Overview
The Wagner FURNO 500 LED Heat Gun is one of the most versatile tools out there. In addition to its more widely known uses, like stripping paint without chemicals; softening and removing glues and adhesives; and removing formica and linoleum, it also makes a multitude of craft projects easier. With the holidays just around the corner, today we’re demonstrating how to use the FURNO to make pickle forks from vintage silverware. Pair the fork with a jar of homemade pickles for an inexpensive and creative gift idea.
Before
After
Find some vintage forks
It’s easy to find vintage flatware at yard sales and thrift shops for just a few pennies. We’ve come up with a creative way to repurpose mismatched forks using our FURNO 500 LED Heat Gun.
Step 1
Turn on heat gun
Turn the FURNO on and allow it to heat up. We used low heat and no tip for this project; depending on the metal composition of your flatware, you might need to increase the heat to high. To increase the temperature, simply press the plus button until your desired temperature is reached. The FURNO’s integrated stand allows you to keep your hands free to work.
Step 2
Heat the fork tines
Heat the tines of the fork for 10-15 seconds and then use needle-nosed pliers to test whether or not they bend easily. Since the flatware will conduct heat, we recommend wearing heat-resistant gloves.
Step 3
Continue heating if needed
If the tines don’t bend readily, heat them for another 10-15 seconds and check them again.
Step 4
Curl all but one tine
When the tines are easily bendable, use a rag to prevent the pliers from making marks on the silverware and roll all but one of the tines into a curl. The remaining tine is perfect for spearing a pickle!
Step 5
Gift your pickle fork with a jar of pickles
Pair this easy DIY pickle fork with a jar of crunchy refrigerator pickles and our free downloadable tags–available in “Merry Christmas” or “Happy Holidays” –for a thoughtful and delicious homemade gift idea!
To download the free tags and our favorite pickle recipe, or to see other great ways to repurpose vintage silverware using the FURNO 500, please visit us at 11 Magnolia Lane
Step 6
Download Project Steps & Shopping List
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