On my online workbook this week: ‘Twas the tiniest Details only we can add that really Crafts a special Christmas

Dear

This week’s inspiration is getting seriously excited for all things Christmas… let it snow!!!

My design note for the week is about using hot glue on glass: always, always make sure the glass is completely dry or the hot glue will simply pop off.

If you find your glue is just not sticking it might be that the water placed in the vase creates a cold surface and there is condensation. This always happens in my design room because our filtered water is so cold. Wipe the vase before positioning the twigs. The amount of condensation outside the container will depend on the humidity of your design room and how cold the water is relative to the air. If your water tends to be cold let it stand to get to room temperature before designing.

Another reason why it is not sticking might be that your twigs are dusty or the bark loose. You will easily see if this is the case because debris will be stuck to the glue and the glue is still stuck to the container. Soak dusty or older twigs the day before using to clean them and let them dry thoroughly before designing.

It is of course a frustration when designing and your twigs keep falling off but the fact that the twigs are not permanently bonded can also be used to our advantage. Firstly the fact that the glue comes unstuck when it comes into contact with water is great for cleaning, I simply soak the vases until the glue comes off of the glass, it floats to the top. I scoop it up, allow the glue to dry and melt it down again next time I need hot glue.

But it also gives you a second (or third) try if you find that you do not like the position of a glued in twig. Brush the glue area with water, let it soak in for a few minutes and tug the twig away from the glass. It really is as easy as that. Make sure to remove any glue still stuck on the twig and vase before repositioning it. If you simply add more glue you will not get a neat and invisible bond. The glue blob will also prevent the twig from curving neatly next to the glass. Remember to wipe the glass so that it is completely clean and dry before regluing.

Enjoy!

Every good wish,

Christine