I really really want to learn how to use power tools.
Only one problem – I’m scared. So very scared of power tools. I’ve sort of mastered the drill. (Sort of.)
Which is a big step since the last time I used a drill, the toilet paper holder didn’t quite stay on the wall. (I found this photo way back in the archives from 2008 and couldn’t resist.)
Now, I’m moving on to the wonders of the Dremel Micro 8050. And guys, I think this is the start of a long term understanding and friendship.
Ryan and I spent 45 minutes in the Dremel tools aisle at Menards marveling over everything I could do.
I could cut. I could carve. I could engrave. I could sand. I could grind. I could sharpen. I could clean. I could polish.
I could even exfoliate my face (Kidding on that last one. Although that could be cool, am I right?)
There are so many ways to use this little tool and it is super light and nimble for detailed projects. It also has a soft grip, LED front-end lighting to illuminate projects, a docking station that continually charges, and an 8V Max Lithium-ion battery. I love this little guy.
I started simple – I wanted to make a wooden sign for our porch in my own cursive. So, I started practicing on a scrap piece of wood. When I moved to my “real” sign board, I simply used a small carving accessory to outline my words. (I could have started by penciling the word, but I didn’t because I’m bad to the bone.
After I was happy with the word, I turned to a sanding accessory, which allowed me to get into the groove a little deeper and sand and smooth the edges. I was shocked at how well it went and how easy the Dremel Micro was to handle. I just played with it outside for about 20 minutes and I had a sign that I actually liked.
I rubbed the whole board down with a piece of sandpaper to smooth it out, and then I used a wood finishing cloth to stain the board.
I decided to paint the carved area a different color for a little pop.
And that’s it- I have a very homespun sign for our front porch.
I love that the Dremel gave it a fun, carved detail.
It’s not perfect, but neither am I. And it looks pretty sweet on my door hanging with my burlap wreath.
I felt so arrogant confident that I’m planning to try my hand at carving our names onto a stone next. Wish me luck.
About Dremel and the Dremel Micro 8050
Dremel offers a full line of versatile tool systems that provide the perfect solution for almost any craft, hobby or DIY project. The Micro 8050 is the most “brilliantly powerful” and precise cordless rotary tool that Dremel has ever produced. It’s fully compatible with all Dremel rotary tool accessories and available online at Amazon and Home Depot for $89.
I was selected for this opportunity as a member of Clever Girls Collective and the content and opinions expressed here are all my own.
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Las Vegas GE Appliance Service says
You really make it seem so easy with your presentation but I find this topic to be actually something
which I think I would never understand. It seems tooo complicated and extremely broad for
me. I’m looking forward for your next post, I will try to get the hang of it!
Katja | Shift Ctrl Art says
I love that photo of you. You definitely look like you have those power tools down 🙂 I love the sign you made. The stain with the white lettering looks amazing!! Great project!!
Ashley@AttemptsAtDomestication says
I recently discovered the Dremel and I love it too! Such a fun tool!
Julia@Cuckoo4Design says
Ha look at you! Love it
Trina @ Let's Just Build a House says
I want one now too! Those staining cloths looks so simple I may need to pick up a pack to try as well. It would be nice if I could just go on a supply shopping spree!
Kim Woodward says
The staining cloths are actually pretty rad. I love that I don’t have to bother with a brush or open a can or clean up. Makes staining super simple.
Jackie says
The sign looks cute on the wreath like that 🙂
And I have a Dremel but never thought of using it to carve out letters like that. (Instead I’m currently using it get rid of grout, fun fun!)
Kim Woodward says
Yeah, grout doesn’t sound like an enjoyable project. But I guess having some help from a tool is handy.
I have all kinds of projects I’d love to try with this puppy.
emily @ go haus go says
Embrace the power tools girl! They still scare the crap out of me…
Kim Woodward says
I’m trying to be brave. Maybe we should start a support group?
Lana says
So many sponsored posts…
deb says
Here’s a thought – don’t read the sponsored posts if you don’t like them….jeez….
Kim Woodward says
There have been a lot of sponsored posts lately, and I know that not everyone likes them. But I am trying to make sure the projects and posts are in line with my life and blog when I take them on. And I do my best to make sure that when I do sponsored posts, I actually “do” something – like creating a sign with the Dremel. That takes time and thought. But, there are plenty of projects coming up that aren’t sponsored and I’ve literally written thousands of posts that aren’t sponsored. That’s gotta count for something, right? 😉 Happy Friday!
Amber @ Wills Casa says
So cute! Such a perfect addition to the burlap wreath!!
Kim Woodward says
Thanks! It’s about the only fall-type decor I have in my house, so I’d better embrace it.
Gretchen says
Cute! What I’ve managed to do so far with my new dremel is: charge it. But you have to start somewhere, right? Seeing you actually make something with yours is going to inspire me, I just know it!
Kim Woodward says
The charging is an important step. Go girl! Can’t wait to see your project.