John Tuttle mentioned the risks of too high a temperature when ironing
bellows cloth.  I recently purchased a small electric iron used for
tightening the plastic covering on model aeroplanes.  It cost about
GBP12.  I assume these are available from model shops in most
countries.

It has an adjustable thermostat which at its middle setting gives about
140 deg. F. which, I think, is about the right working temperature
for hot glue.  (Best to check the settings first with an electronic
thermometer).  The iron head is smaller than a clothes iron, being only
about 5 inches (125 cm) long, mounted on the end of a straight handle,
a bit like a soldering iron.

I have only used it for a couple of small jobs, yet, but it seems okay,
and its small size makes it easier to get into awkward places.  I also
use it to pre-heat the wood before applying the glue which slows down
the setting a little, since I'm still learning the technique of hot
glue.  I'm still experimenting with this, but others might like to try
one - it is quite inexpensive.

John Farmer
UK