The Dremel 290-02 is a dedicated electric engraver for personalizing tools, machinery, glass, ceramics, wood, plastic, leather, and hard steel surfaces. Running at a fixed 7,200 strokes per minute, it uses a reciprocating motion (not rotary) for controlled material removal. A five-position adjustable dial regulates engraving depth to achieve lines from hairline-fine to deep grooves. The soft-grip pen-shaped body provides comfort during continuous use. The 290-02 kit includes the engraver, a 9924 carbide engraving point, and a letter/number stencil template. For heavy-duty engraving on very hard surfaces, the optional 9929 diamond point (sold separately) is recommended.
What surfaces can the Dremel 290 engrave?
The 290 with the included carbide point engraves wood, leather, soft stone, glass, ceramics, porcelain, plastics, and most metals including hard steel. For very hard surfaces like stainless steel or hardened alloys, upgrade to the 9929 diamond point for better results and longer tip life.
How is the Dremel 290 different from a Dremel rotary tool for engraving?
The Dremel 290 uses a reciprocating (back-and-forth) stroke motion at 7,200 SPM, similar to a pneumatic engraving pen. This is better for shallow surface marking and signature-style personalization where you move the tool like a pen. A Dremel rotary tool spins up to 35,000 RPM and is better for deep relief carving, inlay work, or decorative engraving where you need to remove significant material.
Can the Dremel 290 engrave glass?
Yes. Glass engraving is one of the most popular uses for the Dremel 290. Work at the lowest depth setting and use light, consistent pressure. Wear safety glasses and a dust mask, as glass particles are generated. Practice on scrap glass first to get comfortable with the tip control.
Does the Dremel 290 work on stainless steel?
The included 9924 carbide point can scratch stainless steel, but for clean, consistent results on hard steel the 9929 diamond point (sold separately) is recommended. Hold the tool at a slight angle and use steady pressure; avoid pausing in one spot to prevent tip wear.
Is the Dremel 290 variable speed?
No. The 290 runs at a fixed 7,200 strokes per minute. The five-position depth dial adjusts the stroke length (not speed), which controls how deeply the tip penetrates the surface. Engraving depth is further controlled by the pressure you apply and the angle of the tool.
Can I use the Dremel 290 stencils on curved surfaces?
The included rigid stencil templates are easiest to use on flat surfaces. For curved surfaces like wine bottles or mugs, freehand engraving typically produces better results. Some users tape a paper pattern to the surface and engrave through it as a visual guide.
# Dremel 290-02 120-Volt Engraver with Letter/Number Stencil Template **Model:** `290-02` **Brand:** Dremel **Category:** Engraver > The Dremel 290-02 is a dedicated electric engraver for personalizing tools, machinery, glass, ceramics, wood, plastic, leather, and hard steel surfaces. Running at a fixed 7,200 strokes per minute, it uses a reciprocating motion (not rotary) for controlled material removal. A five-position adjustable dial regulates engraving depth to achieve lines from hairline-fine to deep grooves. The soft-grip pen-shaped body provides comfort during continuous use. The 290-02 kit includes the engraver, a 9924 carbide engraving point, and a letter/number stencil template. For heavy-duty engraving on very hard surfaces, the optional 9929 diamond point (sold separately) is recommended. ## Specifications | Attribute | Value | |---|---| | Product Type | Electric Engraver | | Power Source | corded | | Amperage (A) | 0.15 | | Speed Spm | 7,200 | | Stroke Length (in.) | 0.02 | | Tip Material | carbide (9924 included); diamond (9929 optional) | | Warranty | 2-year limited | ## What's Included - Dremel 290 engraver - 9924 carbide engraving point - letter/number stencil template Source: https://www.jaspecs.com/dremel/engraver/290-02-dremel-engraver-120v-fixed-speed-7200-spm/