The heat gun that I have, or better said had until it died and flew off to that heat gun cloud in the sky, was a Uline H-915 variable temp heat gun. My temperature ranges for my gun were from 110°F – 930°F (45°C – 500°C). 930°F is way too high and the optimal heat for heating Super Sculpey according to the instructions is at around 275°F. I try to aim for a temperature around 225°F-250°F when I bake or heat up my sculptures. I’ve never used an embossing gun but as long as it can get up to around 250°F I think you will be OK. I’ve tried using a hairdryer in the past but it just took forever to get anywhere. Even using a good heat gun takes some time so I would recommend spending the money up front for a decent model. I did a quick search on Google and found the Uline H-915 for around $60 so it really isn’t that expensive if the embossing gun doesn’t look like it is going to work out for you.

Just a quick note, if you set the temperature too high the clay will bubble and eventually burn. I’ve made that mistake a few times and there is nothing worse than having little bubbles on your artwork. So it is always better to start with a lower temperature and work your way up.

I hope that helps.
Gerald

I have become especially interested in heat guns after reading in Sandra McCall’s book “Stamping Effects in Polymer Clay” that blasting an already baked piece with a heat gun will “create great shine without sanding and buffing.”

There are no children in our home, so high temperatures are not a concern, but I am wondering what is the lowest wattage or lowest temperature that would be useful. Lower heat seems to be cheaper, but I want to be sure that I don’t buy a heat gun whose temperature will be too low for this purpose and then have to buy another one.

I would much appreciate any information along this line.