Sunday, February 17, 2013

Full Details on the Dremel Stylus and Accessories

I have always wanted a Dremel. Well, not always - but since I started seeing so many people & crafty friends mentioning a Dremel.  They throw out the name "Dremel" as if the Dremel was such a item like Bosch that anyone hearing the name, would know it.  I didn't.  And yet I wanted one.  And I didn't even know what it could do.  But I wanted a Dremel.

My Dremel buy plus other bits ...
If you too want to find out the full details and lowdown on the Dremel Stylus Cordless and it accompanying accessories, .. and if you too should get one, read on ...


I found out that there is not just ONE Dremel gadget -just like there is not just one  Borsch or Makita.  There are lots of different Dremel tools - and worse (for a beginner), tons of mysterious but desirable accessories that go with it.

So finally, in January of 2013, when I was ready to get a Dremel (incorrectly thinking it would be a belated Xmas pressie) - I was all a flounder as to which Dremel I should get.  It should at least do a number of things, and hoping things I would want it to do.  Vaguely, I thought of polishing metal, a bit of buffing, cutting maybe ... but really, I was floundering.

I turned to my Facebook clever friends and discovered many thumbs up for the Dremel Stylus 7.2v Cordless.  So I got it.  And it arrived.  I was fascinated and delighted and totally confused.

What did the gadgets do?  No manual came with it.  How do I attach the Dremel accessories to the tool and what do I use the accessories for?

A very knowledgeable Facebook friend (Chrissie Smith) also pointed out to me I would find a Dremel Multi-Chuck very useful.  She might as well have been speaking Greek to me but I knew I had better listen because she, unlike me, knows what she is talking about when she Dremel-talks!  So I got myself a chuck as well.

This is for anyone who is thinking they want a Dremel - especially for small jobs and jewelry making related activities.  I have just started using the Dremel Stylus a little bit and LOVE it.  So this fuller list will help you potential Dremel-er decide and also give you a better idea as to what each of the accessories that come with it do when you actually get the gadget in your eager hands.

Dremel Stylus 7.2v Cordless - with Accessories
Dremel Stylus 7.2v Cordless - with Accessories
The Dremel Stylus Cordless includes Docking Station Charger, & Internal Battery
Features of the Dremel Stylus were stated as:
  • Dremel 7.2v Cordless Stylus Lithium-Ion. #F0131100JG
  • Patented nose tip control - On/Off at front of tool for one handed operation
  • Variable speed 5,000 - 25,000 RPM for superior performance and control
  • Pistol grip design for outstanding balance, performance and precision control
  • Docking station - Holds the Stylus during projects while charging battery.
  • Soft grip housing for superior comfort and control
  • 7.2V integrated lithium ion battery - Holds a charge 6 times longer than Ni-Cd
  • Tool will hold a charge for up to 2 years
  • No battery "memory effects" - Can be recharged at anytime without reducing the charge capacity


Remember to get the chuck as well, which does not come with it. The Dremel Multi Jaw Chuck #4486 makes changing the accessories much easier - you will be glad you have it.
Dremel 3 Jaw Multi Chuck 4486
Dremel 3 Jaw Multi Chuck

I bought my Dremel from MTS (My Tool Store) - they are in Australia and the goods were delivered very promptly indeed.

If you are like me, you will love but be confused with the accessories that come with it.  This list that I complied proves to be very useful in determining what to use and sometimes, how to use them, for various jobs.  And as you can see from the RRP (recommended retail price), the free box of accessories makes the buy doubly, if not triply, worthwhile.

Dremel Stylus Accessories

The Dremel Stylus came with (this was on the box of the Stylus):
Free Accessories with the Dremel Stylus Cordless
Free Accessories with the Dremel Stylus Cordless
Note: most of the information complied comes from MTS (My Tool Store) site.  The RRP prices I listed are from MTS but you may find other prices from other sources.



Collet #481 - 2.4mm/3/32" ($8.93)


From the Manufacturer
3/32-inch collet for models 245, 250, series 3 and later; 260, 270, 280, series 2 and later; 275, 285, 370, 380, 395, 595, 850, 750, 232, 332, 241, 246, 277 and 8504; no. 225 and 90199 flex shaft attachments, and handpiece 235 and 237. Collets work with the collet nut (threaded) as a means of holding the accessory in the end of the tool.
Product Description
Dremel 3/32" Collets Provides the optimal grip for bits offered for the Dremel rotary tool line and Heavy-Duty Flex-Shaft Tool (This collet is not suitable for the #236 handpiece)







Abrasive Buffs 320 Grit EZ512
Abrasive Buffs 320 Grit EZ512
Abrasive Buffs 320 Grit EZ512 ($16.98) 

1 x Abrasive Buff (#512) - 320 Grit Buffs - Light sanding and tarnish removal - also great for car detailing and restoring door & window hardware.


The Dremel EZ Lock Finishing Fine Grit Abrasive Buffs are ideal for cleaning and light sanding and tarnish removal. They can also be used for car detailing and restoring door and window hardware. The EZ lock design allows these buffs to be used on any Dremel rotary tool, without a wrench or any screws. These two fine 320-grit buffs have a 1-inch diameter.
The 320-grit buffs have a 1-inch diameter.




Dremel Bristle Brush #403
Dremel Bristle Brush #403
Dremel Bristle Brush #403 ($8.93)
1 x Bristle Brush (#403) - 
Ideal for general cleaning and polishingespecially in hard-to-reach places, such as slotted surfaces. Its nylon bristles make it great for polishing silverware, jewelry and other precious metals.


TIPS
- For best results, insert the accessory bit all the way into the tool and then back it out slightly before tightening down. This provides plenty of shank for the collet or chuck to hold onto.

- Do not run in excess of 15,000 rpm. Therefore, do not use with a Single-Speed MultiPro Rotary Tool or a Heavy-Duty Flex-Shaft Tool unless you use the #221 Foot Speed Control.
- Keep a light touch, letting the tips of the brush do the work. Too much pressure can break the bristles.
- Before using on a material, allow the tool with brush to run at operating speed for at least one minute to discharge any loose bristles. Make sure no one stands in front of or in line with the brush.
- This bristle brush can be used with polishing compound.


Dremel Diamond Taper Point 2.4mm #7144
Dremel Diamond Taper Point 2.4mm #7144 

Dremel Diamond Taper Point 2.4mm #7144 ($39.86)

1 x Diamond Wheel Point (#7144)  - 
DESCRIPTION
A high-speed cutter made of steel tipped with diamond particles.
USES
Ideal for fine detail work on wood, jade, ceramic, glass, hardened steel and other hard materials. Removes material quickly and easily. Bits are covered by diamond particles. For hard-to-reach areas.
TIPS
- For best results, insert the accessory bit all the way into the tool and then back it out slightly before tightening down. This provides plenty of shank for the collet or chuck to hold onto.
- Secure objects to a stable surface while working.
- Keep a light touch, letting the speed of the tool do the work. This helps your accessory bits last longer.
- Use higher speeds for hard woods and slower speeds for metals.
- If chattering occurs, increase speed.




Dremel Emery impregnated disc #425 ($8.99) 
Dremel Emery impregnated disc #425
Dremel Emery impregnated disc #425

1 x Emery Impregnated Wheel (#425)
A disc impregnated with fine emery abrasive.

USES
Ideal for cleaning and polishing coarse surfaces.


TIPS
• For best results, insert an accessory bit all the way into the tool and then back it out slightly before tightening down. This provides plenty of shank for the collet or chuck to hold onto.
• Install this bit on the #402 mandrel and put it to work.



Dremel Engraving Cutter 1.6mm #106
Dremel Engraving Cutter 1.6mm #106

Dremel Engraving Cutter 1.6mm #106 ($10.43)

1 x Engraving Cutter (#106) 
DESCRIPTION
A high-speed cutter designed for precision engraving.
USES
Ideal for detail engraving, carving and routing in wood, fiberglass, ceramics, plastic, jewelry and soft metals.
TIPS
- Secure objects to a stable surface while working.
- Use the sides of the cutter (rather than the tip) for effective engraving. The tip cuts poorly and can break under pressure.
- Do not use this bit with hardened materials.
- Use higher speeds for hard woods, slower speeds for metals and very slow speeds for plastics (to avoid melting at the point of contact).
- If chattering occurs, increase speed.


Dremel High-Speed Cutter 3.2mm #191
Dremel High-Speed Cutter 3.2mm #191

Dremel High-Speed Cutter 3.2mm #191 ($8.99)
1 x High Speed Cutter (#191)

A high-quality, versatile cutter made from high-grade steel.
USES
Ideal for shaping, hollowing, grooving, slotting, inlaying and making tapered holes in soft metals, plastics and woods—especially on curved surfaces.
TIPS
- Secure objects to a stable surface while working.
- Use the sides of the cutter (rather than the tip) for effective cutting. The tip cuts poorly and can break under pressure.
- Use higher speeds for hard woods, slower speeds for metals and very slow speeds for plastics (to avoid melting at the point of contact).
- If chattering occurs, increase speed.


Dremel High-Speed Cutter 3.2mm #194
Dremel High-Speed Cutter 3.2mm #194

Dremel High-Speed Cutter 3.2mm #194 ($16.91)

1 x High Speed Cutter (#194)
A high-quality, versatile cutter made from high-grade steel.
USES
Ideal for shaping, hollowing, grooving, slotting, inlaying and making tapered holes in soft metals, plastics and woodsespecially on flat and slotted surfaces.


TIPS

- Secure objects to a stable surface while working.
- Use the sides of the cutter (rather than the tip) for effective cutting. The tip cuts poorly and can break under pressure.
- Use higher speeds for hard woods, slower speeds for metals and very slow speeds for plastics (to avoid melting at the point of contact).
- If chattering occurs, increase speed


Dremel Mandrel
Dremel Mandrel

Dremel Mandrel #401

Sorry, I could not find any details on the Dremel Mandrel #401.  I will add info if/when I find some.





Dremel Mandrel #402
Dremel Mandrel #402

Dremel Mandrel #402 ($8.80)

1 x Mandrel (#402) 
A shank with a screw-like head.
USES
It is used primarily with sanding discs and cut-off wheels.
TIPS
- For best results, insert the mandrel all the way into the tool and then back it out slightly before tightening down. This provides plenty of shank for the collet or chuck to hold onto.
- Simply remove the screw, line up a cut-off wheel or sanding band over the hole in the shank, and replace and tighten the screw.


Dremel Polishing Compound #421
Dremel Polishing Compound #421

Dremel Polishing Compound #421 ($8.93) 

Note: A smaller block of this comes with the Dremel Stylus; not this full bottle.

1 x Polishing Compound (#421) 
A solid compound applied with nylon bristle brushes and cloth or felt accessories. USES Ideal for polishing or brightening most metals and plastics. You can also use polishing compound to remove light surface imperfections. 
TIPS For best results, insert the accessory bit all the way into the tool and then back it out slightly before tightening down. This provides plenty of shank for the collet or chuck to hold onto. When working with felt or cloth bits, keep the tool speed as low as possible. This allows the compound to gently deposit on the bit. Use with any of the following cleaning and polishing bits: #414, #422, #423 and #429. Or use with bristle brushes #403, #404 and #405.



Dremel Sanding Band #430
Dremel Sanding Band #430

Dremel Sanding Band #430


The Dremel 1/4-Inch Drum Sander is ideal for rough-shaping and smoothing wood and fiberglass, as well as removing rust from metal and shaping rubber surfaces. Sitting atop a mandrel with a 1/8-inch shank, the cylinder sanding band is covered with coarse 60-grit aluminum oxide abrasive. This purple sanding band is easily replaceable.


  • Ideal for rough-shaping and smoothing wood and fiberglass
  • Removes rust from metal; shapes rubber surfaces
  • Covered with aluminum oxide abrasive
  • Features coarse 60-grit sanding
  • Measures 1/4 inch in thickness; 1/8 inch diameter shank




Dremel Sil. Carb. Grinding Stone #84922
Dremel Sil. Carb. Grinding Stone #84922

Dremel Silicon Carbite Grinding Stone 4.8mm #84922 ($8.93) 


1 x Silicon Carbide Grinding Stone (#84922)

A high-quality industrial abrasive made for extended usage.

USES
Ideal for sharpening, deburring and general purpose grinding on harder materialsincluding stone, glass, ceramic, porcelain, gemstones and nonferrous metals. Specially designed for working with conic surfaces.


Dremel Felt polishing pad #414
Dremel Felt polishing pad #414 

Dremel 1/4" Felt polishing pad #414 ($8.93) 

2 x Felt Polishing Wheel (#414) 
A soft felt disc with a diameter of 1/4".
USES
Ideal for polishing most metal surfaces and plastics.
TIPS
When polishing precious metals such as gold and silver, use this bit with the #421 polishing compound (jewelers rouge) and apply lightly.
MANDREL(S) NEEDED WITH THIS BIT: #401 Mandrel


Dremel 1" felt wheel #429
Dremel felt wheel #429

Dremel 1" felt wheel #429 ($8.93) 

2 x Felt Polishing Wheel (#429)
A soft felt disc with a 1" diameter.
USES
Ideal for polishing most metal surfaces and plastics.
TIPS
When polishing precious metals such as gold and silver, use this bit with the #421 polishing compound (jewelers rouge) and apply lightly.
MANDREL(S) NEEDED WITH THIS BIT: #401 Mandrel


Dremel Sanding Band #438
Dremel Sanding Band #438

Dremel Sanding Band #438

2 x Sanding Band (#438) 
An abrasive band made of aluminium oxide
USES
Ideal for rough-shaping and smoothing wood and fiberglassas well as removing rust from metal surfaces, shaping rubber surfaces and more.
TIPS
- Sanding bands are easily replaceable on drum sanders.
- Start your work with coarse bands and finish with finer grits.
- Use a slow speed with this accessory and keep a very light touch for more effective sanding


Dremel Medium Sanding Disc #412
Dremel Medium Sanding Disc #412 

Dremel Medium Sanding Disc #412 ($9.93)


5 x Sanding Discs (#412)
A 220-grit sanding disc made of aluminum oxide.
USES
Ideal for rough-shaping and smoothing wood and fiberglassas well as removing rust from metal surfaces, shaping rubber surfaces and more.
TIPS
- Start your work with coarse discs and finish with finer grits.
- Use a slow speed with this accessory bit and keep a very light touch for more effective sanding.



Dremel Alum. Ox. Grinding Stone 9.5mm #932
Dremel Alum. Ox. Grinding Stone #932

Dremel Alum. Ox. Grinding Stone 9.5mm #932 ($8.93)


A high-quality industrial abrasive made for extended usage.
USES
Ideal for sharpening, deburring and general purpose grinding on most materialsincluding stainless steel. Specially designed for working with flat and slotted surfaces.
TIPS
- Use the #415 dressing stone to clean the surface of the grinding stone and restore its original shape. You can also use the dressing stone to create a grinding stone with just the right shape for that special job.



Short of a manual, I found that the time-consuming effort it took to compile this list was worthwhile.  It proves a handy reference during this period of my early courtship with my lovely Dremel Stylus.  I hope it will prove to be of some use to you too.


Additional Dremel Notes

I also bought a box of additional Dremel accessories while doing my shopping.  So I will include that here and some additional details for reference.

Dremel 52-Pc. General Purpose Set 687
Dremel 52-Pc. General Purpose Set 687


Includes:
  • 194 High Speed Cutter (see above)
  • 952 Aluminum Oxide Grinding Stone (see below)
  • 85422 Silicon Carbide Grinding Stone (see below)
  • 401 Mandrel (see above)
  • 402 Mandrel   (see above)
  • 403 Bristle Brush (see above)
  • 409 15/16" Emery Cut-Off Wheel (36) (see below)
  • 407 1/2" Drum Sander (see below)
  • 408 1/2" 60 Grit Sanding Band
  • 432 1/2" 120 Grit Sanding Band (2)
  • 426 1-1/4" Fiberglass-Reinforced Cut-Off Wheel (see below)
  • 421 Polishing Compound (see above)
  • 414 1/2" Felt Polishing Wheel (2) (see above)
  • 429 1" Felt Polishing Wheel (2)


Some of the accessories were the same as that which came free with the Dremel Stylus.  I will only detail below those that were not found with the Stylus.

Dremel Alum. Ox. Grinding Stone 9.5mm #952
Dremel Alum. Ox. Grinding Stone #952

Dremel Alum. Ox. Grinding Stone 9.5mm #952 ($8.99)


A high-quality industrial abrasive made for extended usage.
USES
Ideal for sharpening, deburring and general purpose grinding on most materials—including stainless steel. Specially designed for working with curved surfaces.
TIPS
- For best results, insert the accessory bit all the way into the tool and then back it out slightly before tightening down. This provides plenty of shank for the collet or chuck to hold onto.
- Use the #415 dressing stone to clean the surface of the grinding stone and restore its original shape. You can also use the dressing stone to create a grinding stone with just the right shape for that special job.



Dremel Sil. Carb. Grinding Stone 19.8mm #85422
Dremel Sil. Carb. Grinding Stone #85422

Dremel Sil. Carb. Grinding Stone 19.8mm #85422 ($8.93)


A high-quality industrial abrasive made for extended usage.
USES
Ideal for sharpening, deburring and general purpose grinding on harder materialsincluding stone, glass, ceramic, porcelain, gemstones and nonferrous metals. Specially designed for working with flat and slotted surfaces.


Dremel Cut-Off Wheel #409
Dremel Cut-Off Wheel #409

Dremel 15/16" Cut-Off Wheel.(Pack of 36) #409 ($19.91) 

A cutting disc made of a hard abrasive with a diameter of 15/16" (23.8 mm) and a width of 0.025" (0.64 mm).
USES
Ideal for cutting, grooving and trimming all kinds of materials—including metal, wood and ceramics. You can use it to cut screws and rusted bolts, make slots in screw heads, trim castings and more.
TIPS
- For best results, insert the accessory bit all the way into the tool and then back it out slightly before tightening down. This provides plenty of shank for the collet or chuck to hold onto.
- Secure objects to a stable surface while working.
- Hold the tool so that the wheel is at a perpendicular angle to the material being cut.
- Keep a light touch, as the wheel will break under too much pressure.
- If chattering occurs, increase speed.
- Plastics require very slow speeds, because they tend to melt at the contact point.



Dremel 1/2" Drum Sander #407
Dremel Drum Sander #407

Dremel 1/2" Drum Sander #407 ($4.50) 

A cylinder covered with aluminum oxide abrasive that sits atop a mandrel with a 1/8 shank. The replaceable band covering the cylinder is coarse 60 grit.
USES
Ideal for rough-shaping and smoothing wood and fiberglassas well as removing rust from metal surfaces, shaping rubber surfaces and more.
TIPS
- For best results, insert the accessory bit all the way into the tool and then back it out slightly before tightening down. This provides plenty of shank for the collet or chuck to hold onto.
- Start your work with coarse bands and finish with finer grits.
- Use a slow speed with this accessory and keep a very light touch for more effective sanding


Dremel Reinforced Cut-Off Wheel #426
Dremel Reinforced Cut-Off Wheel #426

Dremel 1-1/4" Reinforced Cut-Off Wheel (Pack of 5) 426 ($8.99) 

A cutting disc made of a hard abrasive and reinforced with fiberglass. It is 0.045" (1.2 mm) thick with a diameter of 1-1/4" (32.0 mm).
USES
Ideal for cutting, grooving and trimming all kinds of materials—including metal, wood and ceramics. You can use it to cut screws and rusted bolts, make slots in screw heads, trim castings and more.
TIPS
- For best results, insert an accessory bit all the way into the tool and then back it out slightly before tightening down. This provides plenty of shank for the collet or chuck to hold onto.
- Secure objects to a stable surface while working.
- Hold the tool so that the wheel is at a perpendicular angle to the material being cut.
- Keep a light touch, as the wheel will break under too much pressure.
- If chattering occurs, increase speed.
- Plastics require very slow speeds, because they tend to melt at the contact point.



If you have enjoyed this reference and/or have more info for me, please feel free to add your voice via the comments below ..... :)