Here's frugal me trying to find a "cheaper" alternative.

I love scrapbooking and embossing (raised design or writing on pages, tags, cards, etc).  The heating tools especially made for it are expensive, although they might be a little less heavy than the "tool" heating gun.

I've found that a heating gun (the "tool" used for removing paint) works just as well and can be much cheaper as they more often go on sale.  Just make sure you get one that has two temperature settings and use the lowest, otherwise, you'll burn your project.  I have the Mastercraft heating tool and although it's heavier than some other "guns" i've seen being used, i love it, and besides, it's not like you have to hold it for a long time like you would a hair dryer (which, by the way, can't be used for embossing because it's not hot enough and it blows the embossing powder away!)

Just making sure that $$ or lack there of, doesn't get in anyone's way of scrapbooking!

Happy scrappin'

Update: May 22nd 2008:  I have since been to many crops and found the Mastercraft heat tool to be a bit bulky, so although i still think it's a great alternative for home use, if you plan on travelling a lot for scrapbooking, you might find that a heat embossing tool especially made for scrapbooking to be lighter and less bulky.  I personally have the MARVY UCHIDA heat tool and it works great, is lightweight and doesn't take up too much space.