The Crafters' Way 33

Each week I write a craft column for a local paper. I share it here for bloggers. Don't forget to leave a comment to go in the October Prize draw. You can win 2 x 3 pk of our Hand Dyed Fabric.



A Sticky Subject



A couple of weeks ago a customer asked me a question about which glue she should use. I must admit that I had to stop and think, and think hard. Crafters tend to collect glues for specific projects. This simple guide may save you some money. You may be able to effectively use glue that you already have for that new project.

Before you hit the shops ask yourself two questions. Are the surfaces I’m joining porous or non porous? Is the join permanent or temporary?

White Glues: cast your eye along the glue shelf and you will see a multitude of different white glues. They are usually water-soluble and clear drying. They are suitable for a variety of surfaces including paper, fabric and ceramics. They are not suitable for metal. PVA glues are white glues. Here’s where you can save some money. Firstly, if you are after thin white glue you can add water to a thick one. And secondly, don’t buy the glue from a craft section; go to the local hardware store. Their wood glue is often PVA. Try spreading white glue with an old credit card or stiff piece of plastic to prevent air bubbles that cause wrinkling.





Wood Glues: While you are at the hardware store checkout the wood glues. There are two basic types of wood glue. The first is yellow glue suitable for interior use only. Polyurethane glues are suitable for interior and exterior use.

Spray Adhesives: I find a can of spray adhesive invaluable when doing fabric and fibre arts. I can easily and quickly bond two pieces together without fiddling around fusing papers etc. They are ideal for covering large flat surfaces. They work well with paper and fabric. One downside is that they must be used in a well-ventilated area. Because of overspray that usually means working outside. If you want a temporary bond only spray one piece. You will then be able to reposition the pieces if you work quickly. For a more immediate permanent bond, spray both pieces.

Just remember, when using a glue that you are not familiar with always follow the manufacturers instructions. Part 2 of “A Sticky Subject” next week.




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