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HP TopShot Review: Part 1

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HP TopShot LaserJet Pro went from its carton to ready for use in about 15 minutes.Have you seen the new HP TopShot LaserJet Pro? HP is giving me a chance to review this new scanner, printer, and copier all-in-one — and then one lucky Craft Gossip reader is going to win one!

The box arrived at my door and within 15 minutes, I had the TopShot unpacked, together and ready to attach to my computer. The software installation files are in the TopShot’s memory so all you have to do is connect the cable and follow the on-screen instructions. That’s easy even if you don’t have much experience with computers, right? I attached the TopShot to my computer and in another 10 minutes, I have everything set up to print wirelessly!

I still haven’t told you the most exciting part about the TopShot. This is no ordinary scanner. The TopShot scans 3-D objects! The arm at the top has a high resolution camera in it that takes six images of your object, which are automatically combined into one high-resolution image. By combining multiple images, the TopShot quickly gives you a clear image on a bright, clean background. And your images can be immediately printed or posted directly to the Web!

Here’s my first scan of some tiny plastic forks. I was able to scan this image within 15 minutes of deciding to connect the this all-in-one printer to my computer! The actual scan took less than a minute.

tiny plastic forks scanned with the HP TopShot's 3-D scanner.

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Comments

  3. Haven’t seen or heard about this printer. I’ll watch for part 2 on your blog. Sounds interesting.

  12. I repair printers and copy machines professionally and I have to jump in here and say that HP printers are the best. The best quality prints, the most users friendly, the easiest to repair and the absolute workhorse printer of the entire industry. They last forever. I would love to have one of these!!
    I do NOT work for HP and repair many different bands.

  14. Wow, this is great! The 3D is awesome. I can already think of many uses for this printer. Can’t wait for the contest!!:0)

  15. I really, really want one of these. Going to retire soon and will depend more and more on my own computer and printer to stay in touch with my family and the world!!

  16. wow – what a great tool to use to make 3-d copies of multi-dimensional projects created.

  17. Would love to use one of these to copy old family photos and to help design art work!

  19. ah! this machine looks so cool! i have been looking at upgrading my printer to one that has a scanner too, this one looks awesome!

  21. OMG… this is such an awesome HP All-In-One! I love the 3D aspect of it — so cool. I would love to have one of these.

  22. Wow, this would be really cool for scanning your items and then publishing a 3-D picture on your online storefront so people can get a better idea of what it looks like. Would love to win one of these! Thanks for the opportunity!

  24. How fantastic is this piece of equipment? Can I have as much fun as you did, please?

  31. That looks amazing, I have so many 3d objects I want to scan! Do you know how big the scannner bed/area is?

  34. Holy smokes this is an amazing and nifty device – I would love, love, love to win one!!!

  36. Leave it to HP to come up with a tool from us crafters. This looks like one of those “must have” gadgets but it would be more wonderful to win this new printer with TopShot.

  37. My printer just died. I really need a new one. This one sounds perfect. And it is an HP, which is what I prefer!

  39. My first printer was an HPIII LaserJet that I had for over 20 years, and it was used when I got it. I’ve got anther used HP now, and I think it might last forever, so if I win this giveaway, my current printer will go back on CL for someone else to enjoy.

  41. WOW! This would be awesome to have! I have lots of family info, pictures, and documents I want to pass on to family. I would love to try this machine to preserve them! Crossing my fingers! Pick me! Pick me! 🙂 LOL!

  45. Awesome! Looks and sounds like a great machine. Go figure I really need a new printer! Please pick me!

Have you read?

Hama BioBeads Review: The Eco-Friendly Fuse Beads You’ll Love

As a long-time crafter, I’ve worked with all kinds of materials, but there’s something about fuse beads that never gets old. The creativity, the colors, the nostalgia—it’s all part of the fun! But let’s be honest, traditional plastic beads aren’t exactly great for the environment. That’s why I was so excited to try Hama BioBeads, an eco-friendly alternative that promises all the fun of classic Hama beads without the plastic guilt. So, do they live up to the hype? Let’s dive in!

What Are Hama BioBeads?

Hama BioBeads are a biodegradable version of the classic Hama fuse beads. Instead of being made from petroleum-based plastic, these beads are crafted from a plant-based, eco-friendly material that naturally decomposes over time. That means less plastic waste while still enjoying the same vibrant colors and creativity that fuse bead lovers expect.

First Impressions: Do They Feel Different?

When I first opened the pack, I was curious—would they feel different from traditional beads? The answer: not really! The beads are slightly smoother to the touch, but they’re just as easy to handle, pick up with tweezers, and place on a pegboard. The colors are just as bright and bold, which was a big relief since I was worried they might look dull or faded.

One of the things I love about these beads is that they’re the same size as regular Hama beads, so they work with all my existing pegboards and accessories. No need to buy new tools or change my crafting process!

How Do They Fuse?

Now, onto the real test—how well do they iron together?

I followed my usual fusing process, using parchment paper and a medium heat setting on my iron. The beads melted together perfectly, just like regular Hama beads. No weird smells, no uneven melting—just smooth, well-bonded designs.

I also noticed that once cooled, the fused beads felt a bit sturdier than traditional plastic beads. That’s a huge plus because sometimes regular beads can feel brittle or break apart too easily.

What Makes Hama BioBeads Special?

? Eco-Friendly & Biodegradable – The biggest selling point! These beads naturally break down over time, reducing environmental impact.
? Non-Toxic & Safe for Kids – Made from natural materials, they’re a safer option for little crafters.
? Same Great Quality – They look, feel, and fuse just like classic Hama beads—no sacrifice in quality!
? Works with Existing Hama Accessories – You don’t need special pegboards or tools; they fit right into your current stash.
? Great for Schools & Eco-Conscious Crafters – If you’re an educator or a parent looking to introduce sustainability to kids in a fun way, these are perfect!

The only potential downside is that since these are a newer product, they may not be as widely available as traditional Hama beads. Some colors also seem to be in and out of stock, so if you see a set you love, I’d suggest grabbing them while you can.

 If you love fuse bead crafting but want a more sustainable option, Hama BioBeads are a fantastic choice. They’re just as fun, colorful, and easy to use as regular Hama beads, but they come with the added bonus of being better for the planet. Whether you’re a hobby crafter, a parent, or a teacher, these beads are a guilt-free way to get creative.

So if you’re looking to make your crafts a little greener, give Hama BioBeads a try!  Check them out here!

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