Hot Glue Gun at Target: Prices, Wattage, and Which to Buy
Target carries dual-temp hot glue guns from $10-13 minis (Gorilla, Elmer’s Craft Bond) to $33-45 full-size and cordless models — but wattage sets melt speed, not bond strength, and mini guns take a different stick size than full-size guns. Picking the wrong stick size or high-temp for delicate fabric wastes glue and risks burns. This guide covers what Target stocks, how to choose wattage and temperature, and how to avoid common mistakes.
Quick Answer
For most crafters, a $10–17 dual-temp mini or full-size glue gun (Gorilla or Elmer’s Craft Bond) covers fabric, wood, and plastic equally well. Use low-temp only for foam, felt, or delicate trim, and go full-size at 60W+ for continuous, heavy-duty gluing. Prices and in-stock models vary by store, so confirm current stock before you drive over.
As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. This page was last checked for current pricing and stock information in August 2026 — retail prices and store availability change, so verify current details on Target’s site or in-store before you buy.
What Hot Glue Guns Does Target Sell? (Prices and Models)
Target’s craft aisle stocks dual-temp glue guns from Elmer’s Craft Bond and Surebonder, plus higher-wattage options from brands like Unique Bargains. Mini kits start around $10–13; full-size and higher-wattage models run $17–45. The table below reflects prices found during research for this guide — Target adjusts pricing and store selection regularly, so treat these as a starting range, not a guarantee.
| Model | Size / Temp | Researched Price | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Elmer’s Craft Bond Mini | Mini, dual-temp | ~$12.99 | Kids’ crafts, small repairs |
| Elmer’s Craft Bond Full Size | Full-size, dual-temp | ~$17.59 | Everyday crafting, wood and fabric |
| Surebonder Plus Series (3-pack) | High-temp | Varies by store | Bulk/classroom use, wood, plastic |
| Unique Bargains Dual-Temp 60W/100W | Full-size, smart power-off | ~$33.49 (reg. ~$44.69) | Heavier repairs, longer sessions |
Target also offers Same Day Delivery, Drive Up, and free standard shipping on orders over $35, so if your local store is out of a specific model you can usually still get it within a day or two.
Mini vs Full-Size: Which Glue Gun Should You Buy?
Mini glue guns use 5/16-inch glue sticks and typically run 20–40 watts; full-size guns take the thicker 7/16-inch (0.44”) stick and usually run 60 watts or higher. Wattage controls how fast the glue melts and how quickly the gun recovers between applications — it does not make the bond stronger. A 20W mini and a 100W full-size gun both produce the same hot-melt bond once the glue is flowing; the difference is speed and output volume.
- Choose mini if: you’re doing small crafts, kids’ projects, jewelry, or detail work where precision matters more than volume.
- Choose full-size if: you’re gluing larger surfaces, doing repeated repairs, or working with wood and plastic where a bigger bead of glue holds better.
- Glue sticks are not interchangeable between the two sizes — a mini glue stick will not properly feed through a full-size gun’s nozzle, and vice versa. Check the stick diameter Target lists on the package before buying refills.
Best Overall Hot Glue Gun Pick
Gorilla Hot Glue Gun, Dual Temp, Mini Size
A dual-temp mini with a comfort grip and insulated nozzle — a solid all-around pick for fabric, wood, and plastic crafts.
- Best for: everyday crafting and small repairs
- Why we picked it: dual-temp setting covers both delicate and sturdy materials without buying two guns
- Main drawback: mini nozzle limits output on large gluing jobs
Compare more hot glue gun options
 Option 1 ROMECH Full-Size 60/100W Dual Power
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 Option 2 DEKOPRO Full-Size 60/100W Kit
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 Option 3 WORKPRO Cordless 7.2V Dual-Temp
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Low Temp vs High Temp: Which Setting for Your Project?
A dual-temp glue gun is a craft tool that heats glue to one of two fixed temperature ranges — low (roughly 250–270°F) or high (up to about 380°F) — selectable with a switch on the body. Low temp is safer around delicate materials since it lowers burn risk and won’t melt foam or thin fabric. High temp bonds faster and holds better on wood, plastic, metal, and glass, but the nozzle and glue itself can cause a more serious burn.
When Should You Use Low-Temp Glue?
Use low-temp for foam, felt, thin fabric, dried flowers, and anything that could warp or melt under direct heat. Low-melt glue sticks are usually a milkier white color and are formulated specifically to stay tacky at a lower temperature.
When Should You Use High-Temp Glue?
Use high-temp for wood, plastic, metal, ceramic, and glass, or anywhere you need a bond that holds up to weight or vibration. High-temp sticks are typically clearer and melt fully to fill gaps in porous materials like wood better than low-temp glue does.
Types of Glue Sticks by Material
Matching the glue stick to your material affects how well the bond holds. Here’s a quick reference for common project materials:
| Material | Glue Stick Type |
|---|---|
| Wood | Standard or high-temperature glue sticks |
| Plastic | Low-temperature glue sticks (reduces warping) |
| Fabric | Fabric-specific or low-temperature glue sticks |
| Metal | High-temperature glue sticks |
For projects that need to survive a wash cycle, hot glue is not the right adhesive — a dedicated fabric glue made for textiles will hold up far better than a hot-melt bond.
Safety Tips for Using a Hot Glue Gun
The nozzle tip stays hot well after you stop applying glue, so never touch it during or right after use. Set the gun down on its stand any time your attention is divided — answering the phone, checking on kids, or reaching for supplies — since most burns happen during that moment of distraction.
- Wear long sleeves and, if you’re prone to burns, leather or canvas gloves — rubber and plastic gloves can melt on contact with hot glue and make an injury worse.
- Keep the gun on its built-in stand or a heat-resistant mat; never lay it flat where it can tip over.
- Unplug the gun if you won’t use it again within about 40 minutes, and let it cool fully before storing it.
- Keep the workspace clear of flammable materials and keep glue guns away from children and pets.
What Should You Do If You Burn Yourself With Hot Glue?
Run cool (not ice-cold) water over the burn for 10–15 minutes right away. Don’t peel the hardened glue off your skin — pulling it can tear skin along with it. Let the glue cool and loosen on its own, or soften it with more cool water, before gently working it free. See a doctor for any burn that blisters badly or covers a large area.
Creative Projects With a Hot Glue Gun
A hot glue gun is one of the fastest ways to move from idea to finished craft. Build textured wall art by gluing fabric scraps, dried flowers, or photos onto a canvas. Turn cork or wood slices into coasters, or add beads, glitter, and trim to plain picture frames for a custom look.
For fashion and accessories, hot glue attaches bows, fabric flowers, and small embellishments to hair clips and jewelry blanks quickly — just keep in mind these bonds won’t survive a washing machine, so stick to accent pieces rather than structural seams.
Maintenance and Troubleshooting
Unplug the gun and let it cool before cleaning. Wipe the exterior with a damp cloth, and use rubbing alcohol on a cloth to soften stubborn dried glue. Check the nozzle periodically for clogs, since a clogged nozzle is the most common reason a gun stops dispensing glue.
| Issue | Solution |
|---|---|
| No glue coming out | Check for a clogged nozzle; reheat for a few minutes and try again |
| Glue not sticking | Clean and dry the surface first, then apply firm pressure while it sets |
| Gun overheating | Unplug immediately and let it cool fully before next use |
Frequently Asked Questions
What Can I Use a Hot Glue Gun For?
A hot glue gun bonds wood, fabric, metal, and plastic for crafts, home repairs, and DIY projects. It sets in seconds, which makes it convenient for kids’ school projects and quick fixes, though it’s not meant for structural joints that carry heavy weight.
Is a Hot Glue Gun Safe to Use?
Yes, when used carefully. The nozzle and melted glue both get hot enough to burn skin, so keep it out of reach of children, avoid touching the tip, and use safety glasses if you’re working close to your face.
How Do I Clean a Hot Glue Gun?
Unplug it and let it cool completely. Scrape off hardened glue with a craft knife, then wipe residue with a cloth dampened in rubbing alcohol. Avoid running water directly over the gun, since moisture can damage the internal heating element.
Can I Use Hot Glue on Fabric?
Yes, hot glue works on fabric for accents, trim, and no-sew crafts, and it bonds quickly. It’s not machine-washable, though — for garments or anything that will be laundered, use a dedicated fabric glue instead.
Is a Higher-Wattage Glue Gun Worth the Extra Cost?
Only if you’re gluing frequently or for extended sessions. Higher wattage (60–100W) heats faster and recovers between uses more quickly, which matters for repeated or heavy-duty work, but it does not create a stronger bond than a lower-wattage gun using the same glue stick.
Conclusion
Target’s hot glue gun selection covers most crafting needs, from $10 dual-temp minis to $45 cordless models. Match the wattage and temperature setting to your material rather than buying the biggest gun available, and always confirm current price and stock at your local store before making the trip. For adhesive choices beyond hot glue, see our full glue and adhesives guide, including how Gorilla Glue compares for jobs that need a permanent, structural bond, or check whether a hot glue gun works on paper crafts if that’s your next project.
