Gluing items is often a dirty job, but someone has to do it. If that someone is you, there are some easy tips and tricks that can help you to reduce the mess and create a higher quality product. From keeping your workbench glue-free to producing better quality projects, these tips will help you work smarter, not harder.
- Old laminate samples or old gift cards work wonders as glue spreaders.
- Before gluing items on your workbench, throw down a sheet of cheap painter’s plastic. When those inevitable spills occur, you won’t be scraping glue off your surfaces. A plastic table cloth will also work here.
- Glue will ooze out of gaps when you clamp your work. Wait until glue is dry, but still pliable to make scraping it off easier.
- For precision glue application to fastener holes, use a plastic oral syringe that you can get from the pharmacy. Hot water will help wash out the glue, so you can use the syringe again.
- This tip from the Family Handyman is to use old caulk guns as clamps. Use wood or cardboard on either end and compress the handle to clamp down on your work.
- Keep your recycling for the workshop. Plastic containers can hold glue while you apply it while popsicle sticks are perfect for application and mixing. Old toothbrushes can be utilized for spreading glue on narrow surfaces. Store glue upside down in old tin cans so it’s ready to use. Be sure to clean all your recyclables thoroughly before use.
- If you need a wood filler that matches your project, mix a little wood glue with enough sawdust to create a paste and fill those gaps effectively.
- Lost the cap to your glue (again)? Use an E-Z anchor to screw into the top. The glue will be sealed, and you can unscrew the top when you need it again.