An unsung hero of the DIY world, scrappers are an incredibly handy bit of kit when it comes to precise removal and smooth finishes. Some may try to improvise with other tools, but to get the job done, be that removing sticky residue or working on drywall, you need a high-quality scraper in your kit.
What would you use a scraper for? In a nutshell, scrapers are used to apply and spread materials. Different widths have different uses; for example, a narrow blade may work for filling small nail holes in walls or wood. A wide blade is more appropriate for larger surfaces and is commonly used for drywall application and related services.
The best scrapers at a glance:
Best for home improvements: WORKPRO Wallpaper Scraper Set - View offer on Amazon UK
Best for easy decorating: Rolson (4") Paint Scraper - View offer on Amazon UK
Best for some extra reach: Coral Endurance Scraper - View offer on Amazon UK
Best for simple removals: Ehdis Plastic Razor Scraper - View offer on Amazon UK
Scrapers are actually used to spread caulk, speckle, or even paint or for applying other materials to a surface. Have a look at our list of the best scrapers to add to your toolbox down below…
Best for home improvements
This set of four will have you completely sorted when it comes to all your scraping needs. All blades are constructed of durable stainless steel and hardened to HRC 48-52, which is corrosion-resistant and provides longer life for use.
Our Thoughts: Made to be comfortable when using, these scrapers from WORKPRO are flexible with an ergonomic design that helps to reduce unwanted vibrations. These will leave your wall looking smooth in no time.
Pros
- Made from durable stainless steel
- Bi-material handle grip
Cons
- Some say not the best for daily use
Best for easy decorating
This mirror-polished blade is ideal for removing old paint from your walls and getting a fresh start. With a mirror-polished blade and a bi-material cushion grip handle, this scraper is a pretty great investment for your toolkit.
Our Thoughts: Featuring a strong and sturdy design, this scraper is an affordable option for fixing up your home. It fits nicely into the palm of your hand, so you can get a good grip and control while you're using the hand tool.
Pros
- Hole for hanging out the way
- Cushion grip handle
Cons
- Be extra careful when using
Best for some extra reach
Made to last and get the job done, this scraper pick from Coral is great for hard-to-reach spots in your home. This wallpaper stripper and scraper has a long-lasting, strong design. The oversized and angled 5-inch blade head scrapes more of the surface. Includes 4 spare blades stored conveniently in the handle.
Our Thoughts: Ideal for stripping wallpaper, we're big fans of this high-quality elongated scraper. The blade is super secure, so you can use it safely. Plus, the design still gives you a lot of control despite being longer.
Pros
- Angled 5-inch blade
- Longer handle
Cons
- Initial investment but will pay for itself in time
Best for simple removals
Easy to use and convenient, this plastic scraper from Ehdis makes daily scraping tasks easier than ever. The safety knobs on the plastic scraper provide you with good stability. You only need to loosen the knob on the triumph plastic scraper and disassemble the upper cover to easily replace the blade.
Our Thoughts: Great for ditching unwanted sticky residues like glue and dirt. We really appreciate how easy this is to use and store away. It's a lot stronger than it looks and comes at a great price, so what are you waiting for?
Pros
- Comes with several blades
- Includes safety protective covers
Cons
- Quite small in size
Best for amazing value
Scrape away paint and drywall with ease, thanks to this fantastic four-piece scraper set from FANTESI. This stainless filling knife set is made of high-quality stainless steel blades and plastic handle, which is durable and hard-wearing, flexible and high hardness, and can be used for longer life.
Our Thoughts: Coming in four different sizes, these brilliant scrapers are value for money and made to be long-lasting. They're a joy to use and deliver fantastic results, so it's hard to find a reason not to love them.
Pros
- Flexible and hard-wearing
- Soft grip handles
Cons
- Shorter handles
Best for safe, efficient use
This 7.62 cm chisel-edge blade is all about precision combined with strength, and we're big fans. The scraper's durable plastic handle provides a soft, moulded rubber grip for comfort and control. For added versatility, the handle includes a screw-out hammer end and a pole socket, which allows for attaching an extension pole when needing more reach.
Our Thoughts: With a moulded rubber grip handle, this heavy-duty Amazon Basics scraper gives you a secure hold whenever you use it, plus the heat-treated, polished cutlery steel won't let you down on durability.
Pros
- Bent profile for extra clearance
- Extendable handle
Cons
- Not suited to wallpaper stripping and plaster filling
Can using a scraper damage surfaces?
This is a valid concern, especially with sharper blades, but have no fear. With proper and safe use, a scraper won't damage your surfaces, be that furniture or walls, and won't damage you either if made to be secure.
DIY projects you need a scraper for:
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Removing old paint, wallpaper, and drywall
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Getting rid of gum from under tables
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Smoothing out plaster and paint
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Scraping off dirt and glue residue from mirrors
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Removing adhesives and sealants
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Some can be used to smooth wood and metal
What's the difference between a joint knife and a scraper?
A scraper is stiffer than a joint knife. Similar to a taping knife, smaller scrapers work better in tight corners. You use the wider versions for large walls and ceilings. Scrapers are also more rigid than taping knives.
What can you use instead of a scraper?
If you don't have a scraper, just about anything with a flat edge and at least one smooth side will work—a butter knife, a paint stirrer, or even a ruler. You're also going to create a fair amount of dust while patching holes, so it's worth considering how you'll handle it.
Caitlin Evans is a Content Optimisation Executive with a passion for finding the best products on the market. She specialises in identifying features that make a product stand out from the rest that will help people make informed buying decisions.