FAQ
Interested, but want to see more detail about how CraftOptics Telescopes can help you master your medium? Here are some frequently asked questions. We try to be thorough, but if you cannot find the information you are looking for, please call us at 1 888 444 7728 and we will be happy to help you.
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What if I wear prescription glasses, bifocals, contacts, or reading glasses?
Our optics are designed to be used with your corrected vision installed in the frames. Whatever has been prescribed for you for normal distance (including astigmatism, etc.) and near vision functions is what should be installed in the frames to which the telescopes are attached. Please note that the telescopes are not a substitute for your bifocal and/or reading glasses—they are an enhancement and the two should be used together. If you are ordering new scopes, be sure to send us your complete prescription information. If you have any questions, please call us at 888 444 7728.
Why are CraftOptics binocular telescopes better than just my prescription or reading glasses?
Our telescopes are designed to work with your reading prescription, allowing you to see more detail at higher levels of magnification than when you use your reading prescription alone. If you try using a stronger reading prescription only, the focal length, or working distance, will be short and you will end up bending over while you work, putting strain on your neck and back due to poor posture. Our patent pending optical designs allow you to see high resolution images from a comfortable working distance.
Must I use the frames provided by CraftOptics?
Yes. CraftOptics titanium frames have been specifically selected and designed to work with scopes. They are light and comfortable, but also sturdy enough to bear the hinge and ocular mechanism.
What working distances (focal lengths) are available?
CraftOptics offers two focal lengths to choose from:
Short: 13 inches (best for bench or table top activities)
Regular: 16 inches (best for more relaxed positions--knitting, needlecraft, etc.)
The depth of field of 4-5 inches in our optics means that you can move several inches either side of those focal lengths, creating greater flexibility in your working distance.
Will there be enough magnification for my craft?
Our level of magnification, 2x at a 16" reading distance, is designed to maximize the performance of the telescopes for multiple activities. It provides power, distance and flexibility. As magnification increases, the field depths decrease, which can be limiting for many crafts. Your optical professional may be able to boost the magnification a bit in certain cases with a stronger near vision prescription, but keep in mind this will shorten your focal length.
I have terrible back and neck pain when I do my craft. Will CraftOptics binocular telescopes help?
Yes! This is what the telescopes are designed for. A lot of back and neck pain results from leaning over or working in uncomfortable positions. CraftOptics telescopes have two options for working distances to help you avoid leaning, and a fully adjustable hinge that allows you to position the magnification at a comfortable working angle which will put you in an ideal ergonomic position while working your craft.
Will magnification hurt my eyes?
No—in fact it will help. Magnification reduces eye strain, making detail work easier on your eyes. Just as eyeglasses reduce eye strain if a correction is needed, magnification lets your eyes do the same work with less effort.
Will I become dependent on using magnification?
You may find that your vision is so much better with scopes that you will not want to work without them. This is a good thing! It does not mean your eyesight is getting worse; you simply see better with magnification and you won’t want to go back to your old system.
Will I get dizzy or have headaches?
Magnification should help reduce headaches by reducing eye strain. If properly adjusted, the telescopes should not cause dizziness and you should adapt rapidly. Just as it takes time to adjust to a new pair of eyeglasses, it generally takes one to two weeks to be completely comfortable using magnification.
I am still young. Isn’t this for old people?
Absolutely not! You should use anything that helps improve vision and makes your craft more enjoyable. CraftOptics binocular telescopes are worn and loved by serious hobbyists of all ages.
