Hot glue gun crafts are surprisingly easy to make – and anyone can master this simple tool! Learn how to make over 40 cool ideas here. You’re going to love these easy craft projects.
If there’s one craft tool most of us have in our arsenal, it’s a hot glue gun. Love it or hate it (those dang burns!), it’s really a useful device. I have like 200 glue guns . . . okay, that’s an exaggeration. I have about ten though. And I love using them to make “stuff.”
You might be shocked to know that you can make a lot of crafts and home decor with a glue gun as your main tool. I’m excited to share a big list of those with you today.
If you love wielding a glue gun (who doesn’t?) I’d like to share some glue gun crafts I think you’re going to love. All of these easy craft ideas use a hot glue gun of course, and most of them don’t require many more tools.
Before we dive into the list, I’d like to share some tips with you. If you’re ready to roll, skip past this section and down to the list. Otherwise, I hope these help.
Tips for Using a Hot Glue Gun
A glue gun uses hot melt adhesive, also known as glue sticks, which are glue in solid form (learn more here). The gun melts the sticks and it is applied as a liquid.
After it’s applied, the glue bonds as it becomes solid. Hot glue has a more permanent bond than a lot of other types of adhesives you could use when crafting. Here are my tips.
- Let your glue gun warm up before using, about 10 – 15 minutes. I warm mine up on a silicone mat so that any drips won’t be on my table top.
- Keep your glue gun upright when not in use. Either use a stand or prop it up on the built in stand. This will keep it from burning surfaces as well.
- Want to know what helps glue sticks from stringing as much? Keeping them in the freezer before using! Take them out and put them right into your glue gun (tip from Mod Podge Rocks).
- If you make a mistake, don’t try to correct it while the glue is hot. It’s better to let the glue cool a little and then try to remove it. Usually you can peel it or scrape it away while it’s warm but not hot.
- Clean surfaces like glass before using glue. Clean with rubbing alcohol or mild soap and water. If you’re having trouble bonding items, lightly sand to rough up the surface.
- Use a lower temperature when working with delicate materials like lace or nylon, to prevent melting or burning.
My Burn Prevention Secret
In addition to the tips above, I also wanted to share a little secret with you. Because I think we all know that hot glue gun burns are a real issue. May I present hot glue finger caps:
If you’ve never tried these little silicone covers before, I can’t recommend them enough. They are heat resistant up to 600 degrees, and they protect your fingers from getting scorched while using a glue gun.
Best Glue Gun for Crafts
There are a lot out there, so I wanted to share my glue gun picks with you so you would have an idea of what to choose. You’ll find a variety based on your needs. One of these four should cover you:
1. Best for Kids – AdTech Ultra Low-Temp Cool Tool. If you’re going to let your kids wield a glue gun, this one doesn’t get as hot as a regular glue gun (75 degrees cooler than average).
2. Best Dual Temp – Gorilla Dual Temp Mini Hot Glue Gun. This is your all-rounder! If you want low-temp (delicate items) and high temp (regular DIY crafts) in one, this should be your choice.
3. Best Splurge/for DIY – Arrow GT300 Fastener Pro High Temp Glue Gun. I have one of these Arrow glue guns for larger projects and DIY. It heats up quickly, the tip is drip resistant, and the tip is adjustable.
4. Best Budget Buy – Ad-Tech Hi-Temp Hot Glue Gun. I have one of these and love it. Simple, compact, and gets the job done for a small price. If you’re on a budget this will be your go-to – mine has lasted forever.
Are you ready to dive into the projects? Continue reading below!
Glue Art on Canvas
This glue art on canvas is going to be the most unique – and easiest – wall art you'll ever make! Grab a canvas, hot glue gun, and spray paint. You'll be done with this craft idea in minutes.
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How to Make Felt Flowers
I can't believe the beautiful flowers you can make with only felt and hot glue – rose, peony, chrysanthemum, dahlia, and ranunculus. Make a pretty bouquet!
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Gem Rings Made in Minutes
Use glue to create these fabulous and glittery gem rings (with molds). Make them for holidays, parties, dressing up . . . they are easy enough for even a kid to do!
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Make Cork Trivets in Four Steps
It's so EASY to make DIY trivets with cork and hot glue! This tutorial shows you how to make cork trivets in four easy steps – any design you like.
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DIY Colorful Cocktail Stirrers
Get ready for the holidays or just add to your bar cart decor with these fun and colorful gem DIY cocktail stirrers!
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Turn Empty Jars into a Butterfly Oasis
Use glass jars with some natural materials and faux butterflies to create these cool cloche. It's a perfect way to recycle and it's very inexpensive.
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DIY Scrapbook Embellishments on a Dime
Learn how to make scrapbook embellishments with hot glue and silicone molds! Perfect for capturing your memories on a pretty page.
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How to Embellish Sandals the Easy Way
Learn how to embellish sandals using a unique technique that is REALLY easy! Take a simple pair of shoes from boring to fabulous.
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DIY Welcome Sign with Boho Style
Learn how to make a "hello" sign using hot glue in the color of your choice! This is a simple sign with such a friendly, welcoming message.
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DIY Wall Hanging
If you've always wanted to make a wall hanging with the quote or saying of your choice, this is how it's done! No sewing skills required.
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Batik Style T-Shirt Using a Stencil
Did I ever think about using hot glue as a stencil? It never even occurred to me! This is such a genius idea and I know you probably have some kids (or teens!) that are going to love this.
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DIY Bulletin Board
Looking for a DIY bulletin board idea that takes about ten minutes? This is just the project for you! It’s really easy to do and is budget friendly.
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Mini Planters for Your Tiny Garden
Make these easy mini planters with rope and hot glue – the small size makes them perfect for filling with cacti or succulents to decorate or give to friends!
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DIY Flower Hair Accessories
Wanna make some DIY hair accessories? These chic faux leather hair ties are fantastic for girls of all ages – and they're easy for beginners to make!
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DIY Flower Headband
This floral headband is incredibly easy to make! Learn how to make a flower headband with this simple tutorial and basic supplies.
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DIY Metallic Gem Hair Accessories
You'll love these rainbow "faux gem" barrettes. You can make a ton of them at once. They make great homemade gifts!
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DIY Cord Organizer
Learn how to make a cable wrap using felt and Velcro! This is an easy, no sew project that's simple to make (get a free template).
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Hot Glue Embellished Throw Pillow
This is a fun way to use glue and some pretty paint to make personalized pillows.
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DIY Crystals Made with Glue Sticks
If you love the look of crystals, then you’ll love this easy DIY project where you can make your own – in whatever color you like. PS – you don't even have to melt the glue sticks.
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Nursery Letter Art with Felt Balls
If you have a wood letter and some felt balls then you're ready to make this cute wall decor! Super cute, easy, and you'll want to make an entire name.
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DIY No-Sew Rope Coil Basket
Sara's a dang genius – she used a galvanized bucket as a template to make this unique rope basket that you don't have to sew. Because all you need is a hot glue gun! I love the finished product.
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How to Make Felt Play Food
Put your little chef to work without the messy cleanup! Felt play food is not just fun – it’s soft to the touch and stimulates both motor skills and imagination. No sewing required.
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DIY Painted Coral
If you're looking for some very unique decor that doubles as a conversation piece, try making this hot glue coral! It's way easier than you might think.
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DIY Push Pins with Personality
Discover how to make unique DIY push pins with glue and silicone molds! This easy guide is perfect for beginners looking to personalize their space.
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Quick and Easy Glue Jewelry
This quick craft is perfect for making yourself something special or gifts for a friend. In less than 15 minutes you can make a glittery hot glue pendant, earrings, or maybe even a ring.
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Textured Colorful Flower Pots
These centerpieces are both colorful and unique! Not only are they fun, but they can double as favors for party guests. The glue creates the cool texture.
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DIY Candle Lantern From Frames
Grab some frames from the dollar store and get crafty. All you have to do is turn them into a square of sorts and insert some LED candles. This is super easy to assemble.
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Swirly Twirly No-Sew Yarn Coasters
With a skein of yarn, some felt, and a hot glue gun, you can make the coolest coasters! It's easy to do in any color(s) you like.
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Make a Pencil Holder with Glue
With hot glue, you can make freestanding items like a pencil holder! Then paint it in any color you like. Such a fun and simple idea that looks unique.
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Driftwood Orb Tutorial
People pay big bucks for driftwood art like this from furniture stores! All you need is a beach ball and hot glue gun to make your own.
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Texture Roller or Stamper
You'll want to grab a rolling pin from the dollar store for this cool craft. Just add hot glue and then let it cool – perfect for rolling texture in clay or stamping. Fun for kids or adults!
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Decorative Chrysanthemum Mirror
Can you really make a mirror that looks like a flower – with spoons? I didn't believe until I saw this. I love the finished results! Grabbing my hot glue gun, stat.
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Writing on Chippy Painted Bottles
It's hard to believe you can create a cool distressed look with hot glue, but it's definitely part of this project. WIth a little paint and some creativity, these will look great with your decor.
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DIY Hot Glue Flair Pins
These simple and cute heart pins are perfect for kids and adults alike! The only limitation is the molds you can find to make them. The rest is easy, and you'll get to paint too (I love painting!).
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Crate & Barrel Spin Vase Knock Off
Crate and Barrel sells a vase just like this one for a lot more than this cost to make! Do it yourself with your glue gun and immediately upgrade your decor.
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DIY Harry Potter Wands
I love the idea of making wands with chopsticks and hot glue! These are inspired by our favorite, Harry Potter. Who are you going to cast a spell on?
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Make Bracelets from Old T-Shirts
Use bangle bracelets and strips of t-shirt material to make this beautiful wearable craft! This tutorial uses glue but you can use a glue gun for the entire project.
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If you enjoyed these glue gun projects, I’d love for you to check out these other posts:
Cardboard • Chalkboard • Clay • Clothespins • Cottagecore • Fabric • Felt • Neckties • Newspaper • Paper Bags • Pom Poms • Recycled • Ribbon • Scrabble Tiles • Sharpies • Sprinkles • Tassels • Washi Tape
Great ideas, thanks! I was especially inspired by the pencil holder. I wonder if you can also make bowls or planter pots by running tracks of hot glue over a sand castle, so the glue picks up the sand, to give it a stone-like appearance?