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4 Types of Non Toxic Cookware- Choose Brands of Cookware Your Kitchen

June 8, 2020 by Evanston Leave a Comment

It is important to eat healthily, but do you know the cookware you use in preparing the food is also important? It is not OK to eat healthy foods without being concerned about what you use in cooking them. In our markets today, you can easily find different brands of cookware, but the difference between them is the materials they used to produce them.

There are some made with toxic materials, while others are made with non-toxic materials. The ones made with toxic materials are harmful to human health when used over time can result in health challenges.

This is why it is important only to make use of the best non-toxic cookware in your homes. Non-toxic cookware is one that cooks your food without posing risks to your health.

Without further ado, let’s consider the four types of non toxic cookware and what to look out for when purchasing one.

Types of Non Toxic Cookware

What to Look Out for When Choosing Your Cookware

When you are choosing your pots and pans, ensure that they are made from non-toxic materials like tempered glass, ceramic, porcelain enamel, carbon steel, or lava rock. It is important to know which cookware is harmless and toxic-free when choosing to get one. The materials used in manufacturing and coating determine if it is non-toxic or not. 

You might be eating healthy food, but if your cookware is made with toxic materials, you are prone to health challenges. Most non-sticky pots and pans are made with toxic substances that are harmful to humans, and they flake off into your food while you cook. These materials are dangerous when they come in contact with heat, and they can cause thyroid hormone disruption, cancer, and even affect the immune system.

Types of Non-Toxic Cookware

Stainless Steel

This is one of the well known non-toxic metals used in making cookware. Most companies are now making cookware with stainless steel, which has no perfluorinated chemicals (PFCs) in it. There are many grades of stainless steel in the market ensure you buy a high quality one or a food-grade Stainless Steel, this lasts longer and does not contain any nickel. If its bottom is clad with aluminum, it heats evenly and is non-sticky as well.

When buying your cookware, consider getting one made with stainless steel because it is one of the best options in the market and has the following advantages.

  • Non-toxic, which makes it safe for cooking
  • very easy to clean
  • it easily retains heat when used in baking.
  • Scratch-resistant and high heat retention
  • Lightweight and non-stick design
  • Durable and even heat distribution
  • Does not flame off

However, it is important to be careful when washing your stainless steel cookware to avoid the leaching of metals into your meals. When handled in a harsh manner or with abrasive cleaning agents, this could result in leaching of metals because the lining will get damaged. It is advisable to fill the cookware with hot water and detergent for a while before washing — this aids in removing food particles.

Glass

Glass cookware is a hundred percent free of toxic materials, even when heated. It is a safe choice to consider when getting your cookware. It lasts longer and is free from highly fluorinated chemicals or poly-fluoroalkyl substances (PFAS).

Glass cookware is eco-friendly. However, it sticks easily; it is also not versatile in nature, it cannot be used in cooking all kinds of dishes, but glass is a good option for savory dishes. Some of its advantages include :

  • Green, which is environmentally friendly
  • Durable option
  • Non-toxic cookware
  • Safe and healthier to store leftover meals than in a plastic container
  • Retains heat well
  • It can be used to serve meals as well.

 Ceramic Cookware

Ceramic cookware is one of the safe choice cookware to use; it is made with natural materials, it does not flake off into your food, it is non-toxic. Ceramic cookware stands the taste of time and lasts longer than other cookware. Most companies have produced a hundred percent non-toxic and non-sticky ceramic cookware. This cookware is free from perfluorooctanoate.

Cast Iron

This is one of the oldest types of cookware, it can be traceable way back to the 1990s, it is old fashioned cookware made from cast iron, and it has its form of health benefit. These sets of cookware are durable and affordable. Cast iron is a good conductor of heat, it leaches iron into your food which is healthy for the body, and this makes it non-toxic in nature. It is the safest cookware available even in this modern age. 

Some of its pros are :

  • It can stand a high heat
  • Impressive heat retention
  • Does not include any toxic substances
  • it helps to increase the iron in your food

Conclusion

Although some cookware may look harmless on the outside, it could become harmful when you start cooking with it because of its make up. Harmful chemicals like the highly fluorinated chemicals, PFAS, are used in manufacturing some cookware that is why it is essential to be selective when buying your kitchen cookware. These chemicals make them non-stick, resistant to stain, and waterproof, but they are harmful to health. So they cannot and should not be considered as an option.

Filed Under: How to Cook

Best Wood Burning Fire Pit Reviews- Top 6 Products by Consumer Reports in 2020

May 1, 2020 by Evanston Leave a Comment

A fire pit is just what you need to give your outdoor space that touch of class and style. Wood burning fire pits are not only made for the beautiful view but also to provide warmth to the surrounding environment during outdoor events or to relax in your backyard. They can be used to create a cozy and romantic setting; fire pits tend to give a light glow to the background.

These fire pits would make an excellent addition to your backyard, but you must be cautious when picking out the model you want. There are different brands in the market, each of which comes with its design and mode of functionality. You need to follow the guide provided below to secure the best wood burning fire pit that suits your requirements.

Best Wood Burning Fire Pit

Best Wood Burning Fire Pits – Top 6 Picks of the Year

1. CobraCo FB8008 Diamond Mesh Fire Pit with Screen and Cover

This is a wood-burning model that comes with a beautiful diamond mesh on both the fire pit and cover for safe use. Sturdy steel was used to construct the product giving it high durability and extended lifetime use. There are in-built risers featured on the base to attain maximum airflow and generate more robust flames. The CobraCo is portable and compact for easy movement to any location; at a lightweight figure of approximately 44 pounds, you can move the fire pit around effortlessly.

The fire pit has a 5-inch table edge that can serve as a resting platform for drinks or snacks. The product comes with a wire screen cover to prevent the flying of embers from the fire. There’s also the protective vinyl cover that helps to keep out rain or leaves from entering the fire. The bowl of the fire pit is about 6.5 inches deep, which means you can pack just enough wood to keep the fire going for a while.

Pros:

  • Comes with a cover
  • Solid and durable build
  • Deep and wide model
  • Can hold large pieces of wood

Cons:

  • Requires you to pay attention to the fire

2. Titan 40” Copper Outdoor Fire Pit

This is another bowl-shaped fire pit with a more elegant design that makes it stand out among other products. The Titan bowl is built using solid copper, while the base of the pit is made of steel. This model comes with a diameter of 40 inches, which is much larger than most fire pits; the fire pit is 14 inches in height and 8 inches in depth.

The base of the pit is coated to prevent rust or corrosion due to harsh weather conditions. The pit weighs 66 pounds, which keeps the product rooted and stable at all times. The product is sure to last for an extended period without any decrease in the quality of its performance. A fire iron tool is provided in the package for you to keep the fire going smoothly; the pit is fueled by wood, which means you’ll need the iron tool to turn the burning pieces.

Pros:

  • Simple and elegant design
  • Durable materials, steel, and solid copper are used to build the fire pit
  • Top-quality product
  • Guaranteed to last for decades
  • Comes with a fire iron tool

Cons:

  • Relatively expensive model

3. Solo Stove Bonfire Stainless Steel Wood Burning Smokeless Bonfire with Stand and Carrying Case

This model makes use of a unique airflow system that generates a more reliable fire with less smoke. There are holes on the interior and bottom of the pit to feed in cold air to the fire. High quality 304 stainless steel is used to build this product; it can withstand scratches or blunt force without incurring any lasting damage to its form.

The Solo Stove can be used for many years as long as the unit is properly cleaned and maintained. The product is covered by a lifetime guarantee to assure the users of the value they will be getting from the product. The fire pit is incredibly lightweight, weighing only 20 pounds, and comes with a carrying case for easy transport.

Pros:

  • Burns the wood ultimately into ash
  • Durable stainless steel build
  • Lifetime warranty
  • Smokeless fire

Cons:

  • Expensive option

4. CobraCo Woven Base Cast Iron Fire Pit

This model has a basket-woven steel base design coated with a bronze finish to protect the surface from any form of damage. The product comes with a safety cover to protect users from flying sparks; there’s also a vinyl cover to protect rain or leaves from messing with the fire.

The fire pit is 29 inches in diameter and 25 inches in height; the tool weighs only 40 pounds and is quite portable for a smooth relocation. This is a wood-fueled option that can be used to burn intense fires for long periods. You can always take the product when camping or simply use it in the backyard.

Pros:

  • Portable model
  • Comes with two protective covers
  • Strong material
  • Simple design

Cons:

  • Tendency to rust

5. Fire Pit Art Manta Ray

This fire pit has one of the highest prices in the market; this is due to the handcrafted nature of the product. Each part of this model was carefully planned and built using thick carbon steel with an iron oxide finish. The finish allows it to age gracefully over time in terms of appearance and performance.

This is a wood-burning kit with a 10-year warranty from the manufacturers to cover any defects you might experience over time. The fire kit is resistant to any effects of harsh weather and can only be used for outdoor purposes. This is a heavy-duty option that weighs 127 pounds, has a diameter of 36 inches and a height of 22 inches; the fire pit doesn’t require any maintenance.

Pros:

  • Designed for heavy usage over an extended period
  • Handcrafted by metalworkers
  • Ages well over time
  • 10-year warranty
  • Rain drain at the bottom of the pit

Cons:

  • Costly option
  • Quite heavy

6. Fire Pit Asia Woodburning Fire Pit

This is another handmade product by Fire Pit Art; this one is made from thick and highly durable steel. The bowl of the fire pit is marked at 14 inches while the diameter stands at 48 inches, which makes it one of the biggest wood burning fire pits in the market. This excellent model generates heat over an extensive area and can withstand any kind of weather condition without being damaged.

The finished job is temperature-resistant and is guaranteed to help extend the lifetime use of the fire pit. This fire pit is unique in its way and sure to beautify the look of your backyard.

Pros:

  • Solid construction
  • Excellent distribution of heat
  • Huge size
  • Handcrafted design

Cons:

  • Heavy option
  • Expensive product for some users

How to Pick the Best Wood Burning Fire Pit Top

It’s essential to properly evaluate the selection process using a couple of factors to base your final judgment. Doing the needed research helps you in making an informed decision rather than blindly picking the best out of a long list of options. You can use the following factors to set your requirements for the best option that can provide optimum value.

Fuel Source

This is what fuels the heat being produced by the fire pit; there are three main types of fuel source fire pits can have. These sources tend to affect the cost and experience of the fire pit; it can either be wood, gas, or propane. The wood fire pits require regular stocking of wood to keep the fire going. This option provides a more natural feel due to the campfire smell it gives off. Another fuel source you can consider is gas, which produces a more direct heat, but a gas connection is required for the pit to function. However, this is more convenient to use than wood fire pits. The last type of fire pits makes use of propane fuel, which works just like the gas fire pits but doesn’t require a gas connection. It should be known that propane tanks can be quite heavy, but they are more versatile than gas fire pits. We recommend that you go for whichever fuel type favors you.

Construction Material

Different materials are used to build fire pits, and they are all distinct in terms of features, maintenance, appearance, and price. The materials include tile, glass, cast iron, stone, copper, and stainless steel; stainless steel is an excellent material due to its durability and resistance to high temperatures, rust, and corrosion. The only downside to it is the relatively high price tag on units made with it. Stone can be quite heavy, so they are often used for permanent models.

Design

The fire pits come in different styles of build or structure, the most common being the bowl style, whose shape looks like that of a cooking pan. They can be quite wide with a shallow interior and an open top. There is also the ‘standing’ style, which is more elegant and beautiful; gas- or propane-fueled fire pits primarily come in this design. Then, the last is ground fire pits which look erected into the ground like a campfire. These are usually wood-fueled; they tend to be a bit pricier than the former two styles.

Portability

The fire pit can either be installed as a movable or immovable unit; the latter is permanent fire pits that can be built into designated parts of your home like your deck or ground. Custom installation is required for this kind of fire pits; hence they can cost you more. The portable type, movable, can be moved from one part of your house to any other location you desire.

Conclusuion

Wood burning fire pits are guaranteed to turn your backyard into a calm and relaxing sanctuary where you can have a drink and enjoy your moments. Turn to the information provided above to make the best decision that can provide you with the appropriate value for your investment.

Filed Under: Top Reviews

Best Wood Stove Insert Reviews 2020- Top 6 Picks by Consumer Reports

April 28, 2020 by Evanston Leave a Comment

While there are lots of living rooms with built-in fireplaces, most homeowners do not use it as intended. Few homeowners are usually considered about purchasing coals or chopping wood, and also the hassle of lightning and setting up the fire. Plus, cleaning after is another prime concern.

But nothing beat down the fun and coziness of the fire’s ambience in your own home!

Fortunately, manufacturers introduce fireplace inserts to allow homeowners to make a roaring, crackling fire without lots of mess and more quickly. Without further ado, let’s consider what an insert is, the best wood stove inserts on the market and how to choose the right one for a fun and cozy experience.

Best Wood Stove Inser

Best Wood Stove Insert Reviews- Top 6 Picks of the Year

1. Duraflame 3D Infrared Electric Fireplace Stove with Remote Control

The Duraflame 3D Infrared Electric Fireplace Stove will complement any room interior decor, especially for small-sized living space, and provide just enough heat. It’s portable, convenient and safe to use around kids and pets.

As said earlier, it’s portable allowing you to move the insert to wherever it is needed. Thanks to its infrared heat, this unit will maintain your room’s natural humidity for comfortable heat without drying out the air. This product comes with a realistic 3D flame effect behind and on the log with up to 5 brightness modes to offer a real wood-burning experience.

The 5 adjustable brightness modes increase your chances of finding a flame effect that matches your room, mood and even the weather. The Duraflame 3D Infrared Electric Fireplace Stove with Remote Control is equipped with infrared technology to offer heat for warming you and larger areas. This product heats slowly to ensure the air doesn’t dry out as well as your skin. Unlike traditional heaters, this unit minimizes static electricity.

Pros:

5,200 BTU heater

Cool to the touch design

Adjustable thermostat for more control of environment

More 3D realistic effect

Remote control

Cons:

Extra care for more durability

2. Ameriwood Home Farmington Electric Fireplace Console 50″, Black Oak TV Stand

Next on the list is Ameriwood Home Farmington Electric Fireplace built to bring the rustic outdoor look to your living room and holds 55lbs or 50-inch wide TV. This model is manufactured using laminated MDF and comes with weathered black woodgrain finish making your entertainment space or living room more appealing.

This 23-inch fireplace insert is plugged into your standard 120V power outlet and can be used with heat or without. Even better, it includes a touch panel or remote control to allow you control the flame to suit your preference.

What’s more? It sports two side cabinets and an open top-shelf offering extra shelving to provide you with enough storage space for your audio components, video, game collection and many more. Further, this product is equipped with Built-in reflectors, an AltraFlame Patented Tech, to create realistic effects using LED lights with long last hours of life.

Lastly, this unit is capable of warming up to 400 square feet room size with a temperature range of 64 degrees F to 82 degrees.

Pros:

Easy to use

Add rustic feel to any room

Realistic flame effects

More storage space

Cons:

Assembling can be time consuming.

3. Pleasant Hearth VFS2-PH30DT 30,000 BTU 32 in. Intermediate Gas Vent Free Stove

With a whopping 30,000 BTU’s, this cutting-edge vent-free technology has no need for a chimney or flue. This vent-free stove comes with more fuel options: liquid propane or natural gas. This model is an ideal choice for bringing warmth and style to your home.

On top of that, it’s easy to install just about anywhere in your home; thanks to its minimum clearance design. It’s capable of heating up to 1,000 square feet with its 30,000 BTU/hr. Pleasant Hearth VFS2-PH30DT 30,000 BTU 32 in. Intermediate Gas Vent Free Stove is equipped with a thermostat control knob allowing homeowners to maintain the ideal heat level. Besides, there’s a dual burner to offer two flame rooms to provide you with a fuller-looking fire.

Pros:

Up to 30,000 BTUs/hr

Thermostat control knob for easier control

Dual fuel technology for convenience

Dual burner for more full-looking fire

Cons:

Pilot Initiator could be better positioned

4. Pleasant Hearth VFS2-PH20DT 20,000 BTU 23.5 in. Compact Gas Vent Free Stove

Unlike the model above from Pleasant Hearth, this vent-free stove unit does not offer as much heat capacity, but it’s sufficient to warm up about 700 square feet. Similarly, it features Dual Fuel Technology: Natural Gas and Liquid Propane, which makes it more convenient to use.

Also, this model does not require chimney and flue; thanks to its cutting-edge vent-free technology and provides an amazing 20,000 BTU’s capacity. Further, its black finish complements any room’s decor and improves its aesthetic value.

Pros:

Dual fuel Technology

20,000 BTU/hour

Warms up to 700 sq. Ft

Two-year manufacturer’s warranty

Cons:

The finish flakes off after a while

5. Comfortbilt Pellet Stove HP22

If you’re in the market for a fireplace for a product that offers more heat capacity, then this model is for you. The Comfortbilt Pellet Stove HP22 has an incredible 50,000 BTU heat capacity, which warms up to 2,800 square feet.

Not just that, its bay design offers a large viewing area, and the carbon black finish helps complement your living room style. This stove insert is EPA certified and has a 55lbs hopper capacity to ensure you’ve enough fuel to prevent having to refuel quickly.

Furthermore, this unit sports an ash pan for easy cleaning and a programmable thermostat for easy control. Besides, there’s a 1-year warranty to protect your investment.

Pros:

Equipped with powerful blower

55 lbs. Hopper Capacity

1 Year Parts Warranty

50,000 BTU heat capacity

Cons:

Might not work well with the standard 120V outlet

6. ProCom Ventless Dual Fuel Stove-25,000 BTU, Thermostatic Control Model QNSD250T

Last on the list is ProCom Ventless Dual Fuel Stove with 25,000 BTU and a dual fuel technology to allow you to use either LP or NG. This stove insert can heat up to 1,100 square feet.

More so, it comes with built-in thermostat control to let homeowners maintain the preferred room temperature. This went-free design is more efficient and requires no outside chimney or duct. Plus, it’s equipped with a battery-assisted piezo ignition system to light up the stove insert easily.

Pros:

Easy to use

Automatic shutdown

Built-in thermostat control

Cons:

Control valve gets faulty with time

What’s a Wood Stove Insert?

While fireplaces and inserts appear similar, they are quite different in more ways than you can imagine. Inserts are cheaper when it comes to installing or completely renovating the existing masonry fireplace.

More so, inserts are fashionable and versatile. Their ability to change your room’s ambience from rustic or traditional to contemporary without having to break the bank is one of many reasons to own a stove insert. Inserts are available in different designs and shapes, which means these products appear much like the real thing.

Fireplace inserts can burn pellets, wood, or gas. Also, they allow you to insert them into an existing masonry wood fireplace. However, when installing a wood stove insert needs to connect the flue leading outside and chimney.

Types of Fireplace Inserts

Fireplace inserts run on different kinds of fuels to produce heat. However, the wood stove inserts use wood as its source of heat.

Let’s dive into other common ones:

Natural Gas

This is a popular option due to the high level of convenience it offers. Most times the gas line to the fireplace gas nozzle and for lightening the flames. Natural gas eliminates the hassle offloading the wood fuel or cleaning up afterwards.

Most so, the gas type fireplace inserts are available in two options: vented and ventless. The vented options obtain oxygen from outside your home and expel toxic gas. However, the ventless model offers more heat, but you might have to deal with the potentially toxic fumes from the combustion vented back into your home.

Electric

Electric fireplace inserts are the go-to for people looking for a safe product. They appear similar to fake logs and radiate heat when plugged into a power outlet.

Another incredible benefit of owning electric fireplace inserts is the ease of operation, high efficiency, and hassle-free cleanup. The prime drawback of this model is its unrealistic flames and no attractive sound

Wood

Wood stove inserts provide you with a more traditional feel since you’ll be using wood obtained from the wood. This model requires a lot of cleaning, and starting a fire might not be that easy, except the product comes with an ignition system. Nevertheless, you still enjoy unrivalled experience watching the first.

Pellet

The last on this section is the pellet fireplace inserts with a similar flame appearance to the wood fire. More importantly, cleaning the pellet stoves is much easier compared to wood burners. But, you might also have to put up with the stress of refilling the pellets daily as well as cleaning the ashtray on a weekly basis.

Things to Consider Before Purchasing a Wood Stove Insert

When it comes to purchasing a wood stove insert. There are a couple of factors you need to consider before making a choice. A fireplace insert is not just about the heating; it improves your room’s aesthetic value. Most models are designed to fit into your existing fireplace, which is why it’s important to make proper measurement before placing an order.

Installing some fireplace models can be a bit complicated, which results in higher costs. Another feature of fireplace inserts is their ability to control them remotely. Thus, allowing you to adjust the size of the flame and offer more thermal control.

It’s important that you put the chamber size into consideration when considering investing in any wood stove insert on the market. Most models take the standard 16 inches long, but this might not be the best fit for you. Therefore, you need to consider your dimension before making a choice. Fortunately, most wood stove inserts feature standard arch doors, which means adding adornments helps improve its aesthetic value and functionality.

Conclusion

We’ve considered how to choose the best wood stove insert and reviewed the top 6 options for you. However, you should choose based on your preference and needs.

Filed Under: Top Reviews

Best Wood for Fire Pit: Know What to Use

April 27, 2020 by Evanston Leave a Comment

A fire pit is one of the hottest outdoor trends. It is a crowd-pleaser and can instantly up the aesthetic of your backyard, depending on the pit’s design. More than form, it is also functional. It is a great way to keep you warm when you are outdoors. It can even be a makeshift bonfire.

To make the most out of the fire pit, one of the most important is the right type of wood to use. This will act as the fuel and will make it easy to maintain the fire. If you want to know more about the best wood for fire pit, keep on reading and we’ll talk about some of the best options to consider.

Best Wood for Fire Pit

Things to Consider When Choosing Wood for Fire Pit

The options will be countless, but you should not take this as an excuse to decide in haste. To help you narrow the list, here are some important factors to consider.

Hardwood or Softwood?

The first thing that you need to decide upon would be the type of wood to use. Hardwoods are more common. They are known for their ability to burn longer and hotter. This will be handy on cold nights when you need fire to keep you warm. Softwoods, on the other hand, burn quicker and are cheaper. They are also easier to split, and they have a nice aroma.

Seasoned or Unseasoned?

When it comes to fuel choice for a fire pit, it is undeniable that seasoned wood is the best option. It lights fast and burns longer compared to unseasoned wood. Seasoned wood is dark on the outside and white on the inside. It has a lot of cracks. Unseasoned wood, on the other hand, looks very fresh and is wet.

Our Recommendations on the Best Wood for Fire Pit

Make your fire pit burn longer and hotter. The secret lies in your choice of wood. That said, this section will quickly talk about some of the best options to consider.

Ash

Creating a list of the best fire pit woods will be incomplete without mentioning ash. It is extremely hot when it burns, and it is also easy to prepare. Even if the wood is still green, you can already burn it. Another good thing about ash is that while it burns hot, it does not generate too much smoke. This makes it a great option for an outdoor fire feature in your home.

Hickory

Recognized as one of the top woods to use in smokers, it will equally be impressive when used on fire pits. It is one of the hottest burning hardwoods. The good thing about hickory is that it is easy to find, which we can attribute to the high demand. Like many of the options that are included in our list, it is also long-lasting.

Oak

Like hickory, oak is a common choice for smokers and will do equally great in fire pits. One of the best species to use is Black Oak, especially if you are from South California. It creates a slow but steady fire, making it the perfect choice for evenings when you need to stay warm. It also does not generate as much ash as other oak species, which means that it will be easy to clean. Oregon White Oak is another promising option. It also burns long and hot, although, expect that there will be a lot of ash once the flames are extinguished.

Maple

This is another wood used in smokers that will also be great in fire pits. It may be difficult to split, but the effort will be worth it. It is efficient and hot-burning. Look for hard maple varieties, such as sugar maple. While this wood can effectively keep you warm during cold nights, you won’t be enveloped in thick smoke.

Beech

It is quite similar to ash when it comes to heat performance and longevity. One important thing to note about beech is that the wood has a high moisture content. Because of this, expect that it will take quite a while to season. It can also create sparks, so this is not recommended if you are looking for a wood to use in an indoor fire. It is also not good for cooking.

Almond

This may not be as easy to find as more popular fire pit woods, but this is another great option to consider. Whether for a fireplace or cooking, this is a good pick. Almond has a high heat content, so it can effectively keep you warm. It is also a good thing that it does not spark, and it does not create thick smoke. You will also love how easy it is to split this wood.

Apple

A popular cooking wood, apple will also be impressive when you use it as firewood. However, because this type of wood looks good when it is used in furniture, it may be quite hard to find it nowadays. The good thing about apple is that it has a sweet smell as it burns, which is also the reason why it is commonly used in cooking applications.

Cedar

This is another firewood that will produce a great smell. It produces slow and steady heat, making it perfect for a fire pit. While it burns hot, it is a good thing that it does not create big flames or thick smoke. It is also easy to split, so you will not have a hard time preparing this firewood.

Conclusion

At this point, we hope that you can now decide on what to choose for the best wood for fire pit. While having a fire pit at home can be beneficial in more ways than one, it can also be frustrating. To avoid the latter, make sure to use the right wood, including our recommendations above.

Filed Under: How to Cook

Top 7 Best Woodworking Tool Reviews in 2020

April 25, 2020 by Evanston Leave a Comment

When it comes to adaptable and versatile DIY experiences, woodworking takes the lead, which can involve anything from revamping your wooden surface or ornament to constructing an entire shoe rack. However, these woodwork DIY projects call for a particular tool. Therefore, owning more than one woodworking tool will allow you to achieve several kinds of projects.

Having a tool to handle every job is not a good idea, as there are specialized tools better for the task. The standard option might not offer the maximum protection and reliability needed. There will always be a better tool you can upgrade to. All you’ve to do is decide whether or not the upgrade is worth the effort, money, and time.

Without further ado, let’s consider the best woodworking tools on the market, as well as a couple of prime concerns and benefits of adding them to your toolbox.

Best Woodworking Tool

Best Woodworking Tools Reviews- Top 7 Picks for Your Toolbox

1. WEN 4214 12-Inch Variable Speed Drill Press

When it comes to the must-have tools in your toolbox, the WEN 4214 12-Inch Variable Speed Drill Press is our top pick with a 5-Amp rating and ⅔ Hp induction motor. This power-pack drill offers decent power to allow you to drill through anything from wood to metal sheets.

While other models struggle to provide a professional finish due to drill bit lacking the right amount of torque, this machine delivers smooth and perfect machined-finished drill holes in any material. What next is the incredible speed, which is always a prime concern when it comes to drill press.

This model comes with a variable speed option to let you achieve a wide range of speed: 580 – 3,200 RPMs based on the material you’re drilling on. This means WEN 4214 12-Inch Variable Speed Drill Press will be a handy tool if your DIY project requires metal sheets.

In addition, the variable speed is easy to adjust on the fly and features a variable speed lock-in-position, which ensures you don’t have to readjust often. Even better, it comes with a digital readout meter for keeping track of your drilling speed.

More importantly, the size of this drill press matters as it helps determine if it’s suitable for your woodworking purpose. WEN 4214 12-Inch Variable Speed Drill Press has a swing or throat depth of 12 inches, which makes it ideal for drilling a maximum of 6-inch stock material from the edge. The 12-inch swing is more than enough for most home and professional use. However, it depends on the size of the material.

Pros:

Variable speed for more application

Quality construction

Lock-in-position feature

Easy and reliable operation

Cons:

The belt housing seems not to be even for some products.

2. HomeRight C800971.A Super Finish Max Extra Power Painter

Obviously, most of the DIY projects will require a fine and elegant finish, which is why you need to purchase the right sprayer. For us, when it comes to paint sprayer, HomeRight C800971. A Super Finish Max Extra Power Painter always comes to our mind first.

This electric paint sprayer is easy to use and helps you apply your paint on countless DIY woodwork projects from small to large-sized ones such as dressers, cabinets, furniture, decks, fences, and more. The spray gun comes with easily adjustable settings for prefectly finished projects. The air cap is easily adjusted to let you spray in a round, vertical, or horizontal.

More importantly, the control knob lets you adjust the material flow quickly for maximum material output to modify the flow of paint and coating needs. This model comes with more power spray options with a 450W powerful spraying experience, which makes it a perfect choice for small and big projects.

More importantly, it’s suitable for a wide variety of stains and paints, such as varnish, stain, polyurethane, clear sealer, primers, enamels, paints, latex, milk paint, and chalk type pain. After completing your project, all you’ve to do is clean the paint sprayer with water or mineral spirits for water-based or oil-based materials, respectively. 

Pros:

2-year manufacturer warranty

Easy to clean

High-quality spray pattern

Brass spray tips for unparalleled performance

Cons:

Need to strain the paint before use

3. DEWALT Sliding Compound Miter Saw, 12-Inch (DWS779)

At first glance this sliding compound miter saw looks impressive and says nothing but business. The combination of chrome, black, and yellow are definitely defining characteristics. More inspection reveals the dual horizontal slide bars that certainly catch the eyes.

This model stands out with its 50-degree and 60-degree miter capabilities to the left and right. That’s not all: it narrows beautifully when positioned at 60-degrees, which means an easy storage option and fits even in tight work trailers.

The DEWALT Sliding Compound Miter Saw, 12-Inch (DWS779) is a decent pick for both professionals and hobbyists. The DIYers will love its excellent user-friendliness, while the professionals will opt for this model due to its smooth operation and high precision. Obviously, you shouldn’t expect anything except a tool fully stacked with tons of handy features.

In terms of safety, this product is quite good. What good news for novice or inexperienced DIVers who often struggle to figure out how this woodworking tool works, without having to bother about get severe injuries during the process.

Another big advantage of DEWALT Sliding Compound Miter Saw, 12-Inch (DWS779) is its impressive versatility, which allows you to use it on different projects without worrying about compatibility or other factors.

Pros:

Powerful 3, 800 RPM motor

Extended power and durability

3 year limited warranty

Maximum 6.75-inch cutting thickness

Cons:

Does not have the “laser” feature

4. BOSTITCH Air Compressor Combo Kit, 3-Tool (BTFP3KIT)

This is another woodworking tool from Bostitch, which is an ideal choice for starters and anyone looking to explore the world of air tools. Pneumatic or air tools use compressed air to power a couple of hand tools instead of an electric motor.

Most home DIY lovers are often familiar with battery-operated or electric tools such as saws and drills, but this product allows you to use more tools such as powerful staplers and nail guns. This kit comes with a maximum 150 psi 6-gallon pancake air compressor and three tools: a finish nailer for driving 16-gauge straight finish nails, a brad nailer for driving 18-gauge nails and a crown stapler.

Further, it comes with sample fasteners and a 15-foot air hose to provide you with an excellent range. This three-tool kit is easy to use and time saving. This unit fills up to 140 psi in about six minutes and with the aid of the separate pressure outlet regulator to achieve the desired pressure for each tool.For example, the framing nail requires pressure within 70 to 120 psi, which should be no hassle to achieve.

Pros:

Comes with 15-foot hose

Efficient compressor

Includes a stapler and two nailers

Easy to maneuver

Cons:

A bit loud

Can be challenging to move around

5. PSI Woodworking LCHSS8 Wood Lathe 8pc HSS Chisel Set

When it comes to woodturning projects, you want to have PSI Woodworking LCHSS8 Wood Lathe 8pc HSS Chisel Set in your toolbox. This chisel kit is an ideal option to turn pens pepper mills and spindle bowls.  This kit contains eight chisels: 7/8″ Roughing Gouge, 3/4″ Spindle Gouge, 1/2″ Bowl Gouge, 5/8″ Round Nose Scraper, 5/8″ Skew Chisel, 1″ Skew Chisel, 5/8″ Spear Scraper, and 3/16″ Parting Tool.

Further, the set comes with a wooden case for smart carrying and easy storage. Each chisel in the kit measures 16-¼ inch length, 10-inch hardwood turned handles, and 6-¼-Inch M2 High speed steel blade.

This product is suitable for pentamers and woodturners of all skill levels for either small or large on lathes. We must say, the wood display box is attractive and practical with lovely turned hardwood handles.

Pros:

Decent size and quality

Includes wooden storage box

Comfortable to use

Complete set of single or pair of tools

Cons:

Might not be suitable for robust woodwork projects

6. Making & Mastering Wood Planes

This book, Making & Mastering Wood Plane, is small and extremely comfortable to use, which makes the machined surface to a silky, alluring smoothness. Fortunately, this product comes with a photo-packed, meticulously complete guide to help you make DIY classic planes.

This personalized tool allows you to dig deeply into the wood crafting space, and also helpful for uninitiated ones. Every construction step requires detailed attention: prep the plane blank, drift angle, sharpening with speed, turning and using hand tools, tension, gluring up, and cross pin location.

Pros:

Detailed guide

An excellent present for DIYers

Easy to follow

Easy to follow instructions

Cons:

No soft copy

7. Tool Design 3rd Edition by Cyril Donaldson

This is another handy book that presents the fundamental practices, techniques, and methods for all areas of design.

Cyril Donaldson focuses on the making and design of cutting and holding these machine tools for professional-like woodwork. While this book omits some topics that industrial users might find very important today, it comes with enough information to complete your DIY wood projects.

Pros:

Easy to follow

Detailed and technical

Cons:

Not a top choice for industrial users

Conclusion

When it comes to woodwork projects, there isn’t really a one-size-fits-all tool. Therefore, it’s essential to purchase a tool for a specific range of work. With our top 7 must-have woodworking tools, achieving any DIY project with wood or even metal sheets becomes a breeze.

Filed Under: Top Reviews

Top 7 Best Wood Burning Stove Reviews in 2020

April 24, 2020 by Evanston Leave a Comment

One of the best feelings to look forward to when going home is its warmth. Especially, when the weather becomes unbearably cold, we turn to our hearth, furnaces, and stoves. Wood burning stoves run smoothly with little maintenance, with many of them having a see-through door to give you the pleasure of watching the flames dance.

Today, wood-burning stoves come in a number of different designs with improved efficiency and a generally safer system. In this article, we bring you the very best of the wood burning stoves available in the market, highlighting their features for your consideration. All just to help make a smarter and more informed purchasing decision.

Best Wood Burning Stove

Best Wood Burning Stove Reviews – Top 7 Products

1. Pleasant Hearth 1,800 Sq. Ft. Medium Wood Burning Stove

The Pleasant Hearth medium wood burning stove is a highly efficient indoor wood burning stove with the capacity of supplying an apartment of up to 1,800 Sq. Ft. It has a sleek and lovely design in all black.

The wood burning stove is EPA certified for safety with an 82 percent efficiency and an emission rate of 4.3 grams/hr. The Firebox is a brick line for both safety and efficiency. It is gated by a ceramic glass transparent door, that gives you easy access for adding the fuel-wood. The door also gives you a great view of the flames, adding to the uniqueness and beauty of your home.

The device is compatible with standard 6 inches chimney, to which you can easily connect it for ventilation. The blower can be adjusted, together with the heat output and burn time – all which can be regulated with the push/pull draft control.

Pros:

– Efficient wood burning

– Adjustable speed blower

– Easy-to-clean ash drawer

– Does not require assemble

Cons:

– Small Firebox requires prepping the wood before stocking

2. Guide Gear Outdoor Wood stove

As the name says, the wood stove was designed and optimized for outdoor use, that is when you have to go camping in the mountains or go fishing, etc.

The wood stove has a simple design that makes it portable and easy to use. It also offers very good efficiency. The Guide Gear wood stove is built from a firm with highly durable steel with a high-temperature finish. The detachable parts include four standing legs, a pipe nest, and a firebox. The former two parts easily fit into the Firebox so that you can move it with ease.

It features a hinged door that is made of cast iron to ensure its strength and rigidity. Within the door are small easy-control vent holes. It is capable of bringing water to boil as well as cook food that does not require incredibly high temperatures or lower cooking settings. You can make bacon, eggs, and other meals on the stove, thereby functioning both as a heater and a cooker.

Pros:

– Portable and easy to store

– Durable and tough

– Serves multiple functions

– Affordable

Cons:

– Not very efficient

– Cannot be used indoors

3. Drolet High-Efficiency Wood Stove

This is another beautiful looking wood stove that greatly increases your home’s style while producing warmth in cold temperature.

The stove is built with a steel top plate, which endows it with incredible rigidity. Its door is made of heavy-duty cast iron for equal stability and strength. The handle is fitted with an adjustable handle. A large ash drawer is present that collects ash as the wood burns – in order to ease the cleaning up process.

The incredible efficiency can not be ignored as well, with an efficiency ratio of 78 percent, you can rest assured that you are not wasting your fuel. The device has a wide firebox that is lined with bricks, measuring 3.93 cu. Ft. – and as so, it takes logs up to 22 inches long, reducing the amount of preparatory work you have to do before lighting up your wood stove.

The Drolet Wood Stove has an incredible reach. It is capable of heating up to 2400 sq. Ft. of space.

Pros:

– Large heating area

– Wide Firebox

– High efficiency

– Rigid and balanced frame

Cons:

– Expensive

– Not compatible with fireplaces

4. US Stove Company – 2000 EPA Certified Wood Stove Medium

This EPA certified wood burning stove is capable of heating up to 2000 sq. Ft. Of space. It has a sleek design available in a number of different colors that bring in addition to its warmth, beauty to your home.

The stove is made of steel, with its Firebox lined with firebricks to ensure efficient wood burning and protection to the stove itself. It features an arched glass door that is transparent and conveys the image of the burning wood. An air-wash feature built into the door ensures that it is often kept clean and free of smoke soot.

It has a spacious firebox as well, about 2 cubic foot in size that is capable of accepting 21 inches in length of wood pieces, making it easy to fuel the stove as well as accepting enough fuel for long periods of time.

Pros:

– Efficient wood burning

– Air wash system keeps glass clean

– Large Firebox

– Ash tray for easy cleaning

– EPA certified for safety

Cons:

– Product is quite expensive

5. Drolet Escape (1500-I) Wood Insert with Faceplate

Another incredible product from Drolet. The insert fits easily into your masonry fireplace, giving it a new look altogether, while also ensuring that you are adequately kept warm.

Complying with new EPA standards, the Drolet Escape wood insert has an average particulate emission rate of 1.25 g/h. It has its own secondary combustion system that burns wood efficiently, delivering maximum output from every wood piece and leaving behind a very low carbon footprint.

It has an in-built blower powered by electricity with its own power cord by the side. It is capable of delivering 65,000 BTU/h of maximum heat.

Pros:

– Efficient combustion unit

– Impressive blower

– Meets EPA standards for safety

– Low carbon footprint

– Large heat output

Cons:

– Can only be used with an existing masonry fireplace

6. Supreme Fireplaces See-Thru Wood Burning Stove

The Supreme See-Thru wood burning stove is a masterpiece. Engineered with top-notch dexterity with high-quality materials to give an overall beautiful and highly efficient stove.

The wood burning stove has an impressive heat output of 100,000 BTUs/hr on a maximum fuel load capable of heating 2000 sq Ft. of space effectively. It features a stainless steel firebox with a large fuel capacity that can take in 24 inch sized woods up to 33 lbs.

The wood burning stove offers two glass panels on either side of the device – that gives you a warming display of the flames. This design also lets you refuel your stove from the two sides of the device. In addition to these, a unique built-in grill is present, which enables you to make grilled food over the burning charcoal.

Pros:

– Heat covers a large of an area

– Effective blower system

– Impressive display

– Large firebox chamber

– Built-in grill for making BBQ

Cons:

– Only in one finish option

7. US Stove Company (11DIKL) Draft Induced Kit

This is a fireplace kit that is designed to help you get a more efficient wood burning experience. It works by forcing air into your furnace; this increases the heat output of the fireplace while making it easier to start a fire in it.

The kit is designed as an accessory to US stove company’s furnaces and is capable of fitting almost all the USSC series except the 24A and 30A. The Draft Induced kit has heavy-duty bearings, but it is easy to install. For a controlled output, it is fitted with a limit control.

When used in addition to USSC furnace products, it exponentially increases its quality by ensuring a higher efficiency as well as a more convenient fire-starting process.

Pros:

– Significantly increases furnace efficiency

– Makes it easier to start fires

– Impressive limit control

– Highly durable design

Cons:

– Cannot produce heat independently

 – Product can only be used with other USSC products

How to Choose the Best Wood Burning Stove

Wood burning stoves are a great source of heat, and no other heating method is as cheap or as effective. But these devices are still expensive, and you want to pay a little attention to some details to ensure you are getting the best value for your money. Some of the vital features you should look out for include:

Efficiency & Combustion

Different wood burning stoves have different efficiency ratios. That is the ratio of the heat produced to the fuel burnt. And this is usually proportional to the combustion system. When the combustion system of your stove is efficient, you will use less fuel, and the emissions will be reduced.

However, highly efficient stoves are usually more expensive, and you might have to replace the combustion element every once in a while. They usually make up for the additional cost of reduced fuel usage.

Firebox Size

The size of the stove’s Firebox at first thought might not seem very significant, but once you consider all other factors associated with it, you realize how important it is. First of all, a smaller firebox would only be able to take smaller pieces of wood, which means more preparatory work for you. Cutting larger logs into smaller pieces, just so it can fit your stove is a tedious exercise that can easily be avoided.

And that is not the end of it. The same Firebox would only be able to take in limited wood pieces, meaning you will have to refuel the stove more often. All these extra work makes a wood burning stove with a small firebox undesirable.

Heat Output and Coverage

Depending on the design of your stove and its combustion system, the amount of heat it can give off varies, and several other factors determine this. The heat output determines the area within which the stove is effective and can serve. Generally, stoves with high coverage are more expensive. So, if you have a smaller apartment, you can save costs by going for one with less coverage.

However, it is usually a better bet to go for a burning stove that can cover at least 1800 sq. ft. when you are unsure.

Safety

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is the government’s regulatory body that sets requirements and standards for stove manufacturers. They ensure that the stove is designed to be safely used indoors with no threat to your health and environment. Hence it is vital to choose a stove that is certified by the EPA.

Conclusion

Investing in a high-quality wood burning stove not only ensures that you are kept warm throughout the year. It also ensures that you are kept safe, as low-quality products can be downright dangerous to health through the production of toxic smokes. With the review above, you can quite confidently choose a burning stove that will be perfect for your home – both in size and in heat output.

Filed Under: Top Reviews

Top 7 Products of the Best Wood Burning Kit Reviews in 2020

April 23, 2020 by Evanston Leave a Comment

Pyrography is an elegant art form adored all over the world with a diverse portfolio of beautiful designs created by avid pyrographers. Whether it’s for artistic or practical purposes, wood-burning requires the right tools or kits for designing the best of products.

They are equipped with temperature controls and monitors to guide users when crafting their wood designs conveniently. Even though most wood-burning kits are similar in appearance, they are quite different in terms of features and settings. Hence, it’s safe to say that the performance of each best wood burning kit in the market is unique when tested by drawing different patterns on different kinds of wood.

Best Wood Burning Kit

How to Choose the Right Wood Burning Kit

To get a reliable wood burning kit, we have curated a list of criteria you can use to judge the features of the models you have in your purview. A top-quality burning kit grants you the flexibility of being engraved to work on different materials without affecting the result of the project. Provided below are the factors we recommend that you take into consideration before buying a wood-burning kit.

Temperature

The wood-burning kit you intend on buying must be able to heat up efficiently and quickly while retaining stable levels of temperature settings provided. An excellent burning package should be able to heat up within 2-3 minutes to save your time and energy.

The temperature Adjustment is also one of the essential features of a wood-burning kit, the different levels of heat control provided must be sharp and broad enough for you to work with any material you have in mind conveniently. Some materials don’t require a high-temperature setting for you to carve on, which is why you need a flexible wood burning that grants you the ability to switch the temperature control any time you need.

Some models come with fixed temperature controls, and this doesn’t give you enough heat control, but you also never have to worry about checking if the device is getting too hot or not. It’s recommended that you go for the variable-temperature burning kit if you are already familiar with the entire crafting process.

Style of Tip

The tip is the part of the burning pen that etches your designs onto the pieces of wood; this is why you must get the right tip that suits your requirements. There are different types of pen tips, namely polished, non-polished, fixed, and interchangeable.

The polished tips allow you to create more detailed designs because of the smooth functionality they have on the surface of any material. Non-polished tips are rougher than the polished kind because they tend to drag on the surface of materials. However, they are suitable for creating large dark designs since they create a less refined appearance on the materials.

Then there’s the option of having either a fixed or interchangeable tip style; the difference lies in the fact that with interchangeable tips, you can always switch between tips to have fully detailed wood art. The fixed tips are designed to grant a more uniform style of patterns onto the material’s surface.

Safety and Comfort

Working with high levels of temperatures requires that you have the proper safety measures to prevent you from any discomfort or burns. This is why it’s recommended that you choose a model that has insulated parts to cancel out any heat transfer onto your hands during use. The handle is the central part that needs to be insulated since this is what you will be using to craft the patterns on your material.

Best Wood Burning Kits Reviews – Top 7 Pick of the Year

1. Walnut Hollow Creative Versa Tool

This wood-burning tool kit is a top-quality model that features 11 interchangeable tips for handling different projects like calligraphy, soldering, stamping, tapering, shading, paper crafting, or several other effects. The Walnut Hollow allows users to access variable temperature levels by using the settings provided to control the amount of heat being emitted.

This is a perfect option for entry-level pyrographers due to the versatility of the features offered. A heat shield is provided on the handle to ensure insulation during use. The tool is inexpensive and comes at an affordable price with a 6-month warranty that covers any manufacturing defects.

Pros:

  • 11 interchangeable tips
  • Adjustable temperature settings up to 950⁰F
  • Heat-resistant shield
  • Tips are lead-free making an environmental-friendly option

Cons:

  • Pliers are required to change the tips

2. HOTOOLME 77PCS Wood Burning Kit

This is another high-quality model that can be used for wood burning, soldering, image transferring, carving, stamping, or fabric embossing. There are 77 interchangeable tips you can switch between to achieve any etch or design you desire. The product heats up pretty quickly, taking only 15 seconds to get to the temperature you want to work with.

You can adjust the temperature between 392-842⁰F to work on a variety of materials such as hardwood, brass, plastic, leather, or steel. The handle is insulated for safety and designed to provide comfort and convenience during use. Newbies and experts alike can all gain from the purchase of this brilliant drawing kit.

Pros:

  • Insulated handle
  • Tips heat up efficiently and quickly
  • Comes with a compact storage bag
  • Has 77 interchangeable tips

Cons:

  • Tends to lag in performance after some time

3. Walnut Hollow 41992 Creative Woodburner

This is another premier product from Walnut Hollow that also features variable temperature settings with a range from 600-1000⁰F. There are four pen tips available in the package to create precise designs and shading techniques without hassle. The tips can be easily changed, and they heat up very fast after switching the power dial on.

The handle doesn’t conduct heat and provides a firm and comfortable grip during use. With proper maintenance and adherence to the instructions booklet, you can use this excellent product for an extended period without any effect on its performance.

Pros:

  • A good option for entry-level pyrographers
  • Variable temperature settings
  • Four easily interchangeable precision tips for better design control
  • Insulated handle
  • Safety stand

Cons:

  • Made using plastic giving the product low durability

4. JIAN YA NA 60W 110V Wood Burning Tool Adjustable Pyrography Machine

This is a heavy-duty wood burning kit with a package containing a digital pointer display, two pieces of pyrography pens, and 20 interchangeable wire tips for creating different kinds of burning effects. This high-quality model is very durable and user-friendly; the handles are insulated and guaranteed to ease the entire design process for pyrographers.

You can achieve up to a temperature of 1000⁰F through the use of the two pens provided. There is a screw-locking mechanism that can be used to secure the connection between the components of the machine.

Pros:

  • High-performance model
  • Two pens and 20 interchangeable wire tips
  • Two safety stands for the pens
  • Digital display
  • Can retain high-temperature levels

Cons:

  • Can be quite heavy for some users
  • Relatively more expensive

5. TEKCHIC Pro 1 Professional Burning Kit

This is a user-friendly wood burning machine with digital voltage control for regulating between temperatures you desire. There are 20 different ball tips provided to attain accuracy and precision when crafting on wood, gourd, or leather. These tips can be fitted on either of the two burning pens available.

The pens are designed with ergonomic heat-resistant handles to protect against high temperatures during use. The package also includes several other accessories that you might require to make the whole process more comfortable and convenient. A 1-year warranty comes with every purchase of the product.

Pros:

  • Durable build
  • Doesn’t overheat due to the large air inlets on the power supply
  • Wide range of tips and two pens
  • Comes with safety stands and accessories
  • Has a 1-year warranty

Cons:

  • Price can be quite expensive when compared with other burning kits

6. TOPCHANCES Wood Burning Kit:

This is a professional model designed to offer wood burners with a wide variety of features for their carving projects. The product has an adjustable temperature control dial to access temperatures up to 1000⁰F. There are two pieces of alloy pens, which can be used at the same time, as well as 20 pieces of wire tips for different etching patterns.

The pen tips heat up very fast, and they have prolonged lifetime use because of its anti-oxidation nature as well as its high resistance to carbon deposition. Other accessories are provided to ensure the convenient use of the product.

Pros:

  • Easy temperature adjustment
  • Durable construction
  • Several pen tips
  • Dual heating pens can be used at the same time

Cons:

  • The heat controller tends to burn a lot

6. Beacon Pet Wood Burning Kit:

This is a great wood-burning product that can be used to work on wood, leather, gourds, or even bamboo strips. This is simply because it has a digital adjustable heat control dial, which can be used to switch between low and high temperatures. There are 20 unique wire tips and two burning pens to be used for different crafting activities.

The pens are fitted with a bakelite block to prevent the transfer of heat onto the handles. The product comes with a 1-year warranty in case you are unsatisfied with the quality of service.

Pros:

  • Has a durable build
  • Adjustable temperature settings
  • 20 wire tips for different etching designs
  • 1-year warranty

Cons:

  • Can be relatively expensive

Conclusion

Getting the right set of wood-burning equipment can make all the difference between amateurism and expertise. The best wood burning kit can provide you with all the functions and features you need to create exemplary pieces of wood design.

Filed Under: Top Reviews

Best Wood Burning Tool Reviews in 2020- Top Rated of the Year

April 22, 2020 by Evanston Leave a Comment

Pyrography, the free-handed art of designing wood by burning the surface, can be intimidating for many, especially for the uninitiated. Yes, it can be complicated, but there are ways to make things easier. Among others, one of the most important is to invest in the right tool. You will need the best wood burning tool for the craft!

A wood burning tool works like a pen except that it relies on heat. It has an adjustable temperature, which will make it versatile as it can work on several materials.

Looking for the best wood burning tool? Read on and learn from the insights we’ll share in this short buying guide.

Best Wood Burning Tool

Top 6 Picks for the Best Wood Burning Tool Reviews

If you are clueless about what to buy, below are some of the best products that should be on your radar.

1. Walnut Hollow Creative Versa Tool

If you are just starting to discover the wonderful world of wood burning, this is a great tool to have. It is affordable, so you won’t think twice in purchasing this product. Despite being cheap, it has a decent performance, especially when compared to other options within the price range.

More than being affordable, we also love how versatile this tool is. It comes with eleven interchangeable tips, so you will find it easy to explore with various designs. You can practice different point techniques with the tips that are included in the set. Another thing that makes it versatile is the presence of variable temperatures. You can easily select the heat level that you prefer.

The design is also notable, making sure of your highest level of comfort. There is a comfort grip to minimize the pressure that your hand can feel with extended use. It also comes with a heat shield so that your hand won’t feel hot.

Pros:

  • Affordable
  • Beginner-friendly
  • Comes with multiple tips

Cons:

  • Tips can be difficult to screw
  • Does not get as hot as premium models

2. Dremel 2000-01 Vera Tip Precision Butane Soldering Torch

Wood burning does not need to be a complicated task. It can be a lot easier when you are using the right tool, and that is where this product will come handy.

This is 14-piece kit complete with almost anything that you will need to get started. Aside from wood burning, you can also use this for soldering, hot cutting, and shrinking, among other tasks.

It comes with an integrated ignition trigger, which makes it easy to use. The ignition also comes with a safety lock, which will prevent accidental operation. However, there are some people who expressed their disappointment over how the ignition can be prone to problems.

To make it versatile, there is a variable temperature control. You can choose the heat setting appropriate for a specific task.

Pros:

  • Lightweight and compact
  • Comes with a case
  • Premium construction

Cons:

  • Replacement parts are hard to find
  • Can be prone to ignition issues

3. TRUArt Stage 2 Single Pen Professional Wood Burning Detailer

A lot of you may instantly be discouraged upon seeing the price of this wood burning tool. That should not be the case. It is expensive for a reason. If you look at its features and performance, you will easily understand why it is more expensive that most of its competitors.

The burning tool comes with a 60-watt motor, which is one of the reasons why it delivers a powerful performance. Because of the latter, heating will be almost instant. You don’t need to wait long before it is ready.

The ergonomic design of this tool is another good reason to choose it over others. It is sleek and lightweight, so it won’t cause significant strain on your hand even if you are using the tool for an extended period. The buttons are also strategically positioned, making it easier for you to operate.

There are 40 tips included in this product, so you can be sure that there is one suitable for your intended application. The tips are organized in a carrying case, which will also protect them from dust.

Best of all, the manufacturer is offering a satisfaction guarantee. You have three years to try this product without any risk. At any point, if you are unhappy, let the manufacturer know and they will do what it takes to make things right.

Pros:

  • Easy to use
  • Offers temperature control
  • Comes with a satisfaction guarantee

Cons:

  • Expensive
  • Can cause sparks

4. Burnmaster Eagle 2 Port Wood Burner

Similar to the product that has been mentioned above, the price of this wood burning tool can also be an issue for most people. Nonetheless, that shouldn’t be. Th performance of this product will make the price worth it.

When you purchase this product, you will receive two pens and ten tips/ the tips are not as varied as the product above, but they should be more than enough for most applications.

The power supply that comes with this package has a 130-watt motor. This can provide dependable performance to the wood burning tool. It also makes sure that it will heat up almost in an instant.

Another great feature of this product is the micro heat adjustment. With the latter, you will have the freedom to choose the desired temperature depending on what a specific task requires.

For your peace of mind, this product comes with a three-year warranty from the manufacturer.

Pros:

  • Easy to use
  • Offers a convenient temperature control
  • Good warranty coverage

Cons:

  • Expensive
  • Can have durability issues

5. Walnut Hollow Creative Wood Burner Introduction Value Pen for Beginners

If you are looking for a budget-friendly option for the best wood burning tool, this is one product that should be on your list. Because it is cheap, however, do not expect too much in its quality. Nonetheless, if you are a beginner, this can be pretty decent.

This kit is inclusive of four tips that you can use for different tasks. As you can see, this is not as varied as the tips you can find in the more expensive choices for a wood burning tool.

If you are a beginner, there’s no need to worry. The manufacturer provides comprehensive instructions so that you will get the hang of it.

Pros:

  • Ideal for beginners
  • User-friendly
  • Affordable

Cons:

  • Can get too hot
  • Only good for small projects

6. Burnmaster Eagle Pro Wood Burning Tool

Wrapping up our list is another expensive product. The price means that it is a powerful wood burning tool. The motor won’t disappoint even the pros. It will get hot in an instant, eliminating the need to wait.

For versatility, this is inclusive of two pens. The power unit also comes with two ports that will easily power either of the pen. To add, there are 15 tips that are included, so you can easily find one that is suitable to the task at hand. The tips and the pens, meanwhile, can be easily organized with the bag that will be included in your purchase.

Lastly, the unit comes with a three-year warranty from the manufacturer.

Pros:

  • Easy to use
  • Has a powerful motor
  • Comes with a bag

Cons:

  • Expensive
  • Changing tips can be tricky

How to Choose the Best Wood Burning Tool

With the myriad of options, deciding what to buy can be a challenging task. Here are some things to consider.

Ease of Use

One of the first things you need to consider is how easy will it be to use the wood burning tool. There are two main things that will have an impact on this – weight and design. It should be ergonomic, making it effortless to grip. The wood burning tool should also be lightweight so that you can hold it comfortably even for an extended period.

Heating Time

Most of you are probably impatient, and hence, you need to find a wood burning tool that heats quickly. It can be frustrating if you need to wait a long time before it is ready to be used. If it warms quickly, you can make the most out of your time.

Versatility

A wood burning tool is a versatile tool in the arsenal of people interested in arts and crafts. To make it useful in more ways than one, look for a product that comes with interchangeable tips. Whether you want thin or thick lines, there should be tips available based on the outcome that you desire.

Another way by which the wood burning tool can be versatile would be through having several heat settings. Cheap models have one heat setting only. It will be better if you have the freedom to control the temperature depending on what a task requires.

Conclusion

Now is the time to unleash your creativity! Pick the best wood burning tool and experiment with art! With the right tool, even if you are a newbie, you will find it easier to get into pyrography. Consider our suggestions above to find a tool that will be worth your every dollar!

Filed Under: Top Reviews

Top 6 Best Wood Stove for Tiny House Reviews in 2020

April 21, 2020 by Evanston Leave a Comment

The best wood stove for tiny house is a versatile investment you never thought you need!

It is a practical equipment that you can use beyond your home. If you are an outdoor enthusiast, you can use the stove in campsites, RVs, and other small spaces.

Wood stoves can be multifunctional. Aside from cooking, they are also often used for heating a room, making it a great alternative to a traditional fireplace.

Are you looking for the best wood stove for tiny house? You came to the right place. Keep on reading and we’ll let you know some of the options worth considering.

Best Wood Stove for Tiny House

Top 6 Picks for the Best Wood Stove for Tiny House Reviews in 2020

No idea about the wood stove to buy? To help you out, here are some of the products that should be on your radar.

1. Guide Gear Outdoor Wood Stove

As you search for the best wood stove for tiny house, this is one product that can prove to be promising when it comes to heating and cooking. The top doubles as a stove.

This isn’t one of those wood stoves that use cheap materials. It uses premium galvanized steel, which is known for its ability to withstand high temperatures. It also has a matte black finish, which will not easily peel.

The wood stove comes with an impressive construction, so you can expect the best bang for the buck. There is a front hinged door, making it effortless to add the wood that you will use. The door is made of cast iron, a material popular for its toughness.

To control the heat, there are vent holes in strategic positions. The adjustable air vent is built-in on the cast iron door.

This is quite heavy and there is no carrying handle. The good thing is that most of the parts are removable, including the pipe nest. Once removed, it can fit inside the stove, making it easy to carry around.

When you purchase this wood stove, you will also receive an ash rake and fire poker.

Pros:

  • Heat-resistant finish
  • Large firebox
  • Easy to use

Cons:

  • No carrying handles
  • Does not come with a side rack

2. TMS Portable Military Camping Wood Stove

For a wood stove that you can easily bring outdoors, this is a great choice. Similar to the model mentioned above, almost all components are removable, making it easy to carry. These parts are also lightweight.

In terms of construction, it is made of rolled steel. This is a common material of choice within its price range. However, if you are looking for a premium product, this isn’t for you. This type of steel may not be as durable. Also, there are people who complained about how the pain might easily peel.

We love how it comes with side racks. It will double as a warming and drying space, making it possible to maximize space availability.

While it can be used even indoors, pay attention to proper installation and ventilation to ensure safety.

Pros:

  • Affordable
  • Comes with a drying rack
  • Stable legs

Cons:

  • Outside paint can easily peel
  • Durability can be better

3. Camp Chef Alpine Heavy-Duty Cylinder Stove

The brand name of this stove alone can already be a compelling reason for you to choose this product over others.

It has 10-12-gauge stainless steel construction, making it great if you are looking for durability. This is also a great material because of its heating efficiency, so you can be confident that you won’t end up wasting wood.

It comes with a flat-top surface, which will provide a convenient area where you can cook.

While the stove is heavy, all of the parts can be easily removed from the main unit. It can fit inside, so it is easy to carry around if you will use it outside of your house.

It also comes with a full-hinged door. This means that you can easily add wood. There is also a door damper, which will make the stove more efficient.

Lastly, the wood stove has adjustable legs. This makes it easy to level the unit depending on the surface where it is placed.

Pros:

  • Durable construction
  • Comes with a warming rack
  • Delivers efficient heating

Cons:

  • Heavy
  • Expensive

4. US Stove Company 1269E Cast Iron Stove

Looking for a wood stove that blends form with function? This is one of the options that should be on your list. We like the rustic look, which will surely look good in vintage-inspired rooms. It is sure to be a head-turner.

More than its aesthetics, this wood stove is also praised because of its durability, which we can attribute to the material used in its construction. It is made using high-quality cast iron, providing an assurance that it will withstand many years of use.

The performance of this wood stove is hard to match, making it worth every dollar you will be spending. It generates up to 54,000 BTU of heat. This is ideal for heating spaces up to 900 square feet.

The surface of the stove is flat and doubles as a convenient cooktop.

Pros:

  • Durable construction
  • Stylish
  • Comes with an adjustable damper

Cons:

  • Heavy
  • Air supply may be insufficient

5. US Stove 2000 EPA-Certified Wood Stove

This is from the same company as the product mentioned above, so you can expect the same great performance. Among others, one thing that we liked the most in this model is its heating capacity. Based on the technical specifications, it can heat spaces up to 2,000 square feet. This is possible as it can produce as much as 89,000 BTU of heat.

The elegant design of this wood stove will surely captivate your attention. It has an arched glass door. You can see the fire burning from the pit like a traditional fireplace. The door is also large enough, making it easy to add wood as needed.

It is also worth mentioning that it meets the stringent EPA requirements, so you can be confident about its safety. It can also be used in mobile homes.

Pros:

  • Durable
  • Large firebox
  • Easy to light

Cons:

  • The fan can be quite loud
  • No option to close air inlets

6. Cubic Grizzly Mini Wood Stove

The hefty price of this wood stove is one thing that many of you would instantly notice. Do not let this discourage you from choosing this product. It will be worth every dollar.

One of the best things about this stove is the use of laser-cut steel, which will be long-lasting. There is also a ceramic glass door. Because the door is transparent, it will be easy to monitor the woods and fire. This also makes it more stylish. It will look like a mini fireplace. The main difference is that it is more functional since you can use it for cooking once you remove the rail on the top.

Despite the small size of this model, it is powerful. It can produce 8,000 to 18,000 BTU. According to the manufacturer, it can be used for spaces that are up to 400 square feet.

Pros:

  • Elegant and stylish
  • Easy to monitor fire
  • Durable

Cons:

  • Expensive
  • No ash pan

How to Choose the Best Wood Stove for Tiny House

The options for wood stoves will be plenty. However, this should not be an excuse to choose just any product, to help you narrow down the choices, here are some of the most important considerations.

Size

One of the most important is the size of the stove. As mentioned, we are talking about stoves for tiny houses, so it should be small. A lot of models are portable enough that you can use them even in the campsite, boats, or RVs.

Construction

Consider the materials that are used in the wood stove. This will influence the stove’s durability and performance. Galvanized and stainless steel are common materials. If you want one that you can take out of your home easily, opt for lighter alternatives.

Heating Capacity

This refers to the size of the room that the wood stove can heat. Because it is meant for a tiny house, expect that it won’t have a high heating capacity. Nonetheless, make sure that it can effectively heat the room where it will be used. The heat output will directly impact the stove’s performance.

Ease of Use

It can be frustrating to have a stove that is complicated to use. So, pay attention to the features and make sure that it is user-friendly. For instance, adding wood should be easy. There should be a large opening that will allow you to add wood in a breeze.

Style

The best wood stove is a combination of form and function. So, don’t forget to consider the aesthetic of the product. If it is going to be a staple feature of your home, pick a stylish wood stove that will perfectly complement the overall look of the house.

Safety

Using a wood stove can have accompanying safety risks. Pick one with a stable base. Otherwise, it will be easy to knock and can potentially start a fire. Make sure that there is a secure door. Look at the certifications and see if it has been tested. The design of the chimney and the pipe will also have an impact on safety.

Conclusion

With the best wood stove for tiny house, you can enjoy a versatile and space-saving equipment. You can use it even in the campsite! Aside from cooking, these stoves can also help to keep you warm and comfortable when a traditional fireplace is not available. Consider our suggestions above to find a wood stove that will work best for your needs!

Filed Under: Top Reviews

Pork Butt vs Pork Shoulder: Know Your Meat

April 19, 2020 by Evanston Leave a Comment

Cut of pork can be confusing, especially if you don’t go to the butcher often or if you do not know your meat. The terms can be overwhelming. For the uninitiated, it is easy to be baffled.

Among others, pork butt and pork shoulders are two terms that are always used interchangeably. Despite the use of the name butt, this is not from the butt of the pig. Both are from the shoulder, but they are in slightly different locations.

If you are confused, we are here to extend a helping hand. Keep on reading and we’ll talk about pork butt vs pork shoulder. The next time you need to buy meat, it will be easier to grab what you need.

Pork Butt vs Pork Shoulder

Where Is It From?

When it comes to pork butt vs pork shoulder, the most obvious difference is where they are from. While they both come from the shoulder, they are in different parts.

Pork butt is also called Boston butt. This is from the higher part of the hog. It is from the top part of the shoulder, which is also the portion that is closest to the spine. This is a large and rectangular cut without the skin.

If it isn’t from the butt of the hog, why is it called a pork butt? This is probably the question that many of you might have at this point. The simplest explanation to this is that butt is another word for a barrel, which refers to the shoulder, the part where the port butt is from.

On the other hand, pork shoulder is also called picnic shoulder or picnic roast. This is found directly below the butt. It is a sub-primal cut, which runs from the bottom of the butt to the front of the legs.

How It is Sold?

There are also differences on how they are sold or on how they appear once they are displayed in meat shops. The pork butt is usually sold with the shoulder blade still attached to the meat. The fat, on the other hand, is capped on one side. There is usually no skin. As for the shape, it is rectangular and uniform.

Meanwhile, when you buy pork shoulders, it still has the skin and it is also bone-in. For the shape, it is tapered and triangular. It is irregular, so you have to take that into account when thinking of the best ways to cook this cut of pork.

Which is Tougher?

When looking for pork meat, toughness is one of the most important considerations. Ideally, it shouldn’t be tough so that it will be easy to chew. With this, you should choose meat from a part that is not frequently used. If it is from over-used muscles, expect that the meat will be hard, and hence, will require a longer time cooking if you want it to be easier to chew.

Both pork butt and shoulder are from the muscles that the hog often use. So, they can be tough. However, the pork shoulder is usually tougher and denser. The secret is to cook them long enough to make it easier to chew.

Which has More Fat?

Fat is important because of marbling. Most people like their meat to have a bit of fat, which will also make it juicy. If there is no fat, then expect that the meat will be dry once it is cooked. This can also make it tougher.

If you are looking for juicy marbled fat, then you should go with pork butt. Also, when it is sold, it still has the fat on.

When Should You Use Pork Butt?

With the fat marbling in pork butt, this is best to use if you are cooking low and slow. Stewing and braising will also be great cooking methods for this part of a hog. It easily falls apart and it will be tender.

One of the best ways to use a pork butt is for a pulled pork sandwich. If you plan to do so, make sure to keep it in the oven until the internal temperature of the meat reaches 195 degrees Fahrenheit. At this point, you will be assured that the muscles and tissues have already broken down. It will be tender, and hence, it will be easier to pull it using a fork.

It will also make a nice choice for barbecuing. The marbling or the fat in the meat is the reason for this. It will drip on the meat and will make it juicier. This can impart more flavor.

When Should You Use Pork Shoulder?

When you buy pork shoulder, it is sold with its skin on. Therefore, this is a great meat of choice if you want crackling and crispy skin to be on your meat.

Barbecuing and smoking are the best ways to use pork shoulder. Use hardwood chips and charcoal to infuse a strong smoky flavor on the meat. To achieve the dark and crusty interior of the pork shoulder, make sure that the temperature is from 225 to 275 degrees Fahrenheit.

Spit roasting is another great way to cook pork shoulder. The meat will baste itself. The interior will be brown and crispy. This method of cooking requires a high temperature, so keep the heat at approximately 350 to 400 degrees Fahrenheit.

Conclusion

Now that you have reached the end of this guide, we hope that you were enlightened about pork butt vs pork shoulder. The two are from the shoulder of a hog, but pork butt is from the top part near the spine while pork shoulder is below and nearer the foreleg. Pork butt is well marbled with intramuscular fat. It is a great choice for pulled pork sandwiches, barbecues, and stews. Pork shoulder is leaner and has lesser fat. This is great for smoking and spit roasting, among other recipes where there should be a crispy skin.

Filed Under: How to Cook

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