Glue Sticks

About Glue Sticks

Glue sticks are essential consumables for hot melt glue guns, providing a versatile and efficient bonding solution for countless applications across professional trades and DIY projects. These cylindrical adhesive sticks are heated within a glue gun to create a molten adhesive that sets rapidly upon cooling, making them ideal for quick repairs, assembly work, carpentry tasks, and creative projects. Available in various diameters—typically 7mm for mini guns and 11mm or 12mm for standard models—glue sticks come in multiple formulations and colours to suit different materials and applications, from transparent all-purpose sticks to specialised wood adhesives and coloured craft options.

Tooled-Up.com stocks an extensive range of glue sticks from trusted brands including Steinel, Dremel, Bostik, Rapid, Stanley, and Bosch. Whether you need all-purpose transparent sticks for general bonding tasks, specialised wood glue sticks for carpentry work, or coloured options for craft applications, the selection caters to both professional tradespeople and enthusiastic DIYers. With options available in bulk packs for high-volume users and smaller quantities for occasional use, you'll find the right adhesive solution for your specific requirements.

Modern glue stick technology has evolved significantly, with formulations designed for specific temperatures and materials. Low-temperature glue sticks prevent damage to heat-sensitive materials like foam, ribbon, and delicate fabrics, whilst high-temperature variants provide superior bonding strength for demanding applications involving hardwoods, metals, and dense plastics. Professional-grade options like the Festool Natural PU Hot Melt Adhesive deliver exceptional performance for precision work such as edge banding in joinery and furniture making, whilst general-purpose sticks from brands like Arrow, Draper, and Einhell offer reliable performance for everyday bonding tasks.

Jargon Buster

• Hot Melt Adhesive (HMA): A thermoplastic adhesive that is heated to a molten state in a glue gun, then applied to surfaces where it cools and solidifies to create a bond. These adhesives set quickly without requiring curing time, making them ideal for rapid assembly work.
• Low Temperature Glue Sticks: Adhesive sticks designed to melt at lower temperatures (typically around 130°C), making them safer for use on heat-sensitive materials like polystyrene foam, certain plastics, and delicate fabrics without causing warping or damage.
• High Temperature Glue Sticks: Formulated to operate at higher temperatures (approximately 195°C), these provide stronger bonds and better performance on denser materials such as hardwoods, metals, ceramics, and heavy-duty plastics.
• Stick Diameter: The thickness of the glue stick, typically available in 7mm, 11mm, or 12mm sizes. The diameter must match your glue gun's specifications for proper feeding and melting—using the wrong size can damage your equipment.
• Open Time: The working period after application during which the adhesive remains molten and repositioning is possible, usually ranging from 30 seconds to 2 minutes depending on ambient temperature and material type.
• Set Time: The duration required for the adhesive to cool and achieve sufficient bonding strength, typically between 1-5 minutes for hot melt adhesives, allowing for rapid project completion.

Who Uses Glue Sticks?

Glue sticks are indispensable tools for a diverse range of trades and users:

• Carpenters and joiners – for assembly work, edge banding, veneer application, and quick repairs on site
• Electricians – securing cable runs, attaching cable clips, and fixing junction box covers
• Shop fitters and cabinet makers – bonding trim, securing fittings, and temporary positioning during installation
• Flooring specialists – fixing skirting beads, securing threshold strips, and minor repairs
• Upholsterers – attaching trim, securing fabric edges, and fixing decorative elements
• Exhibition and display builders – rapid assembly of temporary structures and signage mounting
• Model makers and crafters – precision bonding for detailed work and artistic projects
• Maintenance engineers – quick repairs and temporary fixes in industrial and commercial settings
• DIY enthusiasts – home repairs, craft projects, and general household bonding tasks

How to Choose the Right Glue Sticks

Match the Diameter: Always check your glue gun's specifications before purchasing. Common sizes include 7mm for mini glue guns like the Bosch Gluey Pen, and 11mm or 12mm for full-sized models. Using the wrong diameter will prevent proper feeding and melting, potentially damaging your equipment.

Consider the Temperature Rating: Low-temperature sticks (130°C) are ideal for delicate materials like polystyrene, foam, ribbon, and certain plastics. High-temperature variants (195°C) provide stronger bonds for demanding applications involving wood, metal, glass, and dense materials. Some glue guns offer dual-temperature settings for versatility.

Material-Specific Formulations: Whilst all-purpose transparent or white glue sticks handle most general bonding tasks, specialised formulations deliver superior results for specific materials. Dremel Wood Glue Sticks offer enhanced adhesion for timber projects, whilst PU (polyurethane) adhesives like those from Festool provide professional-grade performance for edge banding applications in joinery work.

Colour Requirements: Transparent sticks remain virtually invisible on most materials, making them ideal for visible joints. White sticks can be painted over and work well for opaque materials. Coloured glue sticks from brands like Dremel serve both functional and decorative purposes in craft and creative applications.

Quantity Considerations: For professional tradespeople undertaking regular bonding work, bulk packs from Bostik, Steinel, or Rapid offer better value and ensure you won't run short on site. DIY users might prefer smaller packs to prevent unused sticks deteriorating over time.

Brand Reliability: Established brands like Dremel, Bostik, Steinel, and Stanley manufacture glue sticks to consistent quality standards, ensuring reliable melting characteristics and predictable bonding performance. Compatible aftermarket options can offer value, but verify compatibility with your specific glue gun model.

Popular Accessories

Maximise the effectiveness of your glue sticks with these complementary products available from Tooled-Up:

• Hot Melt Glue Guns – corded or cordless models from Bosch, Dremel, Stanley, Steinel, and Rapid in various sizes and temperature settings
• Glue Gun Stands – protective rests that prevent surface damage and provide safe storage during use
• Nozzle Attachments – precision tips for detailed application and hard-to-reach areas
• Heat-Resistant Gloves – protection when working with high-temperature adhesives
• Craft Knives and Scrapers – for removing excess adhesive and achieving clean edges
• Masking Tape – for protecting surfaces and creating clean bonding lines
• Tool Storage Cases – organised storage for glue guns and stick supplies on site or in the workshop

Safety Information

Burn Prevention: Molten glue reaches temperatures between 130-195°C and can cause serious burns. Never touch the nozzle, molten adhesive, or recently applied glue. Allow adequate cooling time before handling bonded items. Keep a bowl of cold water nearby for immediate treatment should contact occur.

Ventilation: Whilst hot melt adhesives generally produce minimal fumes compared to solvent-based alternatives, adequate ventilation remains important, particularly during extended use. Work in well-ventilated areas to prevent accumulation of any vapours, following HSE guidance for workplace safety.

Electrical Safety: When using corded glue guns, ensure compliance with UK electrical standards. Inspect cables regularly for damage, use appropriate 240v outlets with 13A plugs, and never operate equipment with wet hands. Always unplug glue guns when not in use and before changing nozzles or performing maintenance.

Fire Safety: Never leave heated glue guns unattended. Use proper stands to prevent contact with flammable materials. Be aware that molten adhesive can ignite certain materials, particularly when working with fabrics or paper products.

Storage: Store glue sticks in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat sources. Excessive heat can cause premature softening or degradation of adhesive properties. Keep products out of reach of children.

Frequently Asked Questions

What size glue sticks do I need for my glue gun?
Glue stick diameter must match your glue gun's specifications. Common sizes are 7mm for mini guns and 11mm or 12mm for standard models. Check your glue gun's manual or measure the feed mechanism opening. Using incorrect sizes will prevent proper feeding and may damage your equipment.

Can I use any brand of glue stick in my glue gun?
Generally, yes, provided the diameter and temperature rating match your gun's specifications. However, manufacturer-recommended sticks often deliver optimal performance. Professional-grade guns like those from Festool may require specific formulations for best results, whilst general-purpose guns from Bosch, Stanley, or Dremel typically accept any compatible all-purpose stick.

What's the difference between transparent and white glue sticks?
Both offer similar bonding strength for general applications. Transparent sticks remain nearly invisible on most materials, making them ideal for visible joints. White sticks can be painted over and provide better visual contrast when applying adhesive, helping ensure complete coverage. The choice is primarily aesthetic unless working with specific materials where one type adheres better.

How long do glue sticks last once opened?
When stored properly in a cool, dry environment away from direct sunlight, glue sticks remain usable for several years. Exposure to heat or humidity can degrade adhesive properties. If sticks become discoloured, brittle, or fail to bond effectively, replace them. Professional users working through bulk packs regularly won't face deterioration issues.

Are hot melt glue sticks suitable for outdoor applications?
Standard hot melt adhesives may soften in high temperatures and become brittle in freezing conditions, making them less suitable for permanent outdoor bonds. For exterior applications, consider specialised formulations designed for temperature fluctuation and moisture resistance, or use alternative adhesives like polyurethane construction adhesives for critical outdoor projects requiring long-term durability.