Hot Glue Guide: 19 Tips and Crafts You Can Do With Your Hot Glue Gun

At HGTV, we think hot glue is the unsung hero of the crafting world, leaving a lasting (or temporary) bond on countless DIY projects — and we’ve got the tiny burns to prove it. Check out our roundup of need-to-know basics, a handful of our favorite hot glue crafts and hot hacks to safely up your glue game.

Glue guns sold at the craft store come in two varieties: cordless and corded. Many of them also feature a switch that flips from low temperature, 260 degrees Fahrenheit, to high temperature, 383 degrees Fahrenheit. Low-temp glue guns are best for small projects and perfect for everyday use. High-temp glue guns are used for stronger adhesive bonds. For most DIY projects, we recommend the basic, corded hot glue gun as they cool quickly and there's no need to charge between projects.

Clear glue sticks are pretty common. But you'll be surprised to know there are a wide variety of colors on the market, from bright rainbow hues to glamorous glitter.

Now that we've covered most of the hot glue rules, try making some temporary decor using hot glue. Glass is a slick surface which makes it difficult for hot glue to create a permanent bond, which can be a good thing for temporary projects. Dress up a simple glass jar for a party with some twine. Layer jute around the glass, securing it with dabs of hot glue. Then, when the party is over, simply pull the twine from the jar. Tip: Avoid tiny burns by wearing a silicone finger guard.