Tag Archives: Crafting Supplies
EtchMate Engraving Pen Review: Right for Our Shop?
After a week of putting the EtchMate Engraving Pen through its paces, we’re starting to see where it fits in our workflow—and where it doesn’t. We tested it on scrap metal tags, unfinished wood, a thrift-store glass jar, and a few plastic blanks, aiming for crisp lines, steady control, and minimal fuss. The pen-style grip feels familiar in the hand, which helped us move from quick initials to simple patterns without a steep learning curve. That said, results depend a lot on surface prep and patience; on slick glass, we had to slow down for cleaner strokes. If we’re looking for a compact, giftable tool that invites experimentation, EtchMate makes a compelling case.
10″ Self-Healing Cutting Mat Review: Right for Our Shop?
In our shop, a cutting mat has to earn its space—especially a compact one. This 10" self-healing cutting mat surprised us with how “finished” it feels for a small round tool: the non-slip base stays planted when we’re trimming quilt pieces, and the scalloped edge makes it easy to grip and reposition without smudging our work. After a few sessions with rotary cutters and craft knives, the surface largely bounced back, keeping our lines cleaner and our cuts more predictable. We also liked how it slips beside the sewing machine without stealing table real estate. That said, the 10" size is best for patchwork, paper piecing, and small leather or art projects—not big yardage.
Junk Journal Kit Review: Right Tool for Our Shop?
In our search for small, versatile add-ons that can elevate a handmade page without stealing the spotlight, this Junk Journal Supplies Kit quickly caught our eye. The set includes 40 sheets of quote and affirmation stickers, leaning into that vintage ephemera vibe—think softly aged typography, gentle motifs, and snippets that feel “found” rather than factory-made. We tested them across scrapbooking spreads, vision board layouts, and quick card fronts, and they layered nicely with washi, ink, and torn paper edges. The quotes range from reflective to energizing, giving us easy focal points when a page feels unfinished. For our shop, the real question is repeat usability—and these sheets seem built for steady, everyday embellishing rather than one-off novelty.
