Mason Reed
Mason is the tech-meets-craft guy. With a background in IT and electronics repair, he brings soldering, code, and 3D printing into the crafting world — and makes it all surprisingly approachable.
He co-created many of ArtTools calculators and spends his free time building custom workshop tools, experimenting with Raspberry Pi projects, and showing people that technology and creativity are not opposites.
If a project involves a laser engraver, LED light strip, or smart workshop integration, Mason is your person.
Articles by Mason Reed
Turn a Cooling Rack Into a July 4th Flag in One Hour
I threw away $35 on a polyester flag that unraveled in one afternoon — then realized I could build a sturdier, better-looking American flag from a $6 thrift-store cooling rack …
Alcohol Ink Tile Art: DIY Coasters and Decor
Turn dollar-store ceramic tiles into stunning, marble-like coasters and home decor using alcohol inks. One drop of ink, a puff of 91% isopropyl alcohol, and about $15 worth of supplies …
Resin Art for Beginners: Coasters, Trays, and Jewelry
Learn the essentials of resin art with this beginner-friendly guide covering coasters, trays, and jewelry. Tips on supplies, safety, and avoiding common mistakes.
Pen and Ink: Master Drawing Basics on a Budget
Learn pen and ink drawing without wasting money on expensive supplies you don't need yet.
Dollar Tree DIYs Turn Everyday Items into Budget-Friendly Home Decor
I spent $200 at West Elm on a single centerpiece vase. Three months later it cracked during a dinner party. That mistake sent me down a rabbit hole of Dollar …
Watercolor Flag Stickers: Easy July 4th Project
Make your own watercolor American flag stickers with this simple DIY tutorial. Perfect for decorating cards, coolers, and party favors this Independence Day.
10 Easy Craft Projects to Make This Summer
Beat the summer slump with ten simple, budget-friendly craft projects you can finish in an afternoon using supplies you probably already have at home.
Charcoal Drawing: Essential Techniques for Beginners
Learn charcoal drawing with tips that won't waste your money or your time. Mason shares the essential techniques and supplies to get started on a budget.
Charcoal Drawing: Essential Techniques and Studio Staples
Skip the expensive art supply trap. Learn what charcoal drawing supplies you actually need and the techniques that will make your first sketches look like you have been doing this …
Best Methods for Vinyl Wraps on Curved Objects: A Tribute to Rowdy
Mason Reed shares the techniques he learned wrapping curved surfaces with Cricut-cut vinyl while building a memorial helmet for his NASCAR hero, Kyle Busch.
How to Make a DIY Concession Stand for Backyard Movies
Discover how to create beautiful how to make a diy concession stand for backyard movies with this step-by-step guide. Perfect for beginners and craft enthusiasts alike.
Cricut Vinyl Types Explained: Materials Guide & Money-Saving Tips
When you first unbox your Cricut machine, the variety of vinyl sheets staring back at you can feel daunting. Permanent, removable, heat transfer, printable – what does it all mean? …
Is CorelDRAW Still Worth It in 2026?
Wondering if CorelDRAW still deserves a spot in your creative toolbox? From Cricut-ready SVGs to custom printables, here's what you need to know in 2026.
Stop Guessing Your Epoxy Mix — How to Use the Resin Volume Calculator
The first time I poured resin, I eyeballed it. I figured I had been around enough epoxy on job sites — how hard could it be? I mixed what felt …
Candle Wax Calculator — How Much Wax Do You Actually Need?
Every candle maker has a "three times too much wax" story. Here's mine — and the calculator I built so it never happens again.
Yarn Yardage Calculator – Don't Run Out of Yarn Again
Stop guessing how much yarn to buy. Use the Yarn Yardage Calculator to get exact skein counts for any knitting or crochet project.
Stop Guessing Your Quilt Yardage — Use the Fabric Calculator
Every quilter has been there. You're three blocks from finishing the top and you realize you're six inches short on your main fabric. Or you're starin
Polymer Clay Calculator – How Much Clay for Any Project
Stop wasting expensive polymer clay on guesswork. Use the Polymer Clay Calculator to get exact amounts for beads, pendants, and figurines.
Decoupage Calculator — Stop Running Out of Glue and Sealer
It's Sunday evening. The craft stores are closed. You're one coat away from finishing a decoupage tray — and the jar of Mod Podge is scraping empty. I