Heat Tool Review| New..Better Wagner Design

[@mcescher1957]

Great video Mary. My very first heat tool was purchased as a gift for me by my mother in 1971. It was the Wagner heat tool (the straight one) although at that time, the tool was being manufactured by Milwaukee. I can't say enough about this wonderful piece of equipment. My original tool finally needed replacing after 45 years of use. Technically, I probably could have still used it, as the switch stopped working, but it ran fine if I just plugged it in and unplugged it. I was a bit concerned when I searched "Milwaukee heat tool" and couldn't find it, but eventually with research I found out that the manufacturing of this same tool was taken over by Wagner. (insert heavy sigh of relief here!) I just want to say....that even at a higher price, the Wagner tool will be cheaper in the long run. Nobody makes things that last 45 years anymore....and I will sing the praises of this wonderful tool until either it dies or I do (and I'm guessing that I will go long before my Wagner - I'm 62, and it will be handed down to my daughters for many more years of great crafting.) For those on the fence...buy a Wagner (the older model) Maybe they are so great because they were originally for paint removal....but a Wagner will NEVER EVER disappoint....I guarantee it!!

[@marypolancodesigns]

WOW what a tool; no wonder why I love mine so much! YAY! That is a long time to have it so your testimony is on point! Thank you so much for sharing, Robin!

[@susansieracki4369]

I have the original wagner and I too bought it from amazon at a significantly lower price than an online craft store. I love this tool very much. I have had at least 5 other brands and this one is by far the best. I love the new look, and if mine should break on me, this is the one I will gef to replace it. I would not waste my time with the cheaper one. It's actually more economical to buy the Wagner first because the other brands just don't last and you'll have to replace it anyway. Thank you so much for this comparison Mary. We all really appreciate the efforts you give so we can be informed. You rock!!!

[@marypolancodesigns]

Susan, economically, I agree 100% about not getting a cheaper one but I also don't know people's financial capability so I wanted to be supportive in that way. I would say the Wagner (either one) is worth the price completely though like you!

[@joycesc2]

Thanks for this excellent review. I've had my Wagner for 30 years and it's still working well. After seeing your review, however, I did order the new Wagner primarily because of the versatility of its use. I can't believe the price! All those years ago, I paid $40, but old Wagnet has been a champ on hundreds of projects! Looking forward to my new Wagner--no more burns! Thanks again, Mary.

[@marypolancodesigns]

You are most welcome; I'm so happy it could be useful. I'm really liking the new design of it; so much more practical for my needs.

[@dawnjames151]

Great review Mary! After purchasing 2 in 1yr, from my local craft store, I finally bit the bullet...and bought the Wagner sitting in my crafty online wish list. Full disclosure, the original 2 were purchased because I love crafting with our nieces...and you parents know what happens...it hit the floor, and it didn't sound right thereafter...hence the 2nd purchase. Eventually bought the $40 Wagner to save time embossing, and the nieces know that that one is ONLY Aunt Dawn's! Seeing what most have paid for it...I'm feeling not so hot about the HUGE online mark up!! I do like that the new one has the heat going vertical rather than horizontal, because when I preheat, I have to pay attention to what the nozzle is near. With the vertical air flow, I feel like I could hold my cardstock over it, heating up embossing powder from the underside... without ever touching the heat gun!

[@marypolancodesigns]

I love so much about this post. 1. That Aunt Dawn gets the kiddos involved but I stern in keeping their hands off the god heat gun!. hahah and 2. that your testimony might help someone else. I didn't want people to feel pressured but it really is smarter to just get a good one upfront IF you can afford it.

[@PEPSIKERR]

I have the old version of the SU single speed heating tool. It's 17 yrs old and still going strong. I'm going to say that it's comparable to the old style Wagner. The cheaper heating tool you demoed takes a long time, even though you proved it worked. I'm glad they're are options for everyone's budget. I love heat embossing. Thanks for the video. Have a great day.

[@marypolancodesigns]

Thanks so much Jerilee! I am so happy to hear your SU one is still going; my hubby still uses mine. The difference between that one and the Wagner is how long it takes to melt my embossing powder; the Wagner is quicker but only by a bit. No need to get a new one if yours is going strong; as you know. :)

[@michelegourd5742]

I have the older Wagner and love it. I had a cheaper one before and it did not last. It is good to know there is a newer one now. Thanks for the review!!

[@marypolancodesigns]

You are most welcome, my pleasure. I'm loving the redesign for sure

[@terriconrad4612]

There you go again! Saving us all time and money! 👏👏👏👏👏. I have the “elder” Wagner.... and yes.... have burned myself as well! But I love it! Although the newer one would be beneficial with the lower temp option for drying.... as I don’t own the Ranger tool. But I’ll save it for later. Great review! As always! Thank you! 💕🙋‍♀️

[@marypolancodesigns]

My pleasure Terri, thanks so much! oh yes there is no need to get this if your heat tool is doing its job. I am loving the redesign though; they took into account a few things.

[@deborahdaniels5834]

Thank you for this review Mary. I have the original Wagner purchased many years ago. I think my packaging said it was great for wallpaper stripping :). I don't use it often as I have purchased a couple other brands made for crafting. They are slower, but do the job. I am adding the updated Wagner to my Wish List for a future purchase. I like the new design and the various ways you can use it.

[@marypolancodesigns]

You are most welcome Deborah! I'm so glad it was useful! YAY ! I do really like the updated design for sure!

[@lilataylor3027]

Thanks for doing this! I still love my original Wagner. It’s heats up quick and it’s get the embossing done quickly. You got yours at a fabulous price!

[@marypolancodesigns]

The Wagner is just such an awesome tool! It really is durable!

[@lisas_crafty_creations]

I have a marvy from in the 1990s and it is still going strong!!!

[@marypolancodesigns]

YAY! I love when a product stands the test of time!

[@gusterry1]

Lol...me too. The old Marvy Uchida.

[@susandzama3000]

Mine too!

[@vanessamcdonald4946]

So .. about a week late for me, but at least I know I made the right decision. I actually have a Milwaukee heat tool that is probably around 23 years old and it's still going strong except that for some reason last week it wouldn't turn on within 5 minutes of using it? (Of course it worked again for my husband 20 minutes later & still working now!) So I went looking & could only come up with a Wagner tool, & ultimately got the 'new' one because of the price (the original was around $40 on one of my craft sites) and the dual heat settings. I don't like change very well so I haven't actually used it -yet- but do like some of the features. One thing I noted.. it says in the manual that 'heat embossing' should be done on the lower setting, & if you hold it around the handle to make sure not to cover the vents. Thanks for doing the comparisons!

[@marypolancodesigns]

You are most welcome, thank you for letting me know it was useful. I really like the new and have been exclusively using it. Thank you for the note not to cover the vents; I do use it on the higher setting for embossing though and find that my cardstock doesn't warp as much.

[@dorothyhuddleston3630]

Thanks so much for this video. I am new to card making and embossing, so I appreciate knowing more about heat guns. Going to get the new Wagner!

[@marypolancodesigns]

Thanks so much for letting me know this was helpful, Dorothy. you will not be disappointed. I'm loving mine!

[@vickigersey8138]

Thanks Mary.

[@marypolancodesigns]

You are most welcome!

[@HeidiLilley]

I have no clue what my heat tool is, I got it at Joann's or Michaels with a discount card. It works, for now I will keep it. But, I have been eyeing the Wagner and have thought I'd get it with some Holiday money or Birthday money (if I get some LOL), your review shows me I should maybe get the newer model. I like the way it stands up much better! TFS (My alexa and I were going back and forth about turning on and off the timer LOL)

[@marypolancodesigns]

Hahaha the Alexa comment' I KNOW. When I was editing the video Alexa kept going off and doing what my video was saying. lol I would recommend the newer version over the older version because of all those features I showed. The stand up piece is so amazing!

[@HandmadeByLinanne]

So funny😄! My iPhone & iPad Siri gives me problems sometimes too, especially if I use it with the TV on😄!

[@midnightcrafter1618]

Awesome! Didn't know Wagner had come out with a new heat tool! I usually use the ranger heat tool for travel since it's so much smaller but Wagner is my favorite ... mostly because I'm impatient 😂 Thank you, Mary!!! I love your reviews!!

[@marypolancodesigns]

Thanks so much; so glad it could be useful! Loving that new machine!

[@HandmadeByLinanne]

I’ve a Milwaukee heat tool that’s years old and love it. I’m thinking Wagner is comparable and possibly the same, maybe someone knows. The new Wagner design is cool, really like your “Hands Off” idea! Great review, you covered all features! I think the new Wagner would be my choice, especially for spot hands off heating from the bottom embossing. Loving your channel!😘

[@marypolancodesigns]

Hi Linda! From my understanding, the Milwaukee is the Wagner. I have been using the new Wagner exclusively now and LOVE it. It's lighter and I love the 2 speeds! Great buy!

[@HandmadeByLinanne]

Mary Polanco I thought it was the same, thanks for confirming!👍🏻

[@janeastwick1418]

My current heat tool I have had for at least 20 years. Can’t remember the name but I am sure it is on its last leg so I am very grateful for this review. Good to know what to get when the need arises 😀. Also, I never think to preheat my heat tool. Good to know! Oh and BTW I see your subscriber amount is quickly climbing! YAY!

[@marypolancodesigns]

Jan, so glad this could be useful! YAY! And thank you for the sweet words on the subby list; slow and steady! So happy I have even more friends now. haha

[@MindyDrummond1414]

I have the previous Wagner and love it. However I will consider the new design when I need another (or when I burn myself one too many times lol). Thanks for always giving us great ideas and money savers!!

[@marypolancodesigns]

Oh no, hahah, don't burn yourself! It's my pleasure; i'm so happy they can be useful!

[@createinspain]

If anyone is really strapped for cash, Lidl/Aldi do a small kit occasionally that includes some ink, wood mounted rubber stamps, embossing powder and the heat tool -(two temps). While the inks and stamps were not to my taste, it was a cheap way to get the heat tool, which is fine. It does need a minute or so to warm up but for about 15 euros for the whole kit, I don't think you could complain.

[@marypolancodesigns]

WOW thank you so much for this share! I really appreciate this and hope folks see it too! YAY!

[@CraftingWhileCaffeinated]

I’ve wondered about the new design! Thank you for the review!! ❤️

[@marypolancodesigns]

My pleasure! So glad it could be helpful. Overall, highly recommend it!

[@bertas-cards]

I like the new remodeled Wagner one with the added heat setting. I have the Furno $22 model from Lowe's the only difference is it didn't have directed nozzle at the time. They do now and I called and they asked why I didn't get the craft model one & I said because I can't always hold it that long for what I am doing & the furno one allows me to hold and move the paper over the heat source for large Embossing jobs. The other reason is the craft model was twice as much. I am glad they made the new one smaller. I will be looking at that one when my furno needs replacing. Thank you for the great comparison. Check their Instagram page out about this new model.

[@marypolancodesigns]

Thanks so much for the share, Roberta! Great to know about other products out there and where to look. Really appreciate it!

[@kimgrimes632]

Hey Mary! Thanks for the great review. I have been using the TH heat tool which as you probably know was not really intended for heat embossing so much as for drying inky projects. It will work, but very, very slowly and warpage factor is high. Been thinking about the Wagner and have a GC for Amazon that pays for most of it. Thanks again for the info.

[@marypolancodesigns]

I hear that one is great for drying panels to minimize warping but I love love love this tool. The dual setting is a great option and it heats up my embossing powder so fast. YAY! It's a great one. The craft websites have it for double the price though so just shop around.

[@Julie_CountingStitchesPR]

Very helpful. I am currently looking for a new heat tool, so looks like I will more than likely be investing in the new wagner. I like the shape of it. Seems less cumbersome to use. Thank you for sharing.

[@marypolancodesigns]

I really like this new redesign and love the features of it! Great choice!

[@sherriethompson83]

Perfect timing! I’ve had a Darice Heat Tool for about 3 years but it’s gotten loud and sounds like it’s cutting out😕. I’ve been searching for a new tool just in case it dies in the middle of a project. Thanks for testing these out!👍

[@marypolancodesigns]

I would highly recommend the new Wagner redesign. So much I love about this machine!

[@SherriC88]

Great comparison, I have been using the one I purchased at Michael's 10 years ago, not sure of make, I'll have to lookk

[@marypolancodesigns]

Thanks so much Sherri! Hoping it will be helpful! I was so surprised when I saw the new tool in the link, have NO idea when that changed. lol

[@SherriC88]

@@marypolancodesigns ya, I've never seen this one before....I like the stand, like you said how you burned yourself, I like this feature,

[@MariaNyceDesigns]

Thanks so much for sharing this wonderful information and comparison! So grateful for you, blessings and hugs!!!

[@marypolancodesigns]

Thank you Maria! I really appreciate that you let me know it was helpful. I only use the new one now. AMAZING!

[@vickigersey8138]

$24.99 on Amazon, Mary. I like it too. Thanks for the review. Mary, what temp were you using with the new Wagner. Thanks.

[@marypolancodesigns]

Hey Vicki! Great question and should have actually said that. I was on the hotter temp when embossing.

[@kcthatsme]

I have the original Wagner I really like it.

[@marypolancodesigns]

Isn't it amazing! So worth the money for sure!

[@SintangMayumi]

Thanks for the review Mary. I saw the new wagner on Amazon and I'm not sure if it's like the old style wagner now I know. I'll have to get that one.

[@marypolancodesigns]

I love this new design, it's just great! Also, when i'm heating it up, I don't have to worry about where it's pointing.

[@kathypatterson4630]

Thanks for your thorough test!

[@marypolancodesigns]

My pleasure Kathy!

[@Fit_Kitty]

Great video, Mary! Thank you!

[@marypolancodesigns]

Thanks so much! YAY

[@joannesummers08]

Thanks for this I brought the original Wagner from Amazon but it scares me now loud it is. Watching your video shows me I havnt got a faulty machine it's now there made. X

[@marypolancodesigns]

Correct, I think it's gotten louder of the years or maybe my ears are more sensitive, not sure. But if it's working you are good to go!

[@pamelasertich9850]

I like the new one because you can stand it up and do hands free. I just want to know who heats their tool up before hand? I don't have the patience. Now maybe if it stood up like that I would. Also, preheating, does it really make a difference? Shouldn't the tool be the set temperature when you turn it on in a few seconds. I don't know, it hurts my head. :) . Love you Mary.

[@marypolancodesigns]

Hi Pam! Thanks so much! Yes I heat it up just like I preheat the oven. lol If you noticed the new Wagner got even hotter as it was on longer so it melted the embossing powder even faster on the second card.

[@pamjohnson3784]

I have a Heidi Swap heat tool that I got at Joann's only because it was the only one (no kidding, I asked) . I was in the middle of a project and had to have one, I had to drive 30 minutes to get to the closest place to look for one. No time to order and receive online! There aren't many craft stores out in the countr under a 30 minute drive one way. Not that fond of it but it works and I do not like having to spend money on a duplicate tool if I don't have to have it, I'd rather spend my money on something else!!! I'm really the cheapskate! I think I paid $25 on sale!!

[@marypolancodesigns]

Oh well you and I are cut from the same cheapskate mold. hahah I hear you on that. If it's working, you're good! :)

[@JoanOrloffDK]

Great comparison video 😍 thanks for your time and effort to show us the differences ❤ thank you so much Hugs

[@marypolancodesigns]

My pleasure; thanks Joan!

[@lorraine8037]

Thank you so much, Mary for these product reviews. It really helps us make good decisions. I do have a question, which setting did you use on the The Wagner high or low?

[@marypolancodesigns]

Hi Lorraine, thanks so much! I was using the hotter setting with the new Wagner tool

[@SantaRosaGal]

Thanks for the comparison, but I would like to know what the noise level is, rather than hearing music. That's an important consideration, not just the time it takes to do the job. You said the new Wagner was not as loud, but I'd like to hear for myself. Sometimes there is a high whine that may be irritating even if it's not loud.

[@marypolancodesigns]

Thanks so much Lanette! Although I can't redo the video, I will say that one of the reasons why it might be quieter than my older version is 2-fold. The older version has been used a lot, so it's possible something got loose, ,and the newer version is much lighter. But I do apologize that I didn't show you that feature in the video.

[@RosyJalifi]

Well done....

[@marypolancodesigns]

Why thank you Rosy! I so appreciate that!

[@icemark2la]

Thanks for sharing!

[@marypolancodesigns]

My pleasure!

[@melodieisreal5933]

Thank you for all of the information!!

[@marypolancodesigns]

My pleasure Melodie!

[@bethpowers1916]

Every time you told Alexa to start the timer my Alexa answered you 😂😂😂😂

[@marypolancodesigns]

Hahaha same for me when I was editing the video. lol so sorry

[@bethpowers1916]

No need for apologizes it was funny !!! Have a great day Mary

[@stankyp.7858]

I bought mine for $18 on Amazon too!

[@marypolancodesigns]

RIGHT???? Not anymore! boooo

[@norinemueller4588]

Thank you for the review

[@marypolancodesigns]

My pleasure Norine!

[@gusterry1]

Hahaha...every time you told Alexa to start the timer, my Alexa started! Lol

[@marypolancodesigns]

HAHAHA I KNOW! When I was editing the video it was doing it too. lol

[@tracilord4854]

Thank you Mary, I have the Martha Stewart heat tool & it takes forever to heat emboss but I did get it way back on the day with a coupon at Michael's. Like you said it does the job but I've been wanting the Wagner one because it is faster & hotter but I can't afford it or justify getting it when I do have one that works. But mine dies warp the paper alot & I think it's because I it takes so long. I know you don't have it but have you heard anything or know anyone with the new WOW heat tool? If so what is the take on that one? ❤😘

[@marypolancodesigns]

Hi Traci, I hear you on trying to justify it. Watch out on Amazon because they change prices pretty frequently so you might get lucky.

[@ladybug639]

Not a cheapskate!!!! Thrifty LOL Thanks for the comparisons. Good information to know.

[@marypolancodesigns]

Hahha...yes thrifty! Thanks so much!

[@sevenandthelittlestmew]

My Alexa started a timer for one minute when you said that. 😆

[@sevenandthelittlestmew]

I think I’d really like the new Wagner. Mainly because the way it can be held, it would be great for working with certain alcohol techniques and the lower setting would be less likely to warp yupo paper. I use graphix opaque white paper instead of yupo currently, because you can use alcohol to completely clean all traces of ink off of the surface (back to white with no staining), and because it doesn’t melt or warp when you heat set the ink. It “relaxes” back to flat after it cools if it cools on a flat surface. Plus, it’s really reasonable.

[@marypolancodesigns]

Haahah mine kept doing it too during the editing process.

[@marypolancodesigns]

I love so much about this new design, really it's a great machine!

[@shennahull2183]

Lololol my Alexa heard you, and is timing you lolol

[@marypolancodesigns]

Hahaha...a few people said that. DOH Sorry about that! lol

[@karenpage946]

I wonder how the new Wagner compares to the 2 speed heat tool from Wow? Anyone here have both? Seems like the lower speed could be good for drying watercolor and the higher speed for heat embossing. And is it me, or did you not test the new Wagner's 1st speed? Did it not emboss?

[@marypolancodesigns]

Great question for others; I'm curious how the WOW measures up too. No, I didn't test the first speed on the video. I wanted to see the max performance of the machine because in that test it was about how fast the machine can emboss. The lower speed embosses too just takes longer because it's not as hot.

[@RainorShine1]

Killed me when you said watching paint dry. Had to stop video as i laughed to hard an had tears rollin down my face. Like the new wanger one

[@marypolancodesigns]

Hahaha. that's so awesome! Thank you for sharing that with me. I often wonder if anyone else if having as good a time as me! LOL

[@georgefitch8365]

I have bought two of the new Wagner tools that were supposedly refurbished and neither one worked right out of the box. Anyone else have this issue and is your Wagner still working?

[@marypolancodesigns]

Oh no that stinks! Mine is still going strong since this video published and I use it on almost every project. I hope you get your money back

[@pink25poppies1]

What about burning the paper? I have a cheap heat tool that takes forever & often burns the paper by the time it's done

[@marypolancodesigns]

I have only burned my paper once and it was so many years ago; I didn't notice any issue with these

[@vickigersey8138]

I think I was half asleep.😂

[@BruceN0twayne]

anyone know how I can make a flare nozzle for this?

[@marypolancodesigns]

Waiting to see if anyone knows... great question

[@PapercraftsbyCindyellen]

My recollections one i bought in 2007 to make our wedding invites. I keep waiting for it to die so i can buy a Wagner. It's refusing to die. . .

[@marypolancodesigns]

Hahahha….you might have to drop it out the window to test its durability!

[@vickigersey8138]

Oops! My bad. $24.19 on Amazon. The eyes are going.😂

[@marypolancodesigns]

Hahahah...you never know!

[@judipalumbo]

I know this is old but just to let you know, that is pronounced. HO- Midic! No biggie, you tried, so did I till I found out differently. 😉

[@marypolancodesigns]

Thank you so much for that! :)

[@TannaLohouse]

Lmao. Homidic ? Homidic? Homidic...

[@marypolancodesigns]

Hahahah HUH!? I don't even know words I was saying

[@TannaLohouse]

The way you said it had me dying