Page 18 of Glue Sticks

Selecting the right glue stick

Glue sticks come in a selection of sizes and have several different uses. For example,Elmer's® school glue is available not only in liquid form but also in stick versions and is a staple back-to-school supply. Some school and craft glue sticks go on purple to make it easier to see application sites, then dry clear for clean results. The adhesive won't crack, flake, or clump, and they dry quickly. Choose from permanent and non-permanent binding solutions.

Most brands offer nontoxic, PVC-free glues that are safe if a child accidentally ingests it. Some have certification by the Art and Creative Materials Institute, Inc. as safe and nontoxic. All follow ASTM D- 4326 safety guidelines for product labeling. Washable choices are available, which makes it easier to clean the adhesive from most porous and semi-porous surfaces. This feature also allows users to fix errors before a permanent bond forms. Other options include all-purpose and extra strength to handle multiple tasks. Consider using the extra-strong ones for adhering heavy materials. Glue sticks typically come in 0.24-ounce, 0.28-ounce, 0.40-ounce, and 0.78-ounce containers. They come in single and multipacks, ranging from 3- to 720-count. Bulk packages are ideal for teachers stocking up on classroom supplies. 

Hot glue sticks come in several sizes and quantities and also specifically for hot glue guns. These offer a permanent bonding solution for tougher, adhesive jobs and are capable of bonding metal, glass, and different fabrics. The hot adhesive dries clear and is available in 4-inch mini and 8-inch full-size sticks. Hot glue sticks are available for high, low, and dual-temperature adhesive guns. For delicate material such as lace, balloons, and ribbon use the low or dual temperature settings, and for more robust materials like magnets and wood opt for a high temperature setting.

The heated adhesive is acid-free and won't damage the surface of materials or degrade in storage, which makes it ideal for archival work and scrapbooking. Another option is an industrial-style that is 15 inches long and an excellent choice for adding an extra seal for packaging and shipping. Hot glue comes in packages ranging from 12 to 275 for completing a variety of tasks.  

Uses for glue sticks

Glue sticks create permanent bonds between a variety of materials and are appropriate for use by children and adults. Consider options like Elmer's glue sticks for adhering buttns or foam cutouts to homemade cards or letters. Additionally, paste special memorabilia like ticket stubs or playbills into scrapbooks or journals with an adhesive that won't bleed through the page. Glue sticks also have several practical applications for business, like repairing ripped items or helping create photo presentation boards instead of using transparent tape. Other office uses include sealing envelopes, adhering labels, putting up posters or charts on whiteboards, and to repair broken plastic or plywood items. The firm, wide body of the plastic tube allows children to grip it easily for controlled movements and helps them apply even, thin layers. If using transparent tape, make sure to have one or more tape dispensers handy to access the tape easily.

Choose environmentally friendly glue sticks. Reduce classroom and office environmental footprints with a natural adhesive stick made from 80 percent, plant-based, renewable materials. These also use up to 25 percent post-consumer recycled plastic for the containers and 20 percent recycled paper for the labels. 

Glue sticks are a low-mess bonding solution

Glue sticks provide a mess-free adhesive that’s easy for children and adults to apply. The solid binding solution won't spill, which reduces tough cleanups, and along with their compact size, allows users to keep the sticks close by in a desk drawer or backpack. Students can use soap and water to easily remove excess glue from their hands and faces when necessary. Replaceable, click-on seal caps and twist-up tubing help prevent the glue from prematurely drying out. Another option is a wide-base style that prevents the containers from rolling off desks and workstations. 

Using adhesives like this type of glue on paper materials provides a reliable, invisible bond. The sticks also offer a thorough, thin application that keeps items from having bulges between two sheets of paper or other materials. Choose from several brands, including,

• Elmer's
• Avery®
• Scotch®
• Crayola®
• Prang®
• Chenille Kraft®

Quill carries hot glue gun sticks, regular glue sticks, hot glue guns, and a variety of other adhesive options such as tape for home, school, and office use. Pick from colored or clear options to find ones that fit your projects.