In this article, you will learn about everything that you can do with a Dremel. Well, almost everything. Because the possibilities of the various Dremel Tools are almost endless, somebody somewhere is figuring out a new use for them every day.
As an avid woodcarver, DIY enthusiast, and all-around gadget lover, Dremel tools tick all the boxes for me. Using such rotary tools has enabled me to jumpstart my carving in the past. I hope they will have such an impact on your creative and DIY ideas.
I will segregate the piece into the various prominent Dremel use cases, starting with the most common one – art. So if you are ready to get an overview of the multiple uses of Dremel tools, keep reading.
1. Use It To Create Art
As an avid woodcarver, I can tell you that Dremels are perfectly suited for carving all kinds of projects. Whether it is a small tabletop project or smaller pieces fitting into a much larger project, the various Dremel rotary tools are convenient for all kinds of work.
- VERSATILE ROTARY TOOL KIT: Includes 4000 corded rotary tool, 4 attachments, 34 high-quality Dremel accessories, plastic storage case, and accessory case
- HIGH PERFORMANCE MOTOR – Provides maximum power and performance at all speeds. Variable speed (5,000 – 35,000 RPM) and electronic feedback circuitry for consistent performance even in the most...
- INNOVATED AIR FLOW SYSTEM- Ventilation mechanism helps prevent heat build-up for smoother, cooler, and quieter operation
Shown: Dremel 4000-4/34 Variable Speed Rotary Tool Kit (Amazon Affiliate Link)
I refer to the Dremel rotary tool here, such as the Dremel 4000 you see above. These come in various models meant for multiple kinds of use. Overall, I have my favorites, and I have written about them in this article.
Using various tips that come with these tools, you can efficiently work on multiple materials and mediums.
Starting with my own experience in wood carving, I can say that tools like Dremel have helped power carving tremendously. Most professionals begin with a Dremel or similar tool to dip their toes into carving and then continue with newer Dremel tools or go the pneumatic route.
You can easily make notches and grooves on common metals using a Dremel, and you can also cut them to a certain extent. The speed with which a Dremel can cut any material depends on the rotation speed, the force behind the rotation or torque, and the accessory used. This really comes into play when dealing with more challenging materials like stones and metal.
Dremel is also often used for etching on glass. The slim tool below is the Dremel Stylo+, a versatile albeit low-powered tool often used for this kind of work. It has the advantage of being lightweight and corded, which means it will make long sessions really easy on your hands.
- Precision Meets Comfort: The Dremel Stylo+'s pen-like design offers unparalleled control and ease of use for light-duty detailed projects.
- Adjustable Speed for Unmatched Control: Easily adjust your speed per project for an optimal outcome. The Stylo+ features an RPM range of 5,000 to 22,000 to cover your creative needs.
- Extended Cord for Unhindered Creativity: Boasting a longer extension cord, the Dremel Stylo+ offers the freedom to move around your workspace without being shortly tethered to one spot.
Shown: Dremel 2050-15 Stylo+ Versatile Craft Rotary Tool (Amazon Affiliate Link)
Apart from wood, metal, and glass, you can also work with stone using special Dremel tips. Glass and stone both need diamond-coated tips. You can learn more about the various Dremel tips and burrs in this article. Stone carving can be a gratifying process, and the pieces will last forever.
Many artists also use fiberglass, composite boards, and more. 3D printing artists will often use a Dremel to clean things up after the printer has done its job.
A cordless Dremel is another excellent tool to have in your arsenal, especially if you are moving around a lot and need to use the tool in short bursts. The 8220 model that you see up there is an excellent choice. It replaces the 4000 for those who want to go cordless. Just one caveat to keep in mind – the battery power will last for 15 minutes. If you are using it in short bursts, it can last a few hours. The fast charger will fully juice up a battery in one hour flat.
Related: Dremel 8220 Review
Depending on the kind of art you are into, whole new worlds can open up to you when you are using a reliable and efficient tool like a Dremel Rotary tool.
2. Use It For DIY
Dremel has been almost synonymous with the DIY culture ever since its first appearance two decades ago. The tools have come a long way in terms of the power they initially offered, and there are fun videos to watch for comparison. Here’s one such video if you are interested.
It does a great job of showing how far Dremel has come and how it compares to larger and bulkier tools from other companies. The video is quite long but it goes into great detail about each tool if you want a deep dive.
The compact footprint of the tool has made it incredibly popular over the years. Dremel’s versatility, combined with the wide range of accessories, has made it possible for DIY projects to take on a whole new dimension.
So, what can you do with a Dremel for DIY? Well, for starters, you can cut things more efficiently. The right accessory will cut through common materials like wood, glass, plastic, metal, and even stone. So whether you need to cut bottles for upcycled art or need to make small notches on metal for a project, a Dremel is all you need.
Most Dremel boxes come with a lot of accessories that are already included. This is an excellent thing for DIY lovers. These accessories are usually carefully selected to give you a taste of the tool’s possibilities. If you are only doing a few things around the house, the initial set will last you a very long time. And you can always buy more.
The Dremel 4000-4/34 set (Amazon affiliate link), for example, comes for less than $100 and has a fantastic array of attachments and accessories. With this one set, you can do routing, cutting, bevelling, and much more.
Using the wire brush, sanding drums, and felt polishing tips, you can give your project an excellent finish. These are small tools that make a massive difference in the overall appeal of any such project. You can use the wire brush to polish metal and then buff it up with the felt tip. You can use the sanding drum on plastic and wood and get excellent results.
- Get total control over your project with the Dremel Multi-Vise. The simple-to-use Multi-Vise securely holds your project in place, providing you the freedom to work with both your hands.
- The Multi-Vise is a 3-in-1 attachment featuring a stationary vice for your work piece, a stand-alone clamp, and a tool holder for your Dremel Rotary Tool.
- Features an easy-to-adjust 360° rotating base and 50° tilt function to work on your project from any angle. The jaws of the clamp include removable rubber caps and V-grooves to increase grip and...
This is another helpful accessory for artists and DIYers. This specially-made clamp is versatile and ideal for holding small objects. As you start exploring the Dremel universe, you will find plenty of attachments that are ideal for particular use cases. Here’s another one below, the Dremel MotoSaw.
- Dust port adapter keeps line-of-sight clear and work space clean
- Auto tensioning quick-change mechanism for easy accessory change and optimal blade tensioning
- Detachable coping function for handheld use to take the tool to the work piece
This is the only tool of its kind on the market and is exceptionally versatile for making complex cuts into soft materials like wood and fiberglass. You can also cut thin sheets of metal using special metal blades.
Another fantastic tool from Dremel is the VersaTip, which you see below. It is a mini powerhouse that runs on Butane. It is used for precision welding and can reach 2192 degrees Fahrenheit! The VersaTip is a fantastic tool to have around if you are looking for ways to weld small pieces of metal without using an arc welder.
- Cordless butane soldering torch ideal for wood burning, pyrography, soldering, shrinking, cutting, heating, and other hobby & craft projects
- Integrated ignition trigger with safety lock for easy start up, no independent ignition tool required. Safety lock prevents accidental ignition
- Variable temperature control for precise control. Allows you to adjust the temperature and size of the flame. Operating temperatures of 1022° F - 2192° F
Dremel has quite a few unique tools, and they all are small, compact, and portable. They are all adequately powered for their intended use.
This brings us to our next section, which uses Dremel tools for maintenance and cleaning.
3. Use It For Housework
Suppose you have a tool like the Dremel 4000. With it, you can do a lot of special clean-up and maintenance around your home or place of work. The little tips, the flex shaft, and many other accessories And attachments Make it a breeze to take care of rough edges, make precise cuts and clean very tight spaces.
Cleaning
When regular brushes don’t cut it, you can rely on your Dremel. The clever folks over at Dremel R&D decided to bring out a special Dremel designed for tasks like cleaning your grill and your grout lines.
- VERSATILE CLEANING TOOL: Versa Power scrubber is best for small hard to clean surfaces like sinks, glass and stove tops, oven windows, glass doors, microwaves, grout lines, bathtub handles, shower...
- COMPACT & ERGONOMIC: Designed to fit comfortably in one hand, while a textured soft-grip handle offers comfort, control, and usability in even the tightest spaces. The cordless nature makes it hassle...
- HIGH SPEED: Tool operates at 2,200 RPM for fast and efficient cleaning. Save time, make surfaces shine and enjoy the results of your daily cleaning with this power scrubber that spins fast for quicker...
Designed to be used by homeowners everywhere, this tool simply takes the central concept behind Dremel rotary tools. It makes it fit for the specific purpose of cleaning around the house.
Chainsaw Sharpening
- Simplified to support your backyard and garden projects and giving your go-to tools a new lease on life. The A679 Sharpening Kit includes everything you need to keep your favorite gardening tools...
- The Dremel Sharpening Kit includes three of our most-popular attachments to easily sharpen the dullest of chains and blades while providing the optimum sharpening angles.
- Compatible with Dremel tool models: 100, 200, 3000, 4000, 7760, 8220, 8240, 8250 and 8260. Also fits onto the Dremel 4300 when used with collect and collect nut.
This special sharpening attachment is meant for chainsaw sharpening and general DIY use. It is precisely designed to give a nice angle as you sharpen the edges of your other tools using the Dremel that you already own.
Pet Grooming
- Pet nail groomer and grinder - This rotary tool is a pet nail groomer and grinder that offers a safe, effective, less stressful alternative to using clippers on your dog’s nails. Material: High...
- Variable speed - Two rotation speeds let you safely and carefully grind the nails of your dog or pet in stages. Battery-powered device uses a 60-grit sanding drum to comfortably trim nails in a manner...
- Lightweight - The lightweight, cordless rotary tool works with two speed settings 6,500 and 13,000 RPM and an array of Dremel sanding drums and bands to give you full control even at the fastest...
The pet grooming tool is another great device that takes the main rotary tool design and modifies it for grooming your furry friends. The ergonomic design and cordless power supply make it highly portable and useful. Even though such products are already on the market, it is difficult for them to compete with the quality that Dremel has consistently delivered.
At this point, Dremel is pretty hard to beat at what they do. They have really nailed the power delivery and longevity at a price point that makes it quite approachable for a large section of the population.
If you want something versatile, look at the 4000 or the 8220 mentioned earlier. Those models and other similar rotary tools are your best bet. Using those tools, you can carve wood in the morning, make some repairs around the house in the afternoon, and groom your pet in the evening – all with the same tool.
There are plenty of options at lower budgets for the casual user. The set below, for example, is an excellent deal. It comes with some convenient accessories, and the price is quite reasonable.
- VERSATILE ROTARY TOOL KIT : Includes 3000 corded rotary tool, 2 attachments, 28 high-quality Dremel accessories, plastic storage case, and accessory case
- HIGH PERFORMANCE 1.2AMP MOTOR : Provides maximum power and performance at all speeds
- 6 VARIABLE SPEEDS : Provide greater control and maximum accessory versatility and precise tool control (5,000 – 35,000 RPM)
Shown: Dremel 3000-2/28 Variable Speed Rotary Tool Kit (Amazon affiliate link)
Full Review: Dremel 3000 Rotary Tool Review
There are many other price points and models to choose from, so I encourage you to poke around on the internet and see what calls out to you.
4. Use It For for Professional Work
Dremel rotary tools are often used to make minute and precise corrections on things coming out of an assembly line or a fabricating machine.
As mentioned earlier, in 3D printing, smaller Dremels can be used to perfect a printed project. Many automotive professionals use Dremel to make precise changes in small car parts. The list of Dremel users is endless in this space, from cars to bikes and even bicycles.
The Dremel Versatip is very useful in such spaces. Where regular welding units are too big, a compact tool like the Versatip really shines.
Glassblowers and ceramics makers also use Dremel to file away at any accidental rough spots and edges after the pieces have hardened.
Even regular electricians will often use a Dremel because of how versatile it is
Sharpening tools is extremely easy with a Dremel. Pretty much anybody who needs a sharp instrument will find a use for a Dremel, be it a professional chef or a tree surgeon.
So, as you can see, these tools can be used in a wide variety of places. The actual list of these uses is unending.
Conclusion
I really meant it when I said that there are endless ways to use Dremel tools, especially rotary ones. If there is an idea in your head and you need a tool, a Dremel will probably be a good fit for the job. So go out there and start exploring. It’s a big world with a lot of possibilities when you have a Dremel at your side.
