Assemblage Art

A full-size (not mini) hot glue gun gives you a stronger, faster bond for joining found objects. Get a pack of at least 50 glue sticks — you will go through them faster than you expect once you start building.

For objects that hot glue can't hold — smooth metal, glass, heavy ceramic, or rubber — E6000 is the go-to adhesive for assemblage artists. Works on almost any material combination and dries flexible and clear. Use in a ventilated area.

Opens up the use of wire, old jewelry, hardware, and small metal objects as assemblage materials. A basic 3-piece set (needle-nose, flat-nose, wire cutter) costs very little and dramatically expands what you can build.