Explore our range of craft glues and stationery adhesives including our PVA white Glu, Blu Glu stick, Glu Dots, hot glue guns and our best-selling adhesive tack, Blu Tack®.
Carefully designed by experts, our craft and stationery glues are safe and easy to use, and offer a permanent or flexible solution for all craft activities. Plus, our craft adhesives are now available in cardboard packaging that contains 75% recycled card with sturdy backing containers. Alternatively, browse all of our innovative adhesive solutions today!
Step-by-step tutorials
Watch our stationery adhesives and craft glues in action. Discover hints and tips for how to use each product and get your hands on our craft ideas and step-by-step guidance to inspire your next creative project.
From making paper mache bowls using PVA white Glu, learning how to use a hot glue gun, or making 3D cards with Foam Pads - we've got plenty of #CraftWithBostik video tutorials to keep you or your little ones entertained!
FAQs
Are glue gun sticks toxic?
The fumes that glue guns can release are very rarely toxic but can sometimes be irritating for those who suffer from respiratory problems. Take care when using the glue guns as like most organic fumes, there is a possibility they could ignite depending on the environment they are used in.
Can I recycle Tape Discs?
Yes - Bostik Tape Discs are recyclable as they are made from paper. When used in gift wrapping, be sure to choose recyclable gift wrap so once the present has been opened, all of the paper can easily be recycled.
Also, the sheets that our sticky circles are supplied on are made of polyester which can be disposed with your plastic waste recycling.
Can I use Blu Glu stick with my photos?
Bostik Blu Glu stick is acid-free so it is safe to use with your photos.
Can I use Foam Pads on mirrors?
Yes - you can use our double sided sticky pads for mirrors. Bostik Foam Pads are acid and lignin-free meaning they will not mark or stain a mirrored surface.
Does Blu Glu stick dry as a blue colour?
Bostik Blu Glu stick is a great way to show you where you've applied your glue, but it actually dries totally clear!
Can PVA glue be transparent? Does PVA glue dry completely clear?
Bostik PVA Glue is white when applied and dries clear, also referred to as drying transparent or opalescent.
How can you remove a glue stick from a glue gun?
If you haven't used all of the glue stick that you inserted into the glue gun, do not try to remove it. Removing the glue stick could damage the internal components of the gun - regardless if the adhesive is runny or hard.
Simply leave the glue stick in the glue gun until you use it again. Surplus glue stick may be trimmed off using a sharp knife.
When the glue stick is almost gone, you can insert another stick and continue to use the glue gun as normal.
How long do glue guns last?
A glue gun’s lifespan can vary depending on its use. Sometimes, a glue gun can stop working due to a glue stick being jammed or stuck in the gun, causing a blockage in the nozzle. Ensure you are always using the right glue sticks for your glue gun to avoid this problem.
How long is Bostik Sticky Tape?
Bostik Sticky Tape offers 50m of adhesive tape at 24mm in width.
Fun Fact: Sticky Tape will go the length of an Olympic swimming pool, two tennis courts, the Arc de Triomphe in Paris or the length of 16 Siberian tigers in a line!
How much weight can Blu Tack hold?
About 0.5 grams of Blu Tack can support approximately 105 grams in weight. However, Blu Tack is designed for lightweight items and should not be used to support heavy objects.
The amount of weight Blu Tack can hold may vary depending on the surface, the object being mounted and how the adhesive is applied.
How to dissolve spray adhesive?
Bostik Fast Tak Permanent spray adhesive can be dissolved by dabbing the adhesive with a clean, dampened cloth of white spirit.
How to remove Blu Tack® from carpet?
Blu Tack® sometimes gets dropped and pressed into the carpet. You can easily remove it by firstly, removing as much as possible by hand. Then, grab an additional piece of Blu Tack® and press it into the Blu Tack® in the carpet and pull it away to remove as much as possible.
If there are remaining pieces, wrap parcel tape - sticky side outwards - around your knuckles and knead into the affected area. Finally, use a fine-tooth comb to remove the last little bits!
How to remove Sticky Tape residue?
If Sticky Tape has been stuck onto a hard surface for a long period of time, when you come to remove it, there may be some glue residue left behind. However, you can easily remove sticky tape residue from glass, plastic, clothing and more.
First, try to remove as much of the sticky residue with your fingers. Then you can use hot water with a few drops of detergent or canola or olive oil to soften any stubborn adhesive. You can then gently scrape away the residue with a plastic scraper or your fingers.
Alternative methods can be heating the glue residue with a hairdryer. The hot air will help loosen the adhesive and you can then scrape to remove.
Is Blu Tack® White better than Blu Tack®?
All colour variations of Bostik Blu Tack® are made using the same tried and tested formula. Blu Tack® White offers discreet application on white or light surfaces, which is great if you want the adhesive tack to go unnoticed.
Is Fast Tak spray adhesive flammable?
Most solvent-based adhesives are flammable. When using Fast Tak always work in a ventilated area and do not breathe in vapours. Avoid exposing the product to any ignition sources. Do not smoke when working with adhesives.
Is the glue from a glue gun waterproof?
Yes - adhesive from a glue gun is waterproof. It is extremely water resistant and can deal with varying temperatures, other solvents and even eroding, making it a long-lasting, ultra strong adhesive.
What are glue dots and what are they used for?
Bostik Glu Dots are pressure-sensitive, double-sided, adhesive dots available in a removable or permanent formula.
Our Glu Dots can stick to almost anything including paper, wood, plastic, foam, metal, glass and painted surfaces. They're perfect for arts and crafts projects such as scrapbooking, sticking up posters to walls, card making, collages and model making at home, the office or in schools.
What can I use Tape Discs for?
Bostik Tape Discs are most commonly used for parcel and gift wrapping, sealing bags and envelopes, securing tags and bows, and much more.
As they're acid and lignin-free, we also like to use these handy sticky discs in scrapbooking to secure photos in place without staining your favourite snapshots.
You can even use them for re-sealing opened food packages to ensure your contents stay fresh and you avoid accidental spills.
What colours does Blu Tack® come in?
Bostik Blu Tack® is available in four colours: original blue, pink, white and grey.
What is Fast Tak spray glue and how to use it?
Fast Tak Permanent spray glue is a permanent contact adhesive in an aerosol format. It applies as a mist and is suitable for bonding a wide variety of materials including paper, card, foam, leather, rubber, plastic, metal, wood, stone and even concrete.
Simple and easy-to-use in a few seconds, our Fast Tak Permanent caters to all kinds of craft and DIY needs, whether that’s craft creations, furniture repairs, clothing repairs and more.
Simply shake to wake, spray from 15 to 20 cm, allow to dry for a few seconds, line up your surfaces and press together to stick.
What is PVA Glu used for?
PVA Glue is a water-based adhesive commonly used for bonding porous materials such as wood, paper, card and fabric. It is popular for DIY, craft and woodworking projects because it is easy to apply and dries to form a strong bond.
Bostik PVA Glue is formulated using vinyl acetate homo-polymer and polyvinyl alcohol, making it a versatile adhesive for a wide range of everyday applications.
What is the operating temperature for a glue gun?
Bostik DIY Hot Melt Glue Gun operates between +175°C to +200°C.
What is the shelf life of the adhesive I have bought and where can I store it?
The shelf life of adhesives varies from product to product, but typically ranges between one and two years from the date of manufacture when unopened and stored correctly in dry conditions - usually between +5°C and +25°C. Once opened, the life of the product will be more limited – this is dictated by variables including the type of adhesive, how it is stored, and how much adhesive is left unused. For more information, refer to the product’s Technical Data Sheet.
How long does PVA glue take to dry?
Bostik PVA Glue reaches full cure in approximately 12 hours on paper and card, and approximately 24 hours on wood.
Drying and curing times can vary depending on the materials being bonded and the application conditions. For best results, apply Bostik PVA Glue at temperatures above 15°C and ensure surfaces are clean and dry before use.
What surfaces can I use Blu Tack® on?
Blu Tack® performs best on non-porous surfaces e.g. painted surfaces, glass, metal etc. Do not use on recently decorated surfaces or absorbent, silk-screen printed or hand stencilled wallpaper.
Where can I buy Blu Tack®?
You can buy Bostik Blu Tack® online through the Amazon brand store or from major retailers.
You can also use the Bostik stockist finder to locate a retailer near you. Availability may vary depending on your location and the products stocked by individual retailers.
Why Blu Tack® Grey?
Our grey adhesive tack is often referred to as DIY Blu Tack® as it is perfect for use within the home, garage or workspace. It’s great for temporary repairs and quick fixes.
Blu Tack® Grey seamlessly blends into many household appliances, electrical devices, cables and car dashboards that have a dark surface colour.
Why is Blu Tack® blue?
Blu Tack® was originally white but consumer research at the time showed concerns that children may mistake it for chewing gum, so blue colouring was added, giving it its household name.
Will Blu Tack® leave a stain?
On some surfaces, Blu Tack can leave a slight oily mark if it remains in place for a long period of time. These marks can often be removed using suitable cleaning products such as citrus-based removers, but you should always test any cleaner on a small, inconspicuous area first.
Will Glu Dots stain fabric, walls or photos?
Bostik Glu Dots are acid and lignin-free and are non-toxic so they will not stain or leave a sticky residue behind when applied to fabric, walls or photos.
Can PVA glue stick leather and other fabrics?
Yes, Bostik PVA glue can stick to leather and many fabrics, but it is best suited for light-duty or craft applications. For stronger, more flexible, and longer-lasting bonds, specialised leather glue or fabric adhesives are recommended.
How do I prepare the surfaces to be glued?
Before applying glue, ensure that all surfaces are of sound nature and clean, dry and free from dust, grease or any other contamination.
Is PVA glue a liquid?
Yes. Bostik PVA Glue is supplied as a liquid glue in an easy-to-use plastic bottle with a resealable cap. It is ready to apply straight from the bottle and can be used for arts and crafts projects, modelling, woodworking, school projects and other simple creative tasks.
Is PVA glue the same as school glue?
Bostik PVA Glue is suitable for school projects and is ideal for both schools and home, but it is not described as “just school glue.” It bonds to fabric, but it is not described as the same as fabric glue. Information about leather glue is not available in the provided source.
Bostik PVA Glue is described as a multi-purpose, solvent free white glue and as a general purpose PVA glue, but the provided source does not state that all multi-purpose glues are PVA glues.
Is swallowing Blu Tack® dangerous?
Blu Tack® is a non-toxic, non-harmful substance and will not cause any problems if swallowed, only mild discomfort. If any discomfort experienced continues, we recommend seeking medical advice.
What is a PVA glue used for?
Bostik PVA Glue is a general purpose PVA glue suitable for most arts and crafts projects. As a craft PVA glue, it can be used for scrapbooks, card making, modelling, and school projects. It can also be used to make slime, create a glossy finish on projects, or be mixed with powder for finger painting.
What is the difference between PVA Glue and normal glue?
PVA Glue and general-purpose glue are designed for different applications. Bostik PVA Glue is a water-based adhesive that works best on porous materials such as wood, paper, card and fabric, making it popular for DIY, craft and woodworking projects.
“Normal glue” is a broad term and can refer to many different adhesive types, including instant glue, solvent-based glue, fabric glue, leather glue or multi-purpose glue. These may be designed for faster grab, stronger repairs, flexible materials or specialist surfaces. The best choice depends on what you are sticking and how the finished bond needs to perform.
What materials can PVA glue stick to?
Bostik PVA Glue bonds to most craft materials, including paper, card, wood and fabric, which is why it’s commonly referred to as a multipurpose glue.
Its versatility makes it useful for projects that combine different materials, such as card decorations, wooden models or fabric details. For best results, surfaces should be clean and dry before the glue is applied.
What glue is used for paper mache?
PVA glue is a popular choice for paper mache. Mix it with your paper pieces to help build up layers and create shapes for masks, bowls, decorations and other crafty projects.
What is paste glue used for?
PVA glue is often referred to as 'paste glue', which is great for everyday craft projects like paper crafts, card making, scrapbooking, collages and model making. It’s especially handy when you want an easy-to-spread adhesive for lightweight, porous materials.
What is stationery glue?
Stationery glue is a common term for popular craft glues like PVA glue, glue sticks, All Purpose glue and more. Stationery glues are simple, easy-to-use adhesives for paper, card and other lightweight craft materials.
What is the best crafting glue?
The best crafting glue depends on what you’re making. PVA glue is a great everyday choice, while glue dots are handy for neat paper crafts and scrapbooking, and a low-temperature glue gun can be useful for projects that need a quicker, stronger hold.
What's the best glue to use for arts and crafts?
For most arts and crafts, PVA glue is a brilliant all-rounder. It works well for paper, card, fabric, wood and plenty of other common craft materials, making it useful for everything from collages to handmade decorations.
Are cool glue guns any good?
Yes, cool glue guns are especially good for crafting. A cool melt glue gun gives you a strong bond while using a lower glue-melting temperature, making it particularly handy for floristry, art and crafts involving more heat-sensitive materials.
Are glue dots and adhesive dots the same thing?
Yes. Glue dots are a type of adhesive dot. Bostik Glu Dots are pressure-sensitive, double-sided adhesive dots that you simply press into place, so there’s no liquid glue to apply or wait to dry.
Can I use regular glue sticks in a low temperature glue gun?
No - it is important to only use the Bostik Cool Melt Glue Gun Sticks in the Cool Melt Glue Gun. Other glue sticks may need a higher temperature to melt properly and could block or damage the gun.
Can permanent glue dots be removed?
Carefully and very slowly peel the Glu Dot away. For projects where you know you’ll want to reposition or remove something later, choose the Removable version rather than Extra Strong.
Can you use Blu Tack on wood?
Whether or not Blu Tack can be used on wood, depends on the finish of the wood. Bostik recommends Blu Tack for non-porous surfaces, so it may not be suitable for unfinished or absorbent wood. If you’re unsure, test it on a small, hidden area first, as Blu Tack can sometimes leave an oily mark on certain surfaces.
Does clear hot glue exist?
Yes, clear hot glue sticks are supplied with both the Hot Melt Glue Gun and Cool Melt Glue Gun. Refill packs of both types of glue gun sticks are available. Clear hot glue is a popular choice for crafts where you want the adhesive to be less noticeable.
Does glue stick wash off?
Yes. Bostik Blu Stick is formulated to be washable, making accidental craft messes easier to clean up. Glue on clothing should be washed out before it sets for the best results.
How long do foam pads last?
Once applied, how long foam pads stay stuck will depend on the surface, conditions and how the finished craft is used. Unopened Bostik Foam Pads can be stored for up to 24 months from manufacture when kept in their original packaging in dry conditions between 5°C and 25°C.
How long does it take for hot melt glue to harden?
Hot melt glue works quickly. Bostik Hot Melt Glue has a drying time of around 15 to 60 seconds and reaches handling strength within about a minute. Allow 1 to 2 hours at 20°C for the bond to reach full strength.
How strong are Bostik Glu Dots?
Bostik Glu Dots provide an instant bond and come in Removable and Extra Strong versions, so you can choose the hold that best suits your craft. Removable Glu Dots are a great choice when you may want to remove them after a period of time such as temporarily sticking up party decorations. Extra Strong Glu Dots are a handy choice when you want a firmer hold for embellishments and other small craft pieces.
How to choose a good glue gun?
Think about the materials you craft with and the type of projects you make. For projects needing a strong bond across materials such as wood, fabric, leather, ceramics and metal, a hot melt glue gun is a useful all-rounder. Features such as trigger control, thermostatic temperature control, a safety warning light and a stand can also make it easier to use. Bostik has two options, the Hot Melt Glue Gun and the Cool Melt Glue Gun.
How to make Blu Tack really sticky?
To get the best stick for Blu Tack, make sure your surface is clean, dry and free from dust or grease. Tear off the amount you need, then pull and stretch the Blu Tack until it’s soft and supple. The more you handle the product, the stickier and more pliable it becomes. Then, roll it into a ball, place it between the surfaces and press firmly.
How to use a cool melt glue gun?
To use Bostik Cool Melt Glue Gun, load the stick into the back of the gun and gently squeeze the trigger until the stick is positioned firmly in the gun. Then plug the gun in and allow it to warm up for around 5 to 10 minutes. Press the trigger until the glue flows from the nozzle of the gun. Apply it to your craft material, then press the pieces together as soon as possible. For best results, join them within 15 seconds.
How to use Bostik tape discs?
To use Bostik Tape Discs, firstly make sure your surface is clean, dry and dust-free, then simply peel a Tape Disc from the clear backing and press it firmly into place. For a more transparent finish on paper, run your fingernail over the disc once it’s stuck down. Try not to touch the sticky side, as this can make it less adhesive. They’re a handy, scissors-free option for wrapping gifts, fixing ribbons and tags, and sealing bags or envelopes.
How to use double-sided sticky pads?
Start with clean, dry surfaces. Peel a foam pad from the sheet and press it onto your first piece, then remove the paper backing and press your second piece firmly on top. You can even layer pads together if you want to create a bigger 3D effect.
How to use removable glue dots?
When using clear adhesive dots, make sure your surfaces are clean, dry and dust-free. Peel back the release paper to reveal the glue dot, press it firmly onto your embellishment or craft piece, then carefully remove the clear backing and press your piece into position. When you’re ready to remove it, peel it away carefully and very slowly.
Is adhesive putty the same as Blu Tack?
Blu Tack is a type of reusable adhesive putty. Bostik Blu Tack is the original reusable adhesive, designed as a clean and easy alternative to drawing pins or sticky tape.
Is Blu Tack suitable for kids?
Yes - Bostik Blu Tack is suitable for children as it is non-toxic, solvent-free and easy-to-use. Its perfect for use around the home, office and school. However, it is important to keep out of reach of very small children as it can be a choking hazard.
Is clear tape the same as transparent tape?
Yes - clear tape and transparent tape generally mean the same thing. They are see-through adhesive tapes that gives you a neat, discreet finish, making it a handy addition to any craft box. Bostik Sticky Tape is a clear, easy-tear adhesive tape with strong, clean adhesion.
Is glue stick waterproof?
No. Bostik Blu Stick is not waterproof. It is best suited to indoor arts and craft projects for use on paper and card.
Is hot melt glue the same as hot glue?
Yes. Hot glue is the everyday name for hot melt adhesive which is dispensed via a glue gun. It comes as solid glue sticks that are heated in a glue gun until they melt, ready to apply to your craft project.
What are foam pads used for?
Foam pads are perfect for adding dimension and raised 3D effects to your crafts. They’re particularly handy for card making, scrapbooking, decoupage, collages and model making, and can stick to flat surfaces including paper, wood, fabric and plastic.
What can you use Blu Tack for?
Blu Tack has over a thousand uses around the home, school and craft space. Try it for putting up posters, cards and party decorations, adding photos to albums or temporarily holding lightweight objects in place.
What dissolves glue stick glue?
For fresh glue stick marks, a damp cloth can help remove excess adhesive. If it gets onto clothing, Bostik Blu Stick can be washed out before the glue has fully set.
What do you use spray glue for?
Spray glue is brilliant for covering larger areas quickly and evenly, making it handy for crafts, presentations and creative projects. Bostik Fast Tak Permanent Spray can bond materials including paper, card, fabric, canvas, wood, leather, cork, rubber and some plastics, so it’s a versatile choice when a glue stick or liquid glue isn’t practical.
What is a cold glue gun used for?
A cold melt glue gun is ideal for crafting, floristry and delicate materials that could be damaged by the higher temperatures of a standard glue gun. Bostik Craft Cool Melt Glue Gun is ideal for craft projects including delicate substrates, as well as floristry and model making. However, as it still reaches temperatures between +125°C to +135°C, it can effectively bond materials including polystyrene, wood, leather, fabric and rubber.
What is a glue stick?
A glue stick is a solid, mess-free adhesive that you twist up and apply directly to your project. It’s ideal for paper crafts, card making, scrapbooking, collages and photos. Bostik Blu Stick goes on blue so you can see where you’ve applied it, then dries clear.
What is hot melt glue commonly used for?
Hot melt glue is a versatile choice for crafts, hobbies and creative projects where you want a strong, quick bond. It can stick many popular materials, including ceramics, wood, leather, fabric and metal.
What is the difference between hot and cool melt glue gun?
A cool melt glue gun is still a type of hot melt glue gun, but it works at a reduced temperature. Bostik's Cool Melt Glue Gun operates at around 125°C to 135°C, making it better suited to delicate craft materials that may be sensitive to higher temperatures. Bostik's Hot Melt Glue Gun operates at around 175°C to 200°C.
What is transparent tape used for?
Bostik's standard transparent tape, Sticky Tape, is a versatile choice for everyday crafts, wrapping and paper projects. You can use it for sticking paper and card, wrapping gifts and plenty of other creative jobs where you want a quick, clean bond without your tape standing out.
There is also Bostik Max Repair Tape in clear which is a transparent duct tape. It is an exceptionally strong, versatile, waterproof repair tape that is designed to deliver unmatched adhesion on a wide range of materials including wood, metal, stone, plastic, rubber, leather, and more, making it perfect for even the most demanding repairs.
What surfaces does Blu Tack work best on?
Blu Tack is recommended for non-porous surfaces that are clean, dry and free from dust and grease. Avoid using it on absorbent surfaces, porous brickwork, or silk-screen printed or hand-stencilled wallpaper.
Which spray adhesive is best?
The best spray adhesive depends on what you’re making. For craft projects where you want a strong, permanent bond, Bostik Fast Tak Permanent Spray is a versatile option. It offers a quick initial grab and works across lots of popular craft materials, including paper, card, fabric, canvas, wood, leather and cork. For more heavy duty, DIY projects the EVO-STIK Impact Adhesive Spray is a good option.
Which watt glue gun is best for crafts?
There isn’t one wattage that’s best for every craft. More important is choosing a glue gun that suits your materials, project size and required temperature. Bostik Hot Melt Glue Gun operates from 25W up to 85W and is suitable for crafts and hobbies as well as household projects. Bostik Cool Melt Glue Gun operates from 7W to 55W and is suitable for delicate substrates, floristry and crafts.
Do glue dots really work?
Yes. Glue dots are a quick, mess-free way to stick smaller items to your crafts. Bostik Glu Dots give an instant, double-sided bond and are ideal for card making, scrapbooking, collages and model making. They’re especially handy for precisely placing sequins, beads, rhinestones and other embellishments.
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