8 Best Heat Guns for Resin Art for 2022
If you create resin artwork, you undoubtedly know what it’s like to deal with resin bubbles. If not dealt with, these bubbles can ruin your piece’s overall aesthetic and compromise the integrity of your art.
Luckily there are ways to remove the resin bubbles without damaging your work. A heat gun is one of the best solutions to this problem. Not only will it remove the bubbles from your art, but it can help you cure the resin quicker.
You can also use a heat gun to create ocean art and help soften resin drips to remove later. It’s such a handy tool to have in your resin art arsenal!
There are a lot of heat guns on the market, and it can be quite daunting to select the correct one for your project needs. So, if you feel overwhelmed and need help figuring out where to start or what to look for in a heat gun, just keep reading!
In this article, we have created a detailed list of the best heat guns for resin art creation to help you choose the right heat gun. We’ve also included some helpful tips to help you with your selection. So let’s jump right in!
Best Heat Guns for Resin Art
There are plenty of options on the market when buying heat guns for resin art. Below are our top picks that will help you make a well-informed decision. So without further ado, let’s get started!
How We Selected the Best Heat Guns
We examined models from many brands to identify the top heat guns for various uses. We gave items with at least a 4-star rating from customers’ priority. In addition, we assessed each model for its temperature range, usability, and practical features, such as a built-in stand or included attachments.
After reducing the number of options, we divided the items into groups according to their most appropriate applications. We tried to include a range of heat guns to accommodate various uses and price points.
Selection List
Below is a list of the best heat guns for resin art. We’ve grouped and categorized the heat guns to help you find what you want.
Top 3 Heat Guns for Resin Crafts
- Chandler Heat Gun – Overall best heat gun for epoxy resin
- SEEKONE Heat Gun
- Wagner Spraytech HT1000 Heat Gun
*Paid Links
Budget Picks
- Homeric Heat Gun – Best budget pick
- BLACK + DECKER Heat Gun
- M-life Mini Heat Gun
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Cordless Options
- DEWALT DCE530B Cordless Heat Gun – Best cordless heat gun
- PRULDE NHG0140
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1. Chandler Tool Heat Gun
A compact and sturdy option is the Chandler Tool heat gun, which is at the top of our list. Many experts call it one of the best for general use since its versatility means you can use it for any project regardless of size.
The Chandler Tool is simple to use and will liberate you from pursuing your artistic interests. With this tool, you can create artwork, wrap vinyl, fix screens, and even make candles. It stands apart from the competition thanks to several features.
The Chandler Tool heat gun comes with a nozzle cap, which shields its surface from heat damage. This heat gun is versatile and offers excellent functionality. It could be an all-in-one solution for your resin craft projects.
While using the tool, you can adjust the temperature and speed according to your needs. For example, it only requires 150W for the low setting and 300W for the maximum setting of power input. This results in two different temperature settings, 392°F, and 572°F, respectively. Since epoxy resin has a melting point of around 300–330°F, this is more than enough to melt it.
It also comes with a run time of about 2 hours before it requires a forced break. Moreover, the tool is adaptable, ergonomic, and quiet and heats up quickly. This small electric portable heat gun makes it easy to use even in confined spaces.
Pros
- Offers great functionality
- Excellent run time – up to two hours
- It comes with dual heat/airflow speed control
- Quiet operation
- Blue and pink style options
- No compromise on safety standards
- Easily customizable and provides a variety of temperature
Cons
- The item may contain lead, which is a harmful element.
The best thing about this heat gun is getting all these unique features at an affordable price. In addition, it is a lightweight option built with a compact design.
Its manufacturers have high safety standards and put their heat guns through rigorous testing.
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2. SEEKONE Heat Gun
It’s challenging to beat the low price of this well-designed heat gun because it’s perfect for so many applications. It includes a variable temperature control dial, two fan speeds, and a temperature range between 120 and 1,200 °F.
The heat gun has various attachments, including two concentrator nozzles, a deflector nozzle, and a reflector nozzle, and it only weighs 2 lbs. It has an ergonomic handle that is simple to use for extended periods, and it heats up quickly so you can begin to work immediately. The biggest drawback is that the power cord, at 5 ft, is shorter than most.
Pros
- Price
- Wide temperature range
- Attachments
Cons
- Power cord length
*Paid Links
3. Wagner Spraytech Heat Gun
Many users consider the Wagner Spraytech heat gun one of the best heat guns due to its high precision and functionality. In addition, it offers two modes for work; low and high temperature.
In terms of handling, the heat gun provides extended usage and a comfortable experience with its corrosion-resistance tip. This heat gun is also easy to store since it comes with a hanging hook. So you can hang it on your wall.
Wagner’s Spraytech heat gun is safe. It has an integrated stand for hands-free, safe operation to prevent the hot nozzle from hitting your work surface.
The downside to this heat gun is that even though the company offers a 2-year guarantee, many users have complained about its longevity.
Pros
- Two temperature modes
- Has warranty
- One-handed handling option
- Easy to hang on your wall
Cons
- Durability and longevity issues
With the help of this heat gun, you can get your resin project done quickly and effectively. In addition, this heat gun for resin offers a decent value for money and specific functionality.
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4. Homidic Electric Heat Gun
The Homidic Heat Gun is a cost-effective option for small-scale applications. Even though the maximum temperature of this tiny heat gun is just about 200°F, you can still use it to heat materials for crafts like shrink film, embossing powder, and resin.
The small, non-slip design has a built-in stand that you can flip down to keep the hot nozzle off your work surface. Air vents on the back of the device prevent it from overheating, and the gun’s 6.5-ft power cord lets you work farther away from an outlet. However, the manufacturer advises using this heat gun for at most 10 minutes.
In addition to great functionality, it is also very durable. Therefore, this heat gun is perfect for beginners looking for a simple and durable option to start making resin art.
Pros
- Offers versatility and flexibility
- Cooling and voltage holes
- High portability
- Budget-friendly
- Compact
- Non-slip grip
Cons
- Comparatively loud for some users
- Short use time of 10 minutes
*Paid Links
5. BLACK + DECKER Heat Gun
Dual temperature settings are available on the 1350W heat gun for various applications. Using a specific button on the handle, you can easily choose between 750°F and 1,000°F settings.
It has a built-in stand that ensures the device can cool down safely. What’s more, the cable is long enough (6 ft) to allow for workplace flexibility. Finally, the heat gun’s ergonomic design allows it to operate in small areas.
The manufacturer claims this heat gun is relatively portable and lightweight because it only weighs 1.63 lbs. In addition, the 3-position side handle with a non-slip grip ensures comfortable application and improves control while using the product.
The BLACK+DECKER HG1300 heat gun does not come with a kit or other nozzle applications. Therefore, if you purchase it, you only receive the heat gun.
Pros
- reliable
- budget-friendly
- dual temperature setting (750°F/1,000°F)
Cons
- not the most energy-efficient
- comfortable grip
*Paid Links
6. M-Life Mini Heat Gun
The M-Life mini heat gun has many impressive 300W heat gun features. First, this heat gun offers dual temperature settings (392°F to 572°F). In addition, it’s compact and has an extensive (6.5-ft) power cord.
A specific nozzle shield, steel stand, and UL certification ensure the safety of this heat gun so that it won’t burn you or your work and won’t overheat. However, it doesn’t use high speed to eliminate bubbles and has a relatively short run time.
Pros
- Affordable
- Long cable (6.5 ft)
- Multiple color options
Cons
- 15-minute run time
*Paid Links
7. DEWALT DCE530B Cordless
The DEWALT DCE530B is the most dependable and best cordless heat gun available. With a wattage of 400W, this cordless heat gun can produce temperatures of 532°F on low and 990°F on high. In terms of output, that is comparable to corded heat guns.
Heat guns with batteries are in high demand, but they come with a price. Nevertheless, it is essential to be aware of the drawbacks of batteries compared to ‘regular’ heat guns. The battery will inevitably die. The DEWALT DCE530B offers an operating time of 42 minutes on the low-temperature setting of 532°F.
Pros
- Cordless
- The lock-on trigger for hands-free use
- Dual temperature output (532°F/990°F)
Cons
- Battery lasts 42 minutes on low power setting
- High cost
*Paid Links
8. PRULDE NHG0140 Heat Gun for Crafts
The PRULDE NHG0140 heat gun is an impressive device. It takes 10 seconds to heat the tool to its maximum temperature of 1022°F; however, this is the only temperature setting available. Meaning there is no low-temperature setting.
There’s a dual safety system built into the heat gun to ensure your safety. Due to the lock-off lever’s stand-alone design, this tool offers a hands-free option. In addition, the producer used a cutting-edge cellular tuyere to boost the heating rate thanks to this unique technology.
The plastic object’s weight of 4.69 lbs is reasonable for a cordless heat gun with a rechargeable battery. The ergonomic non-slip rubber handle for improved application comfort reduces hand fatigue. In addition, the tool is perfect for hard-to-reach places because of its small, portable form.
Four nozzle attachments are also included with the PRULDE heat gun for various projects and application requirements. The package also comes with a quick-charging 20V Max Compact Lithium-Ion battery and a powerful Rapid Optimum Charger to ensure the most effective use.
Pros
- The kit comes with a heat gun itself and a few additional nozzles
- Battery included
Cons
- Limited temperature settings
*Paid Links
Do You Need a Heat Gun for Resin?
While you don’t require a heat gun to do resin art or cure the resin, it’s an absolute must if you want to remove air bubbles in your artwork. In addition, using a heat gun will affect the overall aesthetic of your cure.
Without a heat source, your resin could emit microbubbles that slowly rise to the surface throughout the curing process and leave tiny dimples in your finished product.
This is because the bubble gets caught in the curing resin, preventing you from getting that crystal-clear look. Some bubbles can be invisible, but others might ruin the final piece.
How Does a Heat Gun For Epoxy Resin Work?
Heat and soften the resin with a heat gun to remove bubbles from the epoxy resin’s surface. The bubbles burst when the heated air breaks the surface tension. Applying heat to the resin helps create an even surface that will cure better with a better aesthetic. It will also be more durable.
Heat Gun vs. Blow Torch
Both a heat gun and a torch have their applications in resin art. A torch can work well for most resin projects, but because it works with an open flame, it is not suited for silicone molds or alcohol inks.
Silicon molds can melt in an open flame, whereas alcohol inks are flammable and can catch fire. In these cases, heat guns are better suited.
You can also use a lighter to pop trapped air bubbles, but like a torch, it’s also less safe and unsuited for silicon molds and alcohol inks. Heat guns are the overall safer option when it comes to popping air bubbles with heat.
Heat Gun vs. Hair Dryer
Though some craftsmen advise using a hairdryer instead of a heat gun to pop air bubbles, we don’t recommend doing so. Most hair dryers don’t heat to the right temperature and only blow the resin around, creating a bigger mess for you.
Hair dryers do, however, have their place in resin art. And that is to create beautiful flow art, like oceanscapes or abstract art, but even for these artworks a dedicated heat gun will do a better job.
Having a dedicated heat gun will also make sure you don’t get resin all over your hair dryer.
What to Consider When Purchasing a Heat Gun for Resin Art
When purchasing a heat gun for your resin crafts project, there are a few factors to consider:
Temperature range: Regardless of technology, a heat gun appropriate for popping bubbles in epoxy resin crafts should quickly reach a high temperature (most heat guns heat between 120°F and 1100°F).
Safety measures: Your safety is our top priority. Therefore, choose a device with reassuring safety features. These consist of insulated sections, anti-overheating features, etc.
Airflow: Adjustable airflow settings make your heat gun more versatile and easier to handle (aggressive air flow is harmful to molds).
Power Supply: Take note that some heat models use 110V voltage (suitable for US power); therefore, if you purchase one from overseas and reside in a country with 220-240V power, it’ll require a voltage converter. A long cable, an ergonomic grip, and a hanging hook (for storage) are all excellent additions that merit consideration.
Cable Length: For resin art, you can use a corded or cordless heat gun. Take note that there’s a significant price tag attached to cordless heat guns. However, if your budget allows, it could be an excellent addition to your resin supplies. It all comes down to a tradeoff between convenience and price.
If you would rather have a corded one, ensure the cable is long enough to give you ample room to work on crafts.
Heating Power: Small crafts require less power, and a 300-500W tool will satisfy your needs. When you have a big project to finish, like a resin table, use a device with at least 1000W of power.
Warranty: Another important thing is to select a heat gun with a warranty. This will give you peace of mind. Even if your heat gun was not too pricey, getting a manufacturer warranty with the product is always better.
You can expect around two years of warranty with these heat guns.
Final Thoughts
Finding the right heat gun for your resin art can be challenging. Many factors determine their functionality and longevity.
Our list of the best heat guns for resin art will make your decision easier.
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