Glue Gun Safety "Don't Shoot!"

Glue guns are a fantastic way to make projects quickly and very securely . I love them --obviously --I have a whole blog dedicated to the uses and fun you can have with one. A low temp glue gun is great for the kind of light weight crafts I will share with you - avoid the high temp guns ----maybe they are for furniture building or car repairs -- I'm not sure ????

Before I give you boring safety rules I'll share a funny story. Several years ago I was going to teach some classes at the town rec center and they required all new instructors to submit their class outlines for approval, and because I listed a glue "gun" on my supply list I was further required to meet with the city lawyer. A bright (?) young man. He was extremely worried that young boys might get rowdy and shoot each other with the glue guns and just how far was the projectile of this gun and were the kids at risk of eye injuries ...and could the town be sued..... and liability...... and risk factors...... and it was toooo funny. I calmed him down.

However I rarely teach classes to boys ......they are a crazy species. I love my son and grandson but they don't seem to have any interest in civilized activities. They are best entertained in rooms with non-breakable furnishings, padded walls or better yet outdoors.

For kids under 8 use Fabric Tac glue - dries very quickly and clear and rolls off your fingers like rubber cement. Here's my suggested safety rules.

1. Kids younger than 8 should not use a glue gun and 8 to 12 years should be closely supervised. Evaluate the maturity of the child to be sure they will observe caution when using a hot tool.


2. Always use a glue gun on a table with a lot of open space. The hot tool needs to say in view at all times and not get lost under craft supplies. Also to protect animals and toddlers from touching it.


3. Keep the glue gun on a paper or plastic plate to protect the table surface from drips and to allow for easy clean-up.


4. Never touch the metal tip or liquid glue OUCH!!!


5. Never leave a glue gun unattended


6. Never use a glue gun near a bath tub, sink, pool or any water.


7. When you unplug a glue gun allow it to cool for 15 minutes before putting it away.

Add more if you think I forget something