Comfy Zen

I have to admit, I’m a bit obsessed with mid-century interior design, especially furniture. I love the clean, elegant lines and the timeless modern look you can so easily achieve with this style.

In my guide to Eames chair replicas, I briefly mentioned the Eames elephant and the iconic mid-century Eames house bird, which was not in fact, created by, but was certainly made famous by, Charles and Ray Eames.

The original bird was actually first made in 1910 but the Eames’s where completely inspired by it when they found one on their travels, and it subsequently became a much-loved art piece for their home.

Anyway, that was the inspiration for the simple aqua green needle felted bird that you can see in the photo above.

If you’d like to have a go, you can make this bird any size you like by simply adjusting the quantities of raw materials you use – you can pretty much eyeball how much you’ll need. My bird stands 7 inches tall and measures 9 inches from beak to tail.

If this project helps you feel inspired, why not head over to our reading room where you’ll find some great needle felting book recommendations.

Skill level: Beginner

How to Needle Felt a Simple Bird

Cost:

Around $20.

Time:

Approximately 2 hours

Technique:

For this bird, we’ll be using the dry felting technique. This is simply the process of tangling together loose wool roving fibers by poking them with a barbed needle to condense and sculpt the resulting fabric into shape.

In our sweet little bowl tutorial, we used the same technique and this bird is just as another super-easy way to start learning the craft. We have provided all the instructions you’ll need.

Notes:
In this tutorial, we will be using a size 38, 3 – needle felting pen. This is a good all-around tool that you can use for a ton of different projects.

The pen, which you can see in action in the photo above, will help speed up the felting process as working with three needles is always going to be faster than one, and for any finer details such as round the beak, you can simply remove one needle and work with just two.

Although it is a good idea to invest in a good felting mat – you can just use a thick folded towel to save a few dollars if you are just trying this out as a new hobby.

Necessary Items:

10-15 grams of wool roving

Core wool roving

18 gauge craft wire

Needle felting mat or towel

Clover pen style needle felting tool

Black craft paint

3/16 size dowel sticks

Step 1: Create the bird shape

For my bird, I used some garden wire, though you can just as easily use 18 gauge craft wire. The wire just has to be flexible enough to bend into shape and just thick enough to hold the core wool without collapsing. Don’t worry if your wire doesn’t feel strong enough, you can always wrap the shape over a couple of times until it holds up better.

Step 2: Wrap the wire with core wool

Tear off approximately 12 inches of core wool and wrap it around the wire frame. Tear off any excess wool from the bird’s head and beak. You will need to allow room to add your color roving without making the head too big or the beak too thick. And remember it’s easy to add more core later if needed.

Step 3: Secure the core wool with thread

Use neutral-colored embroidery thread to wrap and secure your core wool. (I’ve used black embroidery thread so you can see it better in the photo.)

Start at the beak to give it definition and wrap the thread around the tail several times. You don’t need to wrap the thread tightly, it’s just there to help give you a rough shape to follow.

Step 4: Shape the core wool

Start by needle felting the core wool to firm it up and give the bird shape.

You can add more core wool to pad it out if you need to. Keep poking to blend it in. You can see my bird was looking a little slim around the waist so I added more core wool to fill out the shape.

Step 5: Shape the bird

Keep building the shape until you are happy with your bird shape. This will make it easier to get a nice smooth finish when you add your layer of colored roving.

Step 6: Needle felt a layer of colored wool roving

When you are happy with your shape, you can start to wrap a layer of colored roving.

Don’t add too much and try to keep the fibers running smoothly. This will make the needle felting process easier and the finished result will look neater.

Build-up the coverage in any thin areas by adding another layer of roving over the top.

Keep poking with your needle until you get a compact and smooth finish. This should take you about an hour depending on how fast you go.

Step 7: Add the legs

For the legs, I simply painted a couple of craft sticks black and cut them into two 4 1/2 inch lengths.

Make two holes where you want your legs to go with a thin screwdriver or knitting needle and push approximately 2 1/2 inches into the bird.

You can add glue to the sticks for extra stability. Though the bird is intended for decorative or ornamental purposes only so this last step is optional.

If you want to give away your bird as a gift, all you need to add is your free printable handmade label.

Beading weaving using a bead loom is so much faster and easier than picking up one bead at a time. They’re also are ideal for beginners because they don’t require any special talent to learn – so you can make that perfect beaded bracelet, on your very first try. To that end, we’ve written a quick guide to the best bead loom according to your budget and for the type of project, you want to make.

So to start our series of weaving reviews let’s get to it straight away.

Click below to jump to full review in this guide.

• Our Top Pick – Best Overall
• Best for Beaded Bracelets
• Best for Advanced Beaders
• Best Budget Beading Loom
• Best Portable/Budget Beading Loom for Beginners
• Frequently asked Questions
• Other Bead Looms We’ve Reviewed

Reviews of Our Top Picks for the Best Bead Loom.

Our Top Pick – Best Overall: CLOVER 9910 Beading Loom

Our Top Pick – Best Overall

CLOVER 9910 Beading Loom

Clover is a well-respected needlecraft company that makes consistently well-designed high-quality crafting tools. Their 9910 beading loom is no exception. Designed for a frustration-free setup, the loom is very easy to warp and super easy to use, making it suitable for every skill level from complete beginner to the serious beader.

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The loom is adjustable from 2-1/4 inches long for small, delicate projects like pendants, earrings, or brooches, etc to 8-3/8 inches long. However, the winding beam allows you to work on much longer projects if you wish.

There are two different groove sets spaced either for round or seed beads and one for narrower cylinder (Delica) beads. Clover says this allows for a width of up to 2-1/2″ or 40 warp threads – for a 39 round bead pattern, or a width of 2-9/16″ or 44 warp threads – for a 43 cylinder bead pattern.

Don’t worry if you are new to beading and that sounds a little confusing. What that basically means is that you get a nice even tension whether you use 11/0 round seed beads or narrower Delica 11/0 seed beads, because the warp threads on this loom can be specifically set for either.

Just so you know, the loom also allows you to mix your beads or use larger beads than mentioned, by changing the intervals between the warp threads if you wish.

The set-up is a breeze on this weaving loom whether you’re a beginner or not. The loom comes with 4 holders that clip onto the winding beam to grip your thread while you warp the loom, and 12 pegs for continuous warping (depending on your method of warping). Pro tip – continuous warping means easy removal of your project and minimal hiding and securing of your (only two) threads – clover provided written as well as video tutorials on how to do this.

This loom also features 2 handy metal warp thread stoppers. These slide into the grove sets on top of your warping threads and prevent your threads from jumping out while you work.

Included in your package you also get 1 beading needle (#10), one needle threader, and comprehensive instructions. Clover has also produced several helpful video tutorials to get you up and running.

What We Like:

• Adjustable Length | For projects from 2-1/4 inches long to 8-3/8 inches long. And longer projects can be achieved using the winding beam.
• Two Different Groove Sets | It’s suitable for all skill levels as it’s very easy to set up and use and it has features such as the metal warp thread stoppers and the choice between two grove sets, for example, that you only get with this loom.
• Comprehensive Instructions | And several freely available video tutorials mean you’re not on your own – even if you are completely new to beading on a loom.

Buying Factors to Consider:

• If you’re not sure how much you’ll like using a loom, this isn’t as cheap as the Beadalon Jewel Loom Kit. But it’s a perfect choice if you plan to make lots of projects with it.

Check the latest price for the CLOVER 9910 Beading Loom on Amazon.

Best for Beaded Bracelets: Ricks Beading Loom Kit

Best for Beaded Bracelets

Ricks Beading Loom Kit

The part of bead weaving that requires the most patience is the finishing process which involves hiding and securing your warp and weft threads.

Rick’s beading loom is designed to make that job so much easier for you by leaving you with just two threads to deal with at the end of your project.

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Handmade in the US from high-quality wood, the design is very simple, you adjust and tighten the frame to your desired length before you begin and warp the loom using the pegs provided to secure the thread at whichever end you start and end up at.

The loom will accommodate projects up to just under 12 inches in length, and nearly 3 – 1/4 inches wide. Longer projects can be achieved by sewing two lengths of completed beadwork together like a quilt.

Weaving the beads close to the warp rods leaves you with just two warp threads to deal with at the end of your project and only tiny end loops that will easily disappear in your beadwork.

The loom comes with 3 warp rods (one is a spare), 3 warp pegs, and 1 warp separator card. The loom also comes with comprehensive instructions and again there are good video tutorials freely available for this loom.

What We Like:

• Two Warp Threads to Deal with When Your Project Is Complete | This saves you time and makes finishing your project so much more straight forward.
• Loom Naturally Tilts Towards You | There’s also ample space to maneuver beneath your beadwork.
• Adjustable Length | Upto just under 12 inches in length.

Buying Factors to Consider:

The only thing I should point out about this loom is that it does require you to know how long you want your finished beadwork to be before you begin.

Check the latest price for Ricks Beading Loom Kit on Amazon.

Best for Advanced Beaders: Lacis Bead Loom Hardwood Purse Bead Loom

Best for Advanced Beaders

Lacis Bead Loom Hardwood Purse Bead Loom

This bead loom gives you the ability to work on much larger projects than beading looms generally allow for. It provides a generous working area of 11 inches wide by 36 inches long, making it suitable for pictures, purses, bags and more.

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The high-quality hardwood frame can be angled or used on a flat surface.

For ease of setup and use, the frame uses the continuous warping method. This allows you to rotate or advance your beadwork as you go. The result of this being that you always work in the center of the loom.

Even advanced beaders will no doubt be wondering how to space the warping thread correctly for your project. This is done by making your own beaded warp spacer using a row of beads from your chosen project which you simply attach to one end – creating tension by means of an elastic band and a couple of paper clips. But don’t worry there are video tutorials to show you how this is done.

What We Like:

• Professional Loom For Large Projects | This loom gives you a generous working area of 11 inches wide by 36 inches long.
• Loom Uses the Continuous Warping Method | This allows you to rotate your beadwork as you go so that you are always working in the center of the loom.

Buying Factors to Consider:

You may also want to consider buying a 1/4 inch by 24-inch length of dowl to feed through the holes in the center of this loom. This will allow you to rotate the frame swiftly and efficiently, which makes warping this loom so much faster and easier.

It’s a well-made versatile loom and great for larger projects, but it does require some knowledge and experience to handle it.

If you are a beginner but would like to work on larger projects you should opt for our budget option next.

Check the latest price for the Lacis Bead Loom Hardwood Purse Bead Loom on Amazon.

Best Budget Beading Loom: Cousin Large Traditional Bead Loom kit

Best Budget Beading Loom

Cousin Large Traditional Bead Loom kit

This loom is super easy to warp, especially if you use the continuous warping method, and it has a generous 8.5-inch by 5.6-inch working area – more length can be achieved using the winding beam.

It’s easily affordable and ideal for all skill levels who’d like the option to work on larger pieces.

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The simple but effective design of this loom features a metal spiral or coil warp separator and the winding beams are tightened by wingnuts at each end.

The loom comes with beads, thread, and needles, to get you started and it includes instructions on how to weave several patterns including chevrons, waves, and Aztec styles.

What We Like:

• Large Workspace | It can accommodate up to 66 bead rows for larger projects as well a being ideal for bracelets, necklaces and other smaller items of jewelry.
• Suitable for the Tightest Budget | If you are in the least bit curious about whether you’ll enjoy bead looming or not, you seriously can’t go wrong for the price.
• Easy to Warp | Setup can be done in less than 5 minutes.

Check the latest price Cousin Large Traditional Bead Loom kit on Amazon.

Best Portable/Budget Beading Loom for Beginners: Beadalon Jewel Loom Kit

Best Portable/Budget Beading Loom for Beginners

Beadalon Jewel Loom Kit

Designed by author and jewelry designer, Julianna Avelarhis this is a great little starter kit or travel beading loom for all skill levels.

It’s such a simple design that fits in the palm of your hand.

It’s super easy to warp with two buttons on the back for securing your thread and a tension bar that you remove once the loom is warped. This will automatically tighten your warp threads for you.

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That’s all there is to it!

Again this loom is so affordable it’s a must-have addition for those that love to craft while traveling – it even comes in a clear zippered pouch to keep everything together neatly.

What We Like:

• The Book and Loom Make a Great Grift Idea | The book is full of amazing jewelry projects and inspirational ideas. It just goes to show you what can be achieved with such a simple inexpensive little loom.
• Tension Rod | This makes warping easy and sets the correct tension for you when the warping rod is removed.

Buying Factors to Consider:

This is a must-have loom – whether it’s your first loom to start practicing on or a portable addition to one of the larger looms featured above.

Just remember that it is just plastic and has the potential to snap if you warp it too tightly.

Check the latest price for the Beadalon Jewel Loom Kit on Amazon.

Feel inspired? Head over to our reading room where you’ll find some more great beading book recommendations.

Other Bead Looms We’ve Reviewed:

These are the products that didn’t quite make our top picks, but they’re still pretty good so you might like to take a look.

And if you need somewhere to store your beads – beading is totally addictive so believe me, you will – hop over to our craft organizer guide to take a look at our (very affordable) bead storage pick.

Traditional Wooden Loom

Beazu Bead Loom

This is a well-made loom. But it doesn’t come with pegs. You will need to add screws from a hardware store to secure your warp threads.

Key Features:

• 10 1/2 inches long by 11 inches wide.
• It does have warp separator bars.
• Predrilled holes to add your own screws.

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Large Solid Oak Loom

Darice Deluxe Bead Loom

This one has screws at each end to secure your thread.

Key Features:

• 15 x 14 x 3.5 Inches.
• It comes with over 14 unique patterns.
• Adjustable legs and extra-wide platform.

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Great for Endless Wrap Bracelets with Built-in Ruler

TRULOOM Easy DIY Jewelry Loom

This one is great for creating endless wrap bracelets similar to the one you can see in the image.

Key Features:

• Use the tension bridge to convert to a bead weaving loom.
• Includes over 1000 Stone, Crystal, & Japanese glass seed beads.
• For bracelets and necklaces up to 1-1/4 inches wide.

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And don’t worry – there’s also a wealth of helpful tips and tutorials available out there in the crafting community so you’ll never be on your own.

And lastly, if you find yourself working on a bead project and struggle to see what you’re doing, a good craft light with a magnifier will make a ton of difference. Honestly, I can’t recommend one enough!

Sewing cabinets are a must-have for anyone who loves sewing. They’re a place to store away your sewing machine, they tend to come with built-in storage shelves, bins and caddies and, best of all, they close up to become, well, just a nice piece of furniture, like a side table or lamp table.

For this review guide, we selected the best sewing cabinet according to different people’s criteria. We choose the most aesthetically pleasing as well as the most practical and sturdy sewing cabinets for you, so let’s get straight to it.

Click below to jump to each topic in this guide.

• Our Top Pick / Best Over All
• Best Alternative Top Pick
• Best for Small Spaces
• Best Cabinet with Airlift
• Best for Quilters
• Best Sewing Table with Storage
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Other Sewing Cabinets We’ve Reviewed

Our Top Pick / Best Over All: Sauder Miscellaneous Storage Sewing Craft Cart

Sewing cabinets can be quite pricey, but this is a great affordable option.

This cabinet not only folds out with plenty of storage space for your sewing essentials, but it gives you a generous worktop area, extending from 40 inches to 63.5 inches wide when folded out, and it just looks like a really nice piece of furniture when everything is folded away for the day.

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There are two adjustable shelves in the cupboard on the right which are handy for fabrics, books, and other sewing essentials.

The left section, which opens out on lockable rollers, reveals two handy storage bins on the inside of the door, and a central shelf area measuring 9-1/2 inches deep by 22 inches wide which is specifically made to store your sewing machine.

The melamine tabletop surface is heat, stain, and scratch-resistant and the table is finished in cinnamon cherry which is a rich dark brown.

What We Like:

• Table Surface | The melamine tabletop is heat, stain, and scratch-resistant.
• Large Tabletop Surface | Extending from 40 inches to 63.5 inches wide.
• Sturdy Construction | The unopened surface can hold up to 75lbs in weight and the opened-out surface can hold up to 20lbs.

Buying Factors to Consider:

You might prefer a different finish to match your décor, in which case take a look at our next choice.

Best Alternative Top Pick: Mainstay Sewing / Craft Center – Folding Table

This is our alternative top pick. The design and construction are similar to our top pick and the dimensions are the same, though this one has a different style to it.

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This sewing cabinet is finished in amber pine, it has more paneling details and two faux drawer handles to complete the look.

Both cabinets have casters which makes them easily portable and they lock into place with brakes for stability when the table is ready for use.

Whether you prefer the dark or light wood finish, what’s most impressive about this design, is that everything neatly folds away when not in use.

What We Like:

• Large Tabletop Surface | The table surface extends from 40 inches to 63.5 inches wide.
• Design Details | This option has nice design details. It’s finished in amber pine, has more paneling and two faux drawer handles to complete the look.

Buying Factors to Consider:

The only downside to this design is that the sewing machine has to be manually lifted onto the tabletop. If you prefer the machine with an automatic lift you should consider one with an airlift that we have featured below.

Best for Small Spaces: Giantex Folding Sewing Craft Table

This is a great little space-saving option for those with limited space. This single craft cart opens up to 46 inches wide allowing ample room for a sewing machine.

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The door which opens on lockable wheels, reveals an adjustable hidden shelf measuring 22 inches in length – perfect for storing away a serger, sewing machine, or even a die cutting machine. It has three handy built-in storage bins for sewing accessories measuring 14- 1/2 inches in length, 4 inches deep, and 1-1/2 inches high.

There are two wood finishes to choose from in this range, white, which can be seen in the photo at the top of this section, and natural wood which is shown above.

Dimensions (LXWXH):

23.0″ x 16.0″ x 31.0″ (closed) 46.0″ x 16.0″ x 31.0″ (open)

What We Like:

• Great for Small Spaces | This cabinet is compact, portable, and foldable.
• Lockable Wheels | It has 5 wheels for portability – two of which are lockable for stability.
• Sturdy Construction | Though it’s made from particleboard it does have a solid construction.

Buying Factors to Consider:

This is a nice affordable option. If you have a heavy sewing machine, you may find a cabinet that has airlift a better option. We will take a look at a similar cabinet to this one that does have airlift next.

Best Cabinet with Airlift: Arrow 503 Sewnatra Sewing Cabinet for Sewing

This is another compact sewing cabinet that makes an ideal space saver when folded away.

However, it has a couple of major advantages over the rest.

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With this cabinet, you don’t need to manually lift the sewing machine out of the cabinet and into place. A simple push will automatically raise or lower the machine, and the mechanism is adjustable for all sewing machine base heights.

This also means there is another advantage to this table in that when the machine is lifted into the flatbed position, the universal insert that comes with it, creates a flush sewing surface – and that’s something that just isn’t possible with cabinets that don’t have airlift.

The cabinet will accommodate sewing machines up to 18-7/8 inches wide, 12-9/16 inches deep and, 13-1/8 inches high and the fold-out leaf cleverly covers the cut-out hole when folded away.

The only slight design flaw we can see with this option is that the fold-out door opens to the right. This means it, unnecessarily, takes up more room when opened out than, for example, the Giantex cabinet does, that we have featured above. That said, it folds away from a generous 68-7/16 inches wide to a compact size of 23-3/4 inches wide, 19-5/8 inches deep, and 31 inches tall.

On the inside door, there are two good storage bins but unlike others, this cabinet also features two thread spindles that will organize and hold 10 spools of thread, each.

It comes in three wood finishes white, classic oak-grain, or black so it will fit in with pretty much any decor, and if it doesn’t? You could easily spray paint this choice because the design means the top folds over to reveal the underside, so there is no chance you’ll scratch your nice paintwork off.

What We Like:

• Automatic Airlift | A simple push will automatically raise or lower the machine.
• Compact Size | At 23-3/4 inches wide, 19-5/8 inches deep, and 31 inches tall, it’s a great little space saver and could quite easily double up as a bedside table or lamp table, etc.
• Comes with a Universal Insert Included | This creates a flush sewing surface – something you would get with our first two choices.

Buying Factors to Consider:

This cabinet is great for small spaces and the airlift feature makes it an excellent investment for your back. If you’re an advanced sewer or a quilter and you’d prefer a larger surface to work on, and you’d like the airlift feature, take a look at our next choice.

Best for Quilters: Arrow 700 Bertha Sewing Cabinet

Best for Quilters

If you are a quilter you’ll know just how valuable the workspace at the back of your sewing machine is for preventing your quilt from falling to the floor or simply falling off the edge of the table and pulling on the fabric piece you are trying to sew.

The Bertha not only has a fold-out quilt leaf offering an additional 20 inches of depth to the table surface, but the leaf actually slides from one side to the other via a metal rod so you can custom position it accurately according to where you need it most.

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In addition to the open table depth of just under 60 inches, the table’s side leaves open up from 43-1/2 inches wide to just over a whopping 84 inches wide, so there’s enough space to sew large quilts, iron, and maybe add a laptop as shown in the photo above.

This is a table for the serious quiltmaker, crafter, or sewer. It has an opening that will accommodate a large sewing machine of up to 22-9/16″ wide, 11-3/4″ deep, and 14-1/2″ tall.

And don’t worry about having to lift your sewing machine onto the table, this cabinet features a hydraulic airlift to easily store and raise your machine for you.

And lastly, to give you a completely flush surface to work on, you can choose to add a custom-made insert specifically made for your particular brand of sewing machine.

What We Like:

• Multiple Storage Bins | This includes three smaller bins on each inside door plus one large one on each side, to store fabrics etc.
• Airlift | Much better for your back if you have a large or heavy sewing machine.
• Fold-Out Quilt Leaf | Offering an additional 20 inches of depth to the table surface behind your sewing machine. Additionally, it slides to whatever position you want.
• Custom Made Insert Available | You can have one specifically made for your particular brand of sewing machine.

Buying Factors to Consider:

While this sewing cabinet is a more considered purchase, it’s good value considering it comes with airlift for your sewing machine and an extra-large surface area of 84 inches by 60 inches which is ideal for quiltmaking.

Best Sewing Table with Storage: Sew Ready Eclipse Hobby Sewing Center

If you need some storage for your sewing essentials and sew regularly enough or have your own sewing room, you may prefer to leave your machine out permanently. This sewing table has a lot to offer for an affordable price.

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Firstly, there are a few different styles to choose from in this range. It comes with either no drawer (a fold-flat table option that’s completely portable), one drawer, or three drawers, and you can choose whether you want fabric or metal drawers like we have featured in the photo above.

The one thing they all have in common is a drop-down platform measuring 23 inches wide by 10. 75 inches deep, that adjusts to six different height positions to accommodate most machine base heights. That means you’ll get a flush surface to sew on.

What We Like:

• Available in a Number of Different Styles | From a completely portable, fold-flat version to one with three fabric or metal drawers.
• Drop Down Platform | That accommodates most machine base heights as it can adjust to six different height positions.

Buying Factors to Consider:

We wouldn’t recommend this option if you have a heavy or particularly large sewing machine – the drop-down tray will only hold around 20 lbs comfortably. We also wouldn’t recommend it for advanced sewers as the table can vibrate (usually depending on your floor surface) when a sewing machine is used at a higher speed.

Alternative Sewing Cabinets

These are the products that didn’t quite make our top picks, but they’re still pretty good so you might like to take a look:

Cabinet with Adjustable Shelves

Soft White Sauder Sewing and Craft Table

This is an alternative to our top picks.

Key Features:

• Two adjustable shelves.
• Two storage bins are attached to the inside door.
• Drop leaf.

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For Advanced Sewers and Quilters

Arrow K8611 Aussie II Kangaroo Sewing, Cutting, Quilting, Crafting Cabinet

Though you wouldn’t think to look at it, this one folds away to a very compact size and the cabinet is even lockable.

Key Features:

• Lift mechanism for your sewing machine.
• The rolling caddy can be placed in 2 separate places on the front of the cabinet for flexible organizing.
• Features a fold-out quilting leaf.

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Tall Cupboard

Sew Ready 13379 Craft Armoire

This is a good option for general sewing and crafters. If this is more on the lines of what you are looking for, you may want to check out our crafting table guide.

Key Features:

• The fold-out table area measures 22.75″ wide by 27.25″ deep.
• Five separate shelf areas for fabrics and sewing essentials.
• Coated steel legs for durability.

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Simple Sewing Station

Southern Enterprises Eaton Rolling Craft Station

It’s basic but affordable and very effective and keeps everything together.

Key Features:

• Worksurface area of 31.5 inches wide by 19 inches deep.
• The cart has wheels for portability.
• Shelf for storing a sewing machine and 4 storage shelves.

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In this follow-up post to our cabbing machine guide, we will look at the best lapidary saw to take you through the complete jewelry-making process from cutting rough rock into slabs to trimming slabs to make cabochons, or cabs as they are often referred to, used in all types of jewelry from necklaces, to earrings, bracelets, and rings, etc.

And if you’re more interested in cutting geodes to reveal their exquisite interiors or you want to cut slabs or cut rocks for other creative projects, don’t worry, this guide has that covered too. We will help you choose the best lapidary saw to take you through the whole process.

Editor’s Award	Brand	Product
Best Lapidary Slab Saw	Hi-Tech Diamond 10″ Lapidary Slab Saw
Best Lapidary Trim Saw	Hi-Tech Diamond 6″ Lapidary Trim Saw
Best Mini Trim Saw	Hi-Tech Diamond 4″/5″ Lapidary Trim Saw
Budget Option	Mini Table Jewelry Saw with Polishing Lathe
Other Worthy Mention	SKIL 3540-02 7-Inch Wet Tile Saw

Lapidary Saws Reviewed

Best Lapidary Slab Saw: Hi-Tech Diamond 10″ Lapidary Slab Saw

Hi-Tech Diamond 10″ Lapidary Slab Saw

The 10″ Diamond Lapidary saw is the perfect piece of equipment to cut small geodes, or to cut rock into slabs to make cabochons.

Though technically you can trim with this saw, it’s specifically made for cutting larger pieces of rock.

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With a speed of 1,725rpm, the 1/3 hp motor is powerful enough to make large cuts with ease.

It comes complete with two 10″ blades but it’ll accept any 10″ blade that has a 5/8″ arbor. The 10-inch blade means that you can slab larger rocks and minerals up to 3-3/4″ high.

The green blade it comes with is a notched rim saw blade. This type of blade has diamond grit pressed into the edge of a solid steel core.

Basically, its thicker kerfs and sturdy core make it suitable for more heavy-duty lapidary cutting and you can slab agates, jades, and geodes, etc.

The Red blade uses sintered technology which means it has a longer life span compared to the notched rim saw blades. The reason for this is that the diamonds on a sintered blade always come into contact with the rock even as the blade wears away. Because it’s got a fine rim, this makes it more suitable for cutting and trimming rocks such as quartz, topaz, large pieces of glass, and fine agates.

Just to be clear, the lapidary saws I am comparing are suitable for jewelry making. If you want to cut anything larger, this guide is not for you, and you will need a bigger saw.

A coolant reservoir that holds 32-ounces of water keeps the blade constantly wet. The reservoir is conveniently located in the base of the machine. The blade sits in the water reservoir so it stays wet as it turns. It also captures and utilizes the excess water from the blade’s spray shield. We found clean-up to be an easy process too. The reservoir has a plug to drain the dirty water when you’re done.

Included with this model is a saw vise attachment (though there’s a cheaper option to buy one without). This keeps your hands well away from the blade. The vise grips and secures the rock or mineral for you while you manually feed it into the machine.

This American-made saw has an unbreakable, cross-linked polyethylene structure and the saw housing is rustproof and resistant to impact. It comes with a one-year manufacturer warranty.

What We Like:

• Powerful Enough to Make Large Cuts with Ease | It comes with a 10″ green, notched diamond saw blade for slabbing large rocks and minerals up to 3-3/4″ high and a 10″ red sintered diamond saw blade, for cutting large pieces of glass, topaz, quartz, and fine agates.
• Works with Either Water or Oil | Although water is easier to clean up you can use oil with this machine.
• Saw Vise Attachment Included | Though you can choose to buy this machine without a saw vise attachment, it’s not only a good safety feature, for some people it helps to make more precise cuts as it grips the rock firmly while you manually guide it through the machine.

Check the latest price for the Hi-Tech Diamond 10″ Lapidary Slab Saw on Amazon.

Best Lapidary Trim Saw: Hi-Tech Diamond 6″ Lapidary Trim Saw

Hi-Tech Diamond 6″ Lapidary Trim Saw

The Hi-Tech Diamond 6″ saw is the perfect lapidary saw for trimming pre-cut slabs to make cabochon preforms or to trim facet rough up to 1-3/4″ thick.

It’s compact and lightweight so it won’t take up much worktop space but it’s also rustproof and impact-resistant so it’s built to last.  

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It’s powerful too. It has a 1/4 HP motor which delivers a variable speed of between 800rpm and 3,400rpm depending on how fast you want it to go.

Like the 10-inch version, it comes with two saw blades for cutting different materials:

• A silver notched diamond saw blade for cutting rocks and minerals including turquoise, aqua, garnet, corundum, emerald, and ruby.
• A red sintered diamond saw blade designed to cut glass, topaz, quartz, and fine agates.

The coolant reservoir is similar to our previous choice and built into the base of the saw directly under the blade. It can hold up to 16 ounces of water and keeps the blade wet as it spins. The blade’s spray shield also serves to continually drip water onto the blade.

The saw table is removable and has an ample surface area of 15-1/2″ by 9″ wide.

The trim saw we have featured comes with a vise attachment. This is a valuable tool that keeps your hands away from the blade and helps to make precise cuts, though you can, if you prefer, buy a cheaper version with no vise attachment.

Either way, both saws come with an adjustable rip fence that clips into the saw table allowing you to accurately cut straight lines in stones or glass.

What We Like:

• Includes Two Saw Blades, Perfect for Trimming | This model comes with a silver notched diamond saw blade for cutting rocks and minerals and a red sintered diamond saw blade for cutting glass, topaz, quartz, and fine agates.
• Good Construction | It’s made from unbreakable, cross-linked polyethylene, and the saw housing is rustproof and resistant to impact.
• Works with Either Water or Oil | Again, although water is recommended for easier cleanup if you prefer to use oil you can do so with this machine.

Check the latest price for the Hi-Tech Diamond 6″ Lapidary Trim Saw on Amazon.

Best Mini Trim Saw: Hi-Tech Diamond 4″/5″ Lapidary Trim Saw

Hi-Tech Diamond 4″/5″ Lapidary Trim Saw

Though the smaller 4″ and 5″ blades don’t allow for larger cuts, this little trim saw may be all you need.

It has a powerful 1/4 hp, heavy-duty, ball-bearing motor that offers a variable speed, from 800rpm to 3,400rpm depending on how fast you want to cut, (that’s as powerful as the 6″ one we’ve just looked at) and it’s perfect for those that work with cabochon preforms, minerals, and glass, or those who want to trim smaller faceting rough.

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With the slim 4″ silver notched diamond saw blade you can cut rocks such as turquoise, aqua, garnet, corundum, emerald, and ruby to a maximum height of 1-inch very precisely with virtually no wastage. But there is also an additional 5-inch diamond blade included, allowing for a maximum cutting height of 1 1/2 inches.

The coolant reservoir holds 8 ounces of water and keeps the blade wet as it spins. This model also includes a spray shield that cuts down on mess and also helps to keep the blade wet by dripping water on it while the machine is running.

Though obviously the saw table area is smaller on this mini trim saw, you would only be using it to cut smaller material anyway and you still get a surface area of 7-1/2 inches by 4-3/4 inches to work with.

What We Like:

• Compact but Well-Made | It’s made from lightweight, rustproof, impact-resistant material. 
• Includes Two Fine Saw Blades in Different Sizes | The 4″ silver notched diamond saw blade cuts rock up to 1 inch in height and the 5″ blade can cut up to 11/2 inches. Additionally, the fine blades allow for more precise cuts with virtually no wastage.
• One-Year Warranty | All Hi-Tech Diamond Lapidary saws come with a one-year warranty.

Check the latest price for the Hi-Tech Diamond 4″/5″ Lapidary Trim Saw on Amazon.

Budget Option: Mini Table Jewelry Saw with Polishing Lathe

Budget Option

Mini Table Jewelry Saw with Polishing Lathe

This improved, third-generation TM-2 mini table saw is our budget option and it’s more than just a trim saw, it’s a buffer, grinder, carving tool, and sander too so you get a lot for your money.

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This multi-functional lapidary machine has a powerful motor of (just under) 1/2 horsepower and it comes with two blades that can cut and trim rocks as well as aluminum, chrome, precious metal, jade, wood, and plastic up to 30 mm (1.1811 inches) thick.

It comes with two mandrels that spin at between 0-10000 revolutions per minute and accommodate the included 4-1/4 inches buffing wheels, though it’s worth noting, it is also capable of taking buffer or grinding wheels up to 7-inches – you can even use two different grits at the same time.

Most notably, however, it comes with a highly useful, detachable and flexible, 42.5-inch multifunctional tool, suitable for a wide variety of projects or finely detailed work.

What We Like:

• Can Be Used as a Wet or Dry Sander | Depending on which is more suitable for the project you are working on.
• Angle adjustable Ruler | Its angle-adjustable ruler allows you to cut at precise angles with ease.
• Multifunctional Tool | This machine can cut, polish, grind, and carve – cutting down on the need for additional tools to complete a project.

Buying Factors to Consider:

This is a good little machine and very affordable but it’s Chinese made and so does lack comprehensive instructions. That means it may take a little practice and some trial and error to get the most out of it.

Check the latest price for the Mini Table Jewelry Saw with Polishing Lathe on Amazon.

Another Worthy Mention: SKIL 3540-02 7-Inch Wet Tile Saw

Other Worth Mention

SKIL 3540-02 7-Inch Wet Tile Saw

Though this wet tile saw isn’t marketed for the lapidarist, when used with a good diamond lapidary blade it’s ideal for cutting rocks and minerals such as agates and quartz up to a couple of inches in thickness.

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It features an adjustable rip fence with a miter gauge to allow for accurate straight or mitered cuts and it also has a bevel angle range of between 0-45 degrees.

Its stainless steel saw table is corrosion resistant and the saw blade is kept cool by the water reservoir that sits underneath the deck.

What We Like:

• Multi-Purpose Saw | This is a good option for those who would prefer a general use wet tile saw that’s suitable for a range of tile cutting or other DIY projects but that can be adapted to cut rocks for jewelry making, etc.

Check the latest price for the SKIL 3540-02 7-Inch Wet Tile Saw on Amazon.

Other Lapidary Saws to Consider:

These are the products that didn’t quite make our top picks, but they’re still pretty good, so you might like to take a look:

4″ Diameter Mini Jeweler’s Saw

PMC Supplies LLC 4″ Diameter Mini Jeweler’s Saw

This is a super affordable mini lapidary saw that can cut to a depth of 3/4 of an inch.

Key Features:

• It doesn’t require water but does come with a diamond blade that can be used for some stone and ceramic cutting.
• Suitable for cutting silver or aluminum etc.
• Includes a blade guard and an eye shield for safety.

Check Price

Rock Polishing Buffer Bench Lathe & Polisher Machine Set with Mini Table Saw

MONIPA Mini Table Saw

You will need to buy a separate diamond lapidary saw blade for this machine.

Key Features:

• Accommodates a 6-inch cutting blade.
• Variable speed of 500~7000rpm.
• Multifunctional for jewelry/rock polishing and buffing as well as cutting.

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7-Speed Adjustable Gem Jade Cutting Carving Polishing Milling Machine

TBvechi 7-Speed Adjustable Gem Jade Cutting Carving Polishing Milling Machine

Another good multifunctional machine.

Key Features:

• Output speed of between 1600-3300RPM.
• Mini saw with 4″ blade for a cutting depth of 1 inch.
• Great for jade cutting and carving and gemstone polishing.

Check Price

If you are someone who requires a lot of space for your artistic or crafting projects, you know the value of having a dedicated craft table. Regular desks may not have sufficient or appropriate storage, and using the family dining table can be inconvenient to say the least. To help you find the ideal craft table, we have conducted thorough research to provide you with the best options available.

As a seasoned crafter, I’ve tried and tested many tables in my day, and I’m here to guide you through the chaos and help you find the perfect table for your crafty endeavors.

Who came out on top? Drum roll, please…

Experience ultimate crafting efficiency with the Sauder Craft Pro, featuring a spacious 60×30 inch tabletop, ample storage space, and heat, stain, and scratch-resistant melamine top. And it will look great from any angle – our top pick for the best craft table, hands down.

Our Top Pick	The Sauder Craft Pro Series
	South Shore Crea Counter-Height Craft Table
Runner Up	Project Center Desk
Best Budget Option	Ameriwood Home London Hobby Desk
Another Worthy Mention	Sew Ready Studio Designs Folding Multipurpose Hobby and Craft Cutting Table
Also Consider	Arrow 901 Auntie

Also in this guide.

• Frequently Asked Questions
• Other Crafting Tables We’ve Reviewed

Top Pick

The Sauder Craft Pro Series

Experience ultimate crafting efficiency with the Sauder Craft Pro.

Affordable, and suitable for just about any craft, this table will adapt to fit your craft room as it will look good from any angle, whether you place it in the middle of the room or against a wall.

Check Price on Amazon

This craft table is hands down the best choice for any crafter looking to organize their space and get work done.

First off, the design is top-notch. It’s specifically crafted with crafters in mind, with ample drawer space and open storage areas for all your baskets, books, and other crafting essentials. And let’s talk about that tabletop – at 60 by 30 inches, it’s a much larger working surface than any standard office desk. There’s plenty of room for a large cutting mat, plus all your other craft equipment like a Cricut, sewing machine, task light, and more.

But the real standout feature of this table is the 3 large central drawers. Not only do they keep your craft tools close at hand, but you can actually remove them and place them on your worktop for easy access to everything you need. And let’s not forget about the heat, stain, and scratch-resistant melamine top – this table is sturdy and won’t vibrate when you’re sewing or working with other equipment.

Now, I know what you’re thinking – what are the cons? To be honest, the only downside we could find is that you won’t be able to get your knees under this table easily. So if you prefer to work sitting down, you might want to consider our next option. But other than that, this table is a solid choice for any crafter looking to maximize their time and efficiency. It’s affordable, looks good from any angle, and has plenty of storage and workspace.

The melamine top is heat, stain, and scratch-resistant this table is sturdy and won’t vibrate when sewing, for example.

Pros:

• Large tabletop surface area for ample crafting space
• Ample storage with drawers and open storage spaces for baskets and books
• Affordable price
• Laminated wood on all sides for a stylish appearance from any angle
• Heat, stain, and scratch-resistant melamine top for durability and stability

Cons:

• The only downside that we should point out is that you’re not going to get your knees under this one. So if you work solely sitting down you should go for our next option.

Check the latest price for The Sauder Craft Pro Series on Amazon.

Alternative Top Pick

South Shore Crea Counter-Height Craft Table 

This craft table is a masterpiece for scrapbookers and other paper or fabric crafters.

It features a large storage area for rolls of paper or fabric, multiple shelves, and two handy spindles for spools of ribbons, etc., built into one end.

Check Price on Amazon

It comes complete with four pull-out storage bins, two large and two medium, making it ideal for keeping clutter like fabric off-cuts, yarns, or wool roving for needle felting out of sight. It also comes with eight adjustable shelves that can be slanted to hold paper, card, vinyl sheets, heat transfer paper, and more, and like our top choice, it also has a generous middle drawer to keep accessories such as scissors and fabric knives close at hand but safely away.

At 34 inches high, this table is a little taller than average, which makes it a comfortable height for standing without having to hunch over. It is an ideal height for cutting with a self-healing mat or for quilting, stamping, stained glass crafting, and more. Alternatively, it can easily be used with a stool.

The table is 53 inches wide and nearly 27 inches deep, and has a large scratchproof and water-resistant surface area, providing plenty of room for a die-cutting machine, embroidery or sewing machine, serger, or even a cabbing machine for jewelry making, etc. And you can rest assured it’s made from non-toxic laminated particleboard and comes with a 5-year warranty.

Pros:

• Large storage area for rolls of paper or fabric
• Multiple shelves and built-in spindles for ribbon spools
• 4 pull-out storage bins for clutter
• 8 adjustable shelves for organizing supplies
• Comfortable standing height for cutting or quilting
• Large scratchproof and water-resistant surface area
• Non-toxic laminated particleboard material
• 5-year warranty

Cons:

• May be too tall for some users to work comfortably while seated
• May be too wide or deep for some craft rooms

Runner Up

Project Center Desk

Upgrade your crafting game with this professional-looking craft desk with multiple adjustable cubby shelves.

It’s tall enough to work comfortably while standing up, without straining your back.

Check Price on Amazon

The Project Center Desk is a top-of-the-line craft table designed for professional crafters and serious hobbyists. With a spacious 15 sq ft surface area and adjustable shelves, it provides plenty of space to work on larger projects, as well as ample storage for all of your craft supplies.

One of the standout features of the Project Center Desk is its height – it is tall enough to work comfortably while standing up, without straining your back or neck. This is a great option for crafters who prefer to work standing up or those who simply want to switch up their working position throughout the day.

In addition to its ergonomic design, the Project Center Desk is also stylish, with a professional look that will fit in well with any craft room. It is available in three colors – oak, black, and white – so you can choose the one that best fits your personal style.

While it is a little pricier than the Sauder Craft Pro, the Project Center Desk is a solid investment for any serious crafter. It is built to last, with a durable construction that will withstand years of use. Plus, with its large working area and adjustable shelves, it provides plenty of customization options to fit your specific crafting needs. Overall, the Project Center Desk is a top pick for any crafter who values style, versatility, and comfort in their craft table.

Pros:

• Adjustable shelves for customizable storage options
• Large working surface area of 15 sq ft
• Ability to work comfortably while standing or sitting
• Available in oak, black, or white to match your craft room decor

Cons:

• More expensive than the Sauder Craft Pro table
• No drawer space for easy access to essential tools and supplies

Check the latest price and color options for the Project Center Desk on Amazon.

Budget Option

Ameriwood Home London Hobby Desk

A contemporary and space-saving craft table that includes wall shelf storage.

This one maximizes the working surface area by extending up to the wall, making it perfect for moving heavier crafting equipment, such as a sewing machine, out of the way without having to remove it from the table.

Check Price on Amazon

In addition to its stylish design, it is also a budget-friendly option and comes in two finishes: espresso and white. It features a countertop workspace of 47″ wide by 26″ deep and 12 storage cubbies, each measuring 9″ deep, 11.5″ wide, and 15.25″ tall. There is ample space for books, binders, and crafting accessories, although it should be noted that there is no storage space for larger crafting equipment like a sewing machine. The desk is made of laminated hollow core, particleboard, and MDF and is compact but sturdy. Some pros of this desk include its contemporary design, wide countertop space with integral wall shelving, choice of finishes, and good storage. However, it should be noted that it is not waterproof or water-resistant, so it may be a good idea to protect the table surface if your craft involves liquids.

Pros:

• Contemporary design
• Wide countertop space with integral wall shelving
• Choice of two finishes
• Good storage with 12 cubbies

Cons:

• Not waterproof or water-resistant
• No storage for larger crafting equipment such as sewing machines

Another Worthy Mention

Sew Ready Studio Designs Folding Multipurpose Hobby and Craft Cutting Table 

Nifty Foldable Table ideal for Dress Making:

This is a great fold-away option. It’s an ideal table for dressmaking and quilting, but it’s also great for general crafts too – for those, for example, who need a more practical fold-away solution to working on the dining room table.

Check Price on Amazon

For general crafts, there is a plain tabletop version, and for dressmakers and quilters, there is a version with a grid marked out in inches and centimeters with additional radial and angled lines.

You can choose between a fixed or adjustable height, ranging from 30.25″ to 39.25″. This is ideal if you prefer to work standing up. The adjustability in 1.5″ increments means you won’t be hunched over, which is much better for your back.

There are two slide-out wire mesh storage draws in the central area and a bottom shelf that’s the perfect size for a die-cutting machine. Additionally, the table has lockable castors for either portability or stability.

Pros:

• Fold-away option for easy storage
• Versions available for general crafts or dressmaking/quilting
• Adjustable height for standing work
• Two slide-out storage draws and bottom shelf for storage
• Lockable castors for portability or stability

Cons:

• There are no cons with this table – if you specifically want one that is lightweight, portable, and foldable. It may not be as strong as a regular table, but it may just be ideal for your needs.

Check the latest price and options for Sew Ready Studio Designs Table on Amazon.

Also Concider

Arrow 901 Auntie Em

Last, but by no means least, this is a great option for quilters.

The Auntie Em cabinet is an innovative and neatly designed sewing and quilting table from the well-respected company, Arrow.

Check Price on Amazon

They offer a fantastic range of sewing and quilting cabinets, although they may not be the cheapest options. This particular cabinet is more affordable than most in their range and comes with a feature that more than compensates for the price.

The table has an automatic lift that raises your sewing machine into place for you. Sewing machines, especially quilting ones, can be heavy and this feature prevents you from straining your back every time you want to set it up. The elevating mechanism also places your machine completely flush with the tabletop, which is ideal for larger projects, such as quilting.

The cabinet comes with a universal insert that can accommodate most sewing machines. However, you can also order a custom insert from Arrow for a specific size of machine. The only downside is that you’ll need a screwdriver and plenty of time to assemble the cabinet. There is a video on Amazon that shows the assembly process, which, while not rocket science, only needs to be done once.

Pros:

• Automatic lift raises sewing machine into place, reducing strain on back
• Flush tabletop design is helpful for larger projects
• Comes with universal insert that can accommodate most sewing machines, or custom insert can be ordered from Arrow
• Plenty of drawer space for fabrics and tools

Cons:

• May require some assembly with a screwdriver and time
• More expensive than some other options on the market

Check the latest price for the Arrow 901 Auntie Em on Amazon.

Other Crafting Tables We’ve Reviewed:

These are the products that didn’t quite make our top picks, but they’re still pretty good so you might like to take a look:

Shabby Chic

Signature Design by Ashley Mirimyn Home Office

This is one is great for simple crafts and for small spaces. It’s also available in several bright colors.

Key Features:

• Shabby chic distressed wood veneer finish.
• Includes a water hyacinth basket for storage.
• Great budget option.

Check Price

Foldable Space Saver

Southern Enterprises Fold Out Organizer & Craft Desk

This is a great option for small spaces or the occasional crafter or hobbyist.

Key Features:

• Collapsible / fold-out side panels.
• Converts into a filing cabinet.
• Folds out to a surface area of 48 inches wide.

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Fold-Away Craft Desk.

Sauder Harbor View Craft Armoire

This one folds out and converts to a desk with built-in shelving.

Key Features:

• Made in the USA for stain-resistant, laminated wood.
• At 55″ wide by 40 ¾” deep and 38½” high, it’s perfect for standing while you craft.
• Great for storing and tidying away sewing, crafting, scrapbooking or paper and art projects.

Check Price

Skill level: Complete Beginner

How to Needle Felt a Simple Bowl

Cost:

Around $20 – $25 depending on how much you want to spend.

Time:

Approximately 2 hours

If you’re completely new to this craft you may be wondering what needle felting actually is.

Needle felting or dry felting as it’s sometimes known is simply the process of tangling together the loose fibers of wool roving with a barbed needle. Poking the fibers multiple times, compacts the fibers, crafting them into a dense material that has structure and form.

You can create some amazingly creative and beautiful items from intricate miniature animals to jewelry, toys, home accessories and more.

Like everything else, it’s a skill that takes practice but you really don’t need to be an expert at needle felting to make something that you can be proud of on your very first try. And that’s precisely what’s so rewarding about this hobby.

This sweet little bowl is a super-easy way to start learning the craft. We have provided all the instructions you’ll need.

And if you feel inspired head over to our reading room where you’ll find some great needle felting book recommendations.

Notes:
In this easy tutorial, we will be using a needle felting pen that comes installed with 3, size 38 needles. It’s a good all round tool that you can use for tons of different projects. The pen will help speed up the felting process as working with three needles is always going to be faster than one.

For working on finer details or for defining shapes, you can simply remove one needle and work with just two. You will be using 3 needles for the main bowl in this tutorial and 2 for the heart detail.

Although it is a good idea to invest in a good felting mat – you can just use a thick folded towel to save a few dollars while you try your new hobby out.

Necessary Items:

10 grams of wool roving

3″ polystyrene ball

Needle felting mat or towel

Clover pen style needle felting tool

Step 1: Prepare the Roving

Pull around 1/4 of your wool roving away from the rest and set it aside.

Step 2: Form the Bowl Shape

Wrap the larger piece around the ball as neatly as you can. This will make the roving easier to work with during the felting process. Don’t worry about thin spots as it’s easy to add more roving over the top later.

Tear away any excess wool and set it aside. You can see roughly what you should be aiming for in image 2 above.

Step 3: Start Needle Felting

Poke the roving all over with your felting needle, working in small sections at a time.

The trick is not to stick the needle in so far that it stabs the ball or your bowl will be difficult to remove.

Working at different angles so that your needle only goes onto the wool each time works best. Be gentle and be careful not to poke your fingers.

As you continue to poke you will notice the roving starting to felt. Make sure to felt well around the rim of the bowl too(shown in image 3).

For any thinner areas simply add a layer of roving over the top and felt it to blend in.

Step 4: Needle Felt Inside the Bowl

After about an hour, your bowl will start to look felted.

Now you can carefully remove the ball. It should come away quite easily. You can pick out any bits it leaves behind inside your bowl.

Next, you will need to repeat the felting process for the inside of the bowl too.

Make sure you work over a thick folded towel or preferably a felting mat and don’t poke too hard. Remember, your needles should only go in as far as the felt itself if they hit something they could break or cause damage to whatever they stab into.

Step 5: Make the Heart Shape

Now let’s add the heart. This is a great way to practice with something a little more detailed – and don’t worry about ruining your bowl, you can always pull the heart away if it doesn’t look right and you need to have another go.

Ok, let’s get felting again. For the heart shape, you will first need to make a couple of loops with a little spare roving. Tuck the excess up and behind the loops to make a very rough heart shape. You can see this in image 5 above.

With just two needles, start to poke around the shape until it sticks to the bowl and then shape it by poking around the edges to fix it and add definition.

Step 6: The Finishing Touches

If it looks a little lopsided, take some fine wisps of roving to build the shape up and even it out. When it’s felted to the same texture as your bowl you’re done.

And there you have it! A practice piece that you can be proud of.

If you followed this tutorial and made a bowl of your own, I’d love to hear how it went. Please do leave me a comment, or, better still, send me a pic and I’ll post it here.

Now all you need to add is your free printable handmade label.

With so many different types of rock tumblers available, choosing the best rock tumbler can be a little confusing.

We’ve done our research and picked the best ones out for you.

We ultimately whittled our choices down to a few clear winners and we’ve put together comprehensive reviews of each one to find you the best rock tumbler on the market today. Our research showed that there were 5 clear winners.

Editor’s Award	Brand
Our Top Pick	Lortone 3A Single Barrel Tumbler
Best Large Capacity Rock Tumbler	MJR Tumblers Rock Tumbler
Best Rock Tumbler Kit	Rock Tumbler Kit for Kids or Beginners by Lortone
Best Rock Tumbler for Kids (Available US & UK)	National Geographic Professional Rock Tumbler Kit
Another Worthy mention	Dan&Darci Advanced Professional Rock Tumbler Kit

Click below to jump to full review.

• Our Top Pick
• Best Large Capacity Rock Tumbler
• Best Rock Tumbler Kit
• Best Rock Tumbler for Kids
• Another Worthy mention
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Other Rock Tumblers We’ve Reviewed

Reviews of Our Top Picks for the Best Rock Tumbler

Our Top Pick: Lortone 3A Single Barrel Tumbler

Our Top Pick

Lortone 3A Single Barrel Tumbler

Lortone are a well-respected company that have been producing lapidary machines here in the US since 1978.

The A3 single barrel tumbler is an example of fine craftsmanship and durability and is ideal for beginners and experienced rock tumblers alike.

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This one is a 3 lb, single-barrel machine. It’s ideal for tumbling stones up to 1 1/4 inches but it’s also perfect for jewelry tumbling too.

The hard rubber barrel is designed to reduce noise levels increase durability and it has a ribbed interior to enhance the tumbling action of the machine. Unlike our next choice below, it also comes with a steel, rather than a plastic lid which means it won’t wear out.

The tumbler simple to operate and the motor is maintenance-free, designed for continuous use and is UL approved.

What We Like:

• High-quality Machine | This isn’t a cheap Chinese import it’s high-quality durable and one of the best rock tumblers out there. It’s made here in the US and backed up by a 1-Year manufacturer’s warranty.
• Range of Different Barrel Capacity Options | We have featured the 3lbs version in this guide but Lortone Rock Tumblers come in a range of different capacity sizes. You can choose the size most suitable for your needs by clicking the Amazon link at the end of this section.

Buying Factors to Consider:

There’s no downside to buying this machine. Even if you’re a beginner the nature of rock tumbling means you’ll need a durable machine capable of continuous use over many weeks so you should choose a good quality machine that won’t let you down.

It’s a stand-alone machine that doesn’t come with any extras though, and for a beginner knowing what accessories you need can be a little daunting.

Fortunately, Lortone has thought of that and there is a starter kit that you buy separately to get you up and running. If you’d prefer a starter kit take a look at our best kit review here.

Check the latest price of the Lortone 3A Single Barrel Tumbler on Amazon.

Best Large Capacity Rock Tumbler: MJR Tumblers Rock Tumbler

Best Large Capacity Rock Tumbler

MJR Tumblers Rock Tumbler

Rock tumbling is a lengthy process – definitely not the hobby for anyone who’s impatient.

Of course, patience is a virtue, but what if you want a greater output of polished gemstones at the end of the process?

The only way to get more output is to get a double barrel, or a large capacity tumbler.

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A double-barrel rock tumbler will do just that – double your capacity. The problem is, most double barrel ones will only take you from 3lbs to 6 lbs or 6 to 12 lbs.

MJR Tumblers are a well respected US company that has been making one of the best rock tumblers for over 20 years. They have a wide range of large capacity rock tumblers specifically designed to tumble larger quantities of tumbling rough over a prolonged and continuous period of time.

The one we have shown above has a 20 lbs capacity, but you could go for an extra-large, single barrel, 30lbs one if you prefer.

You may now be wondering whether it’s also possible to tumble smaller quantities of rock if you go for a large capacity machine. Well, yes, it is – provided you fill the barrel to 3/4 full (plastic pellets are perfect for the job – they’re designed to be fillers) you can still tumble smaller amounts of tumbling rough just as well with a larger capacity machine.

Another option is to go for a tumbler with multiple barrels, MJR Tumblers have great 18 lbs option, shown below.

The advantage of this 18 lbs three-barrel tumbler is that you can tumble rocks at different stages of the process at one time. That’s particularly handy if, for example, at the end of the first stage, some of your rocks need more time than others before moving on to the next stage.

Whichever size you go for, MJR Tumblers have a heavy-duty motor with automatic thermo overload protection – so you don’t have to worry about leaving your tumbler running while you’re away from it.

The frame is made from sturdy 16 gauge welded steel – powder coated for scratch and corrosion resistance and the rollers are rubber-coated steel.

What’s more, the interiors of the commercial-grade plastic barrels are finned for maximum efficiency – the fins work as lifter bars to keep the rough continually rolling.

The barrels themselves have a tapered neck design for easy loading and unloading, of rocks and a heavy-duty rubber cap keeps the water sealed tightly inside.

What We Like:

• Wide Range of Sizes Available | You’re not limited to a standard size with this brand, allowing you to tumble much larger quantities of rocks at a time. You can choose between a large capacity barrel or a combination of two or more.
• Automatic Thermo Overload Protector | A good safety feature so you don’t have to worry about running your tumbler in a different location to where you are.

Buying Factors to Consider:

This is a great large-capacity range of tumblers from a well-respected company who have been making one of the best rock tumblers you can get. Made here in the US for over 20 years.

Check the latest price for the MJR Tumblers Rock Tumbler on Amazon.

Best Rock Tumbler Kit: Rock Tumbler Kit for Kids or Beginners by Lortone

Best Rock Tumbler Kit

Rock Tumbler Kit for Kids or Beginners by Lortone

If you are new to lapidary and rock tumbling, knowing which rocks, minerals and other accessories you’ll need to get yourself started can be a little daunting.

Choosing a good starter kit is the best way to get familiar with the craft and the quickest way to learn.

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This is a complete kit that will take you all the way through from beginner to serious hobbyist.

Unlike other kits out there, there’s no compromise on the quality of the tumbler that you get with the kit.

This kit comes complete with the 3A, 3 lb, single-barrel machine that we have featured above.

You also get 1 lb each of coarse 80 grit, medium 220 grit, and fine 600 grit, as well as 4 ozs of micro alumina rock polish, 4 oz of plastic pellets, and full instructions to guide you through the rock tumbling process.

What’s more, you also get a full 1lb of mixed tumbling rough – which is more generous than many kits out there.

The kit even includes some good reading material, to increase your knowledge of the subject, including Peterson First Guide to Rocks and Minerals, Amazing Agates, and the Professional Gemstone Tumbling Guide pamphlet.

Buying Factors to Consider:

All in all, this is a super kit and though it cost a little more than the kits coming up below, if you want a very good quality kit, this is definitely the one you should go for.

Check the latest price for the Rock Tumbler Kit for Kids or Beginners by Lortone on Amazon.

Best Rock Tumbler Kit for Kids: National Geographic Professional Rock Tumbler Kit

Best Rock Tumbler for Kids

National Geographic Professional Rock Tumbler Kit

This is our pick for kids. It’s a little more affordable than our previous kit – making it ideals for kids.

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For the lower price point you get a 2lbs tumbler, and though that’s smaller than the Lortone one feature above, 2lbs is a more manageable size for kids.

The machine gives you more control over the tumbling process than our last pick too.

You can set the programable timer to count down the days and what’s more you can also set the speed. That means you can actually speed up the tumbling time – great for those who are eager to see the final result.

And, of course, the great thing about having a timer function that counts down and then switches off is that it’s great for forgetful kids. It saves on power and it will prevent the gemstones from becoming over tumbled and therefore smaller than they should be as a result.

Included with this kit are a very generous 2 lbs of rough gemstones, including dalmatian jasper, red jasper, tiger’s eye, aventurine, amethyst, and more. Eight polishing grit packs, jewelry fastenings, and an information guide, with instructions.

If you’re on a budget, you can opt for the cheaper hobby version. This kit includes the tumbler, four polishing grits, a sifter, and nine types of real rough gemstones.

What We Like:

• Great Starter Kit for Older Children | The 2lbs rubber barrel size is perfect for kids and the kit comes with a generous 2 lbs of rough gemstones.
• Programmable Timer with Speed Control | Having a timer that counts down and then switches off is great for forgetful kids. It saves on power and it will prevent the gemstones from becoming over tumbled and therefore smaller than they should be as a result. This Machine also has the added feature of being able to adjust the tumbling speed.

Check the latest price of the National Geographic Professional Rock Tumbler Kit on Amazon.

Check the latest price of the National Geographic Professional Rock Tumbler Kit (hobby kit) on Amazon UK.

Another Worthy Mention: Dan&Darci Advanced Professional Rock Tumbler Kit

Other Worthy Mention

Dan&Darci Advanced Professional Rock Tumbler Kit

This 1lb single barrel rock tumbler by Dan&Darci is another worty mention.

It comes with a kit that has everything you’ll need to produce beautifully polished gemstones right from your first go.

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It features a (comparatively speaking) low noise leak-resistant barrel backed up by a heavy-duty motor.

Included in the kit is a tumbling grit pack, consisting of one coarse, and one fine, one pack of pre-polish, and a polish pack.

You also get 0.5 lbs of rocks, a mesh strainer, jewelry fasteners, and a gem storage bag.

There’s even a handy detailed guide to take you through the process.

Check the latest of the Dan&Darci Advanced Professional Rock Tumbler Kit on Amazon.

Other Worthy Mention No.2: Discover with Dr. Cool Hobby Rock Tumbler

Other Worthy Mention No.2

Discover with Dr. Cool Hobby Rock Tumbler

This is kit would make an ideal gift for kids. It’s very affordable and comes with everything you need to get started.

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What we like about this kit is the set and forget feature which is ideal for kids. The machine has a programmable timer that will automatically count down the days for you and switch itself off when the cycle is complete. This saves on power if your kids forget to turn it off and it also prevents the gemstones from becoming over tumbled.

The kit comes 1/2 lbs of good quality gemstones including rose quartz, amethyst, sodalite, tiger’s eye, jasper, agate, and more.

It also includes 4 grades of polishing grit, jewelry fastenings, a guide with instructions for polishing and educational information written by teachers along with an activity book with 10 puzzles and games.

It’s a great little starter kit and the higher quality rubber barrel makes it quieter than cheap plastic on would. It only has a 1lb barrel capacity which would account for the lower price point than our top choice but it’s a more manageable size for children to handle, filling and emptying the barrel.

What We Like:

• Affordable Kit Designed for Younger Children | It’s a great budget option for kids and would make a nice gift. It’s a small kit making it ideal for younger kids to handle the barrel while filling it with rough gemstones or emptying it between tumbling cycles.
• Programmable Timer | It’s a really useful feature for forgetful kids. Not only does it save on power but it will prevent the gemstones from becoming over tumbled and smaller than they should be as a result.

Buying Factors to Consider:

It’s a great kit for children but if tumbling rocks is something you’d like to try yourself or at least have a go as a joint project with your kids, the barrel capacity is very small so you’d probably want to give this one a miss and either go for our alt choice, next or go for the larger, 3lb capacity ones at the beginning of this guide.

Check the latest price of the Discover with Dr. Cool Hobby Rock Tumbler on Amazon.

Other Rock Tumblers We’ve Reviewed:

These are the products that didn’t quite make our top picks, but they’re still pretty good so you might like to take a look:

Large Capacity Rock Tumbler

Tumble-Bee Rotary Rock Tumbler

This 4lbs capacity rubber barrel rock tumbler is ideal for tumbling larger quantities of gemstones.

Key Features:

• Powerful 115V fan-cooled AC motor.
• The kit comes with rough gemstones for tumbling, 3 grades of silicon carbide grit and one bag o aluminum oxide polish.
• Includes visual instructions.

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Double Barrel Rock Tumbler

Lortone 33B Rotary Rock Tumbler

This one is the same make as our top choice but worth pointing out because it has two barrels. That means you can easily work with rocks at different stages in the tumbling process.

Key Features:

• It has a total of 6lbs capacity.
• Double barrel, handy for stones at different stages in the tumbling process.

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Bumper Kit

WireJewelry Single Barrel Rotary Rock Tumbler Deluxe Kit

This 3lb capacity rubber barrel one is great value for money.

Key Features:

• Powerful 120 Volt Motor for 24/7 use.
• The kit comes with 3 lbs of mixed rough Madagascar stone, grits, and polishes. It even includes plastic filler pellets.

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Budget Option

Single Drum Rock Tumbler by Exploring Minds

This is the budget option we looked at. But it comes with 6 replacement belts so that’s pretty much a red flag in terms of how long it will last.

Key Features:

• 3 lb capacity.
• Rubber barrel for quieter operation.

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This is a straight-to-the-point guide to help you choose the best cabbing machine.

With just a little practice you can custom make your own beautiful cabochons from trimmed, pre-cut slabs for cabbing, ready to fit any easily obtainable fine-quality cabochon setting of your choice.

Cabbing machines are, it has to be said, quite pricey when you compare them, for example, to machines you might use for other crafts, but I suspect that’s because lapidary is a more highly specialized niche, and as such, a craft that hasn’t so far been flooded with cheaper and not so well-made Chinese imports.

All of the cabbers in this guide are well-made, high-quality machines, made here in the US. Our research showed that there were three clear winners for the best cabbing machine.

So whether you are a professional jewelry maker or a lapidary hobbyist in the making, we’ll now take a look at the very best machines out there.

For Hobbyists to Pro Lapidarist: CabKing 6″ Cabbing Machine

The CabKing more than lives up to its regal-sounding name. We should warn you it’s not cheap, but this lapidary machine is practically a complete workstation in itself and even comes with an accessory kit so it has everything you need to complete the lapidary grinding to polishing process from rough pre-cut slabs to handcrafted beautifully polished cabochons.

It’s designed for all skill levels from beginners to pro-Lapidarist jewelry makers and it’s suitable for everyone simply because it requires no special skill to use it.

On the left shaft of the CabKing are two electroplated diamond grinding wheels (one coarse and one finer grit), plus one coarse electroplated diamond resin wheel.

On the right are three electroplated diamond resin wheels to take you through the lapidary polishing process and there’s one canvas polishing pad and one full-face diamond lap. Just so you know (because you can’t see them in the photo above), these are flat discs for use on the end of the right shaft.

The cabbing unit has an adjustable water system provided by an included 30-watt water pump. You will just need to add two buckets, one with clean water for the pump and one to collect the dirty water expelled by the unit’s simple drainage system.

The cabbing machine is backed up by a strong 1/4 horsepower direct-drive motor. That means there are no belts or pulleys to maintain, and it will give you a steady 1800rpm.

The kit comes complete with a diamond paste syringe containing a strong concentrate of high-quality diamonds suspended in a water-based carrier to give the cab the ultimate high gloss finish.

You also get removable stone trays, extra wheel spacers, hand rests, splash guards, safety goggles, a waterproof apron, and a handy booklet on How to Use Diamond Abrasives to Cut Gemstones, and a conveniently placed, built-in LED lamp so you can clearly see what you’re doing.

This is a wonderful machine for making your own high-quality handmade cabochons that are suitable for all kinds of jewelry pieces. It will also polish glass, synthetic materials, and metals too.

What We Like:

• Complete Kit with Water Pump and Accessories | You basically just need just a couple of cheap plastic buckets and some beautiful 1/8″-1/4″ pre-cut rock slabs for cabbing and you’re set up and ready to go.
• US Company Backed up With a One-Year Warranty | It’s easy to buy additional tools to fit this US-assembled machine. You can buy an extra diamond resin wheel or grinding wheel, for example, if you want to choose a different grit size.
• Very User-Friendly | Everything is set up for you. You don’t have to swap out the grinding or polishing disks to use this machine as you will with the cheaper models we’ll be looking at next.

Things to Consider:

The 6″ CabKing is well worth the initial investment for the quality of the machine you are getting especially considering the fact that you get all the extras including a 30-watt water pump. We’ve chosen the 6″ diameter wheel version because the step up in price to the 8″ cabbing machine is pretty steep. If you have big hands or specifically want to work with larger stones, you may feel it’s worth paying that much extra for to get wider wheels and more generous spacing but otherwise, this size is better value for money.

However, if you aren’t ready to invest in the King of cabbing machines just yet, we have a much more affordable one for you to look at next.

Check the latest price of the CabKing 6″ Cabbing Machine on Amazon.

Best for Beginners to Hobbyists: Hi-Tech Diamond 6″ All-U-Need

This is a much more affordable cabbing machine for those not ready to go all out and invest in a pro model just yet. Yet it’s still more than capable of producing beautiful high-quality cabochons for all kinds of jewelry making.

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This cabber works a little differently from our first pick in that this one is a flat lap machine. With this type of machine, you’ll be working from above. The motor rotates flat discs specifically designed to grind, smooth and polish rocks, minerals, and more.

You can make free-form shapes, create flats or make stunning cabochons for any type of jewelry you want. It’s suitable for a wide variety of natural gemstones including quartz, agate, jasper, tourmaline, corundum, opal, and more. It’s even suitable for synthetic gemstones, enamels, and metals.

The All-U-Need cabbing machine is a high-powered, 1/4 horsepower, machine that’s easy to operate. There’s just one simple dial that lets you choose which speed you want to work at and it runs anywhere between 800rpm and 3,400rpm. We should add, this flexibility in speed is a useful feature and one that, notably, the CabKing doesn’t have.

Everything you need is included in the kit to get you started straight out of the box. You get four different electroplated diamond discs ranging from a coarse to a smooth grit and one polishing pad. You also get a 2-gram syringe of diamond paste, a polishing compound for that glass-like finish.

The clean water system is easy to use and you get one clean and one dirty water cup included.

What We Like:

• Affordable Price | It’s several hundred dollars cheaper than the CabKing featured above making it more realistically priced for a hobbyist.
• Adjustable Speed | You can choose how fast you would like the machine to work. The speed is adjustable (via a simple dial) from 800rpm to 3,400rpm.

Things to Consider:

The only slight drawback of this machine is that when you need to change your grit size you will need to manually swap the electroplated diamond discs. But considering the price difference between this one and our first choice, it’s not that much of a downside.

Lastly, you might want to consider how you want to work. With this machine, you will most likely be standing and working from above.

For some people, that may be uncomfortable and some may even prefer to work at a crafting desk sitting down just because it’s easier to hold the dop stick with a steady hand.

If so, you should skip this option and go for our alt pick next.

Check the latest price of the Hi-Tech Diamond 6″ All-U-Need on Amazon.

Best Alternative Pick for Beginners to Hobbyists: Hi-Tech Diamond 6″ Slant Cabber

This cabbing machine is specifically designed to allow you to sit while you work. It’s perfect for those who might find it uncomfortable to stand or those who prefer to sit just in order to hold the dop stick with a steadier hand.

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In all other respects, this machine is the same as our last choice above. You get the same features and the same high quality, so there’s basically no downside to choosing the slant version of this cabbing machine.

Both machines are just as popular but without this variation, if you prefer to work sitting down you would have to rig up a very low work table or else opt for the considerably more expensive CabKing above.

What We Like:

• Slant Design | It’s such a simple design variation but it will give you a more comfortable experience if, for whatever reason, you prefer to sit while you work.

Check the latest price of the Hi-Tech Diamond 6″ Slant Cabber on Amazon.