Diamond painting is a wonderful way to reveal your artistic side, even if there's not a single crafty bone in your body. Using an applicator tool and wax, you scoop up diamonds and set them on an adhesive canvas which features a color-coded chart. In other words, it's so easy, even a child could do it! But even experienced crafters feel the draw to this mesmerizing hobby.
However, if you have just discovered the world of diamond painting, you might be confused about the tools and accessories that come along with each kit. You may be wondering what is actually included or what you need to go out and purchase. Plus, there is an array of other additional accessories you can include to complete your diamond art studio.
Basic Supplies and Accessories
Drills and Pens
The absolute primary tool you need for diamond painting is an applicator pen. There are two main diamond art pens from which to choose: drill pens and wax pens. Let’s take a look at how each type is used:
Diamond drill pens–Drill pens are the more traditional option, and they’re included within each diamond painting kit. With this type of pen, simply dip it into the wax or glue and pick up the diamond. Next, you drop it into position on the canvas.
Diamond wax pens–Wax pens apply wax directly to the diamond piece, eliminating the extra step. When a pen begins to run low on wax, you simply sharpen it and promptly get back to enjoying your kit.
Diamond drill wheel pick-up pen–These pens offer an adhesive wheel on one end that allows you to easily grab diamonds by rolling it across a tray. You can also roll it across to place diamonds down and even remove them.
Light Pad
Another practical accessory is the diamond painting light pad. Not only can a light pad illuminate each diamond from beneath, making a dazzling display, but it can reduce eye strain as well. Diamond painting light pads are especially useful in making sure each diamond piece is placed in its respective spot, eliminating accidents and mistakes. This way, you know exactly where that drill needs to go! Of course, light pads can be battery-operated or rechargeable.
Glue or Wax
Each diamond art kit will include some sort of adhesive whether it’s glue or wax. Using your pen’s hollow nib, you scoop up the glue and then the diamond drill. This is meant to make it easy to transfer each colored gem to their location without dropping. Once you find its location, you transfer the drill to the adhesive canvas.
Additional Diamond Painting Accessories
Storage Compartments–Storage compartments are a handy feature too! That way, you can store your beads and pens safely away should you have pets or small children who tend to put tiny objects in their mouths.
At the very least, you should get yourself an easel or drawing board that tilts. Having a tiltable easel, again, can save you from poor posture and neck strain.
Foldable Magnifier
As with any hobby that requires eye-hand coordination, having a magnifier offers a clearer scope and really gets in there to see where you’re headed with that diamond piece. And a folding magnifier is perfect for those who have trouble seeing small parts or who are far-sighted. Even better–use a magnifying glass that includes an LED light.
There are even diamond art enthusiasts making their own gadgets and accessories to meet their personal needs to help them achieve their masterpiece.
Find an accessory that inspired you to get crafty with diamond art? We want to hear about it!