Always make sure the glue gun is unplugged before handling or removing the nozzle. Never use water to clean a glue gun. In the worst-case scenario, you may simply have to wait until the glue gun warms up enough for the old stuck-on glue to drip off.
Most glue sticks are uniformly sized and made to fit any glue gun model. Check the instructions or specifications of your glue gun when buying replacement glue sticks just to be on the safe side.
Again, check the electrical cord for any signs of damage or deterioration before plugging it in. An cord in bad condition can present a possible fire risk. Some glue gun models are cordless, giving you more freedom to choose where and how you work. If you can’t find one of these, try using an extension cord to increase your range within your work area.
Some glue guns will have on/off switches, while others won’t. If your model does, it will need to be placed in the “on” position before it will begin heating up the glue. Otherwise, it will start warming as soon as it is plugged in. Rest the glue gun on the wire support stand at its base when it’s not in use. Never lay an active glue gun on its side. [6] X Research source
Place a piece of scrap cardboard or foil beneath the object you’re gluing to catch stray strands of glue. [9] X Research source Try gluing a few pieces of throwaway material to get a feel for your glue gun before using it for projects that require precision. If possible, wear a pair of gloves while working with hot glue to protect your hands from the heat and mess.
Attaching Styrofoam letters to diorama will only take a small dot, for instance, while you might want to add more glue in a zigzag or spiral pattern to securely hold objects with large surface areas or heavy parts. Hot glue is meant to be applied somewhat thickly, but using an excessive amount can cause softer surfaces to grow stiff and may be unsightly. Chances are that if you use too much, at some point you’ll need to know how to remove hot glue.
You should not try to hold moving parts or heavy, precarious objects together using a glue gun. Big jobs should always be carried out by contractors using the proper tools.
It is difficult to remove hot glue once it has set up. Make sure that the measurements, angles, and dimensions of your craft project are perfect before gluing it down.
Repeated washings will eventually deteriorate glue that is used on clothing, especially in warm water. Use hot glue to secure patches, rhinestones, and other accessories to clothing.
Apply a small amount of glue when working with delicate materials to keep from ruining it. Hot glue works on lace, wicker, paper, cotton and even confectionary items like those used to make candy arrangements and gingerbread houses. [15] X Research source
