By The ARTnews Recommends Editors

If you purchase an independently reviewed product or service through a link on our website, we may receive an affiliate commission.

Embossing projects are not the place to cut corners. While popular hacks include using a hairdryer or even an oven to set embossing powder into paper, neither of these options work as well as the real deal. A proper heat gun gets the job done right, as a hairdryer can blow the embossing powder away, and an oven can scorch the paper. Heat guns aren’t just for embossing projects: use these tools to shrink-wrap plastic, apply shrink tubing to wire, and remove hard-to-peel stickers. With plenty of options on the market, there are a few things to consider when choosing a heat gun, including heat safety, durability, and heating time. Browse our roundup of the best options below. 

This well-designed embossing gun is compact and versatile. The angled handle and built-in stand allow for three different operating positions, including a palm, pencil, and hands-free grip. Available in a small size, the dimensions allow for precise control and access to hard-to reach places, and the high- and low-heat switch facilitates customized temperature control. 

Another heat gun in a compact size, this option is equipped with dual-action capacity. With a high-speed setting that allows for a maximum temperature of 575 degrees Fahrenheit and a low-speed setting that allows for a maximum temperature of 392 degrees Fahrenheit, this device offers complete heat control. Even on the highest setting, this tool doesn’t make noise, and the air flow won’t send your embossing powder flying. Best of all, this gun comes with two embossing pens and one ounce each of gold and silver embossing powder.

Master introduced its first commercial heat gun to the market in 1958. This mini version, which can be held like a pen, combines the ruggedness of the original with ease of use. With an extra-long cable measuring more than six feet, this tool allows for maximum mobility, and the built-in stand enables hands-free heating.

A low-cost, high-quality product, this option is a smart buy for those on a budget. Available in a unique electric-green color, this heat gun is compact and lightweight. Constructed with a circulating cooling system to reduce the internal temperature, this tool won’t burn out and is great for embossing, shrink-wrapping, and drying polymer clay. 

This gun stands out for its design: it is lightweight and comfortable to grip for long periods; the settings are simple—choose between low and high heat—but effective, delivering strong and even heat; and the linear body helps ensure that you are holding it perpendicular to the working surface, thereby avoiding unintended movement of pigment. Another smart detail: the tip comes with a plastic shield as a safeguard against burns.

The World's Premier Art Magazine since 1913. Subscribe today and save up to 33%!

Sign Up for our Newsletters

Get our latest stories in the feed of your favorite networks

We want to hear from you! Send us a tip using our anonymous form.

Subscribe to our newsletters below

ARTnews is a part of Penske Media Corporation. © 2022 Art Media, LLC. All Rights Reserved.