Hot glue guns are a staple in many crafting arsenals, and for good reason – they offer endless possibilities for creative expression. With a hot glue gun at your disposal, the only limit is your imagination! Whether you’re a seasoned crafter or just starting out, these projects prove that hot glue can be used to create more than just a mere bond between materials. From ornaments and toys to accessories and embellishments, the versatility of hot glue guns knows no bounds.
So, let’s dive into 41 fabulous hot glue gun crafts that are sure to spark your creativity and inspire you to get crafty!
DIY Pencil Case
Kickstart your first day back at school with a unique and stylish DIY pencil case that’s as functional as it is creative! Made from upcycled toilet paper rolls, this project checks both boxes: it’s a fun craft to work on, and it’ll help you stand out in class. The addition of a zipper closure system takes its charm to the next level. To get started, gather your materials: colored felt sheets, nylon zip, toilet paper rolls, and a basic sewing kit with needle, thread, and pins.
Snail Shell Craft
Take a stroll or hike and see if you can spot some snail shells at the base of bushes and trees. If not, you can always start searching for them – they’re not too hard to find. Why not turn it into an adventure with your kids? There’s even a fun science project that incorporates snail shell collecting.
Once you’ve got your snail shells, get creative! Start by designing your own snail using our printable template, and then let the decorating begin.
You can find more DIY seashell crafts if you want to keep the inspiration going.
DIY Dollar Tree Lantern
Transforming your outdoor space into a warm and inviting haven is just a few supplies away! Imagine lanterns lighting up your home’s exterior, from the front porch to the backyard and even garden paths. The good news is that you can create these lovely accents yourself with minimal investment. All you need are some dollar tree frames, a pair of pliers, decorative tape, and a trusty hot glue gun. With hot glue as your adhesive, you won’t require any heavy-duty tools like hammers or nails.
No-Sew Pillow Covers
When I’m in the mood to create something new, sewing is my go-to activity. However, there are times when I just want to complete a project quickly without the hassle of setting up and using my sewing machine.
If you’re looking for a no-sew solution as well, then this DIY pillow cover tutorial is perfect for you. You’ll need some toss pillows or pillow stuffing – you can find both here.
The next step is to choose your fabric.
If you have scraps lying around in your craft stash, those will work just fine. Alternatively, you could upcycle an old tablecloth, t-shirt, or any other fabric you have at home.
Do you have a ton of scrap cloth on hand? Check out these scrap fabric projects for more creative ideas and inspiration!
DIY Bookmark For Kids
While it’s crucial for children to develop a love for reading, getting them to sit still and focus on a book can be a challenge, especially when there are so many exciting outdoor activities to enjoy. One simple way to encourage kids to read is by involving them in the process of creating something that will help them track their progress. A DIY handprint bookmark, made with their own hands, can be just the thing to spark their interest and make reading a more enjoyable experience.
By giving children an active role in crafting their bookmarks, you’re not only teaching them a new skill but also increasing the likelihood that they’ll use these very same bookmarks to dive into a good book.
Party Hat
When it comes to parties, there’s more to the celebration than just food and cake. The perfect party is one that’s topped off with a fun and festive touch – and what better way to add some whimsy than with mini party hats? While elaborate headpieces may be impressive, sometimes simplicity is key. That’s why we’ve created a template for mini hats that are easy to download and print.
With just a few simple materials like cardstock, elastic cords, pom-poms, and a glue gun, you can create your own unique party hats. For an extra touch of customization, you can even use a cutting machine like Cricut to upload the template and design your hat exactly how you want it.
Rope Coasters
In the world of home decor, it’s often said that you can’t have too many coasters scattered throughout your space. I personally like to spread a few strategically around every room to ensure there’s always one handy. Not only are they an affordable and easy DIY project, but they also offer a fantastic way to infuse some personality into the room’s aesthetic. Take, for instance, these delightful rope coasters that effortlessly bring a touch of beachy charm and rustic flair.
To get started, simply gather a few essential materials: thick manilla rope, scissors, a pen, some fabric, and a wooden disk or slice. Once you have your supplies in hand, begin twisting the rope into the desired coaster shape and secure it with hot glue. Voila! You’ve got yourself a unique and functional piece of home decor that’s sure to impress.
Succulent Wall Decor
The allure of this verdant succulent wall decor is undeniable. But what if I told you it’s actually an artificial masterpiece? That’s right – all the succulents you see are cleverly crafted fakes, designed to deceive even the most discerning eye. And that’s precisely what makes them so enchanting: no maintenance required! A quick dusting every now and then is all it takes to keep this stunning display looking fresh and vibrant.
As you curate your artificial succulent arrangement, consider adding some faux ferns, heather, reed grass, and moss to create a visually striking contrast. The combination of textures and colors will elevate the overall aesthetic, making this synthetic beauty an envy-worthy addition to any room.
How to Make Bookmark
As book lovers, we can’t help but have a special affinity for bookmarks – they’re an integral part of our reading experience. And when it comes to creating unique and personalized bookmarks, the possibilities are endless! Take this charming bird bookmark, for instance. Made from colorful felt sheets, this adorable creation requires just a few simple materials: jumbo paper clips, hot glue gun, needle and thread, markers, and scissors.
To get started, simply design your bird template by drawing it out and cutting it to size. With your template ready, you can then begin cutting into the felt sheets to bring your design to life.
Magnolia Leaf Wreath
Imagine adorning your front door with a stunning magnolia leaf wreath that exudes an earthy charm. To create this masterpiece, begin by selecting fresh magnolia leaves with their stems intact. Next, gather the necessary tools: a grapevine wreath form, a hot glue gun, and floral wire. As you start crafting, keep in mind that you’re working with real leaves, which will naturally dry out a bit over time. Despite this, the end result is sure to be breathtaking.
Rope Organizer Desk
Have you stashed away some rope from a past project? If so, it’s time to dig it out because you’re about to craft fantastic DIY desk organizers using that rope! Who hasn’t at one point tossed their writing utensils into a drawer, only to have to rummage through the chaos later? These nifty organizers are here to change that. Not only will they keep your workspace tidy, but one can also serve as a charming planter for a small succulent.
Just imagine the warmth and vibrancy it’ll bring to your desktop!
Wine Cork Christmas Ornament
Imagine taking something often discarded – wine bottle corks – and transforming them into unique, handmade ornaments for your Christmas tree. If you’ve collected corks over time or have a stash set aside, now’s the perfect opportunity to get creative. You’ll need 11 corks per ornament, so feel free to dig in and start crafting. Begin by coloring the top of each cork green using a sharpie, adding a pop of festive flair.
Next, use hot glue to assemble the corks into a tree shape, carefully building your ornament. Finally, wrap a length of ribbon around the ‘tree’ to create a sturdy hanger, leaving enough room at the top for easy suspension on your Christmas tree. And if you’re looking for more inspiration, be sure to check out our collection of handmade holiday decorations.
Yarn Wrapped Glass Vase
Give new life to an old glass vase by transforming it into a unique piece of decor with this simple and creative project. Instead of discarding it, use yarn or twine to cover up any imperfections and add a touch of personality to your space.
The beauty of this technique lies in its ability to hide even the most noticeable dings, dents, or scratches, giving your vase a fresh new look without having to replace it.
You can experiment with different yarn colors and textures to create a truly one-of-a-kind piece that adds depth and visual interest.
Imagine the excitement of being able to jazz up your space with this beautifully repurposed vase, all before you even add any flowers! It’s a great way to get creative and breathe new life into an old favorite. Check out more inspiring yarn projects for even more ideas.
Snow Globe Mason Jar
Mason jars, often thought of as humble kitchen staples, actually offer an impressive range of creative possibilities. One excellent example is crafting your own snow globe using these versatile containers. With just a few simple materials – including a hot glue gun and your choice of fillers – you can create a beautiful and unique piece that’s perfect for any time of year.
Hair Bows
When it comes to hair accessories, hair bows are a versatile and convenient option for those with limited time. Not only do they help streamline your hairstyle, but they also enable effortless coordination with your outfit and overall aesthetic. However, the pursuit of perfectly matching hair bows to your ensemble can quickly become an expensive endeavor. A more cost-effective approach would be to create your own hair bows from scratch, eliminating the need for costly purchases.
To get started, you’ll require a few basic materials: scraps of fabric or felt, wide ribbon, a hot glue gun, scissors, and any desired embellishments to add a touch of personality to your bows. With these simple tools at hand, you can craft a collection of unique hair accessories that not only complement your wardrobe but also reflect your personal style.
Acorn and Pinecone Wreath
Transform your home’s exterior with an effortlessly charming acorn and pinecone wreath. This DIY project offers a fun and interactive way to get your kids involved in the great outdoors. Simply gather materials like a grapevine wreath, hot glue gun, and sealant spray. To add some extra visual interest, consider incorporating fall-colored faux florals and leaves into the design. For an added pop of color, cranberries can be easily incorporated as well.
Yarn Wrapped Flower Pot
The allure of yarn wrapping projects is undeniable. Take, for instance, the charming yarn-wrapped flower pot showcased here. Its beauty is undeniable, don’t you agree? The versatility of yarn doesn’t stop there, either. Jute twine can also be used to add a tactile dimension to your planters, particularly when paired with a simple white pot like this one. To ensure that your chosen wrapping material stays put, apply a sufficient amount of hot glue and let it set firmly in place.
Lavender Crochet Wall Art
Before putting away that skein of yarn just yet, I have a unique crochet project for you to try. This wall art combines the soothing aspects of crochet with vibrant colors and a touch of whimsy – think bees buzzing around lavender plants! The pattern provided will be your trusted guide as you bring this charming scene to life.
To complete the piece, you’ll need to break out your trusty glue gun to secure the lavender appliques, bees, and any other embellishments you choose to add.
Don’t forget to double-check your crochet hook size and yarn selection to ensure a seamless finish.
Rope Basket Organizer
The fourth DIY project on this list is a stunning rope basket organizer that’s sure to impress. Its rustic charm has you wondering why you’d ever pay top dollar for something similar in a store when you can make it yourself for a fraction of the cost. To create this masterpiece, you’ll need just a few simple supplies: colored rope, a hot glue gun, scissors, and a couple small dowels to serve as handles.
The end result is a unique piece that’s not only functional but also adds a touch of handmade charm to any room.
Dog Treat Photo Cube
At first glance, the concept of dog treat photo cubes might seem unusual. However, by combining simple materials like photo frames from a dollar store and hot glue, you can create a unique and functional storage solution for your furry friend’s treats. The idea is to line up multiple frames into a cube shape, then use the resulting box to hold the treats.
But what really makes it special are the photos you insert into the frames – a personalized touch that’ll surely delight both you and your dog.
Cork Bulletin Board
Remember the wine cork Christmas tree ornament we created earlier? If you still have those corks on hand, this project is a great way to give them new life. Gather your tools – including a hammer, a few nails, an old frame, and a saw tooth hanger – as well as your trusty hot glue gun. With these simple materials, you can transform the wine corks into a sophisticated herringbone-patterned display that adds rustic charm to any room or space. The best part?
It’s easy to create and will have you wondering how something so beautiful could be made from discarded wine corks!
Pom Pom Magnets
Imagine being on a mission to find the perfect magnets for your refrigerator, only to stumble upon an unexpected treasure – adorable fluffy pom pom magnets! Not only do these cuteness-filled creations add a pop of personality to your kitchen decor, but they also make for a fun and engaging craft project that you can enjoy with your little ones. With just a few basic supplies like yarn, hot glue, and scissors, you’re well on your way to creating your own pom pom magnets.
But before you start, do you have the necessary magnet rounds to bring it all together? If you’re equipped with one of those clever pom pom makers, then you’ll be amazed at just how quickly this project comes together. Simply create your pom poms, attach magnetic rounds to the back using hot glue, and voila – you’ve got a delightful new addition to your fridge!
St. Patrick’s Day Craft
While traditional St. Patrick’s Day decorations often feature bright green hues, this elegant and understated sage green option offers a refreshing alternative. To create this look, start by selecting sage green burlap ribbons, which can be easily sourced. Next, scour your recycling bin for soup cans that can serve as the canvas for your creative project. Once you have your cans, use paint and brushes to stencil letters onto their surfaces.
For a seasonal twist, simply modify the lettering to ‘Thankful’ and you’ll have a versatile decoration perfect for Thanksgiving.
Hot Glue Gun Station
It’s high time we tackle a DIY project that showcases the versatility of glue guns – creating a dedicated workspace for your hot glue needs! This isn’t just a storage solution, but an actual workstation designed to keep all your tools organized. To get started, you’ll need an old milk crate, some gorilla wood glue, and a metal chopper. A wooden cutting board is also a must-have for this project.
Simply follow the instructions, and you’ll have a fully functional hot glue gun station up and running in no time.
Decorative Framed Mirror
Transforming your plain old mirrors into stunning decor pieces is a game-changer. And the best part? It’s surprisingly easy! With a decorative frame, you can elevate your mirror to a whole new level. Plus, it doubles as a beautiful wall-hanging piece that can add some serious style to your foyer or any other room in your home. Imagine being able to quickly touch up your look and dash out the door whenever you’re running late – with a framed mirror, this scenario becomes a breeze.
So go ahead, select the perfect mirror for your project (considering shape, size, and style), and get ready to unleash your creativity with a hot glue gun.
Embellished Hand Towel
While mass-produced hand towels may seem mundane at first glance, they don’t have to remain so. By incorporating a few creative embellishments and some basic crafting skills, you can transform them into one-of-a-kind pieces that reflect your personal style. Think beyond the ordinary by adding embellishments like buttons, beads, or patterned ribbons. For an added touch of sophistication, consider giving your towels a decorative trim using materials like lace or burlap.
DIY Cocktail Stirrers
Imagine the charm these 3D gem DIY cocktail stirrers would bring to your beverage counter, especially during a party when you can display them in a container alongside other decorative elements. To create these unique stirrers, all you need is a gem mold from the market and some basic materials like hot glue or a mod melter as the base, along with traditional cocktail stir sticks.
Once you’ve filled the mold with hot glue, use a clothes peg to hold the stirrer in place until the glue sets, allowing it to dry completely before handling. You can also enhance the appearance by adding colored dye to the glue for an extra pop of color.
Round Wall Planter
Imagine transforming an old galvanized metal bin into a stunning planter that doubles as a small stand. The result is a unique piece of decor that combines mid-century western charm with rustic elegance. With some basic DIY tools and materials, you can give new life to this bin and add a touch of greenery to your room. Simply grab your toolbox, plywood, sandpaper, and hot glue gun, and get creative!
For an added bonus, choose a plant that complements the planter’s aesthetic, such as a money plant for a sleek and modern look.
DIY Boho Succulent Planter
Your creative endeavors don’t stop at the wall planter you’ve just crafted. The desire for more greenery around the home is understandable, given the sense of accomplishment that comes with bringing a project to life. To satiate this craving, I recommend taking a look at the boho succulent planter. Its terrarium-like appearance can be further enhanced by using faux succulents or seasonal foliage. Add some textured rocks and sand for a beachy effect, and your planter will be complete.
To get started, grab an old cardboard box, such as a shoebox or gifting box, and begin lining it with hot glue to secure your skewers in place.
Magic Wands
When it comes to Halloween props, uniqueness is often pricey. But what if you want something that stands out from the crowd without breaking the bank? The solution lies in creativity. Take wands, for instance. You can create your own Harry Potter or princess-inspired wands at home, adding a personal touch that mass-produced ones lack. Simply gather natural materials like shells, pinecones, or acorns to adorn the wand’s tip.
Next, break out the paints, brushes, and hot glue gun to bring your magic wand to life.
Clay Pot Thanksgiving Craft
To get started on decorating your terracotta pots for Thanksgiving, head to your local garden store or browse online for a variety of options. While they’re traditionally used as planters, you can easily repurpose them as decorations for the holiday season. Gather some fall-themed props like faux flowers and leaves from your stash, or create your own unique elements, such as a handmade Pilgrim’s hat.
The most iconic look is to transform the pot into a pumpkin, complete with a coiled vine made from pipe cleaner – a clever touch that adds a pop of personality. For more inspiration, check out 27 creative pipe cleaner crafts while you’re at it!
Mickey Mouse Wine Cork Craft
Get creative with your kids and repurpose wine corks into adorable Mickey Mouse toys, adding a touch of Disney magic to their rooms. This project is perfect for sparking imagination and inspiring a collection of themed crafts. To begin, carefully slice two thin circles from the bottom of each cork, using them as ears. An X-acto knife comes in handy here, allowing you to carve grooves into the body of the cork where the ears will be attached.
Spider Craft
Channeling a fascination with creepy crawlies is perfectly normal in kids. To keep them engaged without introducing them to real-life arachnids, consider transforming their enthusiasm into creative activities. Who needs real spiders when you can make fake ones using hot glue? The process is surprisingly quick and easy.
To get started, gather the following materials: toothpicks, black paint, wax paper, and a stash of glue sticks.
Once you have your supplies in order, follow the simple instructions to craft your very own spider. With a little creativity, you can create a spider that’s not only fake but also super creepy! For more inspiration, explore 27 spider crafts that are sure to delight bug-loving children.
Lazy Susan For Vitamins
For the discerning organizer, Lazy Susan’s are a trusted ally in maximizing space efficiency. This particular model shines when tasked with corralling bottles of prescription medications and vitamins. Its versatility extends far beyond this purpose, however, serving as a reliable solution for keeping other miscellaneous items organized. The added touch of vibrant pom poms injects a playful pop of color, further elevating the overall aesthetic.
Hot Glue Earrings
Get ready to unleash your inner artist with the simplicity and versatility of hot glue earrings! With just a few basic materials – a hot glue gun, hot glue sticks, and some earring hooks – you can create stunning, one-of-a-kind accessories that reflect your unique style. The process is as easy as it gets: simply let your creativity flow and build upon your design with each new addition. No prior experience or artistic talent required, just a willingness to experiment and have fun!
Snow Queen Crown
There’s no shame in admitting that we’ve all fantasized about wearing a tiara or crown at some point. I confess, watching Frozen sparked my own desire for an icy regal headpiece worthy of an Ice Princess. While crafting one may seem daunting, it’s surprisingly simple to create with just glitter and a glue gun. The key to achieving a truly vibrant and colorful design lies in experimenting with different shades and colors of glitter.
To really make your crown pop, be sure to incorporate metallic elements like silver, as well as pops of sea-green for added depth and visual interest.
Harry Potter Mini Snitch Pen
Imagining a magical world beyond Arendelle, let’s transport ourselves to the enchanting realm of Harry Potter! As we conjure up thoughts of this beloved franchise, iconic elements like magic brooms, wizards, witches, wands, and Quidditch games come into focus. Amidst these fantastical scenes, one symbol stands out – the snitch. This DIY mini snitch pen project will guide you in recreating this magical icon using a biro, gold and white paint, and a hot glue gun.
To bring your snitch to life, start by painting its wings with white hues or opt for an all-gold design, whichever resonates with the wizard within.
Floral Wood Welcome Sign
I’m a sucker for scattering small signs and messages throughout my home. These tiny touches can reveal a lot about a person’s personality while also elevating the decor and atmosphere of a room. One popular approach is to hang a ‘hello’ sign, inviting guests, friends, and family to come on in. The floral wood sign I’ve fallen for strikes just the right balance between rustic charm and whimsical sophistication.
To complete the vignette, simply prop it up against some favorite books, add a few decorative trinkets, and voila! You’re all set.
Icicle Ornaments
As the holiday season approaches, it’s time to turn your attention to one of the most iconic symbols of Christmas: the tree. With ornaments being a crucial part of the overall look and feel, now is the perfect opportunity to start brainstorming some ideas. One unique and eye-catching option to consider are icicle ornaments, which add a delightful textural element to your trees. The whimsical shape of these ornaments also lends itself well to evoking a festive atmosphere.
To take your decorating game to the next level, feel free to experiment with different color combinations and add some sparkle by applying glitter to your hot glue before setting it in place. For inspiration, be sure to check out some of the creative and budget-friendly ideas available at dollar stores.
Balloon Animal Drink Stirrers
The DIY drink stirrers you crafted earlier likely made a splash at the party. Building on that creative momentum, I’d like to introduce an animal-themed stirrer design that’s sure to delight both kids and adults alike. These adorable animal shapes are not only easy to make but also serve as a charming keepsake for your guests. Imagine a balloon-like dog perched atop a refreshing drink – who wouldn’t love that touch of whimsy?
With these cute critters adding a playful flair to the party atmosphere, you’re sure to create unforgettable memories with friends and family.
DIY Cotton Stems
Consider elevating your floral arrangements with an unconventional yet charming addition: cotton stems. Their unique texture and softness can add a delightful contrast to traditional flowers. To create this look, gather a few cotton balls, some twigs, pinecones, and your trusty hot glue gun. Begin by removing any leaves or debris from the twigs, followed by dislodging the pines from the pinecones and giving them a gentle clean.
Next, hot glue the pines around the cotton, allowing the adhesive to dry completely before arranging the twigs in a vase for a one-of-a-kind centerpiece.
