The Ultimate Glue Gun Setup (Featuring the 'Danger Pot') for Rosette Making

When it comes to rosette making, having the right glue gun can make all the difference. I highly recommend the Uline H-1903 Heavy Duty Glue Gun in combination with the Surebonder 5 lb Glue Roll for efficient and mess-free production.

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The Uline H-1903 Heavy Duty Glue Gun

At first glance, the Uline H-1903 is an intimidating tool due to its size, but in reality, it is surprisingly manageable. Weighing approximately 1 lb 4 ounces, it is only slightly heavier than the Surebonder Mini Motorized MGG35F, which comes in at 12 ounces. However, the Uline gun offers significantly more power, running at 120V, 60Hz, and 300W, compared to the Surebonder’s 35W.

Despite its size, the Uline glue gun is comfortable to handle for extended crafting sessions. Its precision nozzle delivers a substantial but controlled bead of glue, ensuring strong adhesion without excessive dripping—something that’s crucial for keeping rosettes neat and professional-looking. The higher wattage also allows for faster heating and a more consistent glue flow, reducing the frustration of slow or uneven glue application.

Even though the Uline glue gun drips very little, a silicone mat should still be used underneath to protect surfaces. Additionally, I found the stand it came with to be inadequate, so I replaced it with a cast iron heat gun stand that I hot glued to a piece of chipboard and fit under my glass cutting mat. It’s not a perfect fit, but it's a lot more stable and hefty, especially when paired with the glue roll.

One note about the Uline gun: at start-up in the morning, it can be difficult to get the glue to come out. This is one advantage the Surebonder guns have. To counter this, I crank the temperature up to 450°F, and once the glue starts flowing, I lower it back down to 300°F, which is more than enough for rosettes.

The Benefits of Using a Glue Roll vs. Glue Sticks

Pairing the Uline H-1903 with a Surebonder 5 lb Glue Stick Roll is a game-changer. Traditional glue sticks require frequent replacements, which can slow down production. A glue roll eliminates that issue by providing a continuous supply of adhesive. Here’s why I prefer this setup:

• Minimal Interruption: When sitting down for a long rosette-making session, I can work for days without stopping to swap out glue sticks.
• Customizable Length: If I need to travel with my glue gun, I simply cut the glue roll into smaller sections for easy transport.
• Efficient Storage: I take the glue roll out of the box and keep it in a milk crate mounted overhead and screwed down for easy access and organization.

 Glue rolls go for about $40 on average—life-changing. Milk crates can be found anywhere, even on Amazon.

My Experience with Surebonder Glue Guns and the “Danger Pot”

Over the years, I’ve used multiple Surebonder glue guns, but the only one I’ve kept around (besides the Uline H-1903) is the Surebonder Mini Motorized MGG35F. This automatic feed glue gun delivers a fine bead, making it ideal for detail work and crafting with my 4-H kids. However, it still drips all over, so be careful not to get anywhere near your rosette heads with it. Its lightweight design and lower wattage make it a solid secondary tool for more delicate applications.

I also keep a Surebonder Glue Skillet, which we lovingly refer to as the “Danger Pot.” This device is perfect for applying glue to large decorative elements. Instead of using a glue gun, I can dip embellishments directly into the melted glue, ensuring a secure bond while saving time. However, never use the Danger Pot near animals or children, and be sure to keep it full of glue—otherwise, it will start smoking. Additionally, always use it on a stable, heat-resistant surface and monitor it closely to prevent overheating or accidental burns.

Price Comparison

The Uline glue gun is priced at $119, but if you buy three, the price drops to under $100 each. In contrast, the Surebonder Mini Motorized is around $40 on the surebonder website, making it the more budget-friendly option.

General Glue Gun Safety Tips

• Always use your glue gun on a stable, heat-resistant surface.
• Never leave a plugged-in glue gun unattended.
• Keep glue guns and glue skillets away from children and pets.
• Use caution with hot glue—it can cause serious burns.  I know - Ive had them.
• If using a high-temperature glue gun, wear heat-resistant gloves for added safety.

Final Thoughts

For bulk rosette making, the Uline H-1903 Heavy Duty Glue Gun paired with a Surebonder 5 lb Glue Stick Roll offers a combination of power, precision, and efficiency. Whether you’re working on large-scale projects or need a reliable tool that won’t drip all over your creations, this setup is worth the investment. With additional tools like the Surebonder Mini Motorized Glue Gun for finer applications and the “Danger Pot” Glue Skillet for larger decorative elements, you’ll have everything you need for professional, high-quality rosette production.  Join us at our Vivid Create-It academy on Facebook @create-itacademy and learn the fine art of rosette making yourself.  Its a great hobby for friends, family, your club and who knows you could turn it into a business like I did.