact, this loom is also a firm favorite of experienced weavers simply because it’s so much more portable and convenient to set up than going through the lengthy process of warping the more complex table loom, especially for smaller projects like scarves, wraps, etc.

Check Price

Both the Schacht Cricket loom and the Ashford loom are very similar – and to be perfectly honest, they are both excellent choices.

The Schacht loom stands out in a couple of areas that give it the edge over the Ashford for most people. But you may disagree, if, for instance, you are keen to work with bulky yarns. As you can see from the table above, there is a wider range of optional extra dent sizes available for the Ashford than for the Cricket, allowing you to work with bulky yarns if you wish.

One area where the Schacht Cricket rigid heddle loom stands out is that the ABS plastic teeth of the heddles are a little sturdier, and therefore more durable than the nylon teeth of the Ashford so are less likely to bend or break over time.

The Cricket comes with an 8-dent rigid heddle (or reed as it is sometimes referred to). The Ashford comes with a 7.5 dent but they are pretty much the same given that the US-made Cricket has imperial measurements and the New Zeland-made Ashford loom is metric. This means they are both ideal for the most commonly used, worsted yarns.

But most significantly, this loom has front and back beams.

These front and back beams are a feature the Ashford doesn’t have. They hold the woven cloth to the front of the loom, and warp threads to the back of the loom, up, and over the front cloth beam and the back warp beam. You can see this in the photo below.

This means the cloth won’t build up and become bulky on the cloth beam so you can basically weave much longer lengths of fabric while still maintaining a nice even shed (the area where the shuttle passes back and forth).

And it’s this design feature that for us, wins the day.

The frame is made from high-quality maple (apple ply and hard maple) and comes, as most of them do, unfinished so you may want to apply a coat of Danish oil or a gel stain to condition and treat the wood for longevity.

Included in the box are a threading hook, warping peg, table clamps, two shuttles, and a couple of balls of yarn to get you started. There are also comprehensive instructions as well as copious youtube video tutorials so if you are learning to weave don’t worry, you’ll never be on your own.

The Schacht Cricket Loom is available in either a 10-inch or 15-inch width. The size you choose will depend on what types of projects you want to make.

You’ll ideally need a good size table to warp the loom as you’ll need some distance to create a good warp length – which will mean clamping your warping peg to the far end of the table. Once your loom has been warped, however, either the 10″ or the 15″ loom can be worked on a tabletop or even balance on your knee.

What We Like:

  • Rigid Heddle | The reeds are more sturdy than those of the Ashford.
  • Front and Back Beams | These are a great design feature in that they hold the woven cloth and warp threads up, over the front cloth beam and the back warp beam. This prevents the cloth from building up on the cloth beam so you get a consistently more even shed and you can work much longer pieces of cloth.

Buying Factors to Consider:

Unlike the Ashford Samplit we’ll be looking at next, there isn’t a slot to add another heddle. If you’d prefer to have the option to add a second heddle you may prefer to go for the Schacht Flip Rigid Heddle Loom we’ll be looking at later, alternatively, there are ways to get around this with this loom as shown in this youtube video, meaning you can, in theory, add another heddle if you wish.

I want to add here, that although it might seem that you could just buy an Ashford heddle, it won’t fit the Cricket loom but could, with a bit of DIY, be adapted.

Lastly only the foldable looms come fully assembled so you will need to put this one together, it is very easy though.

Check the price for the Schacht Cricket Loom 10″ or 15″ at Blick Art Materials.

Check the latest price for the Schacht Cricket Loom 10″ or the Schacht Cricket Loom 15″ on Amazon.

If you’re in the UK, the Schacht Cricket Loom is available on Etsy here.

Our Runner Up / Alternative Pick for Beginners: Ashford SampleIt Weaving Loom 10″ or the SampleIt Weaving Loom 16″

Designed to “sample” new techniques and weaving patterns and try out different types of yarn and color combinations, the Ashford Sampleit loom is the ideal weaving loom for beginners to learn the craft.

Like the Cricket loom this one is also capable of more complex weave patterns and so would make a great second loom for advanced weavers, for working on projects that don’t warrant the lengthy and more complex warping process that a table loom or floor loom involves.

Check Price

A couple of features that stand out for us about SampleIt loom are first, the number of extra dent sizes available, as you can see in the table above. That means if you wish, you can work with much thicker yarns than you could with the Schacht Cricket loom.

And secondly, the Sample It loom, also has a built-in second heddle option. That means you don’t need any hacks or DIY to add a second heddle. The slot is already there for you.

The only feature that this loom doesn’t have and the Schacht loom does is the addition of the front and back beam.

With the Ashford Samplit loom, the cloth winds straight onto the cloth beam- which is fine – there’s no problem with that, except if you want to work on very long pieces. In which case the cloth would build up and add an increasing amount of bulk to the cloth beam. This could start to reduce your shed.

One thing I especially like is the design of the rachet gear. When you turn the gear to advance your fabric the gear doesn’t require tension to lock so there’s no chance the rachet dog or pawl will jump out of the gear. With the Cricket you’d feel safer placing a finger on the dog while you turn the gear.

The loom itself is made from solid natural silver beech timber, and like the Cricket loom would just need a little Danish oil or a gel stain to finish it.

The Sampleit is available either in a 10-inch width or a 16-inch width depending on the types of projects you want to make.

What We Like:

  • Wider Number of Rigid Heddle Dent Sizes Available | There are more dent sizes available for the Ashford SampleIt than the Schacht loom meaning you can use extra bulky yarns if you wish.
  • Built-in Slot for a Second Rigid Heddle | This means you can easily add a second reed if you want to without any hacks or DIY skills.
  • Sturdier Ratchet Gear | This means that there’s no chance the rachet pawl will jump out of the gear while you are advancing your cloth.

Buying Factors to Consider:

This is an amazing loom, it’s lightweight, easy to warp, easy to use, and capable of so much more than it’s simple design would have you believe.

If you want to create very long pieces, however, you may find the design of the Schacht Cricket or Flip loom works better for you, as it has front and back beams that prevent the cloth from building up on the cloth beam narrowing your shed size.

Lastly as previously mentioned, only the foldable looms come fully assembled so you will need to put this one together, but it’s easy so a degree in physics is not required.

Foldable Rigid Heddle Looms: Schacht Flip Rigid Heddle Loom 15″ or the Schacht Flip Rigid Heddle Loom 25″

There’s a bit of a jump in price for a folding rigid heddle loom but you can’t fault this design and the ability to fold the loom for travel or just store it away – even mid-project, in my opinion, is worth the extra investment.

Check Price

There are other advantages too. Unlike the Cricket loom the Flip loom comes with built-in blocks or slots for multiple heddles – making it easy to add an extra heddle if you want to. There are a few different sizes of the Flip loom to choose from depending on how wide you’d like your loom to be. You can choose between a 15”, 20”, 25”, and 30″ weaving width. The 15″ and the 25″ featured here differ only in that there is just one single rachet gear on one side of the 15″ (and also the 20″) loom and there are two, (one on each side) on the 25″ (and also the 30″) loom.

Instead of the front and back beams, which are a feature of the Cricket loom, Schacht’s Flip heddle loom has a top cross brace which means you can weave long warps, up to a whopping 15 to 18 feet without any reduction in the size of the shed.

The frame is made in the US from high-quality maple and hand-rubbed with a Danish oil finish and whichever size you choose, each includes a 10 dent reed, a warping peg, two shuttles, and two clamps, a threading hook, and comprehensive warping and weaving instructions.

What We Like:

  • Portable and Foldable | Perfect for folding away either between or mid-project. The back leg allows you to hook it onto a table or you can install it on a trestle stand.
  • Built-In Blocks for Multiple Heddles | This is a handy feature that the Cricket range doesn’t have.
  • It Has a Top Cross Brace | This means you can weave long warps, up to a whopping 15 to 18 feet without any reduction in the size of the shed.
  • No Finishing Required | It’s made from high-quality maple and is already hand-rubbed with a Danish oil finish so no finishing is required.
  • Fully Assembled | Most looms require assembly, though this is generally easy, if you are really not into DIY, this foldable loom is the way to go.

Buying Factors to Consider:

This is a great weaving loom, there are no downsides except for the fact that we should mention that a folding loom does cost more than a same-sized non-folding rigid heddle loom. But this one is very similar in price to its nearest foldable rival next.

Check the latest price on Amazon:

Schacht Flip Rigid Heddle Loom 15″

Schacht Flip Rigid Heddle Loom 20″

Schacht Flip Rigid Heddle Loom 25″

Schacht Flip Rigid Heddle Loom 30″

A Foldable/Alternative Pick: Ashford Knitter’s Loom 20″

The Knitter’s Loom is my alternative choice to the Schacht Flip. It’s lightweight, easily foldable for travel or storing away, and even comes with its own padded carry bag with front and side pockets to store shuttles.

It’s available in three different sizes 12″, 20″ and a larger 28″ width.

Check Price

Though very similar to the Flip there are a couple of differences I want to point out. The first is that the ratchet gear is superior to that of the Flip, it doesn’t require any warp tension. You can hear it clicking into place when you turn it – even with no warp on the loom. That means the dog or pawl won’t jump out while you are advancing your work.

Secondly, and this is not exactly a plus point, it doesn’t have a top cross brace so the cloth winds straight onto the cloth beam. This, as with the SampleIt loom, means the cloth will build up and become bulky after a certain point, reducing your shed size. That said, weavers have reported completing a 9 feet long project without any problems.

The loom comes ready assembled and finished. Included is a 7.5 dent heddle, two stick shuttles, a warping peg and a clamp, a double-ended threading hook and easy-to-follow instructions.

What We Like:

  • Portable and Foldable | Perfect for storing away either between project or mid-project.
  • Built-In Blocks for Multiple Heddles | This is a handy feature meaning you can easily add a second heddle for more complex weave patterns.
  • Superior Ratchet Gear | The gear is, in our opinion, superior to that of the Flip, it doesn’t require any tension. You can hear the pawl clicking into place when you turn it even with no warp on the loom.

Check the latest price on Amazon:

Ashford Knitter’s 12 ” Loom

Ashford Knitter’s 20″ Loom

Ashford Knitter’s 28″ Loom

Larger Looms: Ashford Weaving Rigid Heddle Loom 48″ or the Ashford Weaving Rigid Heddle loom 32″

Often thought of as a small loom or a sample loom, the 32 inches wide or the even bigger 48 inches wide rigid heddle looms are as big as you could possibly want. But much less bulky, as well as, so much easier to warp than a table or floor loom.

It’s suitable for making wall hangings, full garments, rugs, throws, home furnishings and so much more.

So if you’re interested in making large pieces, this is the loom for you.

Check Price

The simplicity of a rigid heddle loom makes it an ideal choice for beginners but with the addition of pick-up sticks and extra reeds, the loom is capable of more advanced and complex weaving techniques so this is not a loom you’ll outgrow.

Like all Ashford looms, this one is well made with a sturdy self-locking ratchet gear that doesn’t require the tension of the warp to set it, so the pawl won’t jump off the gear while you are advancing your work.

The loom comes with a 7.5 ” dent but has a built-in double heddle block so you can add additional heddles if you wish. It also comes with one 22″ natural shuttle and one 30″ natural shuttle.

Made from unfinished silver beech hardwood you can easily finish it by applying a little Danish oil or a gel stain.

What We Like:

  • Built-In Double Heddle Block | This loom has a built-in double heddle block so you can add additional heddles if you wish.
  • Superior Ratchet Gear | The gear doesn’t require any warp tension to set it. You can hear the pawl clicking into place when you turn it even with no warp on the loom.

Buying Factors to Consider:

None – if you want a loom with extra width to complete large weaving projects this is the loom for you.

Filed Under: Crafts

How to Needle Felt a Bird | Easy Mid Century Modern Bird

March 7, 2020 by Comfy Zen Leave a Comment

I have to admit, I’m a bit obsessed with mid-century interior design, especially furniture. I love the clean, elegant lines and the timeless modern look you can so easily achieve with this style.

In my guide to Eames chair replicas, I briefly mentioned the Eames elephant and the iconic mid-century Eames house bird, which was not in fact, created by, but was certainly made famous by, Charles and Ray Eames.

The original bird was actually first made in 1910 but the Eames’s where completely inspired by it when they found one on their travels, and it subsequently became a much-loved art piece for their home.

Anyway, that was the inspiration for the simple aqua green needle felted bird that you can see in the photo above.

If you’d like to have a go, you can make this bird any size you like by simply adjusting the quantities of raw materials you use – you can pretty much eyeball how much you’ll need. My bird stands 7 inches tall and measures 9 inches from beak to tail.

If this project helps you feel inspired, why not head over to our reading room where you’ll find some great needle felting book recommendations.

Skill level: Beginner

How to Needle Felt a Simple Bird

Cost:

Around $20.

Time:

Approximately 2 hours

Technique:

For this bird, we’ll be using the dry felting technique. This is simply the process of tangling together loose wool roving fibers by poking them with a barbed needle to condense and sculpt the resulting fabric into shape.

In our sweet little bowl tutorial, we used the same technique and this bird is just as another super-easy way to start learning the craft. We have provided all the instructions you’ll need.

Notes:
In this tutorial, we will be using a size 38, 3 – needle felting pen. This is a good all-around tool that you can use for a ton of different projects.

The pen, which you can see in action in the photo above, will help speed up the felting process as working with three needles is always going to be faster than one, and for any finer details such as round the beak, you can simply remove one needle and work with just two.

Although it is a good idea to invest in a good felting mat – you can just use a thick folded towel to save a few dollars if you are just trying this out as a new hobby.

Necessary Items:
10-15 grams of wool roving
Core wool roving
18 gauge craft wire
Needle felting mat or towel
Clover pen style needle felting tool
Black craft paint
3/16 size dowel sticks


Step 1: Create the bird shape

For my bird, I used some garden wire, though you can just as easily use 18 gauge craft wire. The wire just has to be flexible enough to bend into shape and just thick enough to hold the core wool without collapsing. Don’t worry if your wire doesn’t feel strong enough, you can always wrap the shape over a couple of times until it holds up better.

Step 2: Wrap the wire with core wool

Tear off approximately 12 inches of core wool and wrap it around the wire frame. Tear off any excess wool from the bird’s head and beak. You will need to allow room to add your color roving without making the head too big or the beak too thick. And remember it’s easy to add more core later if needed.

Step 3: Secure the core wool with thread

Use neutral-colored embroidery thread to wrap and secure your core wool. (I’ve used black embroidery thread so you can see it better in the photo.)

Start at the beak to give it definition and wrap the thread around the tail several times. You don’t need to wrap the thread tightly, it’s just there to help give you a rough shape to follow.

Step 4: Shape the core wool

Start by needle felting the core wool to firm it up and give the bird shape.

You can add more core wool to pad it out if you need to. Keep poking to blend it in. You can see my bird was looking a little slim around the waist so I added more core wool to fill out the shape.

Step 5: Shape the bird

Keep building the shape until you are happy with your bird shape. This will make it easier to get a nice smooth finish when you add your layer of colored roving.

Step 6: Needle felt a layer of colored wool roving

When you are happy with your shape, you can start to wrap a layer of colored roving.

Don’t add too much and try to keep the fibers running smoothly. This will make the needle felting process easier and the finished result will look neater.

Build-up the coverage in any thin areas by adding another layer of roving over the top.

Keep poking with your needle until you get a compact and smooth finish. This should take you about an hour depending on how fast you go.

Step 7: Add the legs

For the legs, I simply painted a couple of craft sticks black and cut them into two 4 1/2 inch lengths.

Make two holes where you want your legs to go with a thin screwdriver or knitting needle and push approximately 2 1/2 inches into the bird.

You can add glue to the sticks for extra stability. Though the bird is intended for decorative or ornamental purposes only so this last step is optional.

If you want to give away your bird as a gift, all you need to add is your free printable handmade label.

[alt]

Filed Under: Crafts

Best Bead Loom (for Easy Beautiful Bracelets and More)

February 28, 2020 by Comfy Zen Leave a Comment

Beading weaving using a bead loom is so much faster and easier than picking up one bead at a time. They’re also are ideal for beginners because they don’t require any special talent to learn – so you can make that perfect beaded bracelet, on your very first try. To that end, we’ve written a quick guide to the best bead loom according to your budget and for the type of project, you want to make.

So to start our series of weaving reviews let’s get to it straight away.

Editor’s AwardBrand
Our Top Pick – Best OverallCLOVER 9910 Beading Loom
Best for Beaded BraceletsRicks Beading Loom Kit
Best for Advanced BeadersLacis Bead Loom Hardwood Purse Bead Loom
Best Budget Beading LoomCousin Large Traditional Bead Loom kit
Best Budget/Portable Beading Loom for Beginners Beadalon Jewel Loom Kit

Click below to jump to full review in this guide.

  • Our Top Pick – Best Overall
  • Best for Beaded Bracelets
  • Best for Advanced Beaders
  • Best Budget Beading Loom
  • Best Portable/Budget Beading Loom for Beginners
  • Frequently asked Questions
  • Other Bead Looms We’ve Reviewed

Reviews of Our Top Picks for the Best Bead Loom.

Our Top Pick – Best Overall: CLOVER 9910 Beading Loom

Our Top Pick – Best Overall

CLOVER 9910 Beading Loom

Clover is a well-respected needlecraft company that makes consistently well-designed high-quality crafting tools. Their 9910 beading loom is no exception. Designed for a frustration-free setup, the loom is very easy to warp and super easy to use, making it suitable for every skill level from complete beginner to the serious beader.

Check Price

The loom is adjustable from 2-1/4 inches long for small, delicate projects like pendants, earrings, or brooches, etc to 8-3/8 inches long. However, the winding beam allows you to work on much longer projects if you wish.

There are two different groove sets spaced either for round or seed beads and one for narrower cylinder (Delica) beads. Clover says this allows for a width of up to 2-1/2″ or 40 warp threads – for a 39 round bead pattern, or a width of 2-9/16″ or 44 warp threads – for a 43 cylinder bead pattern.

Don’t worry if you are new to beading and that sounds a little confusing. What that basically means is that you get a nice even tension whether you use 11/0 round seed beads or narrower Delica 11/0 seed beads, because the warp threads on this loom can be specifically set for either.

Just so you know, the loom also allows you to mix your beads or use larger beads than mentioned, by changing the intervals between the warp threads if you wish.

The set-up is a breeze on this weaving loom whether you’re a beginner or not. The loom comes with 4 holders that clip onto the winding beam to grip your thread while you warp the loom, and 12 pegs for continuous warping (depending on your method of warping). Pro tip – continuous warping means easy removal of your project and minimal hiding and securing of your (only two) threads – clover provided written as well as video tutorials on how to do this.

This loom also features 2 handy metal warp thread stoppers. These slide into the grove sets on top of your warping threads and prevent your threads from jumping out while you work.

Included in your package you also get 1 beading needle (#10), one needle threader, and comprehensive instructions. Clover has also produced several helpful video tutorials to get you up and running.

What We Like:

  • Adjustable Length | For projects from 2-1/4 inches long to 8-3/8 inches long. And longer projects can be achieved using the winding beam.
  • Two Different Groove Sets | It’s suitable for all skill levels as it’s very easy to set up and use and it has features such as the metal warp thread stoppers and the choice between two grove sets, for example, that you only get with this loom.
  • Comprehensive Instructions | And several freely available video tutorials mean you’re not on your own – even if you are completely new to beading on a loom.

Buying Factors to Consider:

  • If you’re not sure how much you’ll like using a loom, this isn’t as cheap as the Beadalon Jewel Loom Kit. But it’s a perfect choice if you plan to make lots of projects with it.

Check the latest price for the CLOVER 9910 Beading Loom on Amazon.

Best for Beaded Bracelets: Ricks Beading Loom Kit

Best for Beaded Bracelets

Ricks Beading Loom Kit

The part of bead weaving that requires the most patience is the finishing process which involves hiding and securing your warp and weft threads.

Rick’s beading loom is designed to make that job so much easier for you by leaving you with just two threads to deal with at the end of your project.

Check Price

Handmade in the US from high-quality wood, the design is very simple, you adjust and tighten the frame to your desired length before you begin and warp the loom using the pegs provided to secure the thread at whichever end you start and end up at.

The loom will accommodate projects up to just under 12 inches in length, and nearly 3 – 1/4 inches wide. Longer projects can be achieved by sewing two lengths of completed beadwork together like a quilt.

Weaving the beads close to the warp rods leaves you with just two warp threads to deal with at the end of your project and only tiny end loops that will easily disappear in your beadwork.

The loom comes with 3 warp rods (one is a spare), 3 warp pegs, and 1 warp separator card. The loom also comes with comprehensive instructions and again there are good video tutorials freely available for this loom.

What We Like:

  • Two Warp Threads to Deal with When Your Project Is Complete | This saves you time and makes finishing your project so much more straight forward.
  • Loom Naturally Tilts Towards You | There’s also ample space to maneuver beneath your beadwork.
  • Adjustable Length | Upto just under 12 inches in length.

Buying Factors to Consider:

The only thing I should point out about this loom is that it does require you to know how long you want your finished beadwork to be before you begin.

Check the latest price for Ricks Beading Loom Kit on Amazon.

Best for Advanced Beaders: Lacis Bead Loom Hardwood Purse Bead Loom

Best for Advanced Beaders

Lacis Bead Loom Hardwood Purse Bead Loom

This bead loom gives you the ability to work on much larger projects than beading looms generally allow for. It provides a generous working area of 11 inches wide by 36 inches long, making it suitable for pictures, purses, bags and more.

Check Price

The high-quality hardwood frame can be angled or used on a flat surface.

For ease of setup and use, the frame uses the continuous warping method. This allows you to rotate or advance your beadwork as you go. The result of this being that you always work in the center of the loom.

Even advanced beaders will no doubt be wondering how to space the warping thread correctly for your project. This is done by making your own beaded warp spacer using a row of beads from your chosen project which you simply attach to one end – creating tension by means of an elastic band and a couple of paper clips. But don’t worry there are video tutorials to show you how this is done.

What We Like:

  • Professional Loom For Large Projects | This loom gives you a generous working area of 11 inches wide by 36 inches long.
  • Loom Uses the Continuous Warping Method | This allows you to rotate your beadwork as you go so that you are always working in the center of the loom.

Buying Factors to Consider:

You may also want to consider buying a 1/4 inch by 24-inch length of dowl to feed through the holes in the center of this loom. This will allow you to rotate the frame swiftly and efficiently, which makes warping this loom so much faster and easier.

It’s a well-made versatile loom and great for larger projects, but it does require some knowledge and experience to handle it.

If you are a beginner but would like to work on larger projects you should opt for our budget option next.

Check the latest price for the Lacis Bead Loom Hardwood Purse Bead Loom on Amazon.

Best Budget Beading Loom: Cousin Large Traditional Bead Loom kit

Best Budget Beading Loom

Cousin Large Traditional Bead Loom kit

This loom is super easy to warp, especially if you use the continuous warping method, and it has a generous 8.5-inch by 5.6-inch working area – more length can be achieved using the winding beam.

It’s easily affordable and ideal for all skill levels who’d like the option to work on larger pieces.

Check Price

The simple but effective design of this loom features a metal spiral or coil warp separator and the winding beams are tightened by wingnuts at each end.

The loom comes with beads, thread, and needles, to get you started and it includes instructions on how to weave several patterns including chevrons, waves, and Aztec styles.

What We Like:

  • Large Workspace | It can accommodate up to 66 bead rows for larger projects as well a being ideal for bracelets, necklaces and other smaller items of jewelry.
  • Suitable for the Tightest Budget | If you are in the least bit curious about whether you’ll enjoy bead looming or not, you seriously can’t go wrong for the price.
  • Easy to Warp | Setup can be done in less than 5 minutes.

Check the latest price Cousin Large Traditional Bead Loom kit on Amazon.

Best Portable/Budget Beading Loom for Beginners: Beadalon Jewel Loom Kit

Best Portable/Budget Beading Loom for Beginners

Beadalon Jewel Loom Kit

Designed by author and jewelry designer, Julianna Avelarhis this is a great little starter kit or travel beading loom for all skill levels.

It’s such a simple design that fits in the palm of your hand.

It’s super easy to warp with two buttons on the back for securing your thread and a tension bar that you remove once the loom is warped. This will automatically tighten your warp threads for you.

Check Price

That’s all there is to it!

Again this loom is so affordable it’s a must-have addition for those that love to craft while traveling – it even comes in a clear zippered pouch to keep everything together neatly.

What We Like:

  • The Book and Loom Make a Great Grift Idea | The book is full of amazing jewelry projects and inspirational ideas. It just goes to show you what can be achieved with such a simple inexpensive little loom.
  • Tension Rod | This makes warping easy and sets the correct tension for you when the warping rod is removed.

Buying Factors to Consider:

My first try at beading on a loom with the Beadalon Jewel Loom Kit.

This is a must-have loom – whether it’s your first loom to start practicing on or a portable addition to one of the larger looms featured above.

Just remember that it is just plastic and has the potential to snap if you warp it too tightly.

Check the latest price for the Beadalon Jewel Loom Kit on Amazon.

Feel inspired? Head over to our reading room where you’ll find some more great beading book recommendations.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best loom for beginners?

Choosing a loom that has warp separators helps you space your warping threads accurately and more easily.

Start with simple projects like a bracelet or bookmark. An ideal loom for this is one that’s not too big.

A loom that allows continuous warping is also a good idea as this can mean fewer threads to finish at the end of your project.

How do you finish a bracelet?

One of the easiest methods is to continue to weave your thread in and out of your warp threads following your final row of beads – just as you would for a tapestry.

Do this for up to 1 cm and then backstitch and tie the thread off. Add a layer of glue over the woven area leaving it to set overnight.

You can then trim the warp threads and add a crimp clasp to secure and fasten your bracelet.

Alternatively, you can weave the warp threads back through your beadwork – tying them off here and there. Before you cut the thread, weave the ends back in to create a clean edge ready for your clasp to be sewn on.

Is loom beading easy?

It may look complicated but it’s one of those crafts where it’s easy to make something you can be truly proud of – if you don’t get too ambitious to start off with.

The actual beading process is pretty easy once you’ve got past the first couple of fiddly rows. Just choose a loom that comes with good instructions and is easy to warp.

Finishing your project requires patience and you should carefully follow the instructions but it doesn’t require any special skills.

Is beading on a loom an expensive hobby?

It’s actually a very affordable hobby to take up. Unlike some crafts that require a hefty initial outlay to buy a machine, you don’t need to spend a lot of money to get a good beading loom.

In comparison, a simple sewing machine, for example, would cost a lot more. You will need beads for each project Japanese or and Czech seed beads are the best quality. You will also need scissors, jewelry fasteners, beading needles, thread, and plyers are usually the only other supplies you will need.

Other Bead Looms We’ve Reviewed:

These are the products that didn’t quite make our top picks, but they’re still pretty good so you might like to take a look.

And if you need somewhere to store your beads – beading is totally addictive so believe me, you will – hop over to our craft organizer guide to take a look at our (very affordable) bead storage pick.

Traditional Wooden Loom

Beazu Bead Loom

This is a well-made loom. But it doesn’t come with pegs. You will need to add screws from a hardware store to secure your warp threads.

Key Features:

  • 10 1/2 inches long by 11 inches wide.
  • It does have warp separator bars.
  • Predrilled holes to add your own screws.
Check Price

Large Solid Oak Loom

Darice Deluxe Bead Loom

This one has screws at each end to secure your thread.

Key Features:

  • 15 x 14 x 3.5 Inches.
  • It comes with over 14 unique patterns.
  • Adjustable legs and extra-wide platform.
Check Price

Great for Endless Wrap Bracelets with Built-in Ruler

TRULOOM Easy DIY Jewelry Loom

This one is great for creating endless wrap bracelets similar to the one you can see in the image.

Key Features:

  • Use the tension bridge to convert to a bead weaving loom.
  • Includes over 1000 Stone, Crystal, & Japanese glass seed beads.
  • For bracelets and necklaces up to 1-1/4 inches wide.
Check Price

And don’t worry – there’s also a wealth of helpful tips and tutorials available out there in the crafting community so you’ll never be on your own.

And lastly, if you find yourself working on a bead project and struggle to see what you’re doing, a good craft light with a magnifier will make a ton of difference. Honestly, I can’t recommend one enough!

Filed Under: Crafts

The Best Sewing Cabinet for 2022

February 22, 2020 by Comfy Zen Leave a Comment

Sewing cabinets are a must-have for anyone who loves sewing. They’re a place to store away your sewing machine, they tend to come with built-in storage shelves, bins and caddies and, best of all, they close up to become, well, just a nice piece of furniture, like a side table or lamp table.

For this review guide, we selected the best sewing cabinet according to different people’s criteria. We choose the most aesthetically pleasing as well as the most practical and sturdy sewing cabinets for you, so let’s get straight to it.

Editor’s AwardBrand
Our Top Pick / Best OverallSauder Miscellaneous Storage Sewing Craft Cart
Alternative Top PickMainstay Sewing / Craft Center – Folding Table
Best for Small SpacesGiantex Folding Sewing Craft Table
Best Cabinet with AirliftArrow 503 Sewnatra Sewing Cabinet for Sewing
Best for QuiltersArrow 700 Bertha Sewing Cabinet
Best Sewing Table with StorageSew Ready Eclipse Hobby Sewing Center

Click below to jump to each topic in this guide.

  • Our Top Pick / Best Over All
  • Best Alternative Top Pick
  • Best for Small Spaces
  • Best Cabinet with Airlift
  • Best for Quilters
  • Best Sewing Table with Storage
  • Frequently Asked Questions
  • Other Sewing Cabinets We’ve Reviewed

Our Top Pick / Best Over All: Sauder Miscellaneous Storage Sewing Craft Cart

Sewing cabinets can be quite pricey, but this is a great affordable option.

This cabinet not only folds out with plenty of storage space for your sewing essentials, but it gives you a generous worktop area, extending from 40 inches to 63.5 inches wide when folded out, and it just looks like a really nice piece of furniture when everything is folded away for the day.

Check Price

There are two adjustable shelves in the cupboard on the right which are handy for fabrics, books, and other sewing essentials.

The left section, which opens out on lockable rollers, reveals two handy storage bins on the inside of the door, and a central shelf area measuring 9-1/2 inches deep by 22 inches wide which is specifically made to store your sewing machine.

The melamine tabletop surface is heat, stain, and scratch-resistant and the table is finished in cinnamon cherry which is a rich dark brown.

What We Like:

  • Table Surface | The melamine tabletop is heat, stain, and scratch-resistant.
  • Large Tabletop Surface | Extending from 40 inches to 63.5 inches wide.
  • Sturdy Construction | The unopened surface can hold up to 75lbs in weight and the opened-out surface can hold up to 20lbs.

Buying Factors to Consider:

You might prefer a different finish to match your décor, in which case take a look at our next choice.

Best Alternative Top Pick: Mainstay Sewing / Craft Center – Folding Table

This is our alternative top pick. The design and construction are similar to our top pick and the dimensions are the same, though this one has a different style to it.

Check Price

This sewing cabinet is finished in amber pine, it has more paneling details and two faux drawer handles to complete the look.

Both cabinets have casters which makes them easily portable and they lock into place with brakes for stability when the table is ready for use.

Whether you prefer the dark or light wood finish, what’s most impressive about this design, is that everything neatly folds away when not in use.

What We Like:

  • Large Tabletop Surface | The table surface extends from 40 inches to 63.5 inches wide.
  • Design Details | This option has nice design details. It’s finished in amber pine, has more paneling and two faux drawer handles to complete the look.

Buying Factors to Consider:

The only downside to this design is that the sewing machine has to be manually lifted onto the tabletop. If you prefer the machine with an automatic lift you should consider one with an airlift that we have featured below.

Best for Small Spaces: Giantex Folding Sewing Craft Table

This is a great little space-saving option for those with limited space. This single craft cart opens up to 46 inches wide allowing ample room for a sewing machine.

Check Price

The door which opens on lockable wheels, reveals an adjustable hidden shelf measuring 22 inches in length – perfect for storing away a serger, sewing machine, or even a die cutting machine. It has three handy built-in storage bins for sewing accessories measuring 14- 1/2 inches in length, 4 inches deep, and 1-1/2 inches high.

There are two wood finishes to choose from in this range, white, which can be seen in the photo at the top of this section, and natural wood which is shown above.

Dimensions (LXWXH):

23.0″ x 16.0″ x 31.0″ (closed) 46.0″ x 16.0″ x 31.0″ (open)

What We Like:

  • Great for Small Spaces | This cabinet is compact, portable, and foldable.
  • Lockable Wheels | It has 5 wheels for portability – two of which are lockable for stability.
  • Sturdy Construction | Though it’s made from particleboard it does have a solid construction.

Buying Factors to Consider:

This is a nice affordable option. If you have a heavy sewing machine, you may find a cabinet that has airlift a better option. We will take a look at a similar cabinet to this one that does have airlift next.

Best Cabinet with Airlift: Arrow 503 Sewnatra Sewing Cabinet for Sewing

This is another compact sewing cabinet that makes an ideal space saver when folded away.

However, it has a couple of major advantages over the rest.

Check Price

With this cabinet, you don’t need to manually lift the sewing machine out of the cabinet and into place. A simple push will automatically raise or lower the machine, and the mechanism is adjustable for all sewing machine base heights.

This also means there is another advantage to this table in that when the machine is lifted into the flatbed position, the universal insert that comes with it, creates a flush sewing surface – and that’s something that just isn’t possible with cabinets that don’t have airlift.

The cabinet will accommodate sewing machines up to 18-7/8 inches wide, 12-9/16 inches deep and, 13-1/8 inches high and the fold-out leaf cleverly covers the cut-out hole when folded away.

The only slight design flaw we can see with this option is that the fold-out door opens to the right. This means it, unnecessarily, takes up more room when opened out than, for example, the Giantex cabinet does, that we have featured above. That said, it folds away from a generous 68-7/16 inches wide to a compact size of 23-3/4 inches wide, 19-5/8 inches deep, and 31 inches tall.

On the inside door, there are two good storage bins but unlike others, this cabinet also features two thread spindles that will organize and hold 10 spools of thread, each.

It comes in three wood finishes white, classic oak-grain, or black so it will fit in with pretty much any decor, and if it doesn’t? You could easily spray paint this choice because the design means the top folds over to reveal the underside, so there is no chance you’ll scratch your nice paintwork off.

What We Like:

  • Automatic Airlift | A simple push will automatically raise or lower the machine.
  • Compact Size | At 23-3/4 inches wide, 19-5/8 inches deep, and 31 inches tall, it’s a great little space saver and could quite easily double up as a bedside table or lamp table, etc.
  • Comes with a Universal Insert Included | This creates a flush sewing surface – something you would get with our first two choices.

Buying Factors to Consider:

This cabinet is great for small spaces and the airlift feature makes it an excellent investment for your back. If you’re an advanced sewer or a quilter and you’d prefer a larger surface to work on, and you’d like the airlift feature, take a look at our next choice.

Best for Quilters: Arrow 700 Bertha Sewing Cabinet

Best for Quilters

If you are a quilter you’ll know just how valuable the workspace at the back of your sewing machine is for preventing your quilt from falling to the floor or simply falling off the edge of the table and pulling on the fabric piece you are trying to sew.

The Bertha not only has a fold-out quilt leaf offering an additional 20 inches of depth to the table surface, but the leaf actually slides from one side to the other via a metal rod so you can custom position it accurately according to where you need it most.

Check Price

In addition to the open table depth of just under 60 inches, the table’s side leaves open up from 43-1/2 inches wide to just over a whopping 84 inches wide, so there’s enough space to sew large quilts, iron, and maybe add a laptop as shown in the photo above.

This is a table for the serious quiltmaker, crafter, or sewer. It has an opening that will accommodate a large sewing machine of up to 22-9/16″ wide, 11-3/4″ deep, and 14-1/2″ tall.

And don’t worry about having to lift your sewing machine onto the table, this cabinet features a hydraulic airlift to easily store and raise your machine for you.

And lastly, to give you a completely flush surface to work on, you can choose to add a custom-made insert specifically made for your particular brand of sewing machine.

What We Like:

  • Multiple Storage Bins | This includes three smaller bins on each inside door plus one large one on each side, to store fabrics etc.
  • Airlift | Much better for your back if you have a large or heavy sewing machine.
  • Fold-Out Quilt Leaf | Offering an additional 20 inches of depth to the table surface behind your sewing machine. Additionally, it slides to whatever position you want.
  • Custom Made Insert Available | You can have one specifically made for your particular brand of sewing machine.

Buying Factors to Consider:

While this sewing cabinet is a more considered purchase, it’s good value considering it comes with airlift for your sewing machine and an extra-large surface area of 84 inches by 60 inches which is ideal for quiltmaking.

Best Sewing Table with Storage: Sew Ready Eclipse Hobby Sewing Center

If you need some storage for your sewing essentials and sew regularly enough or have your own sewing room, you may prefer to leave your machine out permanently. This sewing table has a lot to offer for an affordable price.

Check Price

Firstly, there are a few different styles to choose from in this range. It comes with either no drawer (a fold-flat table option that’s completely portable), one drawer, or three drawers, and you can choose whether you want fabric or metal drawers like we have featured in the photo above.

The one thing they all have in common is a drop-down platform measuring 23 inches wide by 10. 75 inches deep, that adjusts to six different height positions to accommodate most machine base heights. That means you’ll get a flush surface to sew on.

What We Like:

  • Available in a Number of Different Styles | From a completely portable, fold-flat version to one with three fabric or metal drawers.
  • Drop Down Platform | That accommodates most machine base heights as it can adjust to six different height positions.

Buying Factors to Consider:

We wouldn’t recommend this option if you have a heavy or particularly large sewing machine – the drop-down tray will only hold around 20 lbs comfortably. We also wouldn’t recommend it for advanced sewers as the table can vibrate (usually depending on your floor surface) when a sewing machine is used at a higher speed.

Alternative Sewing Cabinets

These are the products that didn’t quite make our top picks, but they’re still pretty good so you might like to take a look:

Cabinet with Adjustable Shelves


Soft White Sauder Sewing and Craft Table

This is an alternative to our top picks.

Key Features:

  • Two adjustable shelves.
  • Two storage bins are attached to the inside door.
  • Drop leaf.
Check Price

For Advanced Sewers and Quilters

Arrow K8611 Aussie II Kangaroo Sewing, Cutting, Quilting, Crafting Cabinet

Though you wouldn’t think to look at it, this one folds away to a very compact size and the cabinet is even lockable.

Key Features:

  • Lift mechanism for your sewing machine.
  • The rolling caddy can be placed in 2 separate places on the front of the cabinet for flexible organizing.
  • Features a fold-out quilting leaf.
Check Price

Tall Cupboard

Sew Ready 13379 Craft Armoire

This is a good option for general sewing and crafters. If this is more on the lines of what you are looking for, you may want to check out our crafting table guide.

Key Features:

  • The fold-out table area measures 22.75″ wide by 27.25″ deep.
  • Five separate shelf areas for fabrics and sewing essentials.
  • Coated steel legs for durability.
Check Price

Simple Sewing Station

Southern Enterprises Eaton Rolling Craft Station

It’s basic but affordable and very effective and keeps everything together.

Key Features:

  • Worksurface area of 31.5 inches wide by 19 inches deep.
  • The cart has wheels for portability.
  • Shelf for storing a sewing machine and 4 storage shelves.
Check Price

Filed Under: Crafts

The Best Lapidary Saw for 2022

February 15, 2020 by Comfy Zen 4 Comments

In this follow-up post to our cabbing machine guide, we will look at the best lapidary saw to take you through the complete jewelry-making process from cutting rough rock into slabs to trimming slabs to make cabochons, or cabs as they are often referred to, used in all types of jewelry from necklaces, to earrings, bracelets, and rings, etc.

And if you’re more interested in cutting geodes to reveal their exquisite interiors or you want to cut slabs or cut rocks for other creative projects, don’t worry, this guide has that covered too. We will help you choose the best lapidary saw to take you through the whole process.

Editor’s AwardBrand Product
Best Lapidary Slab SawHi-Tech Diamond 10″ Lapidary Slab Saw
Best Lapidary Trim SawHi-Tech Diamond 6″ Lapidary Trim Saw
Best Mini Trim Saw Hi-Tech Diamond 4″/5″ Lapidary Trim Saw
Budget OptionMini Table Jewelry Saw with Polishing Lathe
Other Worthy MentionSKIL 3540-02 7-Inch Wet Tile Saw

Lapidary Saws Reviewed

Best Lapidary Slab Saw: Hi-Tech Diamond 10″ Lapidary Slab Saw

Hi-Tech Diamond 10″ Lapidary Slab Saw

The 10″ Diamond Lapidary saw is the perfect piece of equipment to cut small geodes, or to cut rock into slabs to make cabochons.

Though technically you can trim with this saw, it’s specifically made for cutting larger pieces of rock.

Check Price

With a speed of 1,725rpm, the 1/3 hp motor is powerful enough to make large cuts with ease.

It comes complete with two 10″ blades but it’ll accept any 10″ blade that has a 5/8″ arbor. The 10-inch blade means that you can slab larger rocks and minerals up to 3-3/4″ high.

The green blade it comes with is a notched rim saw blade. This type of blade has diamond grit pressed into the edge of a solid steel core.

Basically, its thicker kerfs and sturdy core make it suitable for more heavy-duty lapidary cutting and you can slab agates, jades, and geodes, etc.

The Red blade uses sintered technology which means it has a longer life span compared to the notched rim saw blades. The reason for this is that the diamonds on a sintered blade always come into contact with the rock even as the blade wears away. Because it’s got a fine rim, this makes it more suitable for cutting and trimming rocks such as quartz, topaz, large pieces of glass, and fine agates.

Just to be clear, the lapidary saws I am comparing are suitable for jewelry making. If you want to cut anything larger, this guide is not for you, and you will need a bigger saw.

A coolant reservoir that holds 32-ounces of water keeps the blade constantly wet. The reservoir is conveniently located in the base of the machine. The blade sits in the water reservoir so it stays wet as it turns. It also captures and utilizes the excess water from the blade’s spray shield. We found clean-up to be an easy process too. The reservoir has a plug to drain the dirty water when you’re done.

Included with this model is a saw vise attachment (though there’s a cheaper option to buy one without). This keeps your hands well away from the blade. The vise grips and secures the rock or mineral for you while you manually feed it into the machine.

This American-made saw has an unbreakable, cross-linked polyethylene structure and the saw housing is rustproof and resistant to impact. It comes with a one-year manufacturer warranty.

What We Like:

  • Powerful Enough to Make Large Cuts with Ease | It comes with a 10″ green, notched diamond saw blade for slabbing large rocks and minerals up to 3-3/4″ high and a 10″ red sintered diamond saw blade, for cutting large pieces of glass, topaz, quartz, and fine agates.
  • Works with Either Water or Oil | Although water is easier to clean up you can use oil with this machine.
  • Saw Vise Attachment Included | Though you can choose to buy this machine without a saw vise attachment, it’s not only a good safety feature, for some people it helps to make more precise cuts as it grips the rock firmly while you manually guide it through the machine.

Check the latest price for the Hi-Tech Diamond 10″ Lapidary Slab Saw on Amazon.

Best Lapidary Trim Saw: Hi-Tech Diamond 6″ Lapidary Trim Saw

Hi-Tech Diamond 6″ Lapidary Trim Saw

The Hi-Tech Diamond 6″ saw is the perfect lapidary saw for trimming pre-cut slabs to make cabochon preforms or to trim facet rough up to 1-3/4″ thick.

It’s compact and lightweight so it won’t take up much worktop space but it’s also rustproof and impact-resistant so it’s built to last.  

Check Price

It’s powerful too. It has a 1/4 HP motor which delivers a variable speed of between 800rpm and 3,400rpm depending on how fast you want it to go.

Like the 10-inch version, it comes with two saw blades for cutting different materials:

  • A silver notched diamond saw blade for cutting rocks and minerals including turquoise, aqua, garnet, corundum, emerald, and ruby.
  • A red sintered diamond saw blade designed to cut glass, topaz, quartz, and fine agates.

The coolant reservoir is similar to our previous choice and built into the base of the saw directly under the blade. It can hold up to 16 ounces of water and keeps the blade wet as it spins. The blade’s spray shield also serves to continually drip water onto the blade.

The saw table is removable and has an ample surface area of 15-1/2″ by 9″ wide.

The trim saw we have featured comes with a vise attachment. This is a valuable tool that keeps your hands away from the blade and helps to make precise cuts, though you can, if you prefer, buy a cheaper version with no vise attachment.

Either way, both saws come with an adjustable rip fence that clips into the saw table allowing you to accurately cut straight lines in stones or glass.

What We Like:

  • Includes Two Saw Blades, Perfect for Trimming | This model comes with a silver notched diamond saw blade for cutting rocks and minerals and a red sintered diamond saw blade for cutting glass, topaz, quartz, and fine agates.
  • Good Construction | It’s made from unbreakable, cross-linked polyethylene, and the saw housing is rustproof and resistant to impact.
  • Works with Either Water or Oil | Again, although water is recommended for easier cleanup if you prefer to use oil you can do so with this machine.

Check the latest price for the Hi-Tech Diamond 6″ Lapidary Trim Saw on Amazon.

Best Mini Trim Saw: Hi-Tech Diamond 4″/5″ Lapidary Trim Saw

Hi-Tech Diamond 4″/5″ Lapidary Trim Saw

Though the smaller 4″ and 5″ blades don’t allow for larger cuts, this little trim saw may be all you need.

It has a powerful 1/4 hp, heavy-duty, ball-bearing motor that offers a variable speed, from 800rpm to 3,400rpm depending on how fast you want to cut, (that’s as powerful as the 6″ one we’ve just looked at) and it’s perfect for those that work with cabochon preforms, minerals, and glass, or those who want to trim smaller faceting rough.

Check Price

With the slim 4″ silver notched diamond saw blade you can cut rocks such as turquoise, aqua, garnet, corundum, emerald, and ruby to a maximum height of 1-inch very precisely with virtually no wastage. But there is also an additional 5-inch diamond blade included, allowing for a maximum cutting height of 1 1/2 inches.

The coolant reservoir holds 8 ounces of water and keeps the blade wet as it spins. This model also includes a spray shield that cuts down on mess and also helps to keep the blade wet by dripping water on it while the machine is running.

Though obviously the saw table area is smaller on this mini trim saw, you would only be using it to cut smaller material anyway and you still get a surface area of 7-1/2 inches by 4-3/4 inches to work with.

What We Like:

  • Compact but Well-Made | It’s made from lightweight, rustproof, impact-resistant material. 
  • Includes Two Fine Saw Blades in Different Sizes | The 4″ silver notched diamond saw blade cuts rock up to 1 inch in height and the 5″ blade can cut up to 11/2 inches. Additionally, the fine blades allow for more precise cuts with virtually no wastage.
  • One-Year Warranty | All Hi-Tech Diamond Lapidary saws come with a one-year warranty.

Check the latest price for the Hi-Tech Diamond 4″/5″ Lapidary Trim Saw on Amazon.

Budget Option: Mini Table Jewelry Saw with Polishing Lathe

Budget Option

Mini Table Jewelry Saw with Polishing Lathe

This improved, third-generation TM-2 mini table saw is our budget option and it’s more than just a trim saw, it’s a buffer, grinder, carving tool, and sander too so you get a lot for your money.

Check Price

This multi-functional lapidary machine has a powerful motor of (just under) 1/2 horsepower and it comes with two blades that can cut and trim rocks as well as aluminum, chrome, precious metal, jade, wood, and plastic up to 30 mm (1.1811 inches) thick.

It comes with two mandrels that spin at between 0-10000 revolutions per minute and accommodate the included 4-1/4 inches buffing wheels, though it’s worth noting, it is also capable of taking buffer or grinding wheels up to 7-inches – you can even use two different grits at the same time.

Most notably, however, it comes with a highly useful, detachable and flexible, 42.5-inch multifunctional tool, suitable for a wide variety of projects or finely detailed work.

What We Like:

  • Can Be Used as a Wet or Dry Sander | Depending on which is more suitable for the project you are working on.
  • Angle adjustable Ruler | Its angle-adjustable ruler allows you to cut at precise angles with ease.
  • Multifunctional Tool | This machine can cut, polish, grind, and carve – cutting down on the need for additional tools to complete a project.

Buying Factors to Consider:

This is a good little machine and very affordable but it’s Chinese made and so does lack comprehensive instructions. That means it may take a little practice and some trial and error to get the most out of it.

Check the latest price for the Mini Table Jewelry Saw with Polishing Lathe on Amazon.

Another Worthy Mention: SKIL 3540-02 7-Inch Wet Tile Saw

Other Worth Mention

SKIL 3540-02 7-Inch Wet Tile Saw

Though this wet tile saw isn’t marketed for the lapidarist, when used with a good diamond lapidary blade it’s ideal for cutting rocks and minerals such as agates and quartz up to a couple of inches in thickness.

Check Price

It features an adjustable rip fence with a miter gauge to allow for accurate straight or mitered cuts and it also has a bevel angle range of between 0-45 degrees.

Its stainless steel saw table is corrosion resistant and the saw blade is kept cool by the water reservoir that sits underneath the deck.

What We Like:

  • Multi-Purpose Saw | This is a good option for those who would prefer a general use wet tile saw that’s suitable for a range of tile cutting or other DIY projects but that can be adapted to cut rocks for jewelry making, etc.

Check the latest price for the SKIL 3540-02 7-Inch Wet Tile Saw on Amazon.

Other Lapidary Saws to Consider:

These are the products that didn’t quite make our top picks, but they’re still pretty good, so you might like to take a look:


4″ Diameter Mini Jeweler’s Saw


PMC Supplies LLC 4″ Diameter Mini Jeweler’s Saw

This is a super affordable mini lapidary saw that can cut to a depth of 3/4 of an inch.

Key Features:

  • It doesn’t require water but does come with a diamond blade that can be used for some stone and ceramic cutting.
  • Suitable for cutting silver or aluminum etc.
  • Includes a blade guard and an eye shield for safety.
Check Price

Rock Polishing Buffer Bench Lathe & Polisher Machine Set with Mini Table Saw

MONIPA Mini Table Saw

You will need to buy a separate diamond lapidary saw blade for this machine.

Key Features:

  • Accommodates a 6-inch cutting blade.
  • Variable speed of 500~7000rpm.
  • Multifunctional for jewelry/rock polishing and buffing as well as cutting.
Check Price

7-Speed Adjustable Gem Jade Cutting Carving Polishing Milling Machine

TBvechi 7-Speed Adjustable Gem Jade Cutting Carving Polishing Milling Machine

Another good multifunctional machine.

Key Features:

  • Output speed of between 1600-3300RPM.
  • Mini saw with 4″ blade for a cutting depth of 1 inch.
  • Great for jade cutting and carving and gemstone polishing.
Check Price

Filed Under: Crafts

  • « Go to Previous Page
  • Go to page 1
  • Go to page 2
  • Go to page 3
  • Go to Next Page »

Primary Sidebar

Featured Posts

Are Womb Chairs Overrated?

10 Interior Design Trends to Suit your Personality: Take Our Quiz

Do Dining Chairs Have to Match the Table?

The Top Velvet Sofas for a Chic and Comfortable Living Space

Easy Coffee Cinnamon & Honey Soap Recipe – Melt & Pour

Super-Easy Homemade Honey & Oatmeal Soap Recipe – Melt and Pour

Free Macrame Feather Pattern with Video

Recent Posts

Archives

Footer

Disclaimer

Neither Comfy Zen nor any of its employees shall be held liable for any harm to persons or property that results from use of the information described and/or contained herein.

All images on this website belong to their respective owners. If any graphic or image on this site is under your own copyright, then please contact us and we will remove it promptly.

Comfy Zen is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com.

We also participate in the Shareasale, Awin and Impact affiliate advertising programs, designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to participating websites.

Copyright © 2023 · Comfy Zen

  • Privacy Policy
  • Terms of Service
  • Contact