3D Pen vs. Hot Glue Crafts: 8 Creative Ideas to Use Each One Properly
In our crafts, it’s common to use both the hot glue gun and the 3D pen. Although they are quite similar and easy to mix up, they serve entirely different purposes. Today, we’re explaining when and how to use each one and providing you with some ideas to discover firsthand how amazing they can be when properly utilized.
When and for what to use the 3D pen?
The 3D pen is a versatile tool that can be used for a variety of creative and practical purposes. It’s particularly useful for creating intricate and three-dimensional designs, such as:
- To create sculptures, figurines, and intricate designs that pop out in three dimensions.
- To create textures and designs on any surface.
- To repair broken plastic objects or modify existing items by adding custom-made parts or attachments.
Remember that while the 3D pen offers a wide range of possibilities, it may take some practice to master its techniques and create more complex designs. Experiment with different materials and techniques to unlock its full creative potential.
When and for what to use hot glue?
Hot glue is a versatile adhesive that can be used for a wide range of projects and applications. Here are some common scenarios and purposes for using hot glue:
- To bond various materials like paper, fabric, wood, plastic, and more.
- To assembling decorations, ornaments, and small-scale sculptures.
- To repair minor household items like loose cords, or small cracks in furniture.
- To add texture and dimension to projects by creating raised surfaces, borders, and decorative patterns.
Remember that hot glue works best on porous and lightweight materials, and it’s not suitable for load-bearing or high-stress applications. Always exercise caution while working with hot glue, as it can cause burns if not handled carefully.
1. Pendant (with hot glue)
You will need:
- Colored hot glue
- Silicone molds
- Eye screw
How to do it:
- Fill each compartment of the ice tray with hot silicone.
- While the silicone is still soft, add the eye screw.
- Allow it to dry thoroughly before removing from the mold.
2. Unicorn headphone case (with 3D pen)
You will need:
- 3D Pen
- Headphone case
- Painter’s tape
How to do it:
- Cover the headphone case with painter’s tape.
- Completely cover it by tracing lines with the 3D pen.
- Once it’s dried, add details like eyes and mouth.
- Create a horn on the top by making a cone with the 3D pen. Add flowers and leaves around the horn made with the 3D pen.
3. Key ring (with hot glue)
You will need:
- Hot glue stick
- Colored markers
- Glitter nail polish
- Eye screw
How to do it:
- Take a hot silicone stick and color one of its ends with the markers.
- Apply glitter nail polish over the colored area, adding sparkles and trying to blend the colors slightly.
- Cut to the desired length and add the eye screw to the top for attachment.
4. Earnings (with 3D pen)
You will need:
- 3D Pen
- Printed butterfly pattern
- Earring hook
How to do it:
- Follow the lines of the image until it’s fully completed.
- Once the plastic is completely dry, peel it off the paper.
- Finally, attach the earring hook.
5. Embossed text (with hot glue)
You will need:
- Hot glue
- Paint or glitter
How to do it:
- Draw or write with the hot glue whatever you want to create in relief.
- If you want to add glitter, sprinkle it on top while the glue is still fresh.
- If you want to paint it, wait for it to dry thoroughly and then paint it.
6. Fake Nails (with 3D pen)
You will need:
- 3D pen
- Nail polish
How to do it:
- Use the 3D pen to create nails with the shape and length you desire.
- Once they are dry, apply nail polish to your natural nails and place the nails you created with the 3D pen on top.
- Repeat on all the nails of both hands and let them dry thoroughly.
7. Rainbow hot glue
You will need:
- Colored hot glue sticks
How to do it:
- Take small pieces of glue in different colors and glue them together.
- Once they are completely dry, insert them into the glue gun.
- Work with the glue as usual, but enjoy a rainbow-like color-changing effect.
8. Necklace (with 3D pen)
You will need:
- 3D pen
- Elastic band
How to do it:
- Create rectangular pieces with the 3D pen.
- Arrange them in a straight line and attach the elastic band along their length to connect them.
- Let it dry thoroughly before lifting them from the work surface.