7 Best Drill Separators for Mixed Diamond Colors

The sight of mixed-up diamond drills can turn a relaxing crafting session into a tedious exercise in frustration. Proper organization tools turn this common chore into a simple, efficient step that preserves the joy of the hobby. Choosing the right separator ensures that color purity is maintained without damaging the delicate facets of the drills themselves.

ARTDOT Electric Grinder: Best for Speed

For those who frequently work on massive canvases and find themselves with hundreds of spilled drills, speed is the primary requirement. The ARTDOT Electric Grinder utilizes a rotating mechanism to rapidly separate mixed colors by size and weight. It is an excellent choice for a dedicated craft room where workspace is plentiful and electrical outlets are easily accessible.

While powerful, this tool requires a steady hand to avoid sending drills flying across the room. It excels at clearing large volumes of mixed drills in seconds, saving significant time during the cleanup phase. However, users should be mindful that the high-speed vibration can be noisy, making it less ideal for late-night crafting in shared living spaces.

Bottom line: If throughput is the priority, this electric option justifies its footprint and price. It remains the top choice for high-volume diamond painters who value efficiency over quiet operation.

Elizabeth Ward Sifters: For Careful Sorting

Homeowners who prefer a controlled, manual process often gravitate toward the Elizabeth Ward system. These sifters utilize a series of graduated mesh trays that allow drills to fall through based on size, separating them cleanly and safely. This method is quiet, requires no electricity, and fits perfectly into standard storage cabinets or drawers.

Because this system relies on gravity and precision mesh, it is incredibly gentle on the diamonds. There is no risk of heat buildup or mechanical vibration damage, ensuring that even the most fragile drills remain in pristine condition. It is an ideal solution for those who enjoy the meditative aspect of manual organization.

Bottom line: For the hobbyist who wants to avoid the noise and potential breakage of motorized tools, these sifters provide a reliable, long-lasting solution. They represent a smart, one-time investment that will serve a craft collection for years.

The Diamond Duster: A Gentle Manual Option

When space is at a premium—such as in a small apartment or a shared desk area—a compact, manual duster is often the most practical tool. These small handheld devices use soft bristles or gentle mechanical agitation to move drills across a sorting surface. They require almost no storage space and can be tucked into a standard craft supply box with ease.

The trade-off here is time, as manual dusting requires more patience than an electric grinder. Yet, for smaller projects or minor spills, it is often faster to reach for a duster than to set up an electric station. It offers a low-cost, low-maintenance approach that avoids the clutter of bulky equipment.

Bottom line: Keep this tool on hand for quick touch-ups and small-scale sorting. It is the perfect entry-level solution for those who are just beginning their diamond painting journey.

JAROWN Mini Grinder: A Surprising Budget Pick

For those hesitant to invest heavily in specialized tools, the JAROWN Mini Grinder offers a balance of affordability and utility. Its compact design is surprisingly effective at handling standard round and square drills, making it a favorite for those who value cost-effectiveness. It is small enough to fit in a kitchen junk drawer or a bedside nightstand when not in use.

The motor strength is noticeably lower than larger commercial units, which means it may take an extra pass to sort dense mixtures. However, for a casual crafter who only sorts drills occasionally, this lack of power is hardly a drawback. It provides exactly enough functionality to solve the problem without taking up significant counter space.

Bottom line: If the goal is to solve the problem of mixed drills without overspending, this is the pick. It is an honest, budget-friendly tool that performs well within its intended limits.

The Drill Sift Pro: Ideal for Large Batches

When a project requires sorting thousands of drills at once, the Drill Sift Pro provides the surface area necessary to handle the task in a single go. Its wide, sturdy frame is designed to sit securely on a table, minimizing the risk of accidental tipping or spills. It is particularly well-suited for households where crafting is a semi-permanent hobby with a dedicated table.

The main advantage is the sheer capacity, which significantly reduces the number of times drills must be cycled through the sorting process. It is built to withstand repeated use, making it a favorite for those who run home-based crafting groups or finish multiple large canvases every year. Its size does mean it is not ideal for those who need to pack their supplies away after every session.

Bottom line: Invest in this if you regularly work on large-scale projects and have the table space to accommodate professional-grade gear. It saves hours of manual labor over the life of a large canvas.

The Shaker Sorter Tray: Gentle on Your Drills

The Shaker Sorter Tray is a simple, effective piece of equipment that relies on a specific motion rather than motor power. By placing mixed drills in the tray and using a controlled side-to-side shaking motion, the drills naturally align and settle into their designated slots. This provides an almost entirely silent sorting experience that is easy to master.

This tray is the gold standard for durability because it contains no moving parts or electronic components that can break down. It fits seamlessly into standard organization bins, making it a low-profile addition to any craft room. The only requirement is a bit of physical dexterity to achieve the right shaking rhythm.

Bottom line: The simplicity of this tool is its greatest strength. It is perfect for those who want a long-term, indestructible solution that avoids the complexities of electricity.

Diamond Dotz Separator Kit: The All-in-One

For many, the most convenient path is an all-in-one kit that includes various tray sizes and specialized separators. These kits are designed to work together, offering a cohesive system that handles everything from initial sorting to final storage. Buying a set is often cheaper than purchasing individual components and ensures that every piece is compatible with the next.

These kits are particularly useful for those who like to have a place for everything and everything in its place. The storage cases included in these sets are usually stackable, which is a major benefit for homeowners trying to maximize limited shelf space. While not every piece in a large kit will be used daily, the convenience of having a complete set is worth the initial cost.

Bottom line: Choose the kit approach if you prefer an organized, unified system. It is the best choice for those just starting out who want a comprehensive toolset immediately.

Grinders vs. Sifters: Which Is Right for You?

Choosing between a grinder and a sifter depends largely on the frequency and volume of your sorting. Grinders are designed for speed and high-volume output, making them best suited for those working on complex, multi-colored canvases. They require electricity and are generally louder, which can be a factor if you share your home with others.

Sifters, conversely, offer a precise and quiet alternative that prioritizes drill integrity. They are generally better for those who appreciate a slower, more deliberate crafting pace or who work in small, shared spaces like apartments. Sifters require no power, meaning they can be used anywhere, from the kitchen table to the patio.

• Grinders: Best for high-volume users, quick cleanup, and dedicated workspaces.
• Sifters: Best for small-space living, quiet environments, and careful, manual control.

Bottom line: Think about your daily environment. If noise or storage space is an issue, prioritize the sifter. If volume is the only hurdle, the grinder is the right tool for the job.

How to Stop Static Cling in Your Drill Trays

Static cling is the common enemy of all diamond painters, causing drills to jump and stick to the sides of containers. One of the most effective home solutions is to place a small dryer sheet inside the storage container or tray for a few hours before sorting. This simple household hack neutralizes the electrical charge and makes the drills flow much more freely.

Alternatively, lightly dusting the inside of your trays with a very fine coating of baby powder can prevent friction-induced static. Ensure the powder is thoroughly wiped out afterward so it does not affect the adhesive properties of the diamonds. Keeping the relative humidity in the crafting room slightly higher can also help mitigate the problem naturally.

Bottom line: Don’t let static ruin your progress. A simple dryer sheet tucked into your supplies is usually all it takes to restore order to your drill trays.

What to Do When Your Drills Are Stuck Solid

When drills have been stored incorrectly and fused together, patience is the best tool available. Avoid using sharp instruments to pry them apart, as this can easily scratch the facets and ruin the finish of the diamonds. Instead, place the clumped drills into a bowl of warm water with a tiny drop of dish soap and let them soak for ten minutes.

After soaking, gently stir the drills with a soft silicone spatula. Most will break apart effortlessly as the residue—usually from old adhesive or improper storage bags—dissolves. Once separated, drain the water, rinse them well, and lay them out on a paper towel to dry completely before returning them to your organizer.

Bottom line: Never force stuck drills apart. A gentle soak is safer, more effective, and preserves the quality of your materials for the final project.

Sorting mixed diamond colors does not have to be a source of stress. By selecting the tool that fits the rhythm of your home and the scope of your projects, you can keep your focus where it belongs: on the finished canvas.