I started to think “food service” and went to Bed Bath & Beyond… there I saw that they had a little Presto Electric Skillet ($40).
$40 is a bit pricy for it’s size, but if that’s the option, I’ll take it.
I started to look around and found that there is a 7 inch model available for $20 on Amazon
I had the opportunity to test this theory with some pretty darn positive results!
Through trial and error I’ve discovered that using a generic candy thermometer is the way to go when trying to sniff out the best melting point.
High temp I’ve found not to be the best when joining small parts this way as it’s remaining pooled.
I’ve enjoyed the results with mid range temps (roughly 270° for the glue sticks I buy at WalMart), but I would say with the adjustable heat you can dial in the temp you like working with the most.
It also works well with the 3M line of “Scotch Weld” hot glue, but to be honest, at $45 for an 11lb case, I really didn’t see where it was that much more of a value or a better result than the el-cheapo stuff you can get at Wallyworld.
I haven’t tried this with TE-200 because it’s a too pricy for me.
I also haven’t tried this with SS6, since I think it sets too slow for the application, and frankly I don’t like the stuff.
For application in this way I’ve found that el-cheapo wooden clay sculpting tools are the right answer.
They’ve offered the best means of control, they tend to not sink in the pool of melted glue, and they are easy to clean off.
Now before the angels herald this as the best thing since awesome… there is a dark side.
Although this should be obvious… you’ll never cook in that skillet again. Even if it’s non-stick
Past what should be obvious with the removal of the skillet from the “food grade” market…
If you let the glue sit in the skillet for too long, it will start to get amber in color, and as it darkens it’s slowly getting harder to work with.
I’ve tested this to a small degree and the most negative application result was that the glue will go from flexible to more rigid and less workable.
For the “hot glue method” I can see this as a wonderful way to quickly coat in hot glue sparing quite a bit of time and material.
For pepping I would advise against the skillet for lack of control, and the eventual waste of glue.
So AoBfrost, I love your idea, I think it’s a brilliant addition! Hopefully I didn’t step on any toes with my approach to it.