Using Glue Sticks with Printed Templates

by Judy Larson
Most of us don't like change, but sometimes we are forced into it. I love Xyron repositionable stickers because they are so easy for me to make, use, and cut around with shears or a saw. The sticker making roll on my Xyron was starting to run out so I tried to order more. Unfortunately, the cartridge for the machine I own is now no longer being manufactured. Of course, I could order a newer machine, but at some time in the future it probably would become obsolete as well and end up being tossed, too, when it is no longer usable.
Instructions
I then decided to try a variety of ink jet printable sticker papers, but those were somewhat difficult for me to remove from the metal after cutting out shapes. I then looked through some of my scrapbooking supplies and came across my mega size Scotch Purple Glue Stick. BINGO!
Judy Larson's Using Glue Sticks with Printed Templates - , General Education, , using glue sticks for templates
Run the glue stick twice across the back of the design to be glued down. If the purple color fades during application, more glue is needed. Immediately press it into place on sheet metal. Allow it to dry for at least 10 minutes and then cut away.
Immerse the pieces in warm water. After several minutes the glued down paper patterns will easily slide off the metal, if not just float off.
Clean, rinse, and dry the metal pieces and you are ready to go.
Judy Larson's Using Glue Sticks with Printed Templates - , General Education, , using glue sticks for templates
Judy Larson's Using Glue Sticks with Printed Templates - , General Education, , using glue sticks for templates
Judy Larson's Using Glue Sticks with Printed Templates - , General Education, , using glue sticks for templates
Judy Larson's Using Glue Sticks with Printed Templates - , General Education, , using glue sticks for templates
Pros:

My particular Xyron limited me to pieces that were no wider than 2ΒΌ". Width is not a problem using a glue stick.

There is cartridge waste when only one sticker is needed, which is not a problem using the glue stick.

Cons:

If not removed, glue residue may cause problems when soldering.

Glue residue also can darken the surface of the metal.

Conclusion: I am not going to order a new machine after my sticker cartridge is used up. The glued down paper patterns do not release from the metal during cutting, as sometimes happened with the Xyron stickers. The extra step of cleaning the metal pieces is not a problem as the pieces should be cleaned after the paper is removed no matter what method of adhering patterns is used.

Materials

24 Gauge Half Hard Double Clad Rose Gold Filled Sheet - 4 Inches
H6-24DCS4
  • Lesson Quantity: 1.00 pieces
  • Purchase Quantity: 1.00 1 Inch
  • Price: $77.17
  • Gold Club Price: $57.88
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24 Gauge Dead Soft Sterling Silver Sheet - 6 Inches
H8-24SM6
  • Lesson Quantity: 1.00 pieces
  • Purchase Quantity: 1.00 1 Inch
  • Price: $47.28
  • Gold Club Price: $35.46
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Tools

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  • Category: General Education
  • Technique(s): General Education