Have you ever found yourself in a situation where you needed a new glue gun, but had no idea where to start? That’s exactly what happened to me recently when suddenly my old glue gun decided to give up on me. I knew I needed a new one, but when I turned to Amazon to find a replacement, I was hit with a whopping 700 different options to choose from, spread out over 48 pages!
Who knew there were so many different types of glue guns out there? It was like trying to pick a needle out of a haystack. But I still needed to buy one. So, I decided to do some research and figure out what I really needed in a glue gun. In this article, I’m going to share with you what I learned about glue guns and how to choose the right one for your needs.
I frequently hear readers say they regularly use glue guns for various crafting projects, but they never thought they could use them on fabric. And I was thinking the same. A couple of years ago I used the glue gun in my Christmas ornament projects (DIY Christmas Angel Ornament). I had never used one before and was pleasantly surprised by how easy it was to use and how quickly it dried.
As I continued to experiment with different materials, I discovered that it was also a great tool for my leather sewing projects. I wondered why I hadn’t used it before.
In case you have also held that misconception, I want you to know that you CAN use glue guns on fabric. But it’s important to keep in mind that certain types of fabric may require a special glue gun designed specifically for fabric. Sheer fabrics, mesh and lace are just a few examples of fabrics that may require a lower temperature glue gun to prevent damage or melting.
While general use glue guns may work just fine for some fabric projects, using a glue gun that is specifically designed for fabric can provide better results and help ensure that your fabric stays intact.
Note: Some of the links on this page are affiliate links. This means I will receive a commission if you order a product through one of my links. I only recommend products I believe in and use myself.
The Best Glue Gun That I Have
If you’re in a hurry and need a glue gun recommendation fast, look no further. I recently purchased a glue gun that I like and it has over 10,000 positive reviews to back it up. After reading through all the glowing reviews, I decided to give it a try. And am I glad I did!
The Chandler Tool glue gun is a full-size hot glue gun that is easy to use. It has a 60W high-temperature heating element that heats up quickly and provides a strong bond for various materials.
One of the great features of the Chandler Tool glue gun is that it doesn’t drip glue, which was a common problem with my old glue guns. This means that you can use it with precision and accuracy, without worrying about making a mess.
The glue gun also has a comfortable grip, making it easy to handle and use for extended periods of time. So, not only is it reliable and versatile, it’s also designed with user comfort in mind. Also, the glue gun comes with a stand-up base that allows you to easily store it when not in use, and 12 glue sticks to get you started on your projects. The glue gun is available in a stylish pink color.
Factors To Consider When Choosing A Glue Gun for Fabric
When choosing a glue gun for fabric, there are several factors to consider to ensure that you get the best tool for the job. Here are some of the important things to keep in mind:
- Consider the size and type of project you’ll be working on. If you’ll be working on small, intricate projects, a mini glue gun may be more suitable. For larger projects, a full-size glue gun may be necessary.
- Look for a glue gun with a high wattage. A higher wattage means that the glue gun will heat up more quickly and be able to melt glue more efficiently, making it easier to work with.
- Look for additional features such as temperature control, adjustable glue output, and cordless operation. These features can make it easier to work with your glue gun and achieve better results.
- Read reviews from other customers who have purchased the same glue gun. Look for reviews that mention the type of projects the glue gun was used for and how well it performed.
Temperature Range
One of the most critical factors to consider when choosing a glue gun for fabric specifically is the temperature range. Different fabrics require different temperatures to bond correctly, and using the wrong temperature can damage the fabric or weaken the bond.
Low-temperature glue guns are ideal for delicate fabrics or polyester materials, so they don’t damage the material. On the other hand, high-temperature glue guns are better suited for heavier fabrics such as denim or leather that require a stronger bond and, having a greater mass, tend to cool down the glue quite fast.
It can be helpful to find a glue gun with adjustable temperature settings to achieve the ideal temperature for every project.
Pro Tip: Avoid using high-temp hot glue sticks in a low-temperature gun. Although the glue will melt and squeeze out, it can break the glue gun with repeated use. Plus, using the wrong temperature will significantly reduce the adhesive bond’s strength.
Size Compatibility
Another factor to consider is what size glue stick can the glue gun accommodate. Although most glue guns can use standard-size glue sticks, some models require specific sizes (larger or smaller).
Make sure to check the glue gun’s compatibility with the glue sticks you plan to use before making a purchase.
Size compatibility also applies to the size of the glue gun. A smaller glue gun can be easier to hold and use but may not work well for larger projects. In contrast, a larger one may be too hot for delicate fabrics or too big for intricate work.
Not Dripping
One important factor to consider when choosing a glue gun for your projects is whether or not it drips glue when not in use. Glue guns that drip glue can be messy and frustrating to work with, as they can leave unwanted glue residue on your work surface and materials.
Sturdy Stand Or Base
It’s also important to choose a glue gun with a sturdy stand or base. A stand or base will allow you to safely and securely set down your glue gun when not in use, preventing it from accidentally tipping over and causing drips or spills.
Trigger Mechanism
The trigger mechanism significantly impacts your experience while using a glue gun.
Some models have a manual trigger that requires a lot of (continuous) force to squeeze in order for the glue stick to be fed to the melting mechanism, causing your hand to get tired or cramp up. On the other hand, other models have a more comfortable, ergonomic trigger that requires less effort.
Look for a glue gun with a trigger mechanism that feels comfortable in your hand and is easy to use for extended periods.
Corded vs. Cordless
Glue guns for fabric come in corded or cordless versions, and each style has its advantages and disadvantages.
For example, corded glue guns provide a stable power source for consistent heating, but the cord can get in the way while you work or not reach far enough to get to a part of your project.
Conversely, cordless glue guns offer more flexibility and portability but may not run as hot as you need (especially on low batteries) or last long because the batteries die somewhat quickly.
Determining your needs ahead of time will make finding the right option easier!
Interchangeable Nozzles
A glue gun’s nozzle plays a vital role in precise and clean adhesive application. If you intend to use the gun for various projects, possibly needing various degrees of precision, opt for a glue gun with interchangeable nozzles, allowing you to switch between thin, thick, wide, and narrow tips depending on your project needs.
High-quality glue guns are designed with a drip-controlled precision tip, which prevents glue from dripping when the glue gun is not in use.
Brand Reputation and Customer Reviews
It’s always a good idea to research the brand reputation and read customer reviews before making a purchase of any kind.
Whether I’m making a small purchase (like scissors, The Best Electric Scissors For All Your Crafting Needs) or a large purchase (such as a sewing machine, Best sewing machine for intermediate or advanced sewists), I take the time to research the brands and read reviews of my favorite models to make sure that I’m putting my money to good use!
Look for a reputable brand that offers high-quality products and excellent customer support. Reading customer reviews will provide valuable insights into the glue gun’s performance, durability, and ease of use to help you determine if it’s the best fit for you.
By considering these factors when choosing a glue gun for fabric, you can ensure that you get the best tool for your needs and achieve strong, long-lasting bonds for all your fabric projects!
Price
Cheap models can be found for as little as 10 dollars, while high-end models can cost up to 50 dollars or more. So, is it worth it to invest in a more expensive glue gun, or will the cheaper models do the job just as well?
First, it’s important to consider the features that come with each type of glue gun. Cheaper models may have fewer features, such as a lower wattage or a smaller glue stick size. This can make them less effective for larger or more complex projects. In contrast, more expensive models may offer higher wattage, larger glue stick sizes, and additional features like temperature control or cordless operation.
Cheaper models may be made with lower-quality materials that can wear out or break down faster. More expensive models, on the other hand, are often made with higher-quality materials that are designed to last longer and withstand heavy use.
If you plan on using your glue gun frequently or for larger projects, a higher-end model may be worth the investment. However, if you only need a glue gun for occasional use or for smaller projects, a cheaper model may be perfectly adequate.
Common Issues For Glue Guns
In my experience, all glue guns will have some problems, at least to some extent. The most frequent issues I had with the glue guns are:
- Dripping glue while not in use
- Leaving a thin string of hot glue behind
- Difficulty with the exact amount of glue applied
If a glue gun “leaks” it may simply drip hot glue from the nozzle without anyone touching it. You have of course to make sure this hot glue drips on a disposable piece of paper, or at least in a place where it can not cause further problems. I found this to be extremely annoying because a couple of times I touched this drop of hot glue before it cooled down and the result was a sticky mess!
The problem with the thin line (string that looks like thread) of hot glue is visible in the image below. All glue guns I had are having this problem to some extent, the higher the temperature, the bigger the problem. The only solution I found was to lift the glue gun away from the work area (but do not put it down yet) and wait a couple of seconds for the glue to solidify then cut or break the thin line left behind.
It is also an annoying problem because if you do not pay attention and simply put down the glue gun the thin thread of hot glue may adhere to parts of the work area and, again, make a sticky mess.
For the third issue (difficulty to apply the exact amount of glue needed) I did not find a solution yet. I guess it comes only with experience 🙂!
Top 5 Best Glue Guns For Fabric
Fortunately, glue guns are not all created equal, which means there’s a glue gun for every crafter’s needs. When it comes to sewing, you need a glue gun that’s reliable, versatile, and can work as long as you do.
Here are my recommendations for the best glue guns for fabric:
This gun is not really “cordless” because it only heats up when placed in its stand (or when connected directly to power), but when removed from the stand it remains hot enough for a couple of minutes of work. Not having a battery means you can use it for many years without fear that the battery will die.
This glue gun is perfect for those who need to use it anywhere without being tethered to a power outlet. The cordless design offers up to 3 minutes of use on a full charge, enough to dispense the glue in one or more work points. If you need more time, or for continuous use, simply plug in the power cord for indefinite use, and the gun becomes corded.
Features
Here’s what you get with the Surebonder Cordless Hot Glue Gun for fabric:
- Full-size
- High-temperature (up to 380° F)
- Heating base to hold and heat glue gun between applications
- Included silicone glue pad connected to the base to catch drippings from the glue gun when not in use
Here are the advantages and disadvantages of this product:
Pros:- Affordable
- Can use any high temp full-size glue stick (0.43”)
- Freedom of going cordless without the hassle of making sure the batteries are charged
- Cordless but not rechargeable
- Cordless use time limited to 2 - 3 minutes
- Does not have a temperature light to indicate when it’s ready
- Trigger mechanism requires quite a bit of pressure to get glue out
- Does not come with glue sticks - add on a pack of 50 glue sticks
Customer Reviews
A rating of 4.5 stars with more than 10K reviews means this glue gun for fabric is a must-have for nearly any project. Here are just a few things that reviewers have said:
- “The wireless ability is to die for. It stays hot/warm for up to 2 minutes off the power. Super handy!”
- “Heats up fast. Easily fits into holder when not using.”
- “Being cordless, it allowed me to move all around to glue artwork for an upcoming show. The glue stayed hot for plenty of time when not plugged in the charger.”
However it seems a significant number of buyers (about 6%) complained that the gun either did not work well out of the package, or stopped working (not advancing the glue sticks) soon after the first use. Do not let this deter you from buying it, if you think it is useful. No product is perfect. Just make sure you test the device immediately after buying, Amazon has an excellent return policy if something goes wrong.
This glue gun is perfect for all your crafting projects, from sewing to art or even woodworking! Its 40-watt, dual-temperature design keeps energy consumption low while meeting your bonding needs. Use Adtech hot melt glue sticks for a strong, long-lasting bond.
I own an older version of this gun, my version (no longer available) does not have the dual temperature setting and works with mini glue sticks (0.27”). I do not like this older version very much because it drips glue while not in use even if the nozzle is not pointing down. User reviews of the newer version are good meaning this issue has been resolved in the newer model.
Features- Full-size
- Included a stand to prop up the glue gun and catch any glue drips
- Two heating temperatures (high and low) to meet all of your adhesion needs
- 5-foot cord
Here are the advantages and disadvantages of this product:
Pros:- Affordable
- Compatible with any high temp full-size glue stick (0.43" diameter)
- Needle nozzle for precision work
- Have to buy glue sticks separately
- Trigger mechanism can be finicky
- Several reviewers commented about how much it drips when you aren’t actively using it
- “Hot” power setting does not seem to be hot enough to melt wax sticks. If you intend to use it for wax seals consider a more powerful gun.
Almost 6K reviews give this product 4.5 stars, so you can rest assured that you’re purchasing a high-quality product. Reviewers have made a few points:
- “The two temperatures allow me to control how hot I want the glue depending on the project.”
- “It is lightweight and the nozzle allows you to be extremely accurate with how much you dispense and where you dispense it.”
- “I love this glue gun; there aren't many other models that have two temperatures and a thin detail nozzle.“
This glue gun is perfect for those who need a small glue gun for delicate projects. It has a dual temp feature that allows you to switch between low and high temperatures, depending on the project. The glue gun heats up quickly and has a comfortable grip that makes it easy to use.
Features- Uses 0.27” diameter mini glue sticks (package includes 75 mini glue sticks)
- Dual-temperature design
- Built-in stand
- Gorilla hot glue is durable and weather-resistant. More glue stocks for this gun here.
Here are the advantages and disadvantages of this product:
Pros:- Has a power indicator light
- Precision tip for delicate work
- Lightweight design with a comfortable grip
- Have to buy glue sticks separately
- This glue gun doesn’t have an on/off switch
- The built-in stand is a little narrow and can tip over if you lightly bump it
Almost 36K reviews and 4.7 stars speak for themselves. Here are a few things customers say about this glue gun for fabric:
- “This little glue gun stays nice and cool to the touch so it won’t burn your hand. It seldom drips. Its contours and size make it easy to hold and precisely apply glue.”
- “I am asking myself, ‘Where have these Gorilla Glue Guns been all my life? Why didn't I try these before?’"
- “I appreciate the dual temp feature so much. It heats up quickly and is ready to use in very little time. The gun is compact in size, which makes it easy to hold and maneuver.”
This glue gun is perfect for those who need something that will heat up and cool down quickly. Its cordless design allows you to move around and use it as needed with no limitations. And the long battery life is very convenient!
Features- Uses 0.27” diameter mini glue sticks (package includes 25 mini glue sticks)
- USB-C charging port
- Built-in stand
- Power indicators that show remaining battery power
Here are some advantages and disadvantages of this product:
Pros:- Smart power-off feature that turns the glue gun off after 5 minutes of no activity
- Quick heating design (ready to use in 15 seconds)
- Compact and lightweight, so you can use it longer without fatigue
- Has a 180-minute battery life
- Drips when not in use
- 5Ah lithium-ion battery takes 2 hours to fully charge
- Some customers complain that battery life is not long
More than 3K reviews with 4.3 stars prove this glue gun for fabric is a favorite. Here’s what customers on Amazon have to say about it:
- “When you turn it off it also cools down quickly so that way it's not wasting the glue that is dripping”
- “The battery lasts for longer than expected, it heats up super quickly, and is super easy to use, which is definitely useful.”
- “It’s wireless so is very flexible on where you can use it. It charges while you use it as well which is good. It feels pretty precise in use and is solidly built.”
This gun comes in a different variety which uses a 12V battery similar with other power tools: 12V Cordless Hot Glue Gun
This glue gun is ideal for anyone who does delicate fabric gluing or whose hand gets tired when using a glue gun.
It has an ergonomic design and easy-squeeze trigger, plus it comes with 15 full-size glue sticks. It's perfect for all your sewing projects!
This is a very powerful glue gun; while the AdTech version of the dual temperature gun has 40W of power, this one has 60/100W for its dual temperature settings.
Features- Full-size glue gun, powerful heating element
- Has a dual-temperature design to meet your adhesion needs for any project
- Helpful off-switch design to prevent waste
- Comes with 15 full-size glue sticks, silicone drip mat, silicone finger caps, and a carry case
Here are some advantages and disadvantages of this glue gun for fabric:
Pros:- Ergonomic design and easy squeeze trigger ensure your hand won’t get tired
- Precision nozzle for delicate work
- Anti-scald design
- Does not have a cordless option
This is actually the best reviewed of all the glue guns I saw. With 4.8 stars, lack of negative reviews and over 1000 votes, customers show they love this glue gun. Here are some things they say:
- “Has two color light that indicates whether you have it on the 60 or 100-watt setting.”
- “Love the nice sized, well-constructed case that keeps everything together.”
- “It has a very nice protective tip that prevents glue from sticking to the heating nozzle.”
Choosing the best glue gun for fabric depends on your needs. Whether you need a glue gun for lightweight projects or thick, heavy materials, one that offers the freedom to go where you do, or a workhorse that stays put, there's a glue gun out there for you.
For a similar product consider also ROMECH Full Size Hot Glue Gun with 60/100W Dual Power and 21 Hot Glue Sticks (7/16") which has about the same characteristics and equally good reviews.
If you want the ultimate glue gun, this versatile Boswell Full Size Hot Glue Gun is an excellent choice. It has adjustable temperature and interchangeable nozzles for a variety of uses.
Pros- Fast heating (1-3 minutes)
- Temperature adjustable (284-428℉)
- Comes with 6 drip-free copper nozzles
- Excellent user reviews
- Not cordless
- Glue sticks may not adhere well to all surfaces (or use Gorilla glue sticks)
- Heat shield may loosen after extended use
- More expensive than others (but not exorbitantly so)
The Boswell Full Size Hot Glue Gun is an impressive crafting tool that heats up quickly, taking only 1-3 minutes to reach its operating temperature.
This fast heating feature is especially useful when working on time-sensitive projects or when multiple gluing tasks need to be performed in succession.
One of the standout features of this glue gun is its adjustable temperature dial, which allows users to modify the heat settings from 284℉ to 428℉.
This versatility makes it suitable for various usage scenarios, ranging from delicate fabrics to more robust materials such as wood and metal. The included six interchangeable copper nozzles are designed for anti-dripping and smooth glue flow, enhancing the overall experience and precision of the adhesive application.
However, one notable issue is that it is not cordless, which may limit its maneuverability and ease of use in some settings. Additionally, some users have reported that the included glue sticks do not adhere well to certain surfaces, which could impact the effectiveness of their projects.
Lastly, the heat shield may loosen after extended use, potentially affecting the safety and durability of the glue gun.
More glue guns at Amazon: corded versions and cordless.
How To Use The Glue Gun
The principle is simple: plug the gun in, wait a couple of minutes for it to heat up, then squeeze the trigger to apply the “right amount” of glue to the work area. The glue will be liquid for a short time, you have to work relatively quickly to stick the elements together so a practice run on scrap is always recommended to get the feel of how the operation will unfold.
When is the glue gun hot enough to start working? When the tip of the gun is hot and the drop of glue that appears at the tip is liquid. Unfortunately, this has to be learned with experience, again, practice on scrap is always a good idea. Scrap is free and the glue sticks are not expensive; better to practice more than to have a mishap with the real project!
I have used the glue gun when making my Christmas ornaments (Unique DIY Christmas Ornaments, DIY Christmas Angel Ornament) and also when I was attaching fabric flowers to my headbands. The images below show the items.
✅ Related tutorial: Easy fabric flowers {a sewing tutorial and a free pattern}
✅ Related tutorial: Sew headband DIY sewing pattern
Frequently Asked Questions
What Type Of Glue Gun Is Suitable For Fabric Projects?
When working with some types of fabric (like lightweight polyester or lace), use a low-temperature or adjustable-temperature glue gun. Low-temperature glue guns melt the glue at a lower temperature, reducing the risk of damaging delicate fabrics, especially polyester or nylon. Adjustable-temperature glue guns allow you to control the heat, ensuring optimal adhesion without burning the fabric.
Is A Cordless Glue Gun Effective For Fabric Use?
Yes, a cordless glue gun can be effective for fabric use. Cordless glue guns offer greater mobility and flexibility when working on fabric projects, allowing you to move around without being restricted by a power cord. However, it is important to make sure the cordless glue gun you choose has enough battery life and consistent heating for your project.
Which Glue Sticks Are Best For Bonding Fabric Materials?
For fabric materials, we recommend using fabric-specific glue sticks like Surebonder full size or Surebonder mini size. These glue sticks are formulated to bond effectively with fabrics and often have a flexible bond that allows for the movement and stretching that occurs in fabric projects.
Are Industrial Hot Glue Guns Suitable For Fabric?
Industrial hot glue guns are generally not recommended for fabric projects, as they typically operate at high temperatures, which can damage delicate fabrics or lead to burns. For fabric projects, it’s better to stick with low-temperature or adjustable-temperature glue guns to avoid damaging the material.
How Do Glue Gun Prices Compare For Fabric Usage?
Glue gun prices vary depending on the type, brand, and features. However, for fabric usage, you don’t necessarily need to invest in a high-priced glue gun. Many affordable low-temperature or adjustable-temperature glue guns work well for fabric projects without breaking the bank.
Are There Any Popular Brands For Fabric Glue Guns?
There are several popular brands for fabric glue guns, including AdTech, Gorilla, or Surebonder. These brands typically offer a range of options, from basic models to more advanced features, catering to various budgets and needs. For fabric projects, consider choosing a model from a reputable brand with positive reviews that specifically mention fabric usage.
Did you find this tutorial helpful? If so, save this pin (see below) on your sewing board so you can come to the article later when you need this information on the best glue gun for fabric, and follow me on Pinterest for more tips, tutorials, and inspiration!
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