Hot glue guns are the unsung heroes of crafting, binding projects together with ease and precision. But did you know that they’re capable of so much more than just holding things in place? With a little creativity and some basic crafting skills, you can create a wide range of functional and decorative items using hot glue. From ornaments and toys to accessories and embellishments, the possibilities are endless. So why not give one (or all!) of these 41 hot glue gun crafts a try?
You never know what amazing creations you might stumble upon.
DIY Pencil Case
Kickstart your day with a bang or simply indulge in a creative upcycling project by crafting a stylish DIY pencil case. This innovative design not only turns ordinary toilet paper rolls into an extraordinary accessory but also features a functional zipper closure. To get started, gather some vibrant colored felt sheets from [insert source], a nylon zip fastener, and your trusty sewing kit comprising a needle, thread, and a few pins.
With these simple materials at hand, you’ll be well on your way to creating a one-of-a-kind pencil case that exudes elegance and charm.
Snail Shell Craft
Embark on a fascinating adventure with your kids and explore the world of snail shells! These natural wonders can be found at the base of bushes and trees, as well as on hikes or beach strolls. Why not make it an exciting activity by going shell-hunting together? You might even discover some unique specimens to use in a fun craft project. For instance, you could try decorating a printable snail shell template with your kids. The possibilities are endless!
And if you’re looking for more inspiration, be sure to check out our collection of DIY seashell crafts.
DIY Dollar Tree Lantern
There’s something endearing about a well-lit exterior – it can brighten up not just the house itself but also the surrounding spaces like the porch, backyard, and garden paths. The good news is that you don’t need to be a seasoned DIY enthusiast to create your own lanterns. With a few basic supplies from a local dollar store, you can craft one (or several) of these charming lights.
You’ll need some affordable picture frames from Dollar Tree, pliers for any necessary bending or shaping, decorative tape for added flair, and a trusty hot glue gun to hold everything together.
No-Sew Pillow Covers
When I’m in the mood to get creative, sewing is always a go-to activity. However, there are times when I just want to finish a project quickly and don’t feel like setting up my sewing machine. If you’re looking for a no-sew solution as well, I’d recommend giving this DIY pillow cover project a try. Instead of using fabric, you’ll need some toss pillows or pillow stuffing – both of which can be easily sourced from online retailers.
Once you have your materials, it’s time to choose the perfect fabric. If you’re lucky enough to have a stash of scrap cloth lying around, that will work just fine. Alternatively, you could upcycle an old tablecloth, tee shirt, or any other fabric you have at home. And if you happen to be overwhelmed with scrap cloth, there are plenty of creative projects you can try out – just check out some of these ideas for inspiration!
DIY Bookmark For Kids
Cultivating the habit of reading is crucial for kids, but getting them excited about it can be a challenge, especially when they’d rather be playing outside. One way to spark their interest is by involving them in the creative process. By making their own DIY handprint bookmarks, you’re not only teaching them a new skill, but also instilling a sense of ownership and pride. As they use these personalized bookmarks to read, they’ll be more likely to develop a lifelong love for books.
Party Hat
While party caps may not be the most essential element of a celebration, they certainly add an extra layer of fun and whimsy to the occasion. And let’s be honest, what’s a party without a little bit of flair? But we’re not talking about over-the-top, elaborate headpieces here – just simple, playful mini hats that can be easily customized with some basic crafting supplies. To get started, simply download and print out our provided template for the perfect base.
From there, you’ll need some sturdy cardstock (preferably in a bold, patterned design), elastic cords, a few colorful pom-poms, and your trusty glue gun to bring everything together. And if you’re feeling extra creative, you can even use a cutting machine like Cricut to customize the template with your own unique designs.
Rope Coasters
Having an abundance of coasters scattered throughout your home is never a bad idea. I personally like to strategically place them in every room to ensure there’s always one within arm’s reach. The best part? These DIY wonders are not only budget-friendly, but also incredibly easy to create and can be tailored to fit your unique decor style. For instance, the rope coasters add a charming beachy and rustic vibe that can instantly elevate any space.
To get started, you’ll need a few simple materials: thick manilla rope, scissors, a pen, a piece of fabric, and a wooden disk or slice. Then, it’s simply a matter of twisting the rope into the desired coaster shape and securing it in place with hot glue. And if you’re looking for more creative inspiration, be sure to check out our collection of adult crafts for some fresh ideas.
Succulent Wall Decor
Imagine a lush, green succulent wall decor that’s so convincing you’ll think it’s the real deal – but what if I told you it’s actually a fake? The beauty of this artificial piece lies in its low-maintenance design: just a quick dusting every now and then to keep it looking fresh. The best part? You can mix and match faux foliage like ferns, heather, reed grass, and moss to create a unique display that makes the succulents pop.
How to Make Bookmark
As an avid reader, bookmarks are likely just as cherished as the books themselves. In search of unique additions to their collection, many book lovers are always on the lookout for creative ideas. One such innovative solution is the adorable bird bookmark, crafted from colored felt sheets. To bring this project to life, you’ll need a few simple materials: jumbo paper clips, a hot glue gun, needle and thread, markers, and scissors.
Begin by sketching your bird design onto paper, then cut it out to create a template. With your template in hand, you can now start cutting into the felt sheets, ready to shape your bookmark into its final form.
Magnolia Leaf Wreath
Imagine a lush magnolia leaf wreath adorning your front door – a stunning sight that brings the outdoors in. To create this beauty, start by selecting fresh magnolia leaves with stems. You’ll also need a grapevine wreath form, a hot glue gun, and floral wire. Keep in mind that using real leaves means they will naturally dry over time. Once you’ve gathered your supplies, you can begin crafting your unique piece.
Rope Organizer Desk
Are those old rope scraps still lingering in your crafting stash? If so, it’s time to dust them off and get creative! You’ll be thrilled to learn that you can repurpose them into beautiful DIY rope-wrapped desk organizers. And the best part? They’re a game-changer for keeping your workspace tidy. Who hasn’t experienced the frustration of rummaging through a cluttered drawer in search of a specific pen or marker only to end up with a handful of miscellaneous items?
These charming organizers will help you keep your supplies organized and within reach, making your workday more efficient. Plus, they’re versatile enough to double as planters for a tiny succulent, adding a touch of greenery to your desktop. Imagine the boost it’ll give your mood and productivity!
Wine Cork Christmas Ornament
Imagine giving new life to wine bottle corks by transforming them into unique Christmas tree ornaments. If you’ve been saving those corks along with the bottles, now’s the perfect time to get creative. Alternatively, you can source a bunch online or locally. You’ll need 11 corks per ornament to create this charming decoration. Start by coloring the flat top of each cork green using a vibrant green sharpie.
Next, use hot glue to stack the corks into a tree-like shape, requiring some patience and precision to achieve the desired form. Finally, wrap a length of ribbon around the ‘tree’ structure, leaving enough room at the top for easy hanging on your Christmas tree or elsewhere in your holiday decor.
Yarn Wrapped Glass Vase
Before tossing that worn-out glass vase aside, why not give it a fresh new look with a little creativity? One way to breathe new life into an imperfect vase is by hiding its imperfections beneath a layer of yarn. This simple yet effective technique can be achieved using any type of yarn, twine, or even thread. By wrapping the vase in a colorful and textured material, you can add depth and visual interest to your space. And the best part?
You can start decorating it right away without having to add flowers! The possibilities are endless when it comes to crafting unique home decor pieces.
Snow Globe Mason Jar
Mason jars are incredibly versatile craft supplies that offer endless possibilities for creative projects. Take, for instance, this stunning mason jar snow globe, which can be effortlessly recreated at home with just a few simple materials. A hot glue gun and your preferred fillers are all you need to get started.
This seasonal wonderland can be customized to fit any time of year or theme, from classic winter scenes to more unique reindeer-in-the-snow designs.
To add an extra layer of realism, a pinch of polyfill works wonders as a snow substitute. And, for added visual appeal, consider incorporating a few bottle brush trees to really bring the scene to life.
If you’re looking for inspiration or ideas for your next project, be sure to check out our mason jar gift guides and tutorials.
Hair Bows
When it comes to adding a touch of elegance to your hairstyle without investing too much time, hair bows are an excellent choice. Not only do they streamline your morning routine, but they also provide a stylish means to harmonize your outfit and accessories. However, the pursuit of matching your hair bows perfectly with your ensemble can quickly become an expensive endeavor. To avoid breaking the bank, why not consider crafting your own hair bows instead?
This creative approach requires just a few simple materials: scraps of fabric or felt, wide ribbon, a hot glue gun, scissors, and any embellishments that catch your eye to add some extra flair to your designs.
Acorn and Pinecone Wreath
Transform your front door with a charming acorn and pinecone wreath that’s perfect for fall. This DIY project is an excellent way to spend quality time with kids on an outdoor adventure collecting materials. Start by gathering a grapevine wreath from your local craft store, a hot glue gun, and sealant spray. To add some extra texture and color, grab a few fall-colored faux florals and leaves. For an added pop of color, consider incorporating faux cranberries into your design.
Yarn Wrapped Flower Pot
Yarn wrapping projects have garnered significant popularity, and it’s not hard to see why. The example of a beautifully wrapped flower pot is a perfect demonstration of this trend’s appeal. Not only does yarn make for an attractive wrapping agent, but jute twine can also add a desirable texture to your pots, especially when paired with a simple white pot like the one shown here.
To ensure that your chosen wrapping material – whether it’s yarn or twine – stays in place, apply a generous amount of hot glue. This will not only secure the material but also prevent it from coming loose over time.
Lavender Crochet Wall Art
While you’re still enjoying your skein of yarn, I’d like to share a new crochet project that combines creativity, color, and a touch of whimsy. This delightful wall art features a charming floral scene with bees – what’s more heartwarming than that? To bring this design to life, you’ll need to follow the provided pattern and let your crochet hook do the magic. Don’t forget to pair it with some glue gun action to attach the lavender appliques, bees, and any other embellishments to the canvas.
And as a gentle reminder, double-check your hook size and yarn selection to ensure a seamless crocheting experience.
Rope Basket Organizer
This charming rope basket organizer is the fourth DIY project on this list that leverages yarn or rope wrapping techniques, and it’s no surprise it has caught your attention. The basket itself is undeniably eye-catching, making you wonder why you would typically spend a premium for something similar in a store. But fear not, as you can create this beautiful piece at home with ease, saving a significant amount of money in the process.
To get started, you’ll need just a few basic supplies: colored rope, a hot glue gun, and a pair of scissors. Additionally, you’ll require a couple of small dowels to serve as handles.
Dog Treat Photo Cube
At first glance, dog treat photo cubes might seem like an unusual concept, but bear with me as I break down what they are. Essentially, these cubes are DIY containers made by arranging photo frames in a cube shape and using them to store dog treats. The idea is intriguing, right? To make one of these cubes, you can head to your local dollar tree and gather the necessary materials, including picture frames. For added flair, you can attach a knob or handle to the lid using hot glue.
Once you’ve assembled all the sides and bottom, let it dry completely before filling it with treats. Don’t forget to slip in some pictures into the frames as well!
Cork Bulletin Board
If you recall the wine cork Christmas tree ornament we crafted earlier, you might still have those corks lying around. Well, this DIY project will give them a new lease on life! To get started, gather your tools: a hammer, some nails, an old frame or picture, and a saw tooth hanger. Don’t forget to add your hot glue gun to the mix as well. With these materials, you’ll be able to create a stunning herringbone-patterned wine cork display that’s sure to elevate any room’s decor. The best part?
It’s made entirely from repurposed wine corks, giving it a unique, rustic charm that’s sure to spark conversations.
Pom Pom Magnets
Join me on a journey to find the perfect magnets for our refrigerators! Who would have thought that we’d stumble upon adorable fluffy pom pom magnets? Not only do they add a touch of whimsy to your kitchen decor, but they’re also an excellent craft project to enjoy with your little ones. If you already have the necessary materials – yarn, hot glue, and scissors – you might be wondering what’s missing from this DIY delight. The answer is simple: magnetic rounds!
With a pom pom maker at your disposal, this project just got a whole lot easier. Simply create your pom poms, attach the magnetic rounds to their back with some hot glue, and voila! You’re ready to bring a smile to your family’s faces.
St. Patrick’s Day Craft
St. Patrick’s Day decor often evokes bright, neon-like greens. But, consider this understated, earthy sage green decoration instead! To get started, select some burlap ribbons in a muted sage tone. You can find them here. Next, scour your recycling bin for empty soup cans that you’ll wrap the ribbon around. Following this, grab your paint and brushes to stencil out letters on each can. This DIY decor piece doubles as a seasonal decoration.
Simply repaint the cans with ‘Thankful’ and you’re ready for Thanksgiving!
Hot Glue Gun Station
Transform your workspace with a DIY glue gun station that’s more than just a storage spot – it’s a fully functional workstation! To get started, you’ll need an old milk crate that can be repurposed, some gorilla wood glue, and a metal chopper. But the pièce de résistance is the cutting board – preferably made of wood – which will serve as the foundation for your new station.
By following these simple instructions, you’ll have a hot glue gun workstation up and running in no time, ready to fuel your creativity and DIY endeavors.
Decorative Framed Mirror
Transforming a plain old mirror into a stunning decor piece is easier than you think! With a decorative frame, you’ll never settle for anything less. This DIY project is a breeze to complete and can be used as a wall-hanging accent or placed in your foyer as a convenient touch-up spot. Just imagine being able to quickly freshen up before heading out the door.
To get started, select the mirror shape and size that suits your style, along with a hot glue gun, and you’re ready to give your space a stylish boost!
Embellished Hand Towel
While it’s true that most hand towels found in stores are straightforward and unassuming, there’s no reason you need to settle for the status quo. With a little creativity and some basic crafting supplies, you can transform these humble linens into unique and personalized treasures. Think outside the box by incorporating embellishments like buttons, beads, or patterned ribbons, adding a touch of whimsy to your daily routine.
For an extra-special finishing touch, consider adding a lace or burlap trim – the possibilities are endless! Simply grab your hot glue gun and get creative to give your towels a one-of-a-kind makeover.
DIY Cocktail Stirrers
Envision these charming cocktail stirrers adorning your beverage counter – they’re sure to add a touch of whimsy to any gathering! Whether you’re hosting a party or simply looking for a unique decorative element, these 3D gem DIY stirrers are an easy and fun DIY project. Start by acquiring a gem mold from [insert source], then use hot glue or a mod melter as the base material, paired with standard cocktail stir sticks.
Once you’ve filled the mold with hot glue, utilize a clothes peg to secure the stirrer in place while the adhesive sets. For an added pop of color, consider adding dye to the glue mixture. With these simple steps, you’ll be sipping your favorite cocktails in style.
Round Wall Planter
Imagine transforming an old galvanized metal bin into a stunning planter and small stand, blending mid-century western and rustic-chic elements with your room’s decor. The result is truly captivating! To achieve this unique piece, gather your tools: a toolbox, plywood, sandpaper, and a hot glue gun. Don’t forget to select the perfect plant, such as a money plant, which adds a touch of authenticity.
While faux plants are an option, I believe a real money plant brings out the best in this transformation.
DIY Boho Succulent Planter
Building upon the momentum of your latest wall planter creation, you may find yourself craving even more opportunities to infuse your home with lush greenery. This bohemian-inspired succulent planter is sure to captivate your attention! Its terrarium-like design can be effortlessly elevated by incorporating faux succulents or seasonal foliage, along with textured rocks and a layer of sand for added visual interest.
To bring this unique planter to life, start by repurposing an old cardboard box – a shoebox or gift box will do just fine. Begin lining the interior with hot glue, carefully securing your skewers in place as you go.
Magic Wands
When it comes to Halloween props, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the cost of unique and creative decorations. However, making your own wands at home can be a fun and budget-friendly alternative. You don’t have to settle for generic store-bought options when you can create personalized magic wands with natural elements like shells, pinecones, or acorns. To get started, grab your paints, brushes, and hot glue gun, and let your creativity shine.
With a little bit of imagination and some basic crafting supplies, you can transform everyday objects into one-of-a-kind Halloween props that will impress anyone who sees them.
Clay Pot Thanksgiving Craft
You can easily find terracotta pots or clay planters at local garden stores or online. These versatile vessels aren’t just limited to holding plants – they can also be used as decorative elements for Thanksgiving. To give your pot a festive touch, scour your collection of fall-themed decorations and gather items like artificial flowers, leaves, and other autumn-inspired props. Alternatively, you can create your own custom decorations, such as the Pilgrim’s hat featured here.
The most popular way to decorate these pots is to transform them into pumpkins, adding a warm and inviting touch to any Thanksgiving display. I’m particularly fond of the coiled vine made from pipe cleaner – it adds a delightful textured element to the design. If you’re interested in exploring more creative possibilities with pipe cleaners, check out our comprehensive guide to 27 pipe cleaner crafts.
Mickey Mouse Wine Cork Craft
When it comes to crafting with kids, you don’t have to stop at just wine-sipping adults. The humble wine cork can be transformed into a delightful Disney-inspired toy that’s sure to bring a smile to their faces. Imagine creating an entire collection of Mickey Mouse figurines using these very same corks! The possibilities are endless. To get started, simply slice two thin circles from the bottom of each cork, which will serve as the ears for your beloved mouse.
You can use a precision knife like an X-acto to carefully carve out grooves on the body of the cork where you’ll affix these ears. And voila! Your first Mickey Mouse toy is taking shape.
Spider Craft
For kids who are enthralled with creepy crawlies, it’s essential to redirect their fascination away from real-life encounters. A creative outlet is the perfect solution. Fake spiders may be a safer alternative than the real thing!
To create this eerie spider using hot glue, gather your materials: toothpicks, black paint, wax paper, and plenty of glue sticks. With these supplies in hand, simply follow the instructions to craft your very own super quick and super creepy spider.
If you’re looking for more inspiration, explore these 27 spider crafts that are sure to delight your little bug enthusiast!
Lazy Susan For Vitamins
When it comes to maximizing space in the home, Lazy Susan’s are a staple for any organized individual. This particular product is uniquely designed to corral prescription bottles and vitamins, making it easy to keep track of important medications. Its versatility also makes it suitable for organizing other items, but its true value lies in helping individuals remember to take their daily supplements.
Furthermore, the addition of colorful pom poms adds a touch of whimsy and cheer, making this product a practical and visually appealing solution for streamlining home organization.
Hot Glue Earrings
Experience the thrill of crafting hot glue earrings, a creative endeavor that combines artistry with ease. With just a few simple materials – a hot glue gun, hot glue sticks, and earring hooks – you’re all set to unleash your imagination and create unique, eye-catching pieces. Simply fire up your glue gun, grab some inspiration from the world around you, and let your creativity flow as you craft one-of-a-kind earrings that reflect your personal style.
Snow Queen Crown
The allure of a tiara or crown is undeniable – who hasn’t fantasized about donning one at some point? For me, Disney’s Frozen sparked an insatiable desire for an icy regalia fit for an Ice Princess. The good news is that you can create your own show-stopping crown with just a few simple supplies: glitter and a hot glue gun. As the number of colors and shades you add increases, so too will the vibrancy and visual appeal of your masterpiece.
To really make it pop, be sure to incorporate silver accents and perhaps a touch of sea-green – trust me when I say it’s a winning combination!
Harry Potter Mini Snitch Pen
Diving from the enchanting world of Frozen to another beloved cinematic realm, Harry Potter, we find ourselves surrounded by the whimsy and wonder that defines this magical franchise. As soon as you think of Harry Potter, visions of magic brooms, wizards, witches, wands, and Quidditch games come flooding in – and what’s a Quidditch match without the elusive Snitch? To bring this iconic symbol to life in miniature form, we’ll be crafting a DIY Harry Potter mini Snitch pen.
To get started, you’ll need a biro, some gold and white paint, and your trusty hot glue gun. For an added touch of realism, why not paint the entire Snitch gold? Alternatively, you can keep things simple and opt for just white wings – the choice is yours!
Floral Wood Welcome Sign
I’m a sucker for displaying thoughtful touches throughout my home. These small yet meaningful signs can reveal aspects of my personality while also contributing to the ambiance and aesthetic of each room. A classic example is the ‘hello’ sign, which serves as a warm welcome to guests, friends, and family alike. The floral wood sign I have is a perfect blend of rustic charm and whimsical elegance, with its distressed finish adding a touch of character.
To create a visually appealing display, I simply prop it up on some books or decorative items, and then add a few carefully chosen knick-knacks and baubles to bring the entire setup together.
Icicle Ornaments
As the holiday season approaches, now’s the perfect time to start planning your festive decorations. When it comes to ornaments, why not try something a little unconventional like icicle-shaped ones? Not only do they add an interesting texture to your tree, but there’s something undeniably charming about their squiggly design. To take them to the next level, feel free to experiment with different colors and add some sparkle by applying glitter to your hot glue before setting it in place.
And if you’re looking for more inspiration, be sure to check out these beautiful dollar tree Christmas decoration ideas for a treasure trove of affordable and creative possibilities.
Balloon Animal Drink Stirrers
Those DIY drink stirrers you crafted earlier likely stole the show at your gathering. Building on that creative momentum, I propose another animal-themed design to impress your guests. This time, envision adorable critters perched atop beverages, making for a delightful combination. For kids’ parties in particular, these whimsical stirrers will surely bring smiles and serve as cherished mementos. Who wouldn’t adore a balloon-like pup or other cuddly creature floating above their drink?
DIY Cotton Stems
Why not consider something a bit unconventional for your vases? Like cotton stems! They can add a unique touch to your decor, providing a beautiful alternative to traditional flowers. To create this look, you’ll need a few cotton balls, some twigs, pine cones, and of course, your trusty hot glue gun. Begin by removing any leaves or stubs from the twigs, then extract the pines from the pine cone and clean them thoroughly. Next, use your hot glue gun to attach the pines around the cotton balls.
Allow the glue to dry completely before placing the twig arrangement in a vase.
