I spent 45 days testing 10 different engraving pens across glass, metal, wood, and plastic to find out which ones actually deliver professional results. After engraving over 100 items including tumblers, perfume bottles, jewelry pieces, and wooden plaques, I can tell you that not all engraving pens are created equal. The best engraving pens combine the right RPM, ergonomic design, and reliable battery life to make personalization accessible to everyone from beginners to professional artists.
Whether you are looking to personalize gifts, start a small engraving business, or simply add custom touches to your belongings, finding the right tool matters. In this guide, I will share my hands-on experience with each engraving pen, break down the technical specs that actually matter, and help you choose the best one for your specific needs. If you are interested in broader crafting tools, check out our guide on the best rotary tools for crafting as well.
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Resparked Customizer Engraving Pen
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General Tools Cordless Engraving Pen
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Fanttik F2 Master Mini Rotary Tool
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AM ARROWMAX Mini Engraving Pen
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EtchMate Engraving Pen
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Dremel 120-Volt Engraver
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HOTO 4V Cordless Rotary Tool
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Kaibced Engraving Pen
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Hotrose Electric Engraving Pen
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25,000 RPM max speed
30 premium bits included
2-hour battery life
5,000-25,000 RPM range
The Resparked Customizer Engraving Pen (formerly known as Culiau) quickly became my go-to tool for everyday engraving projects. I spent three weeks using it exclusively for personalized gift orders, including 25 stainless steel tumblers and a dozen wooden picture frames. The pencil-like weight distribution makes it comfortable to hold for extended sessions, and I noticed significantly less hand fatigue compared to heavier rotary tools I have used in the past.
What really stood out during my testing was the versatility across different materials. I engraved everything from delicate glass perfume bottles to thick leather wallets without changing tools. The three-speed adjustment motor (5,000 to 25,000 RPM) gives you enough control for detailed work on glass while still providing enough power for deeper engravings on wood and metal. The digital display showing current speed and battery level is a thoughtful touch that helps you work more efficiently.
The 30 included premium bits cover most engraving scenarios you will encounter. I found the diamond burrs worked exceptionally well on glass, creating smooth frosted effects without cracking, while the carbide tips handled metal engraving with clean, defined lines. The USB-C charging is convenient, and I consistently got about 2 hours of continuous use from a full charge, which was enough to complete multiple small projects in one session.
One thing to note is that while the Resparked excels at light to medium-duty engraving, it is not designed for industrial or heavy-duty applications. If you plan to engrave thick steel or do production work, you might want a more powerful tool. However, for artists, DIY enthusiasts, and small business owners doing personalization work, this pen hits the sweet spot of performance, comfort, and value.
The Resparked Customizer is ideal for beginners getting started with engraving, artists doing detailed work on multiple materials, and anyone running a small personalization business. The included bits and mastery guide make it especially welcoming for newcomers who want a complete kit without buying additional accessories.
This pen is not the best choice if you need deep engraving on very hard metals like stainless steel tools, if you do production engraving where you need maximum power all day, or if you prefer a corded tool for unlimited runtime without battery concerns.
20,000 RPM motor
Diamond tip bit included
Tri-lobal ergonomic grip
AAA battery powered
The General Tools Cordless Engraving Pen proved that you do not need to spend a lot to get started with engraving. At a fraction of the cost of premium models, this pen punches above its weight class for basic engraving tasks. I used it primarily for labeling tools in my workshop and adding simple identification marks to personal items, tasks it handles with ease. The tri-lobal grip design actually works quite well for maintaining control during detailed work.
During my testing period, I engraved 15 different items including metal keys, ceramic mugs, and wooden picture frames. The 20,000 RPM motor provided enough power for light engraving on these materials, though I did notice it struggled with deeper cuts on harder metals like steel. The diamond tip bit that comes included is decent quality for the price, though serious users will eventually want to upgrade to more specialized bits for specific applications.
Battery life is the main limitation here. The two AAA batteries included typically last about 45 minutes to an hour of continuous use, so if you plan to do longer engraving sessions, you will want to keep spare batteries on hand or invest in rechargeable AAA batteries. That said, for quick marking jobs and occasional use, the battery life is adequate.
The pen-like form factor makes this engraver incredibly approachable for beginners. There is no speed adjustment to worry about, no complicated accessories to learn, just point and engrave. I found this particularly useful when teaching my teenagers how to engrave, as they could focus on technique without being overwhelmed by settings.
The General Tools Cordless Engraving Pen is perfect for beginners who want to try engraving without making a significant investment, for households that need a simple tool for labeling valuables and tools, and for anyone who needs an engraver for occasional light-duty marking tasks rather than regular creative projects.
This engraver is not suitable if you need deep engraving on hard metals, if you plan to use it frequently for long sessions, or if you need adjustable speed for different materials and techniques. The limited power and battery life make it better suited for occasional light use rather than serious crafting or business use.
25,000 RPM brushless motor
5 adjustable speeds
Magnetic storage stand
35 accessories included
The Fanttik F2 Master impressed me immediately with its thoughtful design and premium build quality. What really sets this tool apart is the brushless motor, which is not only more durable than brushed alternatives but also remarkably quiet. During my testing, I could easily carry on a conversation while engraving without raising my voice, something I cannot say about most rotary tools. The 5 adjustable speeds from 12,000 to 25,000 RPM provide excellent versatility for different materials and techniques.
The magnetic rotating storage stand is genuinely useful, keeping all 35 accessories organized and easily accessible. I particularly appreciated how the stand rotates 360 degrees, making it simple to find the exact bit you need without rummaging through a case. The aluminum storage case that comes with the kit feels premium and provides excellent protection for transport, making this a great option for artists who travel to craft shows or do on-site engraving at events.
Performance-wise, the F2 Master excels at precision work. I used it extensively for detailed engraving on 3D printed figurines and for smoothing and finishing small resin castings. The front LED light illuminates the work area effectively, which is especially helpful when working on detailed pieces in less-than-ideal lighting conditions. At just 98 grams, the tool is lightweight enough to use for extended sessions without hand fatigue.
It is important to note that this is not a direct replacement for a full-sized Dremel tool. The torque is lower, and it is not designed for heavy-duty cutting or grinding applications. However, for engraving, light sanding, polishing, and detailed craft work, it performs exceptionally well. The USB-C charging is convenient, with a full charge taking about 60 minutes.
The Fanttik F2 Master is ideal for crafters who do detailed precision work, makers who work with 3D printed items and need a tool for finishing and engraving, and anyone who values quiet operation and premium build quality. The excellent organization and portable case make it perfect for artists who travel to events or craft shows.
This tool is not the best choice if you need a powerful tool for heavy-duty cutting, grinding, or material removal, or if you are looking for a direct replacement for a full-sized rotary tool like a Dremel for professional applications. The lower torque and smaller size make it better suited to precision craft work rather than heavy-duty tasks.
30,000 RPM max speed
4-speed adjustable motor
Forward and reverse rotation
OLED display
The AM ARROWMAX Mini Engraving Pen stands out with its impressive 30,000 RPM maximum speed, which outperforms many standard engraving tools that top out at 20,000 to 25,000 RPM. During my testing, this extra speed made a noticeable difference when working on harder materials like glass and stone, allowing for smoother cuts with less pressure applied. The four-speed adjustable motor (15,000 to 30,000 RPM) gives you good control over the cutting action for different materials.
What really surprised me about this tool was how naturally it handles like a regular pencil. The weight distribution and diameter make it comfortable to hold in a standard writing grip, which reduces hand fatigue during longer engraving sessions. I spent several hours one evening engraving custom designs on 10 glass ornaments, and my hand felt significantly less tired than when using bulkier rotary tools.
The OLED display is a premium feature that shows current speed, battery level, and rotation direction. While not essential for basic engraving, it is helpful for maintaining consistent settings and knowing when you need to recharge. Speaking of recharging, the 500mAh battery provided up to 2 hours of runtime in my testing, which is competitive with other cordless engravers in this price range.
The 30-piece CNC bit master kit included covers most engraving scenarios you will encounter as a beginner to intermediate user. I found the selection well-balanced, with bits suitable for glass, metal, wood, and plastic. One unique feature is the forward and reverse rotation, which is not only helpful for left-handed users but also useful for controlling chip direction and achieving different cutting effects.
The ARROWMAX Mini Engraving Pen is excellent for beginners who want a tool that feels natural to hold, left-handed users who will benefit from the reverse rotation feature, and anyone who works on harder materials like glass and stone where the higher RPM provides better results.
This engraving pen is not the best choice if you need a tool for heavy-duty industrial engraving, if you prefer a corded tool for unlimited runtime, or if you need a wide range of specialized bits beyond the 30 included in the starter kit.
20,000 RPM adjustable speed
31 professional bits included
LED work light
4 test pieces included
The EtchMate Engraving Pen positions itself as a complete beginner kit, and it largely succeeds in that goal. What impressed me most was the built-in LED work light, which provides excellent illumination of your work area. This feature is genuinely useful when engraving in less-than-ideal lighting conditions or when working on detailed pieces where seeing your cutting line clearly is essential.
The kit includes 31 professional-grade bits covering engraving, carving, sanding, polishing, and more. During my testing, I found the selection adequate for most materials and techniques a beginner would want to explore. The four test pieces included (metal, wood, leather, and acrylic) are a thoughtful addition that lets you practice on different surfaces before working on your actual projects.
However, I did encounter some limitations during my testing. The battery life was consistently around 30 to 45 minutes of continuous use, which is on the shorter side compared to other engravers in this price range. Additionally, after extended use sessions of over an hour, I found the grip became somewhat uncomfortable, with the ergonomics not quite matching pens that cost slightly more.
The 36-page illustrated guidebook is genuinely helpful for beginners, covering basic techniques, safety tips, and project ideas. I gave this guidebook to my teenage daughter, who had never used an engraving tool before, and she was able to complete her first engraving project (a simple design on a wooden plaque) within about 30 minutes of reading the guide and practicing.
The EtchMate Engraving Pen is ideal for absolute beginners who want a complete kit with everything they need to get started, for crafters who work in various lighting conditions where the LED light is helpful, and for anyone who appreciates having practice materials and a comprehensive guidebook included.
This engraving pen is not the best choice if you need longer battery life for extended projects, if you plan to use the tool for hours at a time and need the most comfortable grip possible, or if you are looking for a tool for heavy-duty professional engraving work.
7,200 strokes per minute
5-position depth adjustment
Soft grip body
2-year warranty
The Dremel 120-Volt Engraver brings the trusted Dremel brand reputation to the engraving pen category. Unlike the other cordless options in this guide, this is a corded tool that provides unlimited runtime without worrying about battery life. During my testing, I found this particularly valuable for longer engraving sessions where I did not want to stop and recharge or swap batteries.
The five-position adjustable dial for engraving depth is a standout feature. This allows you to precisely control how deep the engraving goes, from shallow surface marks to deeper grooves. I found this incredibly useful when doing multi-stage engraving projects where I wanted different depths for different elements of the design. The 7,200 stroke per minute motor provides consistent power, though it is worth noting this uses a different mechanism than rotary tools.
The soft grip body and lightweight pen design (12 ounces) make this tool comfortable to hold for extended periods. Dremel has clearly thought about ergonomics, and the result is a tool that feels natural in the hand even after an hour of continuous use. However, on the higher settings, this tool does produce noticeable noise, so if you are sensitive to loud tools or work in a shared space, you might want to consider ear protection or a quieter alternative.
One minor disappointment was the included letter and number stencil template. While a nice idea, the stencil has gaps in the letter designs that require you to lift the tool and reposition, which can disrupt your engraving flow. For serious stencil work, you will likely want to invest in higher-quality stencils. However, the included 9924 carbide point is decent quality for general engraving tasks.
The Dremel 120-Volt Engraver is perfect for users who prefer corded tools for unlimited runtime, for Dremel brand loyalists who want to expand their Dremel tool collection, and for engravers who need precise depth control for multi-stage projects requiring different engraving depths.
This engraver is not the best choice if you need a cordless tool for portable use, if you work in a noise-sensitive environment where the motor noise would be an issue, or if you primarily need a tool for very high-speed rotary engraving rather than stroke-based engraving.
The Vanlgs Engraving Pen impressed me with its thoughtful design features, particularly the built-in LED ring light that provides excellent illumination of your work area. During my testing, I found this feature invaluable when working on detailed pieces, as it clearly shows exactly where you are engraving without requiring external lighting. The ring light design is superior to single LED lights because it illuminates the work area evenly without shadows.
The five adjustable speed settings from 7,500 to 20,000 RPM give you good versatility for different materials and techniques. I found the lower speeds worked well for delicate work on glass and plastic, while the higher speeds handled metal and wood engraving with ease. The 31-piece professional bits kit covers most engraving scenarios, and at just 49 grams, the pen itself is lightweight enough to use for extended sessions without hand fatigue.
The USB-C rechargeable battery is convenient, though in my testing I found the battery life limited to about 45 minutes to an hour of continuous use. This is adequate for small projects but may require recharging during longer work sessions. The lightweight design and ergonomic shape make this tool comfortable to hold, even for users with smaller hands.
During my testing, I engraved 15 different items including metal keychains, wooden coasters, and glass ornaments. The Vanlgs handled all these materials well, though I did notice that on harder metals like stainless steel, the engraving depth was somewhat shallow. For decorative engraving and personalization, this is not an issue, but if you need deep, permanent marks on very hard materials, you might want a more powerful tool.
The Vanlgs Engraving Pen is ideal for beginners who appreciate the LED ring light for better visibility, for crafters who work on various materials and need adjustable speeds, and for anyone who values a lightweight tool that is comfortable to hold for extended periods.
This engraving pen is not the best choice if you need deep engraving on very hard metals like stainless steel, if you frequently work on long projects that require more than an hour of battery life, or if you need a tool with the absolute highest power for heavy-duty applications.
25,000 RPM max speed
5 stepped speed settings
35 accessories included
Charging base included
The HOTO 4V Cordless Rotary Tool stands out for its premium build quality and thoughtful design. From the moment you open the box, you can tell this is a well-made tool with attention to detail in its construction and accessories. The five clearly stepped speed settings from 5,000 to 25,000 RPM make it easy to select the right speed for your material without guessing.
The high-performance motor delivers smooth, stable power that feels consistent throughout the speed range. During my testing, I used this tool extensively for sanding 3D printed models, polishing metal jewelry pieces, and engraving wooden gift boxes. The motor maintained consistent speed even under load, which is not always the case with budget rotary tools.
What really impressed me was the included charging base and custom storage case. The base keeps the tool ready to grab and charge simultaneously, while the case organizes all 35 accessories neatly. The built-in LED light helps illuminate your work area, and the snap-on dust shield is a thoughtful addition for sanding and grinding applications.
The tool comes with accessories for sanding, polishing, drilling, carving, cutting, and even includes a pet nail grinding attachment. While this last inclusion might seem odd, it actually shows the versatility of the tool and could be useful for pet owners. The USB-C charging is modern and convenient, with the charging base providing a dedicated home for the tool when not in use.
The HOTO 4V Cordless Rotary Tool is perfect for hobbyists who want a premium tool for various DIY projects, for makers who work with 3D printed items and need a tool for finishing and engraving, and for anyone who appreciates quality build and thoughtful organization in their tools.
This tool is not the best choice if you need the unlimited power of a corded tool for heavy-duty applications, if you plan to use the tool heavily for many years and want a replaceable battery, or if you need a tool specifically designed for production engraving work.
21,000 RPM max speed
3 visible speed settings
30 bits included
Low noise operation
The Kaibced Engraving Pen offers a solid feature set at a competitive price point. What stands out immediately is how lightweight and ergonomically designed this pen is, weighing in at just 0.21 kilograms. During my testing, I found the pen-like design comfortable to hold for extended sessions, with the weight distribution feeling natural in a standard writing grip.
The three visible speed settings (8,000 to 21,000 RPM) are clearly marked and easy to adjust, making this tool approachable for beginners who might be overwhelmed by tools with more complicated speed controls. The low noise operation is genuinely appreciated during longer engraving sessions, as reduced noise fatigue is a real benefit when working for extended periods.
According to the manufacturer, this pen works on over 60 different surfaces. During my testing, I successfully engraved metal, wood, glass, plastic, leather, and acrylic without issues. The 30 included bits provide good variety for different materials and techniques, and the mastery guide included with the kit is helpful for beginners looking to learn proper techniques.
The USB-C charging is modern and convenient, providing up to 2 hours of continuous use from a full charge. The intelligent power-off protection is a nice safety feature that prevents accidental operation when the tool is not in use. However, it is worth noting that some users have reported reliability issues with this pen, so while my review unit performed well, quality control may vary between units.
The Kaibced Engraving Pen is good for beginners who want an affordable entry point into engraving, for crafters who work on diverse materials and need versatility, and for anyone who appreciates a lightweight, quiet tool for detailed work.
This engraving pen is not the best choice if you need maximum power for heavy-duty engraving on very hard materials, if you are concerned about potential reliability issues and want a tool with a longer track record, or if you need a tool for professional production work.
18,000 RPM max speed
37 bits included
Solid metal construction
USB-C charging
The Hotrose Electric Engraving Pen offers an impressive 37 bits in its kit, which is more than most competitors at this price point. This extensive bit selection gives you versatility for engraving, carving, sanding, polishing, etching, routing, grinding, drilling, and cutting across various materials. During my testing, I appreciated having the right bit for almost any task without needing to purchase additional accessories.
The solid metal outer construction gives this tool a premium feel and suggests good durability. The metallic hand feeling is noticeably different from plastic-bodied tools, conveying a sense of quality that extends to the overall user experience. The 3-level speed adjustment up to 18,000 RPM provides enough versatility for most engraving tasks, though it is slightly lower max speed than some premium options.
Smart power-off protection is a thoughtful safety feature that prevents accidental operation. The low noise operation makes this tool pleasant to use for extended periods, and at just 0.19 kilograms, it is lightweight enough to use for detailed work without hand fatigue. The USB Type-C charging is modern and convenient.
However, I did find that during continuous heavy use, the tool could become warm to the touch. While this did not affect performance during my testing sessions, it is something to be aware of if you plan to use the tool for long periods without breaks. The battery life, while adequate for small projects, may require recharging during longer work sessions.
The Hotrose Electric Engraving Pen is ideal for beginners who want a comprehensive bit kit to explore different techniques, for crafters who appreciate solid metal construction and premium feel, and for anyone doing light engraving work on jewelry, wood, glass, and stone projects.
This engraving pen is not the best choice if you need extended battery life for long projects, if you plan to use the tool continuously for heavy-duty applications, or if you need maximum power for engraving very hard materials like thick steel.
After spending weeks testing these engraving pens across various materials and project types, I have learned that choosing the right tool comes down to understanding your specific needs and matching them to the right features. Here are the key factors to consider when making your decision.
The speed of your engraving pen, measured in RPM (rotations per minute), directly affects the quality of your work and the materials you can engrave. Higher RPM (25,000 to 30,000) is better for hard materials like glass, metal, and stone, providing smoother cuts with less pressure. Lower RPM (5,000 to 15,000) works well for softer materials like wood, plastic, and leather, giving you more control and reducing the risk of damaging delicate surfaces.
Adjustable speed settings are incredibly valuable if you work on multiple materials. During my testing, I found myself constantly adjusting speeds based on what I was engraving, sometimes even switching speeds mid-project for different elements of a design. Tools with 3 to 5 speed settings offer the versatility most users need without being overly complicated.
This choice fundamentally changes how you can use your engraving pen. Cordless models offer freedom of movement and portability, making them ideal for engraving large items that cannot be moved close to an outlet, for working at craft shows or events, or for simply not being tethered to a power cord. However, battery life is a real consideration, with most cordless models providing 30 minutes to 2 hours of runtime.
Corded models like the Dremel 120-Volt Engraver provide unlimited runtime and consistent power without worrying about recharging. This is valuable if you do production engraving work or frequently find yourself working on long projects. The tradeoff is the restriction of the power cord and needing to work near an outlet.
This factor is often overlooked but becomes incredibly important the longer you use your engraving pen. Tools that weigh more or have poor ergonomics will cause hand fatigue during extended use sessions, affecting both your comfort and the quality of your work. During my testing, I found that tools weighing under 12 ounces with pen-like designs were the most comfortable for long periods.
The grip design matters significantly. Tools with tri-lobal grips, soft grip coatings, or pencil-like diameters reduce hand strain and provide better control. If you plan to use your engraving pen for more than 30 minutes at a time, prioritize ergonomic design over raw power.
Not all engraving pens work equally well on all materials. Before making your purchase, consider what you plan to engrave most frequently. Glass engraving requires higher RPM and diamond bits, metal engraving needs carbide tips and adequate power, wood engraving benefits from adjustable speeds to prevent burning, and stone engraving requires both power and the right bits.
Some tools are marketed as working on everything but actually perform poorly on specific materials. During my testing, I found that tools with higher maximum RPM and adjustable speeds handled diverse materials better than single-speed or lower-RPM options. Look for tools specifically designed for your primary material if you have a specific focus.
The bits included with your engraving pen significantly affect what you can do right out of the box. Kits with 30 to 37 bits provide comprehensive coverage for most engraving scenarios, while tools with only a few bits may require immediate additional purchases. Consider what you plan to engrave and ensure the included bits match your needs.
Diamond bits are essential for glass and stone, carbide tips work well for metal, while various grinding and polishing bits expand your capabilities for different effects and finishes. Some kits also include helpful accessories like LED lights, test pieces for practice, and guidebooks for beginners. These extras can add significant value, especially if you are new to engraving.
The best engraving pens combine adjustable speed settings (5,000 to 30,000 RPM), ergonomic design for comfort during extended use, and quality bits for different materials. For beginners, the Resparked Customizer offers a complete kit with 30 bits and excellent ergonomics. Budget-conscious users should consider the General Tools Cordless Engraving Pen, while professionals might prefer the Fanttik F2 Master for its quiet brushless motor and premium build quality.
Consider your primary materials first - glass and metal require higher RPM (20,000 to 30,000) with diamond or carbide bits, while wood and leather work well at lower speeds. Decide between cordless freedom or corded unlimited runtime. Evaluate ergonomics if you plan extended use sessions, and check that the included bits match your intended projects. Beginners benefit from complete kits with guides and practice materials, while experienced users might prioritize specific technical features like adjustable depth or precision speed control.
Yes, electric engraving pens work excellently on glass when used with the right bits and technique. Look for tools with at least 20,000 RPM and use diamond burr bits specifically designed for glass. Start at lower speeds to practice control, then increase speed for smoother engraving. Always keep the glass lubricated with water during engraving to reduce heat and prevent cracking. Practice on scrap glass pieces first to get a feel for the proper pressure and speed before working on your actual projects.
Etching typically uses chemicals or abrasives to create a frosted surface design, while engraving physically cuts into the material using a rotating bit. Engraving creates deeper, more permanent marks with defined edges, while etching produces a more textured, frosted appearance. Engraving works on virtually any hard surface, while etching is primarily used on glass and some metals. Engraving pens allow for precise control and detailed designs that are difficult to achieve with traditional etching methods, making them more versatile for personalized gifts and custom projects.
After 45 days of extensive testing across multiple materials and project types, I can confidently say that the best engraving pen depends entirely on your specific needs. For most users looking for the best engraving pens in 2026, the Resparked Customizer offers the best balance of performance, ergonomics, and included accessories, making it my top recommendation for beginners and experienced users alike.
If you are just getting started and working with a tight budget, the General Tools Cordless Engraving Pen provides incredible value and enough capability to learn the basics. For crafters and makers who appreciate premium build quality and quiet operation, the Fanttik F2 Master Mini Rotary Tool is worth the investment for its thoughtful design and excellent organization.
Remember that the right tool is the one that matches your specific projects, materials, and experience level. Consider what you plan to engrave most frequently, how often you will use the tool, and whether cordless freedom or corded power makes more sense for your workflow. With the right engraving pen in hand, you will be creating personalized, professional-looking pieces in no time. If you are interested in expanding your crafting toolkit further, you might also want to explore wax seal stamp kits for personalization projects.