A heat gun is one of those tools you don’t realize you need until you’re halfway through a project. I picked up my first one to strip paint from an old window frame, and within a month I’d used it for shrink tubing, removing stickers, drying glue, and even bending PVC pipe for a custom planter stand.
The right heat gun for DIY projects depends on what you actually do most often. Crafters and resin artists need precise low-temperature control. Paint strippers want maximum heat output and airflow. People doing electronics repair want a focused nozzle and the ability to dial in narrow temperature ranges.
I spent the last three months testing 8 heat guns across these different use cases. Some surprised me with their versatility, while a few disappointed with cheap construction or inconsistent heat output. This guide breaks down what I found, what works best for different DIY tasks, and how to pick the right one without overpaying for features you won’t use.
The market for heat guns in 2026 spans everything from $11 mini craft pens to $170 cordless kits from major tool brands. I’ve focused on the sweet spot of proven performers with solid review counts, since a heat gun with 30,000+ reviews tells you something about long-term reliability that a fresh release can’t.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best Heat Guns for DIY Projects
SEEKONE 1800W Variable Temperature Heat Gun
- Variable 122-1202°F range
- Heats in 1.5 seconds
- 4 nozzles included
- Overheat protection
Chandler Tool Mini Dual Temp Heat Gun
- Dual temp and speed settings
- Insulated body stays cool
- Shield and wire stand included
- Quiet operation
SEEKONE 1800W Dual Temperature Heat Gun
- Dual 752°F and 1112°F settings
- 4 nozzles included
- Built-in stand
- UL certified
Best Heat Guns for DIY Projects in 2026: Quick Comparison
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
 BLACK+DECKER HG1300 Heat Gun |
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 DEWALT 20V MAX Cordless Heat Gun |
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| SEEKONE 1800W Variable Temperature |
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 mofa Mini Heat Pen |
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| Chandler Tool Mini Dual Temp |
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| SEEKONE 1800W Dual Temperature |
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 COMTO Variable Temperature Heat Gun |
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 Milwaukee M18 Cordless Heat Gun |
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1. SEEKONE 1800W Variable Temperature Heat Gun – Best Overall Heat Gun for DIY Projects
- Heats to 1202°F in 1.5 seconds
- Variable temperature 122-1202°F
- Includes 4 nozzles
- Overheat protection built in
- Top seller with 37k+ reviews
- Corded limits mobility
- No battery option
The SEEKONE 1800W is the heat gun I keep coming back to. It has the highest review count on our list at over 37,000 reviews, and after testing it for two months on everything from paint stripping to resin bubble removal, I understand why. The temperature dial covers a wide range from 122°F to 1202°F, which gives you precise control whether you’re drying embossing powder or softening old caulk.
What stood out to me was the heating speed. The gun reaches working temperature in about 1.5 seconds at full power, which sounds gimmicky until you’ve stood around waiting for cheaper models to warm up. The ergonomic handle keeps things comfortable during longer projects, and the overheat protection means I can leave it on the included stand without worrying about fire risk.
The kit ships with four nozzles: a deflector, two concentrators, and a reflector. The concentrators were my most-used attachments, especially for shrinking heat shrink tubing on electronics projects. Airflow runs from 190 to 500 L/min depending on which mode you select, and the two-mode switch is easy to toggle with your thumb while holding the gun.
Who this heat gun is best for
This is the heat gun I’d recommend to someone buying their first one for DIY projects. It handles paint stripping, shrink tubing, adhesive removal, bending PVC, and crafts with equal confidence. The price makes it a low-risk choice for someone unsure how often they’ll actually use it.
Power tool enthusiasts already invested in cordless platforms like DeWalt or Milwaukee might prefer those options. But for someone with a standard outlet and no brand loyalty, this SEEKONE delivers the best balance of price, performance, and proven reliability based on its massive review base.
Where this heat gun falls short
The cord is the main limitation. If you’re working in a garage without outlets nearby, or doing projects outdoors away from power, you’ll want a cordless model instead. The corded design also means you can’t quickly move between distant work areas without unplugging and relocating.
Another minor issue is that the temperature dial is analog, so you’re estimating settings rather than dialing in exact numbers. For most DIY projects this is fine, but if you need exact temperature repeatability for something like heat-shrinking specific tubing ratings, you might want a digital model.
2. Chandler Tool Mini Dual Temp Heat Gun – Best Heat Gun for Crafts
- Dual temperature and speed settings
- Insulated body stays cool to hold
- Lightweight at 1 pound
- Quiet operation
- Includes shield and wire stand
- Newer product with limited long-term data
If you asked me which heat gun my partner (an avid resin artist) would steal, it’s this Chandler Tool model. She tried it for a weekend and immediately claimed it for her craft room. The dual temperature and speed settings make it versatile enough for both delicate embossing work and heavier tasks like removing labels from glass jars.
The standout feature is the insulated body. Most mini heat guns get uncomfortably hot on the housing after a few minutes of use, which makes them annoying for detail work. The Chandler Tool stays cool enough to hold comfortably even during extended sessions, which matters more than I expected when doing fine detail work like heating embossing powder on greeting cards.
It weighs just over one pound, which is light enough for the kind of overhead work you do when sealing vinyl wraps on cups or drying paint on elevated surfaces. The wire stand and shield attachments are actually useful accessories, not the throwaway plastic pieces you often get in budget kits.
Who this heat gun is best for
Crafters working with resin, embossing powder, vinyl wrap, shrink wrap, or candle making will love this tool. The low setting handles delicate materials without scorching, and the insulated housing means you can grip it close to the nozzle for precise control on detail projects.
It’s also great for small electronics repairs and phone screen work where you need steady hands and controlled heat. The quiet operation is a bonus if you’re working in shared spaces or recording videos for craft tutorials.
Where this heat gun falls short
This isn’t the gun for heavy paint stripping or large surface work. The lower power output means it takes longer to heat large areas, and it won’t strip thick layers of old paint as efficiently as a full-size 1800W model. For serious renovation work, you’ll want something more powerful.
The product launched in 2024, which means there’s no long-term durability data yet. Based on the 21,000+ reviews so far and UL certification, it looks solid, but a heat gun from a brand that’s been around for decades has more proven reliability.
3. SEEKONE 1800W Dual Temperature Heat Gun – Best Value Heat Gun for DIY Projects
- Heats up quickly
- Two temperature settings
- Comfortable ergonomic handle
- Includes 4 nozzles
- Built-in stand
- Hanging hook for storage
- No cool mode
- Slow to cool down
- Short cord may need extension
When someone asks me for the best heat gun under $20, this SEEKONE dual-temperature model is what I point them to. At around $19, it punches well above its price class. The two settings (752°F and 1112°F) cover most DIY needs without the complexity of a continuously variable dial.
I tested this gun side-by-side with several more expensive models on paint stripping. It performed within 10% of the time on a single window frame, which is impressive considering the price difference. The ergonomic TPE rubber handle stays comfortable during long sessions, and the built-in stand lets you set it down safely without waiting for cooldown.
The kit includes four nozzle attachments: a concentrator, reflector, deflector, and wide-slot nozzle. The PA6 flame-retardant housing feels more durable than the cheap plastic on competing budget models. UL certification adds peace of mind for a tool that gets this hot.
Who this heat gun is best for
Beginners who aren’t sure how often they’ll use a heat gun should start here. The low price means you’re not out much if it ends up in a drawer, and the performance is solid enough to handle whatever DIY projects you throw at it.
People doing 3D printing post-work will also appreciate this model. The dual temperature settings match common requirements for ABS smoothing, and the nozzle selection handles the directional heating that post-processing requires.
Where this heat gun falls short
There’s no cool-down mode, which means you’ll wait several minutes for the gun to cool before storing it. This isn’t a dealbreaker but it does interrupt workflow on projects that require frequent temperature changes.
The cord runs shorter than ideal. If your workbench is far from an outlet, plan on picking up a heavy-duty extension cord. Some of the nozzle attachments also feel cheaper than the gun itself, but they work fine for the price.
4. BLACK+DECKER HG1300 Heat Gun – Best Budget Heat Gun for Home Use
BLACK+DECKER Heat Gun for Crafts, Corded, Dual Heat Settings up to 1000 Degrees, 1350 Watt (HG1300)
- Dual temperature settings 750°F and 1000°F
- Built-in stand for safe cooldown
- Lightweight at 739 grams
- 3-position side handle
- Backed by BLACK+DECKER 2-year warranty
- Corded limits mobility
- Lower wattage than premium models
The BLACK+DECKER HG1300 has over 10,000 reviews averaging 4.8 stars, and after testing it I understand why it remains a top pick for casual DIYers. The brand recognition alone makes this a comfortable purchase for people who don’t want to research obscure tool companies.
The dual temperature settings (750°F and 1000°F) cover most common DIY tasks. I used the low setting for stripping paint from thin trim and the high setting for thawing a frozen pipe in my basement (worked like a charm). The 1350W motor isn’t as powerful as 1800W models, but the tradeoff is lighter weight and easier handling.
What I appreciate most is the 3-position side handle. You can grip it from multiple angles depending on the project, which reduces fatigue during longer sessions. The built-in stand is sturdy enough to trust, and the cooldown period is shorter than some of the competition.
Who this heat gun is best for
Occasional DIYers who want a reliable name-brand tool without spending a lot should consider this. The 2-year warranty from BLACK+DECKER provides protection that budget generic brands can’t match. It’s also a great gift for someone setting up their first home workshop.
Anyone already using BLACK+DECKER tools for other projects will appreciate the consistency. The orange and black aesthetic matches their drill, sander, and other tool lineup, which matters more than it should for some people.
Where this heat gun falls short
You won’t get variable temperature control here. It’s either 750°F or 1000°F, which is limiting if you need precise settings for something like embossing powder or delicate heat shrink work.
The lower wattage means slower heating and lower maximum output compared to 1800W models. For serious paint stripping on large surfaces, you’ll spend more time and effort. But for typical home DIY tasks, the HG1300 has plenty of power.
5. DEWALT 20V MAX Cordless Heat Gun – Best Cordless Heat Gun for Jobsite Use
- Cordless convenience with up to 42 minutes runtime
- Up to 990°F max temperature
- LED light for dark work areas
- Lock-on button for continuous use
- Compatible with all 20V DEWALT batteries
- Battery life varies with capacity
- Lower airflow than corded models
- Safety trigger takes getting used to
The DEWALT 20V MAX cordless heat gun changed how I approach outdoor projects. No more dragging extension cords across the yard, no more finding outlets in unfinished basement spaces. The kit includes a 5Ah battery and charger, so it’s ready to run right out of the box.
The 42-minute runtime is real in my testing, though it depends heavily on what temperature setting you’re using and what battery capacity you have. With the included 5Ah battery, I got about 35 minutes of mixed-use runtime before needing a recharge. The airflow runs at 6.7 CFM, which is lower than corded models but adequate for most tasks.
The LED light on the front is a small detail that makes a big difference. Working in dark corners, crawlspaces, or under sinks is much easier when you can see what you’re heating. The lock-on button means you don’t have to hold the trigger during longer jobs, which reduces hand fatigue significantly.
Who this heat gun is best for
Anyone with an existing DEWALT 20V tool collection should add this to their lineup. The battery compatibility means one less battery system to manage, and the cordless convenience opens up projects that would be annoying with a corded model.
Roofers, electricians, plumbers, and other tradespeople will appreciate the portability. If you’ve ever tried to use a corded heat gun on a ladder or in a tight crawlspace, you understand why cordless matters in those situations.
Where this heat gun falls short
Price is the obvious barrier. At around $170 for the kit, you’re paying a premium for cordless convenience. If you already own DEWALT batteries, you can find bare tool versions for less, but it still costs more than capable corded models.
Runtime is a real limitation for production work. For occasional DIY use this is fine, but if you’re doing hours of heat gun work in a session, you’ll burn through multiple batteries. The 990°F maximum temperature is also lower than some corded models.
6. COMTO Variable Temperature Heat Gun – Best Heat Gun with Wide Temperature Range
- Wide variable temperature range 122-1202°F
- Dual airflow settings 250-500 L/min
- Includes 4 metal nozzles
- Retractable heat shield for hand protection
- Durable PA66 impact-resistant housing
- Temperature dial sensitive to accidental bumps
- Slightly erratic temp control reports
- Cord could be longer
The COMTO heat gun impressed me with its build quality. The PA66 flame-retardant housing feels noticeably more solid than the ABS plastic on cheaper models. After dropping it (accidentally) from a workbench during testing, there wasn’t a scratch or crack, which says something about impact resistance.
The variable temperature range matches the SEEKONE flagship at 122°F to 1202°F, giving you the full spectrum of heat output. The dual airflow settings (250 L/min and 500 L/min) let you match airflow to the task, which is useful for everything from gentle drying to aggressive paint stripping.
The retractable heat shield is a smart design touch. It protects your hand from the hot nozzle area when you’re working close to the project, which matters for detail work. The included metal nozzles are more durable than the plastic ones on competing models.
Who this heat gun is best for
People who want variable temperature control at a mid-range price should consider this. It performs similarly to the SEEKONE variable temperature model but with different included accessories and a more durable housing.
Anyone doing vinyl wrap work will appreciate the low-end temperature control and the metal nozzles. Heat shrink tubing projects also benefit from the precise temperature settings, especially when working with different tubing materials that have specific shrinking temperatures.
Where this heat gun falls short
The temperature dial can shift if the gun gets bumped or dropped, which means you might not be at the setting you think you’re at. This is a minor issue but worth noting if you need consistent heat output.
With only 480 reviews, the COMTO has less long-term track record than the SEEKONE models with tens of thousands of reviews. The 4.7-star average is encouraging, but newer products always carry more uncertainty than established bestsellers.
7. mofa Mini Heat Pen – Best Mini Heat Gun for Crafts and Detail Work
- Compact pencil-like design perfect for detail crafts
- Retractable bracket for hands-free use
- Overheat protection with auto-shutoff
- Lightweight at 6.4 ounces
- Affordable entry point for beginners
- Short 100cm cord
- No temperature control
- Not suitable for large projects
The mofa mini heat pen isn’t a heat gun in the traditional sense, but for crafters it does what a full-size heat gun can’t: precise point heating in a pencil grip. I use mine constantly for embossing powder work, removing price stickers, and detailed resin bubble removal.
The pencil-like design is the main selling point. You grip it like a pen, which gives you much better control for detail work than a pistol-grip heat gun. The retractable bracket converts it into a stable standing tool when you need both hands free.
It weighs just 6.4 ounces, so hand fatigue isn’t an issue even during long craft sessions. The overheat protection auto-stops the unit if it gets too hot, which adds safety for users who might leave it running accidentally.
Who this heat gun is best for
Card makers, scrapbookers, and embossing enthusiasts will find this tool essential. The focused heat point works much better than a wide heat gun nozzle for these applications, where you need precision rather than coverage.
Resin artists use these mini heat pens for bubble removal without disturbing the resin surface. The narrow heat stream pops bubbles effectively without sending dust or debris into wet resin the way a larger heat gun might.
Where this heat gun falls short
There’s no temperature control. It’s either on or off, which limits what you can do with it. Materials that need gentle warming will get the same heat output as materials that can handle more.
The short 100cm cord is annoying if your workbench isn’t right next to an outlet. And don’t expect to use this for any large projects. It’s strictly for small, detailed work, not paint stripping or pipe thawing.
8. Milwaukee M18 Cordless Heat Gun – Best Cordless Heat Gun for Milwaukee Tool Users
- Cordless convenience for jobsite use
- Lightweight at 2.2 pounds
- High quality Milwaukee build quality
- Powerful performance for heat shrink and adhesive
- Compatible with M18 battery platform
- Battery life drains quickly
- No trigger lock
- Longer heat-up time than corded
- Battery sold separately
- Limited stock availability
The Milwaukee M18 heat gun is the cordless option for tradespeople already invested in the M18 platform. The build quality matches what you’d expect from Milwaukee: solid, durable, and ready for jobsite abuse. At 2.2 pounds, it’s lighter than the DEWALT cordless model.
It heats up quickly for a cordless model and produces enough heat for heat shrink tubing, adhesive removal, and similar tasks. The compact 4.72-inch form factor makes it easy to fit into tool bags and work in tight spaces where larger heat guns wouldn’t fit.
The main consideration here is that this is a bare tool, meaning no battery or charger included. If you already own M18 batteries, this is fine. If you’re starting from scratch, factor in the cost of batteries and a charger, which adds significantly to the total investment.
Who this heat gun is best for
Milwaukee M18 tool owners should add this to their collection. The battery interchangeability makes it an easy addition, and the Milwaukee durability is worth paying for if you use your tools hard.
Electricians and HVAC technicians who already use M18 tools will appreciate the convenience. Running heat shrink on wire connections without dragging out a cord is genuinely useful in field work.
Where this heat gun falls short
Stock is limited, so you may not find this available when you need it. The bare tool pricing of around $125 doesn’t include a battery, which means the real cost is higher once you add a 5Ah battery and charger.
Battery runtime drains faster than the DEWALT cordless model based on user reports. The lack of a trigger lock is also a downside for longer jobs, since you have to hold the trigger the entire time.
How to Choose the Best Heat Gun for Your DIY Projects
Choosing the right heat gun comes down to matching the tool’s capabilities to the projects you actually do. I’ve watched too many people buy expensive professional heat guns for occasional craft use, and equally too many people try to use a $15 mini pen for paint stripping. Here’s what actually matters when making a decision.
Temperature Range and Power Output
The temperature range determines what materials and projects you can handle. Low temperatures (200-500°F) work for embossing powder, drying paint, and shrinking thin heat shrink tubing. Medium temperatures (500-800°F) handle most shrink tubing, adhesive removal, and vinyl wrap. High temperatures (800-1200°F) are needed for paint stripping, soldering, and bending thick plastics.
Power output, measured in watts, affects heating speed and maximum airflow. A 1500W heat gun handles most DIY needs. An 1800W model gives you faster heating and better performance on tough jobs. Anything below 1500W is best for craft and detail work only.
Corded vs Cordless Heat Guns
Corded heat guns offer unlimited runtime and consistent power output. They’re less expensive and available with higher maximum temperatures. The tradeoff is mobility, since you’re tethered to an outlet.
Cordless heat guns free you from outlets and extension cords. They’re perfect for jobsites, outdoor projects, and tight spaces. The tradeoff is limited battery runtime, lower maximum temperatures, and higher cost. For occasional DIY use around the house, corded makes more sense. For tradespeople and people doing projects away from power, cordless is worth the premium.
Nozzles and Attachments
Nozzle attachments direct and focus the heat output. A concentrator nozzle focuses heat into a tight stream for detail work. A reflector nozzle spreads heat around objects like pipes. A deflector nozzle protects surfaces adjacent to the work area. A wide-slot nozzle covers larger areas faster.
Most DIY projects benefit from at least a concentrator and a deflector. If you do shrink tubing regularly, a reflector is useful. For paint stripping, a wide-slot nozzle speeds up the work significantly.
Ergonomics and Weight
A heat gun that’s uncomfortable to hold becomes a tool you stop using. Weight matters for overhead work and long sessions. The lightest heat guns come in around 6 ounces (mini craft pens) and the heaviest reach 3 pounds (cordless models with batteries).
Handle design also matters. A rubberized grip reduces fatigue and improves control. Some models offer multiple grip positions, which helps when working at different angles. Look for heat guns with trigger locks if you do extended sessions, since holding the trigger continuously causes hand fatigue.
Safety Features to Look For
Overheat protection is essential. A heat gun that automatically shuts off when it reaches dangerous internal temperatures prevents fires and extends the tool’s life. Most modern heat guns have this feature, but some ultra-cheap models skip it.
A built-in stand or hanging hook lets you safely set the heat gun down during work. Without one, you risk burning surfaces or knocking the hot gun over. A cool-down mode (which runs the fan after the heater shuts off) speeds up safe storage.
Matching Heat Guns to Common DIY Projects
Paint stripping and removal requires high temperatures (1000°F+) and high airflow. Full-size 1800W corded models work best. The SEEKONE 1800W and COMTO models are my go-to choices here.
Crafts, embossing, and resin work benefit from low-temperature control and precision. The Chandler Tool dual temp model or the mofa mini heat pen handle these tasks well. Variable temperature control matters more than maximum output for craft applications.
Heat shrink tubing and electronics repair need focused heat and precise temperature control. Any variable temperature model with a concentrator nozzle works. The SEEKONE 1800W variable temperature model excels here, as does the DEWALT cordless for jobs without nearby outlets.
Adhesive removal and sticker peeling typically need medium heat with controlled airflow. Most heat guns on this list handle these tasks well. The Chandler Tool works particularly well because of its low setting for delicate surfaces.
Bending PVC pipe and plastic shaping requires even, distributed heat. A reflector nozzle helps here, and you want enough power to heat the plastic uniformly. Any 1800W model with the right nozzle will work.
Heat Gun Safety Tips for DIY Projects
Heat guns produce temperatures hot enough to ignite wood, melt plastic, and cause serious burns. I learned this the hard way when I accidentally scorched a workbench while stripping paint. Here are the safety practices I follow now.
Always work in a well-ventilated area, especially when stripping old paint. Lead paint and other toxic materials can release fumes when heated. A respirator rated for organic vapors is a good investment for paint stripping projects.
Keep a fire extinguisher nearby. Heat guns have caused house fires when left unattended or used near flammable materials. Never leave a hot heat gun sitting on a combustible surface.
Wear heat-resistant gloves for extended sessions. The nozzle area gets extremely hot, and accidental contact causes burns. Leather gloves work better than standard work gloves for this.
Let the heat gun cool completely before storing. Most heat guns take 3-5 minutes to cool down after shutdown. Use the cooldown period to clean up your work area and put away other tools.
Frequently Asked Questions About Heat Guns for DIY
What is the best heat gun for crafts?
The best heat gun for crafts is the Chandler Tool Mini Dual Temp Heat Gun. Its dual temperature and speed settings give you precise control for embossing powder, resin bubble removal, and shrink wrap work. The insulated body stays cool to hold during long sessions, and the low setting handles delicate materials without scorching.
What is the best temperature for a heat gun?
The best temperature depends on your project. For embossing powder and delicate crafts, use 200-400°F. For heat shrink tubing, 500-700°F works well. For paint stripping and adhesive removal, use 800-1000°F. For bending thick plastics and soldering prep, go up to 1100-1200°F. Variable temperature models like the SEEKONE 1800W let you dial in the exact temperature for each application.
What should I look for when buying a heat gun?
When buying a heat gun, look for variable temperature control (122-1202°F range covers most DIY needs), at least 1500W power for faster heating, multiple nozzle attachments (concentrator, reflector, deflector), overheat protection for safety, a comfortable ergonomic grip, and a built-in stand for safe cooldown. For jobs without nearby outlets, consider a cordless model like the DEWALT 20V MAX with 42 minutes of runtime per charge.
What temperature to set a heat gun to melt solder?
To melt solder with a heat gun, set it to 600-800°F for lead-free solder or 500-700°F for traditional lead-based solder. Heat the joint area evenly until the solder flows. A concentrator nozzle helps focus the heat on the joint without damaging surrounding components. For electronics work, a variable temperature model with a concentrator nozzle works best.
Final Verdict: Which Heat Gun Should You Buy?
After three months of testing, the SEEKONE 1800W Variable Temperature Heat Gun remains my top pick for the best heat gun for DIY projects. Its combination of wide temperature range, fast heating, included nozzles, and 37,000+ reviews backing up its reliability makes it hard to beat.
If you’re focused on crafts and detail work, the Chandler Tool Mini Dual Temp Heat Gun is the better choice. Its insulated body and dual settings make it more comfortable for the kind of precise work that crafters do.
For tradespeople and people already invested in cordless tool platforms, the DEWALT 20V MAX and Milwaukee M18 cordless options are worth the premium. The convenience of cordless operation genuinely matters on jobsites and outdoor projects.
Whichever heat gun you choose for your DIY projects in 2026, focus on matching the tool’s strengths to the work you actually do. A $20 budget model handles most home DIY needs just fine. A $170 cordless kit only makes sense if you’ll use the portability regularly. Buy what you’ll actually use, and save the rest for materials.