The glue method is not messy if you use it either sparingly or with the tiny tips you can also purchase online. I tried it right from the Elmer's Glue bottle and too much came out at one time so tried it with the tips (2 sizes come in the package) and found that worked great. I use the glue for my binding as well as when I have blocks that need their seams to match up perfectly. Doesn't take much glue to hold anything down, just a tiny speck seems to work along with a hot iron. As I wash all my quilts before I give them away, the glue is gone.