Designed as a teaching and crafting tool, the Elmer's Disappearing Purple School Glue Stick uses a pH-sensitive dye to provide an immediate visual map of where adhesive has been applied. This violet tint naturally transitions to a transparent finish as it dries and reacts with the air. It is a practical feature for parents helping children develop fine motor skills, as it reduces the tendency to apply excessive amounts of glue.
The casing is made of high-density plastic with a rotary screw-drive piston. To prevent the glue from drying out, the cap is engineered with a tactile "snap" lock. Users should listen for this click, as a loose fit will allow the water-based gel to harden, making it unusable. The glue itself is 100% water-soluble, ensuring that it washes out of clothes and off skin with ease.
- Safe for Kids: Certified non-toxic for peace of mind in educational settings.
- Washable: Dissolves easily in laundry cycles to protect clothing.
- Visual Guide: Purple color helps prevent over-application on white paper.
The product is sensitive to heat and may become mushy if stored in temperatures exceeding 29°C. It is specifically designed for porous materials like construction paper and foam board; it will not provide a secure bond for heavy cardstock or smooth surfaces like plastic. If the glue is extended too far out of the tube and used with heavy pressure, the internal piston can lose its grip on the glue.
If you are working on larger projects that require a bigger grip for little hands, the Jumbo 22-gram sticks provide the same disappearing color in a larger format.
To keep these and other small craft tools accessible but tidy, consider utilizing rotating pencil caddies on your child's desk.