Hot Glue Guns and Craft Glue: Which Glue for Which Craft?

Posted by

Haanz Team

2026-10-18

On 2026-10-18

Haanz Art GuideFree, practical advice from the team at Haanz Art & Craft Materials

The right glue can make or break a craft project. A hot glue gun is fast and strong for decorations and models, a precision craft glue is better for gems and jewellery, and tape is perfect for paper. This guide explains which glue to use for which material, and how to use a glue gun safely.

Hot glue guns: 20W or 60W?

Hot Melt Glue Gun 20W (Small): a small gun that uses standard small glue sticks. It gives quick-setting bonds on paper, fabric, wood and plastic, and suits school projects, decorations and lighter craft.
Hot Glue Gun 60W (SM 211): a more powerful gun that uses large glue sticks and heats quickly. It suits bigger decorations, DIY and projects that need more glue.
Glue sticks: Hot Glue Gun Sticks, 5 pack of clear glue. Always check that the stick size matches your glue gun before buying.

Prices change, so see each product page for today’s price.

How to use a hot glue gun

Place the gun on its stand on a protected surface, such as a mat or cardboard.
Insert a glue stick and plug the gun in. Wait for it to heat up fully.
Squeeze the trigger gently and apply a small line or dots of glue to one surface.
Press the pieces together straight away and hold for a few seconds.
Pull thin glue strings away once cool, or remove them with a quick blast from a hair dryer.
Unplug the gun after use and let it cool on its stand.

Craft glue for gems and fine work

For rhinestones, gems, jewellery and embellishments, a precision glue is neater than hot glue. B-6000 Crafting Glue 110ml is clear when dry and has a precision nozzle. Use it in a ventilated area and follow the label for drying time.

Which glue for which material?

Paper and card: a glue stick or Double Side Tape for flat, clean results. Hot glue can leave bumps on thin paper.
Fabric and felt: hot glue for quick decorations; fabric glue for items that will be washed.
Wood, foam and cardboard models: hot glue for fast, strong joins.
Gems, sequins and jewellery: B-6000 or a similar precision craft glue.
Polymer clay findings: a strong craft glue after baking.
Resin pieces: craft glue for attaching flat backs and findings.

Craft glue and glue gun safety

Hot glue and the nozzle are very hot and can burn skin. Keep fingers away from fresh glue and use a craft stick to press small pieces.
Children should only use glue guns with close adult supervision; a low-power gun is easier for older children.
Never leave a plugged-in glue gun unattended.
Keep a bowl of cool water nearby in case of small burns, and seek help for serious ones.
Use solvent-based glues in a ventilated space and keep them away from children.

Project ideas

School models and dioramas with cardboard and foam.
Party decorations, garlands and festive wreaths.
Decorated photo frames with gems and shells.
Felt toys and bookmarks.
Handmade greeting cards with layered paper; see our kids craft materials guide.

For cutting tools to use alongside glue, read our craft knife guide.

Frequently asked questions

How do I remove glue gun strings?

Pull them off once cool, or pass a hair dryer over them briefly.

Does hot glue work on everything?

It holds well on many craft materials but can melt thin plastics and foam, and may not suit items exposed to heat. Test on a scrap first.

Which glue gun is easier for children?

A small, low-power glue gun such as the 20W is easier to handle, always with adult supervision.

Do you deliver islandwide?

Yes. We deliver across Sri Lanka in 2–5 working days, with cash on delivery, card or bank transfer. You can also visit our shops in Boralesgamuwa and Horana, open every day from 9 AM to 6 PM.

Not sure what to choose? WhatsApp the Haanz team on 0711 515 515 and we’ll help you choose the right glue for your craft.

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