Hot Glue on Fabric: 5 Types of Fabrics Hot Glue Definitely Works on

Hot glue is a versatile and popular adhesive that can be used for a wide range of DIY and crafting projects. But can we use hot glue on the fabric? While hot glue may not be the first choice for fabric projects, it can be a quick and effective solution for certain applications.

In this blog post, we’ll explore the tips, tricks, and techniques for using hot glue on fabric, including which fabrics work best, how to prepare the fabric, and how to apply and remove hot glue.

5 Fabrics That Will Work With Hot Glue:

 

2. Felt Fabric:

Felt is a popular fabric for DIY projects, particularly for crafting plush toys and other soft items. Felt is durable and has a slightly rough texture, making it a good option for hot glue.

3. Denim Fabric:

Denim is a sturdy fabric that can be used in a variety of projects, from clothing to home decor. It’s thick and durable, making it a good choice for hot glue.

4. Burlap Fabric:

Burlap is a coarse, woven fabric that is commonly used in rustic and country-themed DIY projects. It’s a great choice for hot glue because of its durability and texture.

5. Canvas Fabric:

Canvas is a heavy-duty fabric that is often used for outdoor and utility projects, like backpacks and tote bags. It’s a great option for hot glue because of its strength and thickness.

5 Fabrics That Will Not Work With Hot Glue:

It’s always a good idea to test the hot glue on a small, inconspicuous area of the fabric before applying it to your project to ensure that it will adhere properly without damaging the fabric.

Here are some fabrics that may not adhere well to hot glue:

1. Silk Fabric:

Silk is a delicate fabric that may be damaged by hot glue. Hot glue can seep through the fibers of silk and create unsightly stains. If you need to attach embellishments or decorations to silk fabric, it’s best to use a fabric glue that is specifically designed for delicate fabrics.

 

2. Satin Fabric:

Satin is another delicate fabric that may not adhere well to hot glue. The heat from the glue gun can cause the satin to pucker and create unattractive bumps. If you need to attach decorations or embellishments to satin fabric, it’s best to use a fabric glue that is specifically designed for satin.

3. Lace Fabric:

Lace is a delicate fabric that can be easily damaged by hot glue. The heat from the glue gun can melt the fibers of the lace and cause it to become stiff and discolored. If you need to attach lace to another fabric, it’s best to use fabric glue or needle and thread.

4. Tulle Fabric:

Tulle is sheer, and lightweight and may not adhere well as an option for hot glue on the fabric. The glue can seep through the holes in the fabric and create unsightly stains. If you need to attach decorations or embellishments to tulle fabric, it’s best to use a fabric glue that is specifically designed for sheer fabrics.

5. Stretchy or Knitted Fabrics:

Stretchy or knitted fabrics may not adhere well to hot glue because they are flexible and can stretch. Hot glue can harden and become brittle over time, which can cause it to crack and detach from stretchy fabrics. If you need to attach decorations or embellishments to stretchy or knitted fabrics, it’s best to use a fabric glue that is specifically designed for these types of fabrics.

Hot Glue VS. Fabric Glue:

Hot glue and fabric glue are both excellent choices for fabric projects. Before we proceed, let’s look at the detailed comparison between the two adhesives.

1. Composition:

Hot glue is made from thermoplastic polymers, which are melted using a glue gun and then applied to a surface. Fabric glue, on the other hand, is made from synthetic materials that create a strong bond on fabric. Fabric glue is often water-based, whereas hot glue is not.

2. Application:

Hot glue is usually applied in a thick, viscous form that can be molded to shape before it dries. It is commonly applied with a hot glue gun that heats the glue and makes it easy to apply to fabric.

Fabric glue, on the other hand, is typically thinner and can be brushed or rolled onto fabric. It is also available in spray form, which can be useful for larger projects.

3. Drying Time:

Hot glue dries quickly, usually within a few minutes, while fabric glue takes longer to dry, often requiring several hours or even overnight.

Fabric glue often has a longer “open” time, meaning that it remains wet and workable for a longer period, which can be helpful when working with large or complex projects.

4. Strength:

Hot glue is known for its strong bond, which can be used for a variety of materials. However, it may not be the best option for delicate or lightweight fabrics, as it can be difficult to control and may leave visible glue marks or a stiff residue.

Fabric glue is specifically designed for use with fabric and is formulated to create a flexible bond that can withstand washing and wear. It is often the better option for delicate or lightweight fabrics, as it dries clear and remains flexible even after drying.

5. Durability:

Hot glue can be less durable over time, especially when exposed to heat or moisture. It may become brittle or melt, especially on fabrics that require washing or dry cleaning.

Fabric glue, on the other hand, is often machine washable and dry cleanable, making it a better choice for fabric that will need to be cleaned regularly.

In summary, both hot glue and fabric glue can be used for fabric, but they have different strengths and are suitable for different types of fabrics and projects. Hot glue can be a good choice for quick bonding and stronger fabrics, while fabric glue is often a better choice for delicate or lightweight fabrics and projects that require flexibility and durability.

4 Steps to Prepare for Application of Hot Glue on Fabric:

Before applying hot glue to your fabric, it’s important to prepare the fabric to ensure a smooth and even application. Follow these steps:

1. Wash and Dry:

Wash and dry the fabric to remove any dirt, dust, or sizing. Start by washing the fabric according to the care instructions specified on the tag. Depending on the type of material, you might need a gentle cycle or handwashing.

Once it’s washed, dry the fabric in the sun or put it through a machine dryer set to low heat. This will help remove any dirt, dust, or sizing that may have accumulated on the fabric during storage. Now you’re ready to start creating!

2. Cut the Fabric:

Once your fabric is washed and dry, it’s time to cut the fabric. Start by measuring and marking the fabric with a piece of chalk or tailor’s tape. This will help you get a precise cut.

Then, grab a pair of sharp fabric scissors and start cutting along the marked lines. To make sure you don’t damage delicate fabrics, use smooth cutting motions and take your time. With care and precision, you can get perfectly cut pieces of fabric for all your projects.

3. Use a Sheet:

To protect your work surface from the hot glue, place a sheet of parchment paper or wax paper underneath the fabric. This will keep any stray drops of glue from sticking to your table or countertop. Also, make sure that you are using a heat-safe work surface as some materials aren’t tolerant of high temperatures.

4. Preheat the Glue:

Before starting your hot glue project, make sure to preheat the gun on the low setting. This is important because it ensures that the adhesive reaches the right temperature and is activated properly to create a strong bond.

5 Steps to Apply Hot Glue on Fabric:

Now that your fabric is prepared, it’s time to apply the hot glue. Follow these steps:

1. Apply a small amount of hot glue to one section of the fabric at a time.
2. Use the tip of the glue gun to spread the glue evenly over the fabric.
3. Be careful not to apply too much glue, as it can seep through the fabric or create unsightly bumps.
4. Press the fabric together firmly to ensure a strong bond.
5. Repeat the process for each section of fabric until the project is complete.

5 Steps to Remove Hot Glue on Fabric:

If you make a mistake or need to remove hot glue from your fabric, follow these steps:

1. Place the fabric in the freezer for a few minutes to harden the glue.
2. Gently scrape off as much of the glue as possible with a dull knife or spatula.
3. Soak the fabric in hot, soapy water for 15-20 minutes to soften the glue.
4. Gently rub the fabric together to loosen the glue.
5. Rinse the fabric thoroughly with clean water.

Conclusion:

Using hot glue on fabric can be a quick and effective solution for certain DIY and crafting projects. By choosing the right type of fabric, preparing the fabric properly, and following the tips and techniques outlined in this post, you can achieve successful results with hot glue and fabric.

However, it’s important to keep in mind that hot glue may not be the best choice for all fabric projects and may not provide the same strength or durability as other adhesives.