Glue dots and adhesive dots are ingenious little products that have endless uses for crafters, office workers, packaging specialists, and everyday household tasks. But what exactly are they, and what’s the difference between glue dots and plain old adhesive dots?
What Are Glue Dots?
Glue dots are small, circular adhesive dots manufactured by Glue Dots International, the market-leading brand in removable and repositionable adhesives. Ranging in size from 3/16” to 1” in diameter, these tiny dots have one side covered with a unique pressure-sensitive adhesive that creates an instant, super-strong bond 1.
Glue dots stick to surfaces with a tack that can hold over a pound in shear strength, yet still be removed cleanly without damaging most materials 2. The adhesive is specially designed to grab quickly but also allows the dots to be repositioned if you change your mind right after applying them.
The glue dots themselves are made of flexible, non-woven material that conforms well to uneven surfaces. And unlike liquid glues, they won’t wrinkle paper or photos and don’t require drying time. Just press and go!
Glue dots are available in various adhesive strengths for different applications, from gentle tack for delicate materials to extra-strong hold for heavy items 3. They’re offered in standard permanent and removable varieties as well as repositionable and super-sticky options.
What Are Adhesive Dots?
Adhesive dots is an umbrella term for any small, round adhesive dots used for crafting, office work, or household tasks. These generic dots serve the same purpose as branded glue dots but come from a variety of manufacturers.
You may see these generic dots referred to as sticky dots, glue spots, adhesive circles, craft dots, office dots, tape dots, and more. They come in an assortment of sizes and adhesive strengths.
While the quality can vary greatly, adhesive dots tend to be cheaper than brand name glue dots. But you often get what you pay for in terms of adhesive tack and longevity.
Key Differences Between Glue Dots and Adhesive Dots
Now that you know the basics, let’s look at some key differences between glue dots and generic adhesive dots:
Brand Recognition
Glue dots are an established, trademarked brand known for high-quality adhesives. Generic dots don’t have brand recognition, so quality varies widely.
Consistent Quality
Glue dots adhere to strict manufacturing standards for consistent size, adhesive tack, and performance. Generic dots quality depends on the manufacturer.
Specialty Adhesives
Glue dots offer specialty adhesives like super-sticky, heat-resistant, and extra-strong that generic dots may not.
Certifications
Glue dots meet certifications like UL, FDA, and ISO. Certification provides peace of mind for food, medical, and electronics projects.
Price
Brand name glue dots are typically more expensive than generic dots. But you often get better adhesive performance.
Performance Testing
Extensive testing ensures glue dots meet stated tack levels and removability claims. Generic dots may not undergo rigorous testing.
Range of Sizes
Glue dots come in a wide range of sizes from 3/16” to 1” in diameter. Generic dots usually offer fewer size options.
Glue Dot Sizes Explained
Glue dots come in a range of sizes to suit any project. The dots are measured across the diameter, and common sizes include:
- 3/16” – Extra small dots for lightweight items
- 1/4” – Small dots good for papercrafts and photos
- 3/8” – Medium dots that work for most applications
- 1/2” – Large dots best for heavy items and uneven surfaces
- 3/4” – Extra large dots that provide maximum holding power
- 1” – Jumbo dots for holding very heavy objects
Mini glue dots as small as 1/8” are also available for delicate work, while specialty sizes like 1/2″ x 1″ rectangles offer more bonding surface. Choose the smallest size that will securely hold your item.
Glue Dot Adhesive Strengths
Glue dots come in different adhesive strengths to suit any need:
Low-Tack Dots
- Gentle adhesion for smooth surfaces
- Ideal for photos, paper, and delicate materials
- Repositionable in most cases
Medium-Tack Dots
- All-purpose strength for most applications
- Good for papercrafts, decorations, gifts
- Repositionable with care
High-Tack Dots
- Extra strong grip for heavy items
- Recommended for rough surfaces like wood and fabric
- More difficult to remove or reposition
Specialty Adhesives
- Super sticky, permanent, heat resistant
- Designed for specific applications
- Test first for removability
Start with low or medium tack if unsure. High-tack and specialty dots have very strong adhesion, so test removability before using them on delicate items.
Helpful Tips for Using Glue Dots
Follow these tips to get the most out of your glue dots:
Store Properly
Keep glue dots sealed in original packaging until use. Exposure to humidity, heat, or direct sunlight can reduce tackiness. Refrigeration extends shelf life.
Apply Correct Pressure
Don’t just lightly tap dots in place – press down firmly for several seconds to ensure full contact and adhesion.
Allow Time to Set
Glue dots bond instantly, but maximum strength is achieved after 24 hours. Avoid moving items until the bond sets.
Start with Less
You can always add more dots if needed. But removing excess dots can damage delicate surfaces.
Consider Weight Distribution
Place dots strategically to evenly distribute weight and prevent sagging. Clustering dots usually provides a stronger hold.
Reposition Quickly
If misaligned, dots can be repositioned shortly after application. But the longer you wait, the harder they’ll be to move.
Remove Properly
Apply heat or adhesive remover to minimize surface damage if dots won’t peel off easily. Never forcefully pull!
Creative Uses for Glue Dots
Now that you’re a glue dot expert, let’s explore some of their many creative uses:
Papercrafts
Secure embellishments like buttons, lace, and gems on handmade cards, scrapbooks, and paper art. Dots also assemble paper flowers, origami, and more.
Jewelry Making
Affix rhinestones, crystals, and other jewelry pieces in place without messy glue. Repositionable dots allow adjusting until designs are perfect.
Gift Wrapping
Use mini dots to neatly secure bows, tags, and decoration on gifts without holes, tears, or visible tape.
Party Decorations
Mount banners, streamers, and wall decor with removable dots that won’t damage painted surfaces underneath.
Photography
Apply photo corners, mats, or frames without adhesives touching your precious photos.
Office Organization
Mount documents, photos, calendars, and more on walls, boards, and binders without push pins, tape, or tacks.
Cable Management
Tame cords and wires on desks, entertainment centers, and appliances without damage or need for tools.
Kids’ Projects
From school assignments to art projects, dots provide mess-free, repositionable adhesion for young crafters.
Home Decor
Secure holiday decorations, wall art, mirrors, and accent pieces without nails, screws, or permanent adhesives.
The possibilities are endless! Let your imagination run wild with all the ways glue dots can add convenience and creativity to your projects.
Glue Dot Uses for Fabric and Clothing
Thanks to removable options, glue dots can also be used on fabric and clothing applications. Here are some creative examples:
Hemming
Temporarily secure folded hems in place. Once stitching is complete, dots peel away cleanly.
Appliqués
Affix fabric appliqués, patches, and trims prior to permanent stitching or ironing.
Sequins and Rhinestones
Secure embellishments on clothing, accessories, quilts and more. Avoid messy glues contacting fabrics.
Temporary Alterations
Make temporary hems, straps, closures, and other alterations with dots before permanent sewing.
Costume and Cosplay Design
Add and remove elements like capes, medals, armor, and props on costumes.
Fashion Show Production
Temporarily attach accessories, embellishments, and components prior to show.
Clothing Tags
Attach tags and labels to clothing and accessories cleanly and quickly.
Fabric Crafts
Adhere appliques, ribbons, buttons, and other embellishments to fabric crafts.
Start by testing dots on a fabric scrap to ensure they adhere well and remove cleanly without pulling or damaging delicate fabrics. Avoid high-tack options except on very sturdy fabrics like denim.
Using Glue Dots for Balloon Decor
Glue dots are perfect for securing balloon decorations, centerpieces, arches, columns, and sculptures. Here are some tips:
- Assemble the balloon arrangement using balloon tape as usual.
- Apply small glue dots where balloons intersect and touch. Dots bond instantly to latex and foil balloons.
- Press balloons firmly onto dots for 30 seconds to ensure a good bond.
- Use the smallest dots that will do the job to minimize visible adhesive.
- Cluster 2-3 dots together for extra holding power on large or heavy balloons.
- Start with removable low-tack dots and increase adhesive strength as needed.
- Make sure dots are compatible with balloon tape adhesive to prevent slide off.
Glue dots eliminate the need for tying, taping, or knotting balloons together. Arrangements assemble faster, last longer, and look more polished with no visible fasteners. Best of all, dots peel off easily for fast cleanup and balloon reuse.
Are Glue Dots Safe for Walls?
Glue dots are designed to bond items temporarily without damaging surfaces underneath. Removable options can be safely used on most painted drywall and laminated wall surfaces. However, it’s smart to follow these precautions:
Test First
Apply a sample dot in an inconspicuous spot and let it remain for the intended timeframe. Check that it removes cleanly without paint or paper pulling off.
Follow Weight Limits
Don’t exceed the recommended weight limits for the dot size you’re using. Overloading can make clean removal more difficult.
Use Low-Tack Dots
For walls, low and medium-tack removable options are safest. High-tack may bond too aggressively for clean removal.
Remove Slowly
Peel dots off gently, gradually working them off the wall. Never pull them abruptly or you could damage the surface.
Apply Heat if Needed
For stubborn dots, apply a hairdryer on warm setting to soften the adhesive and make removal easier.
With appropriate use, removable glue dots allow temporarily mounting items on walls while minimizing damage. But as always, test first and remove mindfully. Permanent glue dots are not recommended for walls.
All About Fugitive Glue Dots
Fugitive glue refers to temporary, removable adhesives designed to stick surfaces together with a relatively weak bond that can later be reversed without damage. This makes them perfect for:
Temporary Bonding
Fugitive glue creates a temporary bond that can be cleanly undone when no longer needed.
Protecting Surfaces
The weak bond won’t harm delicate underlying surfaces when removed.
Repositioning
Items can be repositioned while the fugitive glue is setting.
Reusing
Surfaces can be reused multiple times since no adhesive residue is left behind.
Glue dots are a popular type of fugitive glue thanks to their mess-free, dot-and-stick application. They provide instant temporary bonding that peels away without hassle when the project is complete.
Both permanent and removable glue dots are considered fugitive adhesives. But removable dots are designed with an even weaker bond specifically for temporary use on delicate surfaces.
Bostik Glue Dots: Brand Review
Bostik is a leading global adhesive brand that offers its own line of craft, office, and household glue dots. Here’s an overview:
Varieties
Bostik markets permanent and removable glue dots in sizes ranging from 1/4” to 1” diameter. Specialty options include extra-strength, repositionable, and multi-purpose dots.
Performance
Reviews indicate Bostik glue dots offer comparable performance and value to leading brands like Glue Dots International. Their removable dots are especially popular for damage-free use.
Applications
Bostik glue dots work well for papercrafts, scrapbooking, temporary wall mounting, wire management, and various household projects.
Availability
Bostik products are sold at major craft retailers like Michael’s and Jo-Ann Fabric and Craft Stores. They’re also available online through Amazon and discount craft suppliers.
Pricing
Bostik glue dots are competitively priced with other value brands. Permanent dots tend to cost slightly less than removable options.
For budget-friendly glue dots that get the job done, Bostik products are worth considering. Try their removable dots for temporary craft and household applications.
Do Glue Dots Leave Marks on Walls?
When used properly, removable glue dots are designed not to leave any visible marks or residue on walls. However, there are some caveats:
- Old, delicate wallpaper may tear when dots are removed, especially if they’ve been in place for an extended time.
- Flat paint can peel or chip if dots are removed too quickly instead of gradually easing them off.
- Dots may detach wallpaper topcoats designed to help paint adhere to slick wallpaper.
- Bear in mind that some walls use delicate specialty finishes that are more prone to damage.
To minimize any risk:
- Test a small dot in an inconspicuous spot first and check for residue or damage after removal.
- Use the smallest removable dots needed for the item weight. Avoid larger high-tack options.
- Carefully remove dots by gradually rolling them off the wall – never pulling abruptly.
- Apply mild heat from a hairdryer or heat gun to soften more stubborn dots during removal.
By following these precautions, removable glue dots can be used safely for temporary mounting on most painted drywall and laminated wall surfaces. But as always, test first, use proper dot size and strength, and remove dots patiently to avoid any wall damage.
Conclusion
Glue dots and adhesive dots offer convenient, mess-free adhesion for an endless variety of applications. While similar, key differences exist between branded glue dots and generic adhesive dots in terms of quality, performance, and price.
Follow the tips provided to select the right size and strength dots for your project. Use them creatively but carefully to avoid surface damage.