My "some form of spreader" tends to be the ol' index finger.  ;)

I keep a stack of expired credit cards, plastic hotel keys, & etc. (and all
those stupid AARP cards I get in the mail) next to my glue. They are reusable if
you get to them soon enough, otherwise disposable.
One swap meet foray yielded a set of pinking shears (cuts a zigzag for non
sewers), for the aforementioned stack of cards. Almost like notched trowel in
tile work.
Michael-still causing his neighbors concern.