Hot Glue on Wood? The Shocking Truth You Must Know!

The Truth About Hot Glue and Wood: Can You Really Use It?

Hot glue: it’s the crafter’s quick fix, the DIY enthusiast’s best friend for speedy projects, and a staple in workshops everywhere. But can this readily available adhesive actually bond wood effectively? Many assume the answer is a simple "no," relegating hot glue to the realm of lightweight paper crafts and temporary fixes.

However, the truth is far more nuanced.

This article will delve into the surprisingly complex relationship between hot glue and wood. We aim to provide a comprehensive understanding of when hot glue can and, more importantly, should be used in woodworking and craft projects.

We’ll explore its limitations, advantages, and how it stacks up against traditional wood glues.

Debunking the Hot Glue Misconception

The most common misconception is that hot glue is inherently weak and unsuitable for any wood application. This belief stems from the fact that hot glue doesn’t penetrate wood fibers deeply like traditional wood glues. It creates more of a surface bond.

While it’s true that hot glue lacks the sheer strength and long-term durability of wood glue in many situations, dismissing it entirely overlooks its potential utility.

Article Purpose: A Balanced Perspective

This isn’t an article designed to convince you that hot glue is a replacement for wood glue. Instead, our purpose is to equip you with the knowledge to make informed decisions about when hot glue is an appropriate – even ideal – adhesive for your specific wood-related projects.

We’ll explore the situations where hot glue shines and, equally important, the scenarios where you should reach for a more robust adhesive.

Hot Glue on Wood: Benefits and Drawbacks

Hot glue offers several potential benefits:

• Speed: It sets incredibly fast, allowing for near-instant bonding.
• Convenience: It’s easy to apply with a hot glue gun. It requires no mixing or clamping.
• Versatility: It can bond various materials in addition to wood.

However, the drawbacks are equally important to consider:

• Limited Strength: Its adhesive strength is significantly lower than wood glue.
• Temperature Sensitivity: It can soften or re-melt in high temperatures.
• Lack of Penetration: It primarily bonds to the surface of the wood.

Ultimately, understanding these benefits and drawbacks is key to successfully using hot glue on wood and avoiding project failures.

Debunking misconceptions and setting the record straight is only the first step. To truly understand hot glue’s place in the world of woodworking and crafts, we need to delve into its fundamental properties and how those properties influence its performance. This understanding is crucial for making informed decisions about its suitability for specific projects.

Understanding Hot Glue: Properties and Performance

Hot glue isn’t just a melted substance; it’s a carefully formulated adhesive with unique characteristics that define its capabilities and limitations. Examining its composition, the mechanics of its application, its adhesive strength, and bonding time is essential to understanding how it behaves, and it is key to knowing when and where to use it effectively.

The Composition of Hot Glue

Hot glue is primarily composed of thermoplastic polymers. These polymers are solid at room temperature.

They become liquid when heated, allowing them to flow and bond materials together.

The most common type of polymer used is Ethylene-Vinyl Acetate (EVA).

Different formulations may include resins, waxes, and other additives to modify properties like flexibility, melting point, and adhesion.

The specific blend of these components determines the glue’s characteristics.

Different glue sticks are designed for different purposes. It is critical to understand these purposes before attempting use.

How a Hot Glue Gun Works

The hot glue gun is a deceptively simple tool that efficiently melts and dispenses hot glue.

The glue stick is fed into the back of the gun.

A heating element inside the gun melts the glue.

A mechanical trigger advances the glue stick, pushing the molten adhesive out through a nozzle.

The nozzle tip must be handled with care due to its high-temperature properties.

Different glue guns offer varying temperature settings, glue feed rates, and nozzle types to accommodate different applications.

Adhesive Strength of Hot Glue

The adhesive strength of hot glue is a critical factor in determining its suitability for a project.

Compared to traditional wood glues, hot glue generally offers lower tensile and shear strength.

Tensile strength refers to the force required to pull the bonded materials apart.

Shear strength refers to the force required to slide the bonded materials relative to each other.

The adhesive strength of hot glue depends on several factors, including the surface area of the bond, the type of materials being bonded, and the temperature of the glue during application.

A rougher surface increases surface area and typically results in a stronger bond.

Factors That Influence Hot Glue’s Bond

Several factors determine the effectiveness of hot glue:

• Surface Preparation: A clean, dry surface is essential. Remove dust, oil, or debris that can interfere with adhesion.

• Glue Temperature: Applying the glue at the correct temperature is crucial. If the glue is too cold, it won’t flow properly and will result in a weak bond.

• Pressure: Applying pressure while the glue cools helps ensure good contact between the surfaces.

• Type of Wood: The porosity and surface texture of the wood will affect how well the hot glue adheres.

The Importance of Bonding Time

Hot glue’s rapid bonding time is one of its key advantages.

It cools and solidifies quickly, creating an almost instant bond.

This fast setting time is ideal for temporary fixes, quick assembly, and projects where clamping is difficult or impossible.

However, the short bonding time also means there’s limited opportunity to reposition materials after they’ve been joined.

This requires accuracy and planning.

It’s essential to work quickly and efficiently to ensure a strong and accurate bond before the glue sets completely.

Debunking misconceptions and setting the record straight is only the first step. To truly understand hot glue’s place in the world of woodworking and crafts, we need to delve into its fundamental properties and how those properties influence its performance. This understanding is crucial for making informed decisions about its suitability for specific projects.

Wood as a Material: Key Characteristics for Adhesion

Wood presents unique challenges and opportunities for adhesive bonding. Unlike some synthetic materials, wood is a natural, organic substance with inherent variability. Understanding its specific characteristics is essential for choosing the right adhesive and ensuring a strong, lasting bond.

Understanding Wood Types and Their Properties

The term "wood" encompasses a vast array of species, each with its own distinct properties. These variations significantly impact how adhesives interact with the wood surface.

• Hardwoods: Typically derived from deciduous trees (e.g., oak, maple, cherry), hardwoods generally possess a higher density. This increased density can provide a stronger mechanical bond, but it may also limit adhesive penetration.

• Softwoods: Sourced from coniferous trees (e.g., pine, fir, cedar), softwoods tend to be less dense and more porous. While this porosity can aid in adhesive penetration, the softer nature of the wood may result in a weaker overall bond if not properly addressed.

Beyond hardwood versus softwood classifications, consider grain patterns, oil content, and moisture levels.

Wood with a straight grain will generally be easier to bond than wood with a complex grain structure.

Some woods, like teak, are naturally oily. This oil content can interfere with adhesive bonding.

The moisture content of wood will also affect the effectiveness of the adhesive.

The Impact of Porosity on Adhesive Bonding

Wood’s inherent porosity is a key factor in adhesive bonding. Porosity refers to the presence of tiny pores and vessels within the wood’s structure. These pores can either enhance or hinder the bonding process.

On one hand, porosity allows adhesives to penetrate the wood surface, creating a mechanical interlock as the adhesive fills the voids and hardens. This interlocking action contributes significantly to the bond’s strength.

On the other hand, excessive porosity can lead to adhesive starvation, where the wood absorbs too much of the adhesive, leaving insufficient material on the surface to form a strong bond.

This is particularly true with thinner adhesives like hot glue. The porosity can cause the glue to sink into the wood rather than creating a layer on top of the surface.

This results in a weaker and brittle bond.

Surface Preparation: The Key to Success

Proper surface preparation is paramount to achieving a strong and reliable bond, regardless of the adhesive used. The goal is to create a clean, stable surface that promotes optimal adhesion.

1. Cleaning: Remove any dirt, dust, grease, or loose particles from the wood surface. Wipe down wood with a cloth or use compressed air.

2. Sanding: Sanding the wood surface creates a slightly roughened texture. This increases the surface area available for bonding and enhances the mechanical interlock between the adhesive and the wood. Use appropriate sandpaper grit (typically 120-220 grit).

3. Degreasing (If Necessary): For oily woods, degreasing with a suitable solvent (e.g., denatured alcohol) may be necessary to remove surface oils that can interfere with adhesion.

4. Drying: Ensure the wood is dry before applying adhesive. Excess moisture can weaken the bond and promote wood decay. Allow wood to dry thoroughly.

Debunking misconceptions and setting the record straight is only the first step. To truly understand hot glue’s place in the world of woodworking and crafts, we need to delve into its fundamental properties and how those properties influence its performance. This understanding is crucial for making informed decisions about its suitability for specific projects.

Hot Glue on Wood: When Does It Work?

The question of whether hot glue can be used on wood doesn’t have a simple yes or no answer. The more accurate response is: yes, but with significant caveats.

Hot glue can be a surprisingly useful adhesive for certain wood-related applications, but it’s essential to understand its limitations to avoid disappointment and potential project failure. Its suitability hinges on the specific requirements of the task at hand.

Understanding Suitable Circumstances

Hot glue excels in situations where strength and long-term durability aren’t paramount concerns. These scenarios often involve:

• Temporary Bonds: Hot glue is ideal for holding pieces together temporarily while another, more permanent adhesive, like wood glue, dries. This can be invaluable for clamping oddly shaped items or ensuring precise alignment.

• Quick Fixes: For minor repairs where aesthetics and structural integrity aren’t critical, hot glue offers a fast and convenient solution. Think of reattaching a small decorative element or mending a split seam in a non-load-bearing area.

• Specific Craft Projects: In many craft applications, hot glue’s quick setting time and ease of use make it a preferred choice. It’s particularly well-suited for projects where a strong, permanent bond isn’t necessary, such as attaching lightweight embellishments to wooden surfaces.

Hot Glue as a Clamping Aid

One of the most effective uses of hot glue in woodworking is as a clamping aid.

Apply a small amount of hot glue to hold pieces in place while wood glue cures. Once the wood glue has fully dried, the hot glue can be easily removed, leaving a strong, permanent bond.

Examples of Suitable Applications

To illustrate, consider the following specific examples:

• Holding intricate trim work in place: While wood glue sets on a larger piece, a small amount of hot glue can hold the trim in place.

• Attaching lightweight decorations to a wooden plaque: For craft projects like creating decorative signs, hot glue can quickly and easily secure lightweight elements like fabric, paper, or small wooden cutouts.

• Securing felt or fabric to the back of a wooden picture frame: Hot glue provides a clean and efficient way to create a finished look on the back of picture frames or other decorative items.

• Creating prototypes or mock-ups: Before committing to permanent joinery methods, hot glue can be used to quickly assemble prototypes to test designs.

In these types of projects, hot glue offers speed and convenience without compromising the overall integrity of the finished piece. The key is to recognize its limitations and use it strategically in situations where its weaknesses are not a significant factor.

Hot glue certainly has its place, but recognizing its limitations is just as crucial as understanding its strengths. This is especially true when working with wood, where the demands on an adhesive can vary dramatically.

When to Avoid Hot Glue on Wood: Strength and Durability Concerns

While hot glue offers convenience and speed, there are scenarios where it simply falls short. Choosing the right adhesive is paramount for ensuring the longevity and stability of your woodworking projects. Knowing when not to use hot glue is just as important as knowing when it’s appropriate.

Insufficient Adhesive Strength: Identifying the Limits

Hot glue’s adhesive strength is significantly lower than that of other wood adhesives like wood glue or epoxy. It creates a bond that is primarily mechanical, relying on the glue solidifying within the wood’s surface irregularities. This surface adhesion is adequate for light-duty tasks but is unreliable when significant stress is applied.

Think of situations where the glued joint will be subjected to pulling, twisting, or bending forces. These are scenarios where hot glue is likely to fail. Avoid using hot glue for projects where the bond will need to withstand any kind of substantial force or pressure.

Long-Term Durability and Load-Bearing Capacity

For projects intended to last for years, or those that bear weight, hot glue is generally not a suitable choice. Its thermoplastic nature means that it can soften and lose adhesion over time, especially with temperature fluctuations.

This creep and weakening can lead to joint failure, jeopardizing the structural integrity of the project. Avoid hot glue for structural elements or anything requiring long-term stability. Consider stronger adhesives like wood glue, epoxy, or construction adhesives for these projects.

The Problem with Furniture Repair

While hot glue might seem like a quick fix for a wobbly chair leg or a loose drawer front, it’s rarely a long-term solution for furniture repair. The stresses on furniture joints are considerable. The limited strength and temperature sensitivity of hot glue make it an unreliable choice.

Furthermore, the presence of old glue or finishes can inhibit proper adhesion, leading to a weak and temporary repair. Using hot glue on furniture can actually make future repairs more difficult. It leaves behind a residue that can interfere with the bonding of stronger, more appropriate adhesives.

Environmental Factors: Temperature and Moisture Sensitivity

Hot glue is susceptible to both temperature and moisture. High temperatures can cause the glue to soften and lose its bond. Humidity can weaken the adhesive properties over time. This makes it unsuitable for outdoor applications or environments with significant temperature or humidity fluctuations.

Consider the conditions your project will be exposed to before deciding on hot glue. If it’s likely to experience extreme temperatures or moisture, opt for a more durable and weather-resistant adhesive.

Project Type as a Deciding Factor

Ultimately, the type of project should dictate your choice of adhesive. For simple craft projects, temporary fixes, or situations where minimal stress is involved, hot glue can be a convenient option.

However, for anything requiring structural integrity, long-term durability, or resistance to environmental factors, stronger adhesives are essential. Carefully evaluate the requirements of your project. Choose an adhesive that can meet those demands effectively. Failing to do so risks project failure and wasted time and materials.

Hot Glue vs. Wood Glue: A Detailed Comparison

Having explored the nuances of using hot glue on wood and recognizing its limitations in certain applications, it’s essential to consider the traditional and often superior alternative: wood glue. Understanding the characteristics of both adhesives allows for informed decision-making, ensuring project success and longevity.

Introducing Wood Glue: The Woodworker’s Staple

Wood glue, also known as carpenter’s glue, has long been the adhesive of choice for woodworking projects. Unlike hot glue, which relies primarily on mechanical adhesion, wood glue forms a chemical bond with the wood fibers. This creates a significantly stronger and more durable connection.

There are various types of wood glue available, each with its own specific properties and uses. Polyvinyl acetate (PVA) glue is the most common type, prized for its strength, ease of use, and water resistance. Other types include polyurethane glue, known for its exceptional strength and gap-filling capabilities, and epoxy, which provides superior water resistance and structural integrity.

Head-to-Head: Adhesion, Drying Time, and Durability

When comparing hot glue and wood glue, several key factors must be considered:

• Adhesive Strength: Wood glue consistently outperforms hot glue in terms of sheer strength. It creates a bond that is capable of withstanding significant stress and strain.

• Drying Time: Hot glue offers a clear advantage in drying time, solidifying within seconds. Wood glue, on the other hand, requires a longer clamping time, typically ranging from 30 minutes to several hours, depending on the type of glue and the environmental conditions.

• Durability: Wood glue excels in long-term durability, forming a bond that can last for decades. Hot glue, due to its thermoplastic nature, is susceptible to softening and weakening over time, especially when exposed to heat or moisture.

Application Differences

The application methods for hot glue and wood glue also differ significantly. Hot glue is applied using a glue gun, providing a quick and convenient way to dispense the adhesive. Wood glue is typically applied with a brush, roller, or glue bottle, allowing for more precise and even coverage.

Proper clamping is essential when using wood glue to ensure a strong and lasting bond. Clamps apply pressure to the joint, forcing the glue into the wood fibers and promoting optimal adhesion. Hot glue does not require clamping, as it solidifies rapidly and does not rely on pressure for bonding.

Choosing the Right Glue for the Job

The choice between hot glue and wood glue ultimately depends on the specific requirements of the project.

Consider the following scenarios:

• When to Choose Wood Glue: For projects requiring high strength, long-term durability, and resistance to stress, wood glue is the clear choice. This includes furniture construction, structural repairs, and projects that will be exposed to environmental factors.

• When to Choose Hot Glue: Hot glue is suitable for temporary bonds, quick fixes, and light-duty craft projects where strength and durability are not critical. It’s also useful for applications where immediate adhesion is needed, such as holding pieces in place while wood glue dries.

In summary, while hot glue offers convenience and speed, wood glue remains the superior choice for most woodworking applications. Understanding the strengths and weaknesses of each adhesive allows you to make informed decisions and achieve lasting results.

Hot glue has its place, even when working with wood. While it might not be the go-to for structural integrity, a few smart techniques can significantly boost its performance, opening up a range of possibilities for crafting and quick fixes. Let’s explore how to maximize hot glue’s effectiveness when bonding wood.

Maximizing Hot Glue Performance on Wood: Tips and Techniques

Prepping the Wood: The Foundation for a Stronger Bond

Surface preparation is crucial for any adhesive, and hot glue is no exception. The goal is to create a clean, receptive surface that allows the hot glue to grip effectively.

• Cleaning: Remove any dust, dirt, or debris with a clean cloth or brush. A tack cloth is excellent for picking up fine particles.

• Sanding: Lightly sanding the wood surface with fine-grit sandpaper (120-grit or higher) creates a slightly rough texture, providing more "tooth" for the hot glue to grab onto. Wipe away the sanding dust thoroughly.

• Degreasing: For oily or resinous woods, a degreasing step is essential. Wipe the surface with isopropyl alcohol to remove oils that could interfere with adhesion. Let the alcohol evaporate completely before applying the hot glue.

Choosing the Right Glue: Not All Sticks Are Created Equal

Hot glue isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution. Different formulations offer varying properties, so selecting the right type for your project is important.

• General Purpose: These are suitable for basic craft projects and temporary bonds.

• High-Performance: These offer superior strength and heat resistance, making them a better choice for projects requiring a more durable bond.

• Specialty Glues: Some hot glues are formulated for specific materials, like fabric or plastics. Read the product labels carefully to ensure compatibility with wood.

Mastering the Hot Glue Gun: Control and Consistency

The way you operate the hot glue gun directly impacts the quality of the bond.

• Preheating: Allow the glue gun to fully preheat before use. This ensures the glue is at the optimal temperature for flow and adhesion.

• Applying: Apply the hot glue in a consistent bead, making sure it makes good contact with both surfaces. Avoid applying too much glue, as this can create a weak, uneven bond.

• Bonding: Immediately press the pieces of wood together and hold them firmly until the glue sets. Depending on the glue type and ambient temperature, this may take a few seconds to a minute.

• Safety First: Always use a glue gun mat or protective surface to prevent accidental burns or damage to your work area. Never touch the nozzle of the glue gun, as it can reach extremely high temperatures.

Understanding the Wood: Density Matters

The type of wood you’re working with affects how well hot glue will adhere.

• Porous Woods: Softwoods like pine absorb hot glue more readily, creating a stronger mechanical bond. However, excessive absorption can weaken the glue.

• Dense Woods: Hardwoods like oak or maple have tighter grains, making it harder for the hot glue to penetrate. Thorough surface preparation is especially important for these woods.

• Treated Woods: Painted, stained, or sealed wood surfaces will not bond as effectively with hot glue. Sanding down to the bare wood is recommended for optimal adhesion.

Boosting Adhesive Strength: Simple Tricks for a Stronger Hold

Even with proper preparation and technique, hot glue’s strength is limited. However, these tips can help maximize its holding power.

• Mechanical Fasteners: Combine hot glue with small nails, brads, or screws for added strength, especially in load-bearing applications. The hot glue will hold the pieces in place while the mechanical fasteners provide long-term stability.

• Textile Reinforcement: Embedding a piece of fabric (like burlap or cheesecloth) into the hot glue joint can increase its tensile strength. This is particularly useful for reinforcing fragile joints.

• Multiple Layers: Applying multiple thin layers of hot glue, allowing each layer to cool slightly before adding the next, can create a stronger, more resilient bond.

Real-World Examples: Successful Hot Glue and Wood Projects

Hot glue, despite its limitations in structural applications with wood, excels in numerous craft projects. These projects leverage hot glue’s quick bonding and ease of use, making it an ideal choice for temporary or decorative applications. Let’s delve into some concrete examples where hot glue proves to be a valuable asset when working with wood.

Crafting with Confidence: Hot Glue’s Niche

Hot glue finds its strength in scenarios where immediate adhesion and non-structural bonding are paramount. These projects often involve lightweight materials, decorative elements, or temporary positioning during the assembly of larger projects. The key is understanding the limitations and playing to hot glue’s strengths.

Specific Project Examples

Let’s consider a few specific examples, exploring both the process and visual aspects.

Assembling Small Wooden Models

Hot glue is excellent for assembling small wooden models or miniatures. Its fast bonding time allows for quick adjustments and ensures that parts stay in place almost immediately. This is especially useful when dealing with intricate details that require precise alignment. Photos accompanying this would show models in various stages of construction, with close-ups highlighting the glue application.

Securing Fabric to Wood Frames

Another popular application is securing fabric to wooden frames for crafts like stretched canvases or decorative wall hangings. Hot glue provides a clean and easy way to adhere fabric without the need for clamps or extended drying times. Visuals here could illustrate the fabric being stretched and glued, showcasing the neat finish.

Adding Embellishments to Wooden Décor

Hot glue is fantastic for attaching decorative embellishments to wooden surfaces. Think of adding small wooden cutouts to a picture frame, adhering beads to a wooden box, or affixing faux flowers to a wooden sign. The immediate bond ensures that the embellishments stay in place, and the clear glue minimizes visual distractions. Images should highlight the added embellishments and the seamless integration with the wood.

Creating Temporary Jigs and Molds

Woodworkers often use hot glue to create temporary jigs or molds. These can be used to hold pieces in place during more permanent bonding processes, or to create temporary molds for casting small objects. The hot glue can be easily removed later, leaving the wood undamaged. Visuals could demonstrate how hot glue is used to create these jigs and molds, showing the process of temporary fixturing.

Visual Aids: Seeing is Believing

The effectiveness of these examples is best conveyed through visuals. Photos and videos demonstrate the ease and speed of hot glue application. They also showcase the final results, highlighting the clean aesthetics and functional bonds achieved in these projects. These visual aids are crucial for inspiring confidence and providing a clear understanding of hot glue’s capabilities.

Key Takeaways

These real-world examples underscore the appropriate use cases for hot glue on wood. By focusing on craft projects that prioritize speed, convenience, and non-structural bonding, you can harness the benefits of this versatile adhesive while minimizing its inherent limitations. Remember to always consider the project requirements and choose the right adhesive for the job.

Safety First: Essential Precautions When Using Hot Glue

Having explored the various applications and limitations of hot glue in woodworking, it’s crucial to shift our focus to a paramount consideration: safety. While hot glue can be a convenient and versatile adhesive, it’s essential to acknowledge the potential hazards associated with its use, particularly burns and fume inhalation. By implementing appropriate safety measures, you can ensure a secure and comfortable crafting experience.

Preventing Burns: A Priority

The high temperature of hot glue presents a significant risk of burns. The glue itself, the nozzle of the glue gun, and even the surrounding surfaces can cause injury upon contact. Therefore, it’s imperative to adopt preventive strategies to minimize the possibility of burns.

Protective Gear

Wearing appropriate protective gear is the first line of defense against burns. Gloves made of heat-resistant material are essential to shield your hands from accidental contact with hot glue. Eye protection, such as safety glasses or goggles, is also advisable to prevent splatters from reaching your eyes.

Safe Handling Techniques

Employing safe handling techniques is equally important. Always use the glue gun stand or a designated heat-resistant surface to rest the gun when it’s not in use. Avoid touching the nozzle of the glue gun, as it becomes extremely hot during operation. Never leave a hot glue gun unattended, especially when children or pets are present.

Immediate Response to Burns

Despite taking precautions, burns can still occur. In the event of a burn, immediately cool the affected area under cold running water for at least 15 minutes. Do not apply ice directly to the burn, as this can cause further tissue damage. Seek medical attention if the burn is severe or covers a large area.

Mitigating Fume Inhalation: Ventilation is Key

In addition to the risk of burns, hot glue fumes can pose a health hazard, particularly with prolonged exposure or inadequate ventilation. These fumes, released as the glue melts, can irritate the respiratory system and cause discomfort.

The Importance of Ventilation

Proper ventilation is crucial to minimize fume inhalation. Work in a well-ventilated area, preferably outdoors or near an open window. If working indoors, consider using a fan to circulate air and direct fumes away from your face.

Alternatives: Low-Fume Hot Glue

For those sensitive to fumes or working in poorly ventilated spaces, consider using low-fume hot glue sticks. These specialized adhesives are formulated to release fewer fumes during melting, reducing the risk of respiratory irritation.

Recognizing Symptoms and Taking Action

Be aware of the symptoms of fume inhalation, which may include coughing, sneezing, headache, and nausea. If you experience any of these symptoms, immediately move to a well-ventilated area and seek fresh air. Consult a healthcare professional if symptoms persist or worsen.

By prioritizing safety and implementing these essential precautions, you can enjoy the benefits of hot glue in woodworking while minimizing the risk of burns and fume inhalation. A safe working environment is crucial for fostering creativity and ensuring a positive crafting experience.

So, that’s the scoop on hot glue and wood! Now you know whether you can use hot glue on wood for your next project. Happy crafting!