Disclosure: I received two tools Incising & Carving Tools from Diamond Core Tools for review.
A Review of Diamond Core Incising & Carving Tools
Artists painting with encaustic use clay tools for scraping, incising and carving into wax. I recently discovered Zebratools by Diamond Core Tools on Instagram. Known for manufacturing premium tools for ceramic artists, Diamond Core Tools has created a range of incising tools that are both functional and beautiful, and I’m excited to share them with the All Things Encaustic blog readers.

Incising with Diamond Core Tools
I have both the P1 V-tip Zebrawood Pencil Carver and The K1 V-Tip Zebra Carver.
These incising tools offer unparalleled control compared to other carving tools I’ve used! While both are exquisite, I do have a slight preference for the Pencil Carver. Both tools feature adjustable blade angles, but the Pencil Carver also includes a built-in stylus and a comfortable foam grip for extra ease.
The Pencil Carver glides effortlessly through the wax, leaving clean, narrow incised lines with no burs!
Note: These incising tools are best used on soft wax. Carving on cold, hard wax can cause the tips to bend or break. If this happens, don’t worry—replacement tips are available from Diamond Core Tools.
Zebratools are exceptionally sharp—much sharper than typical loop tools—and their blades are self-sharpening. The carvers feature hand-made exotic zebrawood handles and are ergonomically designed to minimize fatigue and muscle strain, making them ideal incising tools for long studio sessions.
Today, I brought the tools to The Hive Encaustic Studio at The Alton Mill in Caledon, Ontario. Six of us tried them out, and we all agreed—they’re outstanding!
While they are an investment, it’s one you won’t regret. You’ll find yourself reaching for these incising tools time and time again, appreciating their beauty and design each time.
You may also be interested in this post about Essential Tools for Scraping & Incising into encaustic wax.
Ruth, this image at the top is beautiful. Where can I see the finished piece?
Hi Nicole, The photo at the top shows my friend Jane Cousens using the tool on her painting. You can see her work here – https://www.instagram.com/janecousens
I was wondering if you could use this tool for writing words in wax. how well does it do small curves like in the letter ‘a’ – and how small could you go? You mention two types P1V and K1V and I do not understand the difference between the two.
I haven’t tried to carve words but I think it would work well. These are used a lot by potters. The difference between the P and K tools is just in the handle. The P is a pencil style handle and it is my favourite of the two.
I have been dreaming of these tools! Thank you very much for sharing them with me.
You’re welcome Shary 🙂
Thanks Ruth. I read the article, went right to their web site and my carvery is on the way to my house. Excited to try it. Dee in Johannesburg, Michigan.
Great Dee! Be sure to comment back here and let us know what you think of it 🙂
Just realized I have not sent my review. I ordered the wrong tool for my needs. I need a stronger scraper. First pass, it bent…I do love the thin pencil like shape. I use the pointed end often, but use the ‘business ‘ end only for delicate carving.
Thanks for all you do to keep us informed.
Thank you for all the new info!