The Art of Bonding: Exploring the World of Craft Glues for Beading
Beadwork and crafting enthusiasts know that the success of any project often hinges on the right adhesive. Choosing the appropriate glue can make the difference between a durable, long-lasting creation and a project that falls apart after minimal use. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into the world of craft glues commonly used in beading, including popular choices such as E6000, Fabri-Fuse, Gem-Tac, GS Hypo Cement, Zap Jewellery Glue, and more. Let’s explore the unique features, applications, and tips for using each of these adhesives.
Aleene’s Leather and Suede Glue:
Ideal for leather repair work, this non-toxic formula provides a permanent bond for leather, suede, fringes, and beadwork. The finish is dry and flexible, ensuring a seamless look.
E6000 Industrial Strength Adhesive:
E6000 is a versatile and widely beloved adhesive in the crafting community. Known for its industrial strength, it’s an excellent choice for beaders working with a variety of materials. Its flexibility, waterproof nature, and clear finish make it suitable for both intricate bead projects and general crafting. Tips for use include allowing sufficient drying time and proper ventilation due to its strong odour.
Fabri-Fuse:
Specifically designed for fabric and trim bonding, Fabri-Fuse is perfect for projects involving beads on textiles. This clear, washable adhesive provides a strong bond on fabrics without compromising flexibility. Beaders appreciate its quick-drying nature and the fact that it remains stretchy even after drying, ensuring comfort in wearable creations.
Gem-Tac by Beacon:
Gem-Tac is a favorite among jewellery makers for attaching rhinestones, gems, and beads. Its clear and water-resistant formula dries quickly and remains flexible, making it ideal for delicate beadwork. Crafters appreciate its precision applicator, allowing for intricate designs without excess glue. Gem-Tac is often recommended for use with non-porous surfaces.
GOOP Adhesives:
GOOP is a range of high-strength and had working contact adhesives from the makers of E6000. Everything from heavy and harsh art and craft projects, such as outdoor ceramic wall hangings and water feature ornaments, right up to serious hardware applications like canvas repairs, car trim attachments, marine services and automotive trimmings. There isn’t much GOOP can’t fix!
GS Hypo Cement:
GS Hypo Cement is a precision adhesive designed for use in jewellery making and precision applications. Its fine-tip applicator allows for controlled dispensing, making it ideal for intricate bead projects. This adhesive is particularly popular for securing knots in beaded jewellery, providing a clear and strong bond. It’s known for its quick drying time, making it a favorite for on-the-go crafting.
Shoe GOO:
As the name suggests, this is the go-to for footwear applications. Whether you’re sticking Jibbitz to Crocs, crystals to Converse, neoprene patches to Nike’s, rhinestones to Reebok’s, or beads to Balenciaga’s (ok, the last one not recommended), then Shoe GOO is your glow!
As a bonus, Shoe GOO is also the adhesive you need to fix all kinds of show woes, such as peeling thongs, split soles, separating Sketchers, dethatched Dr. Martins, or cracked Clarks.
Zap Jewellery Glue:
Zap Jewellery Glue is a cyanoacrylate adhesive, commonly known as super glue. It’s designed specifically for jewellery applications, offering a strong and permanent bond. Unlike regular superglue, ZAP is a gel and resists frosting. Like superglue, it sets quickly, and dries hard providing a secure hold for beads and findings. Its precision applicator makes it easy to use, and its clear finish ensures a seamless look in jewellery projects.
Choosing the Right Glue:
We don’t want to sound stuck-up, but we know a thing or two about glue! The key to successful beading projects is selecting the right glue for the job. Consider the materials you’re working with, the type of project, and the desired finish. Test the glue on a small, inconspicuous area before applying it to your entire project to ensure compatibility.
Factors to Consider:
Purpose and Materials:
Begin by identifying the purpose of your project and the specific materials involved. Different glues cater to distinct purposes and materials. For instance, if working with porous materials like fabric or leather, consider a fabric glue, while heat-resistant options are ideal for gems exposed to sunlight.
Durability and Longevity:
Jewellery adhesives are designed for bonding gemstones, metals, and other materials used in jewellery making. Consider the durability required for your project; some adhesives are more heat-resistant, making them suitable for outdoor use, while others excel in bonding porous materials like pearls.
Our Comprehensive Guide to Selecting the Right Beading and Craft Glue
Whether you’re embellishing mobile phones with rhinestones, undertaking intricate leather repair work, or immersed in a craft project, choosing the right jewellery adhesive is paramount for a secure hold and a flawless finish. Our range of jewellery glues in Australia is meticulously curated to provide a strong bond across diverse materials, ensuring your creations remain in optimal condition. Explore our extensive selection, specially formulated to cater to various needs, from clear adhesives for invisible repairs to robust fabric glues for beads.
Craft Adhesives
Select the Perfect Craft Adhesive for your Project| Product | Cure | Clr | Flex | Perm | Clean | UV | W/pr | Ideal For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Aleene’s Leather and Suede Glue | 24hr | YES | YES | YES | Water | NO | YES | Leather, Suede, Fabric, Fringing |
| 3D Crystal Lacquer | 15-30 mins | YES | NO | YES | Water | NO | NO | Apply images to glass tile cabochons |
| Amazing Goop All Purpose | 48-72hr | YES | YES | YES | NO | NO | YES | Wood, Glass, Metal, Laminate |
| Amazing Goop Auto & RV | 48-72hr | YES | YES | YES | NO | YES | YES | Fibreglass, Glass, Metal, Most Plastics |
| Amazing Goop II Max | 48-72hr | YES | YES | YES | NO | YES | YES | Canvas, Metal, Wood, Ceramic, Glass, Concrete |
| Amazing Goop Marine | 48-72hr | YES | YES | YES | NO | YES | YES | Fibreglass, Metal, Fabric, Glass |
| Amazing Goop Plumbing | 48-72hr | YES | YES | YES | NO | NO | YES | PVC, Copper, Aluminium |
| Amazing Goop Tuff-Shield | 10-12hr | NO | NO | YES | NO | YES | YES | Seal Fibreglass, Aluminium & Wood |
| Beadon Gem-Tac | 24hr | YES | YES | YES | Water | NO | YES | Crystals & Rhinestones onto Fabric, Plastic Etc |
| E6000 Adhesive | 24-72hr | YES | YES | YES | NO | NO | YES | Most surfaces |
| E6000 Jewellery & Bead | 24-72hr | YES | YES | YES | NO | NO | YES | Diamante Crystals, Gemstones, Rhinestones |
| E6000 Shoe Goo | 24-72hr | YES | YES | YES | NO | NO | YES | Repair soles, embellish shoes |
| E6000 Extreme Tack | 8hrs | YES | YES | NO | Water | NO | NO | Paper, cardboard, acrylic. Removable glue dots. |
| E6000 Fabri-Fuse | 8hrs | YES | YES | YES | Water | NO | YES | Diamantes and Rhinestones to Stretch Fabric |
| E6000 Fray Lock | 8hrs | YES | YES | YES | Water | NO | YES | Most Fabrics, cords and threads |
| E6000 Quick Hold | 10-12 min(set) 5-8hr (cure) | YES | YES | YES | NO | NO | YES | Strong and quick drying |
| E6000 Seal All | 24-72hr | YES | YES | YES | NO | NO | YES | Automotive and Trim |
| Famowood Resin | over night | YES | NO | YES | NO | NO | YES | Wood, glass, polymer clay, bench tops, filling molds & bezels |
| G-S Hypo Cement | 1hr | YES | NO | YES | NO | NO | YES | Rhinestones into Watches & Brooches. |
| Gum Arabic Powder | NO | NO | NO | Water | NO | NO | Turn PearlEx pigments into calligraphy inks.\ | |
| Henrietta’s Gum Arabic | NO | NO | NO | Water | NO | NO | Make self-threading needles, seal knots | |
| Hot Glue Gun & Sticks | Fast | NO | NO | YES | NO | NO | YES | General crafts. Most Surfaces |
| Judikins Diamond Glaze | 30min | YES | NO | YES | Water | NO | NO | Sealing papers and photos |
| Mod Podge | 20min | YES | NO | YES | Water | NO | YES | Paper crafts, decoupage, paper bead making |
| No-Days Bail Bond | NO | NO | YES | NO | NO | YES | Bails to glass pendants. Set with heat gun. | |
| Sculpey Oven Bake Adhesive | NO | NO | YES | NO | NO | YES | Bake to set layers of polymer clay | |
| UV Resin | YES | NO | YES | NO | NO | YES | Filling molds and bezels, coating surfaces | |
| Vintaj Glaze | 1hr | YES | NO | YES | Water | NO | NO | Paper, metal |
| ZAP Jewellery Gel | 15sec | YES | NO | YES | NO | NO | YES | Quick dry – a better alternative to super glue |
Definitions:
– Cure Time: time required to fully set & reach maximum strength. Most adhesives will be touch dry and functional well before the cure time. Some products such as resin will have an even shorter working time.
– Clr = Clear when cured
– Flx = Flexible when cured
– Perm = Permanent when cured
– Clean = Cleanup Method: ‘NO’ means it cannot be cleaned with water or a regular solvent prior to curing.
– UV = UV Resistant. ‘YES’ indicates that it contains an additive to resist yellowing, becoming hard and brittle with sun exposure.
– W/pr = Waterproof once Cured
Safety Precautions:
When working with jewellery and craft adhesives, always prioritise safety:
- Work in a well-ventilated area to mitigate fumes.
- Wear gloves to avoid skin contact and wash any exposed areas immediately.
- Keep adhesives out of reach of children and pets.
- Store adhesives in a cool, dry place.
- Dispose of adhesives properly, following the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Always read the product packaging and follow the manufacturer’s recommendations.
Crafting and beading are not just about assembling beautiful pieces; it’s about creating lasting treasures. The glues mentioned here offer a range of options for securing beads and embellishments in a way that withstands the test of time. Experiment with different adhesives to find the ones that suit your style, preferences, and project requirements. Happy crafting!
Shop with Confidence:
At Beads N Crystals, we pride ourselves on offering the highest quality products. Purchase jewellery glue in Australia with confidence, knowing you’re getting top-notch adhesives for your projects. Enjoy free shipping on larger orders and explore our complete selection of craft glues online for the best in jewellery adhesives. Beads N Crystals is your premier bead shop for beading glues and adhesives. Please get in contact if you have any specific questions to help select the right product for your application.
Wholesale Opportunities:
For businesses in Australia seeking competitive rates, we provide wholesale access with over 10,000 local in-stock items at wholesale prices. Check our wholesale requirements to ensure you’re eligible before applying for wholesale access. Please note, we are unable to export adhesives so only domestic Australian businesses may purchase glues from us.
