Specialty Tools for Crafting: A Complete Guide for Precision & Creativity

Crafting is an art—but even the most skilled hands need support tools to bring detail, control, and clarity to each project. Whether you're building a miniature diorama, soldering electronics, or detailing a painting, tools like magnifiers, mahl sticks, and grabbing tools are essential to staying precise and steady.

Whether you're a professional artist, model maker, or DIY enthusiast, having the right specialty tools for crafting can make all the difference. From intricate paper cuts to miniature model detailing, your projects deserve precision—and that's exactly what these tools offer.

In this guide, we spotlight support tools that do the heavy lifting behind the scenes—featuring premium picks from Excel Blades’ Specialty Tools Collection.

What Are Specialty Crafting Tools?

Specialty tools are precision instruments designed for detailed, controlled work across materials like paper, wood, metal, foam, plastic, leather, and more. Unlike general-use tools, these are crafted for exact performance, delicate manipulation, and long-term comfort.

Why You Need Specialty Tools in Your Crafting Kit

1. Improved Accuracy

From delicate decoupage to tiny soldered joints, specialty tools allow you to work with millimeter-level precision, especially in tight corners or curved surfaces.

2. Increased Efficiency

Time is valuable—tools like Excel Blades’ K18 Knife or Mitre Box Set help speed up the process without sacrificing quality.

3. Better Results

Whether it's a flawless paper edge or a perfect model seam, the right tool ensures a clean finish every time.

Why Use Support Tools in Crafting?

• Reduce hand fatigue
• Enhance visibility
• Stabilize detailed work
• Handle small components safely
• Work longer, with fewer errors

Let’s take a closer look at the most underrated—but essential—support tools for creators, tinkerers, and professionals.

1. Helping Hands with Magnifier – Your Third Hand

This tool features two fully adjustable alligator clips and a built-in magnifying glass, mounted on a weighted base. It’s ideal for:

• Soldering wires or circuits
• Holding model parts during painting
• Assembling jewelry or miniatures

Pro Tip: Use this tool with a bright task light to eliminate shadowing on intricate work.

2.  Magnivisor – See What You’re Really Doing

The Magnivisor is a wearable, hands-free magnifying headset with interchangeable lenses for 1.5x to 3.5x zoom. It's perfect for:

• Stitching, embroidery, and needlework
• Carving or woodburning
• Detailing diecast models and figures
• Reading fine print or etching lines

Did You Know? This visor is also loved by watchmakers and PCB repair experts for its adjustable headband and clarity.

3.  Metal Grabber Pick-Up Tool – Never Lose a Piece Again

Designed like a reverse tweezers, this tool’s flexible prongs grab small items from hard-to-reach spaces with a push-button top.

Use Cases:

• Picking up screws, beads, or blades
• Retrieving parts dropped inside a model or toolbox
• Handling jewelry findings or electronics

Crafter’s Hack: Use it when working with adhesives—hold the part without getting glue on your hands.

4. Mahl Stick – Stabilize Your Brush Like a Pro

A favorite among painters and illustrators, the mahl stick offers a steady surface to rest your hand while painting, especially on large canvases or flat illustrations.

Best For:

• Acrylic, oil, and detail brushwork
• Preventing smudges in wet media
• Artists who need wrist support during long sessions

Bonus: Also great for calligraphy, tracing, and architectural rendering.

Who Should Use Support Tools?

• Model builders & miniature painters
• RC hobbyists & electronics tinkerers
• Jewelry designers & gemstone setters
• Leatherworkers & calligraphers
• Professional illustrators & fine artists

Other Helpful Tools from Excel Blades

Needle Point Awl: Perfect for punching holes in paper, leather, or fabric for precise sewing, binding, or threading.

Double-Ended Burnisher: Smooth vinyl, foil, and transfers without wrinkling.

Where to Buy Trusted Support Tools

Get all these tools directly from the Excel Blades Specialty Tool Collection—crafted for professionals and hobbyists who value quality and performance.

Final Thoughts: Small Tools, Big Impact

Precision starts with control—and support tools like helping hands, magnifiers, and pick-up tools give you just that. Whether you're painting a miniature figure, fixing a watch, or building a model rocket, these accessories can transform your process and results.

Shop the full collection now at Excel Blades and elevate your craft with tools that support your best work.

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