Getting Crafty with the Dremel Stylo
This review was created as part of a paid affiliate program with the Home Depot.
My first order of business with this and every product review is a disclaimer: I am a farmer and a fine furniture maker. When it comes to more crafty-style projects, I’m a DIYer and weekend warrior. My goal in reviewing tools and products is to provide honest feedback based on my own use and experience with these tools to other regular folks like me- wanting to get their hands dirty, try new things, and get the best value for their hard earned dollars.
My first thought when I picked up this tool is that I wish I’d had it when I was a kid. I would have used the heck out of it. And though I’ve found it to be surprisingly useful in various endeavors while testing it, the thing I’m most excited about with this tool is the fact that I can feel comfortable and confident putting it in a child’s hands. That is not a veiled dig at the quality of the tool, it is something I’m genuinely excited about. It has enough power to be useful, but if it were to “bite,” the damage wouldn’t be devastating. It would be an ideal tool for working on derby cars, etching projects, and leather work. Speaking of leather, check out the awesome Wonder Woman cuff Katelyn (from one of my favorite YouTube Channels, Evan and Katelyn) made for me using the Stylo!
The ergonomics of this tool are awesome- it feels like a pen and works like a pen, and thus, extended use isn’t really a concern. I used the Stylo quite a bit on my Damascus knife project (check out the video on YouTube to see it in action) to refine the Blackwood handle and copper ferrule and buffed/polished the whole knife as well.
Manufacturer claims:
· Best for craft projects- glass etching, leather burnishing, jewelry making, wood etching and more
· Slim size allows you to get closer to your workpiece and provides maximum control in precision etching, engraving, polishing and sanding applications
Awesome Features:
· The overload switch that shuts the tool off instead of burning up the motor is awesome. I’ve burned up several rotary tools trying to push them beyond their limits, so knowing the tool isn’t going to explode in my hands is definitely a plus.
· The ergonomics of this tool really are awesome- it’s easy to control and fine motor movement, even with a spinning tool out front is very achievable.
Things I wish were better/different:
· The lock button and the power button are the same size and located in the same area (on opposite sides of the tool) so it’s easy to confuse them.
This tool retails for $59.00. Would I buy it?
The Stylo is not very well suited to the type of work I generally ask of my rotary tools, for that I’d be a lot more interested in a full size Dremel https://homedepot.sjv.io/c/1254293/456723/8154?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.homedepot.com%2Fp%2FDremel-4300-Series-1-8-Amp-Variable-Speed-Corded-Rotary-Tool-Kit-with-Mounted-Light-45-Accessories-and-Carrying-Case-4300-5-40%2F300589719 with the flexshaft attachment just to add a little versatility and power to the tool. https://homedepot.sjv.io/c/1254293/456723/8154?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.homedepot.com%2Fp%2FDremel-32-in-Flex-Shaft-Attachment-for-Rotary-Tools-225-01%2F100019434
That said, for light duty work where fine control is needed, this little tool is a good value for the money.
*I acknowledge that the Home Depot is partnering with me to participate in the Prospective 2018 Campaign. As part of the program, I am receiving compensation in the form of products and services, for the purpose of promoting The Home Depot. All expressed opinions and experiences are my own words. My post complies with the Word of Mouth Marketing Association (WOMMA) Ethics code and applicable Federal Trade Commission guidelines.