Elmer’s E1591 glue sticks are a practical choice for home and school, featuring a twist-up design and an airtight cap that helps extend the shelf life of the product. The adhesive contains a pH-sensitive dye that appears purple when first applied, allowing for precise placement on the page. As the glue dries and the pH level shifts, the color disappears, leaving a clear finish. This visual feedback is particularly helpful for younger children who are still learning how much glue is necessary for a project.
The mechanical parts of the stick, including the internal lead screw and piston, are built to handle the pressure of daily use. However, to avoid snapping the internal mechanism, it is best not to extend the glue more than 10mm beyond the rim. The formula is ASTM D-4236 certified as non-toxic and is completely water-soluble, meaning it should wash out of most fabrics in a 40°C laundry cycle without leaving a residue.
While the purple indicator is a great guide, applying the glue too thickly on very thin paper might occasionally leave a slight "ghosting" mark. For the best bond, it is helpful to wait until the purple has turned clear before subjecting the joint to any stress. These sticks are designed for porous materials and may bead up if used on high-gloss photo paper or plastic surfaces.
For more heavy-duty paper projects, the Extra Strength variant provides a more aggressive tack for thicker materials.
Keeping a multi-pack of glue sticks organized in a shared workspace is easy with the help of rotating supply caddies.
