SilverCrow Creations- Specialty Tools
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Mexican Sugar Skull Molds - Mini Traditional
More Day of the Dead Sundries
Sugar Skulls are a traditional folk art from Central and southern Mexico. They are customarily used in Day of the Dead celebrations. Local village open air markets offer mounds of colorful sugar skulls for sale during the week preceding the Day of the Dead. Now you can make your own Mini Traditional Sugar Skulls. The final skulls measure approximately 1-1/2 inch high by 1-1/4 inch wide and about 3/4 inch thick. Finished skulls will be flat-backed.
Over the last few years, people have been producing non-traditional candies and other items such as soaps and plaster images in the same manner of the sugar skulls.
Our molds can be used to make the traditional sugar skulls, chocolate skull candies and even soaps and plaster items.
Our traditional mini mold is great for chocolate or soap as the intricate details are harder to decorate, but the traditional sugar mixture works well in either mold.
If you are going to make plaster or soap skulls, please do not use the same mold for making edible items.
Instructions included. Finished skull not included.
Made in USA
SilverCrow Classic, Re-Added 29July2010
Price: $9.99 each
Qty:
Precision Sharp Splinter Tweezers in Handy Tube
More Tools
More Remedies & Cures
I keep these in my purse just in case. You never know when a little sliver of something - glass, wood, metal - will ruin your day. The sharp (don't worry - not too sharp!) pointed end makes these the perfect tweezers for extracting such contraband from a finger or toe.
Measuring just under 2 inches long, they come in a handy reusable plastic tube.
Please be sure to sterilize them before you use them.
Imported
25September2011
Price: $3.50 Each
Catrina and Catrin Sugar Skull and Chocolate Mold
More Sugar Skull Molds & Other Day of the Dead Sundries
Sugar Skulls are a traditional folk art from Central and southern Mexico. They are customarily used in Day of the Dead celebrations. Local village open air markets offer mounds of colorful sugar skulls for sale during the week preceding the Day of the Dead. Now you can make your own!
Over the last few years, people have been producing non-traditional candies and other items such as soaps and plaster images in the same manner of the sugar skulls. This mold featuring Catrina and Catrin is best suited for chocolate and plaster. Sometimes the traditional sugar style doesn't show the detail of these cool little heads.
This traditional design sugar skull mold features two flat-backed skulls. These are all about 3/4 inch thick. Catrina measures 3 inches wide by 2-1/2 inches high. Catrin measures 1-1/2 inch wide by 2-/14 inch wide.
Instructions included.
21September2011
Large Pink Plastic Yarn Needle with Protective Point
More Specialty Tools
I love to make washcloths and dishcloths by knitting or crocheting worsted weight cotton. These plastic needles have great big eyes to pull the yarn through at each end. And the bulbous end makes it easy to keep from splitting the yarn.
With supervision, this is a great needle for teaching children their stitches, as well.
The needle is 2-3/4 inches long.
3August2011
Price: 38¢ Each
Vintage Boye Tatting Shuttle
More Sewing & Fabrics
Threads, Ribbons & Ties
More Vintage
These tatting shuttles were well used, making them perfect to use today. We have found that the newer ones are a little stiff. These were patented in 1923 (all are marked 1923) and advertise:
MORE THREAD - LESS KNOTS
Each is standard size and still has the bobbin and thread as we found them. We think they must be aluminum as they do not respond to a magnet.
Several shuttles shown for variation.
17July2011
Vintage Item, Limited Availability
Was: $5.50 Each
Vintage Lenticular Kitchen Aid with Metric to USA Conversions
More Lenticulars
More Ephemera
More USA
We've always enjoyed lenticular (winky, blinky, flicker) images - especially the vintage ones.
This really neat Vari-Vue lenticular features a conversion chart to help folks in the United States convert metric recipes to USA measurements and to help the rest of the world convert to the USA measurements. Of course, when this was created, there were other countries that were not metric as well.
Each measurement is converted to its metric (or in the case of temperature, it's Celsius) equivalent and vice-versa. This is accomplished as each is shown separately as you move the card and the angle of the flicker is changed back and forth. We had difficulty photographing both angles, so you'll just have to trust us on this one!
Although this card is not officially marked Vari-Vue on the back, it is represented in the 1970s Vari-Vue files.
The card is approximately the size of a business card or credit card: 3-1/2 inches by 2 inches.
12February2011
Vintage Item - Limited Availability
Price: $8.50 each
Large White Accordion Folding Wooden Ruler
OK, so you have to measure fabric, distance or furniture. A ruler is too short and a yardstick is too unwieldy. That's why people have used these wonderful rulers for years - and now here's a brand new white one.
It measures a full 79 inches (200 centimeters) in 10 folding steps! It is about 5/8 inch wide. It will fit in your tool apron, back pocket or even your brief case.
This quality made tool is just as wonderful as the rulers from long ago. The measurements are on both sides for easy reading!
Be sure to measure twice (or more) before you cut.
Made in NETHERLANDS
1February2011
Price: $6.95 each
Shabby-Chic Glass Crystal Brush or Pen Rest
More Useful Décor
Pens, Pencils & Brushes
Do you ever have a problem with your dip pen dripping or your paint brush? Or, do you just want to leave the cap off, but not put a pen down on your work surface? Well, this beautifully crafted pen rest will solve those problems.
The rest measures 3-1/2 inches long. Each faceted crystal end measures 1-3/8 inch in diameter. The surface for holding your brush or pen measures 1-3/4 inch long, so it might hold two or even several pens or brushes, so that you can switch during a project.
Each of these is handcrafted, so please expect some imperfections.
You can optionally use this as a knife rest or as a rest for your chopsticks.
10February2011
Price: $10.25 each
Large Yellow Accordion Folding Wooden Ruler
Pocket Screwdriver
How handy is this little doo-dad? We have used this little 1-inch diameter tool over and over again! What makes it so effective is the range of edge thickness (from 0.030 inch to 0.090 inch) created by a ramp formed on one side.
Have you ever used a dime, a quarter or table knife to loosen or tighten a screw? Each of those misused tools have either strength or width limitations. Not this little tool - you'll love it so much, you'll want to buy a bunch to give away!
SilverCrow Classic
Price: $2.35 each
Gonzo Wonder Sponge
More Storage & Clean-Up
We LOVE LOVE LOVE this product. We sold a similar product, the Dirt Eraser, and this is just as fantastic!
This wonderful spongy cleaner is fantastic for cleaning old book covers with out ruining them. It has hundreds of other uses, too. We first discovered it when volunteering in a school library, and we've had them around ever since.
Anyone who likes to alter old things will love this! Just imagine being able to clean a part of something and leave the rest as is - and there is no water or other liquid involved, so it's unlikely that you'll destroy anything. Of course, please be careful when working with very valuable items and items that have a pH problem.
The sponge is also great for removing smoke from walls - be it cigarette smoke, soot from a fire or even candle smoke residue. It will clean soot round fireplace bricks and wood burning stoves. It's great for window blinds and shades, wood paneling, molding, acoustical tile and lampshades. It's perfect for automotive headliners, velour seats, dust on the dash - even leather, vinyl and canvas!
For easy dirt, dust, smoke and soot removal, start at the top and use light, even sweeping motions in one direction as the DIRT ERASER absorbed. Avoid using excessive pressure and do not scrub and do not wet.
This is made of vulcanized natural rubber, so please do not use this if you have a rubber or latex allergy.
This sponge will last a long time - you can even use it when it is dirty! AND - if it gets just too, too dirty, you can wash it with plain soap and water - just don't use it again until it dries thoroughly.
Not for children.
1November2010
Out of Stock
Price: $6.28 each
Mexican Sugar Skull Molds - Frida Kahlo
More Frida & Diego
Sugar Skulls are a traditional folk art from Central and southern Mexico. They are customarily used in Day of the Dead celebrations. Local village open air markets offer mounds of colorful sugar skulls for sale during the week preceding the Day of the Dead. Now you can make your own Frida Kahlo Sugar Skulls. The final skulls measure approximately 2-1/2 to 2-3/4 inches wide and about 2/3 inch thick.
Our Frida mold is great for chocolate or soap as the intricate details are harder to decorate, but the traditional sugar mixture works well in either mold.
SilverCrow Classic, Re-Added 19August2010
PopCam™ Pop Art Camera
More Fun Stuff
More Andy Warhol & Modern & Pop Art
It’s not just a photograph, it’s a work of Pop Art!
The Pop Cam produces photos that mimic the image repetition and saturated color palettes of famous pop artists like Andy Warhol and Roy Lichtenstein. One snap of the Pop Cam takes four pictures in the span of one second and preserves them in four different hues on one single print.
Each 4 inch x 2-1/2 inch x 1-1/2 inch plastic camera uses any standard 35mm film (use color film for the best effect) and has no flash. With some imagination and a little experimentation you might capture that perfect Pop Cam picture that will lead to your fifteen minutes of fame. Instructions included.
35mm film not included.
Made in China or Taiwan
SilverCrow Classic, Re-Added 17July2010
Price: $13.50 each
Button-Hole Punch - Now with 2-Inch Reach
More Things that Cut
Paper Buttons
We decided to sell this punch because we love to use it ourselves. Each squeeze of the handle produces a tiny double hole cut in your paper. These two little holes allow you to slide cord or thread through to tie a special knot or bow or to add a button or other closure and instantly create a really lovely card, invitation or award or a special closure.
This punch creates two parallel dots. The washable handles are slightly padded to make it much easier to punch. There is a little hinged door that collects your punch outs, for neatness.
Item may vary slightly from photograph.
Made in Japan
31May2010
Lenticular Metric & Fractional Ruler
Talk about useful and fun all at once! This great vintage lenticular VariVue flicker winky ruler measures 6 inches and flips between metric and USA calculations. And, it also shows each US fractional measurement and it's decimal equivalent. For example:
1/32 = 0.03125
When you move the ruler a bit, you'll also see the metric equivalent. In this case:
.7937
These rulers are in excellent condition for their age (probably 20-35 years old). There is some wear and the backs of some of them have wayward pencil and/or pen marks.
Two rulers are illustrated so that you can see the fun functionality.
Made in USA or Japan
29May1010
Price: $7.95 Each
Demo Close-up Demo Close-up
Passementerie Ribbon Pleater
Have you ever wondered how to make those wondrous ribbon medallions that you see on vintage millinery and Napoleon-style uniforms? Buying new passementerie is devastatingly expensive. With this fantastic ribbon pleater, you can make them yourself.
The pleater is made of a sturdy fabric backing and stiff fabric louvers. Simply slide your ribbon (or fabric) under the pleats, iron it while still in the pleater and remove the ribbon. Then sew or glue the folds into the shape you want. For wider pleats, slip the ribbon into every other pleat.
Use a fine-gauge ruler to help you maneuver your ribbon or material into the pleater, if necessary.
Price: $35.99 Each
Ribbon Punch - Now with 2-Inch Reach!
We decided to sell this punch because we love to use it ourselves. Each squeeze of the handle produces a double cut bar in your paper. These two little slivers allow you to slide your ribbon through the slots, tie a special knot or bow and instantly create a really lovely card, invitation or award.
This punch creates two parallel slots - each 1/4 inch high. The washable handles are slightly padded to make it much easier to punch. There is a little hinged door that collects your punch outs, for neatness.
5April2010
Ruler Tape
More Tape & Other Adhesives
We have this taped to just about every table in our work area. We absolutely love this stuff!
We're not really sure how many rulers are on this roll - but we're sure it's a lot! We can't say enough about this great roll of tape. We think it is perfect for showing measurements in your evidence photos and delightful on any scrapbook page where measurements are indicated or relating to grade school!
But you might want to also consider it for decoration. But we think our best use so far is in measuring children for costumes - how hard it is to have them hold the measuring tape while you record the measurements! It's also a great teaching tool.
This is real tape with adhesive on the back. Wouldn't this make the perfect addition to the wrapping for a first day of school gift? We're not sure if the adhesive is acid free or not, so be careful with your treasures.
Price: $6.25 Per Roll
Embroidery Transfer Paper for light & Dark Fabrics
More Kits
Things to Embroider & Other Fabrics
Black Lace Handkerchief
Now that you're an embroiderer extraordinaire, you'll want to start making your own designs. Just draw them on paper and grab a package of these long-lasting, reusable carbon sheets and go! These sheets are different than normal carbon paper for paper and they leave a smudge-proof, distinct line in either white or dark gray. The tests conducted in the supplier's labs found them to be so very much better than the chalky, rub-off-before-you-finish stuff.
Each package comes with complete instructions. All you need is something to trace (a pattern) and a stylus (get a professional one or use a dried up pen). Included are:
2 - 9 by 12 inch White Transfer Sheets
2 - 9 by 12 inch Grey Transfer Sheets
Complete Instructions
Traceable Cupcake Designs - to get you started
We love these for tracing our other patterns on to dark t-shirts, black hankies, etc.
12March2010
Price: $7.00 Each
Plastic Bone Folder
Real Bone Bone Folder
More Library Items
More Special Tools
Long a favorite tool of conservators, librarians and bookbinders, a bone folder easily makes a permanent crease in paper and other materials - even acetate and cardstock. This is an inexpensive alternative to the real bone bone folders.
Perfect for folding and burnishing, the rounded ends also make this a safe tool for children.
Ours measures 8 inches long by 1 inch wide.
Imported or Made in USA
24February2010
Price: $6.75 each
More Library Supplies
Long a favorite tool of conservators, librarians and bookbinders, a bone folder easily makes a permanent crease in paper and other materials - even acetate and cardstock. Featuring one pointed tip and one rounded end, this is the classic bone folder. Made like the classic originals, ours is made of cattle bone. These are bleached but will age to a deeper shade over time.
The tapered end is for contouring. The rounded end is for burnishing. But these are not just for folding: they are perfect for smoothing tape or glued surfaces as well as for burnishing transfer sheet letters and images.
Ours measures 8 inches long by 7/8 inch wide and 2 to 3 millimeters thick. The sizes will vary slightly because the folder is made of natural material.
Imported or made in USA
21February2010
Price: $12.25 each
One Size Fits Most Wrist Pin Cushion
This simple tool is really quite handy. My Mom had one of these and I was allowed to use it when using the sewing machine, but I always wanted one of my own. Now you can have one of your own, too.
Created from a simple plastic band that fits on most wrists, a generously sized pin cushion is attached to the top. This is great to use when pinning a hem. This wonderful gadget is perfect for placing those pins that are removed as you are moving your project through the sewing machine.
Band and cushion colors may vary.
13February2010
Price: $3.05 each
Wire Twisting Pliers
For the wire-bending or coiling purest, these are the absolute best! Created originally for the aircraft industry, these special pliers make it easy to bend wire - of all types - even copper, sterling silver and gold!
This simple but sturdy tool arrives with full instructions so that you can begin twisting your own wire. These are used by many a jeweler and you can find projects for coiled wire in such publications as Lapidary Digest.
3December2009
Price: $24.99 each
Available in USA only
Zenith 586 Staple Remover (Levapunti)
Zenith Staplers
Other Office Supplies & Desk Accessories
Plier-Style Staple Remover
If you really need a smaller staple remover, this is the one for you. It fits neatly in either hand and will remove just about any staple including the industrial staples that close corrugated boxes!
In the ZENITH 586 pocket staple remover you'll find a careful choice of the best materials, excellent finishing and a remarkable working precision - just like all of the other Zenith Products!
Made in Italy
Price: $8.25 Each
Table-Top Magnifier
Oh, my is this little magnifier handy! You can magnify your pattern, description or whatever without using your hands. Leave it on your desk or work table and you'll never miss a stitch or step when reading directions. It magnifies 1-1/2 times and measures 5 inches wide by 2-1/8 inches deep and it's 2-1/2 inches high, so you can even slip some thicker items under if need be.
21November2009
Price: $8.00 each
Black Enameled Insect Pins
More Collage & Assemblage
These double coated black enameled spring steel insect pins have very fine points as you can see in the inset. The pins have slightly larger nylon heads that hold well on to the shaft of the pin for an elegant look and for strength. The enamel provides anti-rust protection. This product is made by hand as it has been for many decades.
Each pin measures about 1-1/2 inches and is less than 1/100 inch in diameter.
Made in the Czech Republic
12September2007
Package of 100
Price: $8.95 Per Package
Chatelaine Retractable Tool Holder
Unique Adornments
Quite common when the woman of the house was required to sew and mend, a chatelaine was worn as a decorative belt hook or a jacket brooch. Generally, several chains were suspended from the base, each holding household tools such as scissors, a thimble, an important key, a watch, or one of many more necessary tools of the 19th century. Derived from chateau, the term chatelaine referred to the female owner (or, indeed, the husband of the female owner) of the large home, or chateau.
Such holders made it easier for the wearer to repair household items, because the tools were right at the fingertips - ready and waiting to solve problems.
This modern version of the chatelaine features a spring loaded retractable cable in a 1-inch round silver finish case. There is a clip on back for attaching to the belt or wherever. The cable extends a full 20 inches.
09November2009
Price: $3.99 each
Now Longer & Stronger!
Telescoping Pocket Rare Earth Magnet
More Magnets
This is not a new tool, but it is certainly a useful one. We're always loosing little metal things, and this so very useful tool can reach in very small spaces and get the little items out. If only magnets worked on plastic (oh, well, that's another tool).
There's a little clip for you to wear it in your pocket or, indeed, in your pocket protector. It's the size of a slim pen, folding down to 6 inches. But, it's beauty is it's telescoping ability - to a full 24 inches AND it can hold up to 10 pounds using a rare earth magnet.
Individuals with pacemakers or internal medical devices should keep magnets at a distance. Not for children. Magnets can come together very quickly and cause pinching or they may shatter and/or break.
15November2009
Price: $5.95 each
Soft Black Eraser
More Erasers and Desk Accessories
Made by General Pencil, this wonderfully soft black eraser is wonderful to use. It works just like any other eraser, but is especially useful for erasing charcoal and graphite (pencil) drawings. It measures 1 inch by 1-5/8 inches.
17February2007
Was: $1.55 Now: $1.05 each
Fashion Emergency Body Tape
Adhesives
There are always those unexpected emergencies that are not considered in your preparations. Now with Rhode Island fashion emergency Body Tape, you'll have a quick fix for some of those "Oh, No!" moments.
This pack of 24 pieces of Body Tape is specially engineered 2-sided tape featuring two different 3M adhesives: one for use on the fabric and the other, a medical grade adhesive for use on your skin. Use it to hide bra straps, hold strapless tops in place, keep accessories where they belong and anchor shoulder pads.
Just like J-Lo at the Oscars, you can now wear those plunging necklines and hold the fabric of your gown just where it belongs. It's great for bridesmaids' gowns, prom gowns and just about any other gown.
The tape is safe for most fabrics. Be sure to test it first.
Tape made in USA, Packaged in China
31August2009
Price: $3.85 Per Package
Reproduction Happy Needle Sewing & Mending Kit
This old-fashioned sewing needle folder features 60 needles and a threader — perfect for all your sewing, mending and darning needs. Fashioned from the original 1940s needle set called Happy Home Needles, ours is just as useful. And, at 4-1/2 inches by 3 inches, the cardboard sleeve fits nicely in a purse, wallet or overnight bag. What a great addition to a greeting card as a special extra gift!
The outside of the little booklet (front and back) reads:
Happy Needle RUST PROOF NEEDLE BOOK Nickel Plated 60 Assorted Silver Eye Needles and Threader
And on the inside:
HAPPY HOME RUSTPROOF FINEST QUALITY
The needles are conveniently placed in foil holders - just like the originals. There are needles of varying sizes for many of your sewing and mending needs.
23August2009
Price: $1.25 per Folder
Bone NålBinding Needle
Nålbindung, aka Naalbinding, aka Nalbinding is a looping technique for producing warm fabric from metre-long pieces of wool or yarn. Originating with the Vikings, this old technique has been used throughout many cultures, but is usually associated with the Scandinavian countries of Sweden and Norway.
Such a technique required a needle with a larger eye and smooth surface. We love this hand-made naalbinding needle for weaving in the stray ends of our crochet and knit projects. It measures about 3-1/2 inches long.
16August2009
Price: $5.00 Each
Close-Up & instructions
Zenith 580 Staple Remover (Levapunti)
Zenith Staplers & Staples
More Desk Accessories
This is absolutely the best - no exaggeration - staple remover on the planet! You must have one for yourself! Not only does it remove our Zenith Staples, but the Zenith 580 Staple Remover also removes just about every other staple imaginable with amazing ease -- even those huge ones in packing boxes (of course, they take a bit more effort!).
You'll find no sturdier precision-made tool around. In fact, when SilverCrow first received one, staples were coming out of everything...it is that much fun to use.
Price: $14.75 each
Mini Spatula or Spreader
More Applicators
Our cosmetic-grade mini spatulas are perfect for spreading paste or pigments and for mixing powders with activators. They are fashioned of hard plastic and are quite sturdy. You can reuse them after washing.
Ours are not sterilized, so please just use them for your craftwork.
Was: 25¢ Now: 20¢ Each
Great Women Rulers Ruler
From Hatshepsut in the 15h century BC to Indira Gandhi of the 20th century and more, the our lacquered wooden ruler displays a list of Great Women Rulers on the back (toped with a likeness of Queen Elizabeth I.
The business side of the ruler includes measurements in both inches and centimeters.
13November2006
Price: $2.25 Each
Mini Crochet Hook - Size 0
Our first attraction to this tiny crochet hook was its cuteness! Each of these short steel nickel plated crochet hooks measures just 2-1/4 inches long, and is the very versatile size 0. There is even a ring at the top to allow you to attach it to a necklace or even to your chatelaine.
It is perfect for lace makers, knitters, tatters and, of course, crocheters - but you might consider it just for returning stray stitches to the back of a sweater. It's diminutive size makes it great to keep in a wallet or portable sewing kit, too.
2August2009
Price: $3.25 Each
Finger Maxx Revolutionary Finger Wrench
This wonderful - and simple - sturdy little tool makes nuts and bolts seem like "part of your finger". Now you can feel those hard to reach places. It holds either the nut or the bolt in an awkward spot - and probably even holds other things we've not imagined.
Your finger pressure holds the nut or bolt in the wrench - and the raised, tapered slot prevents it from turning. Made from high-impact plastic, it fits like a sleeve for your finger, and adjusts to fit just about any size of finger.
WARNING! DO NOT USE WITH POWER OR AIR TOOLS!
Made in Israel
12July2009
One Ounce Chunk of Natural Beeswax
More Naturals
More Insects
There is only one way to make these chunks of natural beeswax - to harvest it from beehives. We let the apiarists do that for us. Each little chunk goes a long, long way in preventing threads from tangling.
Pull your thread across the beeswax chunk before using it and it will also strengthen your thread and prevent rotting of natural threads. This is a must for any serious beading enthusiast - especially if you are reproducing vintage pieces!
Two chunks are illustrated for variability. This is a natural product, so please expect some variation.
19May2009
Price: $2.85 Each
Mexican Sugar Skull Double Sided Mold Set - Large Traditional
More Molds & Other Day of the Dead Sundries
Sugar Skulls are a traditional folk art from Central and southern Mexico. They are customarily used in Day of the Dead celebrations. Local village open air markets offer mounds of colorful sugar skulls for sale during the week preceding the Day of the Dead.
Now you can make your own Traditional Sugar Skulls. This set actually includes two molds - one for the front of the skull and another from the back. The Your final skull (with front and back together) will measure 4 inches high by 3-1/4 inches wide and 3-3/4 inches from front to back.
9October2011
Price: $13.75 per Set
Best Test Pik-Up - Crepe Rubber Cement Eraser
We can't live without one or two of these around! This neat Pik-Up eraser is perfect for removing excess rubber cement and thick glues from tight corners and small areas. It measures only 2 by 2 inches by about 1/4 inch thick, making it really handy.
11March2009
Price: $3.65 each
Affordable 5-Piece Precision Wrench Set
Were we ever happy to find this set! So many times we have to open up our computers or other little stuff and it's just too hard to do it with pliers! Now, you'll have the right tools. These are the economy version...so, they're a bit more accessible than the fancy electronics industry ones. You'll get the following sizes: 4.0 mm, 4.5 mm, 5.0 mm, 5.5 mm, and 6.0 mm.
19February2009
Price: $5.25 per Set
Bead Scoop
It's meant for beads, but you could surely scoop just about anything with this traditional bead scoop - great for gathering up a lot of little things. Made much like a dust pan, it's simple to use.
Our stainless steel version measures 2-1/2 by 2 inches and is about 5/8 inch deep.
27January2009
Price: 99¢ Each
Vintage AFX Quikee-Lok™ - Not Just for Railroads!
The AFX Quikee-Lok™ makes assembling - and taking apart - AFX Speed-Lok™ track easier than ever. This hand screwdriver and wrench makes this little key an indispensible HO train track and car tool. IT is perfect for adjusting and servicing AFX cars, tracks, connections - and dozens of other uses.
This vintage (circa 1970s-1980s) tool is still made today, but this vintage one is just as useful - plus the vintage instructions are included.
Not just for the HO railroad hobbyist, this little screwdriver and wrench can come in handy for lots of little jobs.
Made in USA or Imported
8January2009
Price: $3.00 each
Jump Ring Closer
Use this handy dandy little tool on your finger to easily open and close jump rings and spring ring connector rings. All you have to do is to insert the jump ring in one of the slots and twist to open the ring. It's lots easier than using two sets of pliers. In fact, you can even use your fingers to make the twist open or closed.
6January2009
Price: $1.50 Each
Old-Fashioned Emery Pin & Needle Polisher
What a perfect tool for a needleworker or bookbinder! This hand-polished, hand-turned barrel features an emery filled cushion. When you pass your needle or pin through the satiny top it will dive into the emery inside, which will polish, clean and sharpen needles and pins as you pass them through.
Each one of these is completely different from the next. They are made of dymondwood, which is really a specialty wood that has been layered and dyed by the artisan. They measure approximately 1-1/2 inch high by 1/2 inch in diameter. Please let us choose one for you.
Made is USA
10December2008
Price: $15.00 each
Bracelet Assistant
Bracelets
If you have any difficulty with a clasp on a bracelet, then this little tool is just the ticket! Stop crying and try this! The clip at the end fastens on to one side of your bracelet (or other jewelry) clasp. Because you now only need one hand, you'll be able to use your other hand to fasten the clasp. This is the economy version of the original, made by the same company!
23September2008
Price: $6.25 each
Set of 3 Mini Pliers for Jewelry Making and Other Hobbies
These extra small pliers - just 3 inches long each - are lighter and more compact than regular size tools - and - they are certainly convenient to take anywhere! They are quality carbon steel tools meant for jewelry making and hobby use. Each tool features soft grips and a light spring action for ease of use.
In the set are a pair of cutters, round nosed pliers and flat nosed pliers. These are just perfect for classes - so you don't have to risk forgetting your standard tools (like we do all the time).
3September2008
Price: $9.99 per set
Medium Sugar Skull Mold
More Sugar Skull Molds
This traditional design sugar skull mold features two flat-backed skulls, each measuring 3-1/4 inches high by 2-1/4 inches wide by 1-1/2 inch thick.
16August2008, updated 14September2011
One-Handed Cord or Rope Twirler
Leonardo da Vinci Rope Maker
Did you ever wonder how cord or rope was twisted and twirled? The techniques have not changed...only the tools. Well, here's an old-fashioned, highly usable tool that will help you wind or twist your cord. It will help you make just the right cords and ropes that you can use for tassels, belts, bag handles, jewelry and more. But the best part is you only need one hand to use it!
16August2008
Price: $9.20 each
Micro-Serrated Ribbon Scissors with Leather Slip Case
More Scissors & Other Special Tools
More Things that Cut & Punch
What a wonderful pair of scissors. This 4-inch pair of specialty shears was specifically designed to cut metallic and other ribbons with its fine serrated blade. How often we've cut ribbon with our everyday scissors only to have to cut again because the edge was raw or frayed. These scissors end that problem. They arrive in their own leather sheath, making it easier to protect that special edge.
23July2008
Price: $9.75 per set
Kumihimo Braiding Board Kit
Leonardo Rope Maker
Kumihimo is a Japanese braiding technique that has allowed artisans to produce both functional and decorative braids for decades. The traditional tool for creating kumihimo braids is the marudai - usually hand made of wood. If you just want to try your hand at this traditional craft, then this kit with a small braiding board is just for you!
The most common braids use sets of 8, 16 or 32 strands, each strand usually comprising several threads. Finished braids can be used for jewelry, belts or ties.
Not only do you wind up with a beautiful product, you'll learn a traditional art form that is both soothing to do and exciting to accomplish.
The tools required are simple: a working stand or board and weighted bobbins, one bobbin required for each strand of thread.
Included in the set are:
a 40-notch braiding board thread in complementary colors bobbins complete instructions
a 40-notch braiding board
thread in complementary colors
bobbins
complete instructions
This braiding board allows you to manipulate from 4 to 40 strands of virtually any material thread.
Made in USA of parts made in USA, France and China
Price: $13.25 per Kit
Wire Coilers in 3 Sizes
You'll wonder how you ever lived without these fantastic wire coilers. Make your own jump rings, coils, springs, etc.
Simply thread the tip of the wire in the slot at the top of the coiler and start spinning the handle. Voilà - a coil. Use it with all the new art wires - or better yet - with the wired sparkly garland gift wrap! You'll become a professional gift wrapper with a set of all 4 of these handy tools
Mini - 1/8-inch diameter coil - Sold Out Small - 1/4-inch diameter coil Medium - 3/8-inch diameter coil Large - 5/16-inch diameter coil
Mini - 1/8-inch diameter coil - Sold Out
Small - 1/4-inch diameter coil
Medium - 3/8-inch diameter coil
Large - 5/16-inch diameter coil
Made In China, Packaged in USA
Mini Sold Out
Limited Availability, Discontinued by Manufacturer
Package size & Price: Small Medium Large
Fiskars Hand Drill with 4 Bits
Sometimes, a power drill is just too much tool for the job, that's when our handy Fiskars' Hand Drill just fits the bill. The comfort-grip design makes it easier to use than the old-time hand drills, but still gives you the stability that you need. The side crank moves enclosed gears so that even long hair won't get caught in them (yes, this did happen to one of us years ago and, yes, it did hurt - not to mention how embarrassing it was!)
The 1/4-inch chuck fits standard drill bits, so you won't have to search around for specialty parts. And - 4 bits arrive with your drill. This light duty tool will prove to be an indispensable addition to your art box, or your handy around-the-house tool box. We love the lime green color, too!
27May2008
Price: $18.00 each
yARTstick - 2000 years of Painting on 2000 MM
More Collage, Assemblage & Altered Art
Now this is NOT the reason that this company made the yARTstick, but what we like to do with it is saw it up. There are tons of fine are paintings already on wood. So, saw them apart, add a bail, and voilà you have a pendant or charm, or a dollhouse painting, or, whatever you can dream up! By the running meter - the yARTstick presents, in four-color prints, highlights of 2,000 years of painting history. It allows you to tell at a glance that though the themes have barely changed, their manifestations certainly have. This wooden ruler features illustrations and a measuring stick in centimeters and millimeters.
On the yARTstick, the history of painting of the last 2000 years is depicted in 58 selected pictures. The selection process has yielded a mixture of world famous as well as lesser known motifs, which together express the most important themes, techniques and temperaments. The line of images illustrates the development through the centuries: From Roman funeral art and mosaics in the first centuries AD, through works of Islamic, Chinese and Mayan art, into the Renaissance and on to the modern era. Details of eyes and hands are recurring motifs throughout the two millenniums.
On one side of the yARTstick, folding ruler are the pictures. On the flip side, where the 2,000 years of painting history are divided into 2000 mm, the individual works of art are placed in their historical context and referenced according to the period and the artist, the title of the work, the technique used, the year of the work's creation and the country of origin. If the work is immobile, the city where it is located is also named.
Made in Germany
6May2008
Price $29.95 each
Drafting Brush
More Clean-Up
Cleaning an art table after a project often leaves strays: embossing powder, miniature beads, etc. With SilverCrow's Drafting Brush, you can just whisk that mess away—making a once-distressing chore a breeze. The brush is a handy 10 inches long. The beige composition handle is quite sturdy. The soft bristles dust away the tiniest dust particle.
These were originally used by drafting professionals to clean away erasures. You can probably imagine a way to use this as an artist brush as well.
Price: $7.50 Each
qty:
Old-Fashioned Laundry Sprinkler - Not Just for Laundry anymore!
Our old fashioned laundry sprinkler fits easily into most household bottles. We think it best when used with a glass bottle, but it should work in a plastic bottle, too.
Martha Stewart is a fan of the laundry sprinkler and has demonstrated it on her show. It was quite common years ago to sprinkle the laundry and then place it in the refrigerator before ironing. Even before the refrigerator, sprinklers were used to help smooth linens and cottons before the steam iron was around.
We still use one of these when ironing our linen tablecloths and doilies and even with some shirts! If you want to make your linens crisp, then you must try one of these old-fashioned 1950s-style plastic and cork sprinkler to fit in your own bottle.
Consider also using our sprinkler to "water" your artwork. Or, use it with other liquids (be careful that they are safe for plastic and cork).
We have even heard of people placing holy water or ritual waters in bottles and sprinkling about their living spaces for blessings and good fortune.
26April2008
Price: $3.75 Each
Small Artist's Sea Sponge
More Items of the Sea
More Brushes and Such
Sponges have so many uses and the natural variation found in sea sponges makes them ever the more versatile.
Each sponge measures 2 to 2-1/2 inches by about 1-1/2 inch. And we think it makes a great addition to a crystal bowl of seashells, too!
Sea sponges are ideal for sponge painting, faux finishes, stippling, staining, tile, pottery, ceramics and more. You can use them with acrylics, oils, water colors and fabric paints or dyes - just use your imagination. Instructions are included on the package.
Made in UK or Elsewhere
8October2008
Price: $1.89 each
Micro Crimping Pliers
This is the coolest tool! These micro crimpers flatten and finishes a crimp bead ending to a necklace or other piece of beaded jewelry. But, what we love is the size. The pliers themselves measure about 5 inches. But, this little crimper addresses the tiny crimps that you use when making more delicate jewelry and earrings.
Instructions are included.
Made in Taiwan
08January2008
Price: $14.95 Each
Mini Level
More Handy Tools
Our handy little level might be just what you need to hang your pictures or other artwork. Because it is only 1-1/2 inches long, it tucks easily in to a pocket or purse. It also makes a great little gift when you want to guarantee that you are on the level!
11December2007
Price: $2.25 each
Carpenter Pencil Sharpener
Color Carpenter Pencil Set
Now here's a tool that's been long awaited - a device specifically designed to sharpen those flat carpenter pencils. You know - the pencils that are designed to rest on a straight-edge to draw a straight line more accurately and easily.
Now the need to whittle the pencil to a point with a pen knife is over! Use this great little gizmo to sharpen your carpenter pencils more more easily and safely. And, it even works with other large-diameter pencils.
16November2007
Alcohol Burner for Sealing Wax & Other Art & Science
Although a candle works well for melting sealing wax, many people prefer an alcohol burner.
Simple, yet elegant, this faceted alcohol burner is 3-1/4 inches in diameter. The bowl is flat-bottomed and it arrives with a safety cap to put out the flame and to prevent alcohol evaporation.
Included is a 1/4 inch long wick with a split-sleeve wick adjustment. Holds 4 oz. of fuel.
Use denatured alcohol (ethanol), available at most hardware stores, with your burner.
Please be very careful with this burner - it is not a toy - and be careful with your fuel as ethanol burns with an invisible flame and is extremely flammable.
Made in USA or China
Rhinestone Pins
When straight pins are just not fancy enough, consider straight pins with glistening crystal heads. How perfect for securing corsages, adorning special pin cushions, adding a note or greeting to a ribbon, and more. Each pin measures 1-3/4 inch.
Rose not included.
13June2006
Box of one Dozen
Price: $5.25
Stainless Steel Dental Mirror
This little dental mirror is the real deal, but please don't start your own practice! We love it for all kinds of reasons. For special maneuvering and assembly, you just can't beat this little specialty tool. Whether your hobby is modeling, vehicle restoration or detail work, or, as an artist, you need that to adjust that particular part of your assemblage, you'll love having one of these around. Our dental mirror measures 7/8 inch in diameter.
This tool is meant for hobby use only.
7August2007
Price $3.75 Each
Holy Toast!
Breakfast is the most important meal of the day and now it can be the most holy! Push this plastic stamp of Mary into your piece of bread, toast it, and the image of the Blessed Mother will be shown in outline on your finished toast. If you have a toaster oven, it is even more fun! Because, as it toasts, the outline of the Virgin Mary appears in the bread.
Bread/Toast not included.
08June2007
Price: $3.50 each
Mini Detail Pin Vise Drill
This pocket-sized pin vise hand drill is just the ticket for detail jobs. The pin vise (so called because the end will tighten enough to hold a pin!) easily holds each drill bit firmly, so that you can use your hand power to create your hole. Obviously not for large jobs, the mini drill comes with a box or bits and a protective plastic sleeve. The tiny bits range in size from 61-80 (see the inset). We like it for opening up the holes in beads.
23May2007
Price $13.94 per set
Nap Raiser (Bunka Brush)
This little brush is made of slim metal tines that are bent at an angle. The original was created in the 1790s to change the nature of woven materials, threads and yarns. It serves the same purpose today. Use it to brush out yarn to create a fuzzy effect (yarn for Santa's beard). Or, use it to create a fuzzy effect in stitches already sewn in your embroidery - simply brush gently over the stitched area.
28April2007
Price: $5.75 each
Handy Needle Threader - thread Cutter Combo
We're all familiar with the little aluminum needle threaders with a touch of flimsy wire ready to pull apart at any time. Well, this little gadget is the replacement you need. The same concept applies, but the wire is stronger, but still thin and is attached ever so more securely in a plastic handle. Concealed in a notch at the opposite end is a handy thread cutter.
Qty & Price: 1 - 99¢ 5 - $4.50 10 - $8.50
Close-Up with Measurement
Old-Fashioned Emery Strawberry
Fashioned in the same manner for years, the emery strawberry is an essential tool for needleworkers. Simply slide your pin or needle in and out of the red strawberry and the point will again be sharp.
Developed when pins and needles were scarce and dear, the emery strawberry allowed its user to extend the life of pins and needles.
As art today often includes sewing paper to paper, fabric, leather, etc., this little tool has again become essential. Paper and plastics dull the pins and needles and the emery will sharpened them again!
Price: $1.50 each
Smart Women Never Miss Fly Swatter
Never miss ANYTHING with this kitschy plastic swatter. It's meant for flying bugs, but who says it cant be used for other pests?
Two swatters shown for illustration.
9June2006
Price: $4.50 each
Disposable Pipette
Traditional Glass Droppers also Available
This one-piece dropper measures 1.5 ml and is particularly useful for applications that are messy - their price makes them easily disposable. But, they can be washed and reused as ell. Graduated to give an indication of the amount of liquid being drawn. Bellows-shaped, leak proof bulb makes use extremely easy and provides excellent drop formation. The stem diameter is 7 mm..
10May2006
Price: 75¢ each
Glass Pipette (medicine Dropper)
Our glass medicine dropper (aka eye dropper) is just the thing you need to pre-wet your watercolors or to add a tiny touch of liquid to any part of your projects. We used these in a class to moisten watercolor pans and it was such a time-saver and a much neater way of working! These are made with a latex-free rubber-like nipple and high-luster select clear glass.
These ARE NOT STERILE. Please DO NOT use for application to your eyes or other body parts. We are presenting these as a craft tool only.
Four pipettes are shown for illustration only.
Price: $1.25 each
Desert Magic Drying Books for Postage Stamps
More Specialty Book
Did you ever try to soak postage stamps from envelopes only to have them curl up and stick to something else?!?
Well, here's your solution: these innovative drying books are made by Showgard, a premier creator of innovative philately supplies. You must have a drying book for flat out soaking of stamps from paper.
The Desert Magic Drying System uses a special release paper with heavy blotting pages. The release paper will not permit stamps, even those with problem gums like PVA to adhere to the drying surface. The absence of plastic interleaves shortens the time traditionally needed to dry stamps.
Each book has 7 blotters and 6 release pages. Use them over and over again with wonderful results!
Available in 2 sizes:
Large - 8-1/2 by 11 inches - $12.50
Small - 8-1/2 by 5-1/4 inches - $9.50
Small Out of Stock
Book Size & Price: Large - $12.50
Third Hand Helper Tool
This handy gadget can actually replace another person (well, not completely). But, for those projects that seem impossible because you just can't situate everything, this handy-dandy tool may just fill the bill. It clamps onto any flat surface (such as a table-top), and handily clamps your fabric or other item that has to be held - leaving both of your human hands free to work on the project.
The original tools were called bird and clamp as the device for holding the fabric was cleverly shaped as a bird, it's beak holding the project. We found this design much more useful (albeit, more industrial looking) as it enables the project to move or swivel while you work, if necessary.
Price: $12.95 each
Leather Finger Thimble
Because this really clever thimble was developed in Japan, it is sometimes known as a Japanese Leather Thimble. Now universally used by tailors everywhere, you'll love this handy tool. The leather that wraps your finger hosts a debossed plastic band that will help your needle through even the toughest of fabrics. Even better, you can adjust the thimble by the tie joining the two ends of the leather.
Price: $1.75 each
Mini Funnel
Our tiny cosmetic-grade funnel measures 20mm (in the cup) and the spout adds another 15mm. Fashioned of black polypropylene, they are sturdy and re-usable, but are inexpensive enough to use once and throw away. We use them for transferring glass glitter.
Of course, you can make a (plastic) Tin-Man type hat, too!
Price: 45¢ Each
Scherenschnitte Scissors
More Things that Cut (Scissors & the Like)
Whether you are producing Papel Picado or Scherenschnitte Silhouettes, you'll love these scissors. Their longer blades allow for better maneuvering in tight spots and around corners.
We purchased these little scissors on a whim and were absolutely delighted with them when they arrived - we know you'll love them, too!
Made in China
Price: $3.30 each
Economy Jeweler's Loupe
Get a close-up look at anything from diamonds to spiders with this economy 16mm (lens diameter) 10x jeweler's loupe. The magnifying lens will bring you ten times closer to your subject. Simply swing it out of the protective sheath to use it. Tuck it into your pocket or purse for inspecting those flea-market finds! The snap carrying case will help keep the lens clean.
PaperFix Staple-less Stapler
This handy little gizmo is the earth-friendly staple-less stapler you've been searching for! It's about the size of a D-Battery and is very lightweight.
The manufacturer tells us that it affixes up to four sheets of paper, but we've found that it will actually connect up to six lightweight sheets. It tears, tucks and folds the papers together very neatly - and you won't have to search for staples. Simple operating instructions are included. The manufacturer provides this animated demonstration, so you can see how easy it truly is!
We don't expect this little gadget to replace your stapler - especially if you are using one of SilverCrow's absolutely wonderful Zenith staplers! But, this is the tool you need when staples are not appropriate. It is especially handy for those temporary jobs - like sheets you intend to later shred - no paperclips or staples to remove - your shredder will thank you!
The picture above (as well as the Close-Up) shows the tools on the left and the actual "fix" on the right. We used 2 colors of paper so that you could more easily envision the attachment.
Available in translucent only.
Price: $6.00
More Leonardo da Vinci
What a wonderful tool - invented by Leonardo da Vinci! Our hand-made solid oak rope maker easily creates 2- to 10-ply cord out of any fiber!
Use up your scrap cording and yarn to make a very elegant embellishment for your artwork or clothing. Use finer fibers and make a one-of-a kind bookmark! This tool is not only fun to use, but the solid oak construction makes it an attractive addition to your tool box, or use it for decoration in your atelier!
Da Vinci's original design called for hand operation, which still works well. You can optionally use a variable speed drill or even a hand drill to make the work go a bit faster.
No batteries are necessary, but you will need a clamp or a friend to hold an end while you spin the other end.
Price: $30.00 Per Kit
Light-Up Guadalupe Key Chain
This key chain is ever so special. Made of laser-cut glass and metal, the glow from the internal light helps to add spirituality to even the ordinary task of opening a door, starting a car or locking up treasures.
It is relatively lightweight for it's 3-1/2 inches and solid construction. And, batteries are included!
Clamping Curved Tweezers with Wooden Handle
So many times we use tweezers when completing a special project - only to slip and loosen our hold at the last minute. - Not so with our clamping tweezers!
Press on the handle to open the tweezers. When you release your grip, the tweezers close on the item between the teeth! How handy is this?
The wooden handle grips allow for use when heat might be transferred to the regular metal tweezers. So, you'll not only save your project, but your hands, too!
Because the wood is not a heat conductor, you can use these for many projects that might involve heat. However, the tweezers were not meant for sustained use with heated objects. In other words, just be careful!
We've found the curved tweezers especially useful when embossing with powder and a heat gun. Of course, they are just the right thing for placing delicate postage stamps and stickers, Victorian scraps and other vintage papers and fragile stuff.
SilverCrow Classic, Updated 15November2008
Price: $4.25 Each
Clamping Straight Tweezers with Wooden Handle
These have all the features of our curved tweezers, and - because they are straight tipped, they allow for more precision in separating items.
Price: $4.00 Each
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