One of the most versatile tools used in fursuiting is hot glue (aka "hot-melt glue"). This fast and easy adhesive solves a lot of problems. I always recommend carrying a glue gun and some glue sticks with you when travelling for those last-minute emergency repairs!

Hot glue has another advantage which cannot be overlooked: it's cheap! Sticks of glue cost only cents; a small-sized gun can be purchased for ten dollars. A very economical solution for fursuiters!

Using Hot Glue

The name "hot-melt glue" rather aptly describes the item. You purchase cylindrical sticks of solid glue. (Unless you own a Craftsman or other brand of glue gun which uses non-standard sticks!) The glue is melted by a heating element in the gun; pulling the trigger pushes the back of the rod, forcing molten glue out of the tip of the gun.

The glue is a chemical mix that is solid at room temperature. When heated, the glue becomes molten and can be easily applied to the materials. As far as I know, the glue is a vinyl polymer derivative which enters a plastic state, rather than actually "melting". If anyone has more definite information on this, please let me know!

When applied to porous materials, this allows the glue to seep into holes and cracks, gaining a firm physical grip on the material. For this reason, hot glue is most effective at bonding woven fabrics, such as fur; the glue permeates the weave of the fibers, ensuring a very secure bond.

When working with hot glue, be sure to set the gun upright over a dropcloth or newspaper. Glue guns slowly drip glue from their tips when not in use. If you want to go top-notch on workspace setup, they make special flexible mats which are impervious to hot glue. These are endlessly reusable and quite handy.