So the first one I bought was this. This one gets really hot then cools down constantly, so it’s hard to get a consistent burn. The burn tips are also not the greatest. I found the shader to be subpar, the fine tip to not be so fine. My sister used the “fine tip” on the boards she burned, and that’s the best you’ll get.
The second one I bought was this. This one is soooooo much better. It still isn’t perfect, but I’d definitely recommend it over the first one I bought. The ballpoint is my favorite tip on this one. The shader is at a better angle and much easier to use, too. It has a dial to control the heat, and the heat seems to be more consistent while using (though not perfect). I used a 60% off coupon on this to drop the price to $40, so keep an eye out for good coupons!
I think the second model I got is good for the casual burner. The pen is much more ergonomic, it doesn’t burn my fingers to hold closer to the tip, and it heats up and cools down WAY FASTER than the cheap tool. It’s also much easier to change tips. If you want to just burn a few things here and there and not burn all the time, I recommend this one. If you plan on burning a lot of projects, then this may not cut it. One day I may invest in an even more expensive burn set, because I enjoy pyrography so much!
) for my mom, including a White Christmas themed one. My original idea for that one involved another pop culture reference that I didn’t think would mean anything to her, but I was enamored of it and made it for myself. Long story long, it says “Betty & Judy & Bob & Phil” (names) and hangs on (is attached to) a tree. Here it is in front of my pseudo tree; I may fill it next year to improve readability.
I love to make cards, but now I can see how I can use them on journal pages, or ATC backgrounds, so they’ll get a lot more use. I have some sets that are just words and phrases that would be perfect for ATCs!