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Types of glue are adhesive substances that bind materials together. They come in many varieties for different uses, such as adhering paper to a surface or binding pieces of wood together. Glue is typically either water-based or solvent-based and comes in liquid, gel, and solid form.
The word "glue" has been used since at least the 14th century to refer to any sticky substance. Today there are more than 100 types of glue on the market with new ones being added all the time. This article will introduce you to some of the most common types so you can make an informed decision when choosing what type you need for your project!
Types of glue
1. Water-based glue
Water-based glues are a type of adhesive most commonly found in school arts and crafts projects, but also common in garment manufacturing. Water-based glues can be made from either natural or synthetic materials. Many people prefer water-based glue for its clean qualities (it's similar to Elmer's Glue), it cleans up easily and washes out of fabrics.
2. Solvent-based glue
Solvent-based adhesives are used in a wide array of applications from gluing wood to ceramic tile or many other materials. Solvent-based glues typically have an offensive odor and remain wet, so they must be contained and dried before any final use is made of the finished product.
3. White school glue (paste)
White glue is the most commonly used and versatile. It's a type of starch-based adhesive that consists mainly of water and is good for paper or card projects .
White school glue has an acid pH, which will cause it to dry clear and is non toxic (if ingested in small quantities) but it can be slightly messy.
4. Wood glue
Wood glue is a clear, amber-colored adhesive made specifically for sticking wood together. It's the strongest type of glue available and will keep items stuck tightly together even in the face of strong weather or moisture.
It needs to be applied hot and takes longer to dry than white school glue.
5. PVA glue
PVA glue is a good all-purpose glue, suitable for sticking paper together. It dries clear and comes with a brush applicator which makes it easy to apply in thin layers and get into hard-to-reach corners. PVA glue is non toxic but may cause skin irritation depending on sensitivity.
6. Superglue (cyanoacrylate)
Superglue is a quick-drying glue which can be used on most surfaces. It comes in gel or liquid form and is best suited for small projects like arts or crafts as it takes time to set. Superglue bonds instantly and completely, so you need to take care not to get it on your skin if you want to avoid a painful experience.
7. Glue sticks
Glue sticks are popular with school age children as they can be easily applied to paper and create a strong, hard-to-break bond. The glue is typically water soluble so it cleans up easily and doesn't leave any messy residue behind.
Glue sticks come in a variety of colors, which can add decorative elements to art and school projects.
8. Hot glue gun
Hot glue guns are popular for arts projects and items which need to be fixed or take a beating. They coat an area in thin, heated glue that dries within seconds and is great for sticking on three-dimensional objects like flowers, buttons or beads.
9. Furniture repair glue
Furniture repair glue is similar to wood glue but comes in a variety of colors and includes a brush applicator. It's great for covering large areas, like chair cushions or tables and can be used on many different materials such as fabric, plastic or glass.
Furniture repair glue is water soluble and will swell when wet, so it's not very effective in the rain.
10. Epoxy glue
Epoxy glue is a clear gel which sets quickly and can be used to bind two or more surfaces. It's useful for applications such as sticking glass to glass or metal. Epoxy glue is waterproof, so it can also be used to seal items against water penetration.
11. Fabric glue
Fabric glue is used in place of or in combination with pins for holding fabric together while sewing. It's usually clear when applied, so the only visible sign that it's been used will be the straight line along the surface where you've sewn your two pieces together.
Fabric glue is generally odorless and dries almost instantly .
12. Colored glue
Colored glue , also known as washable or water-based, is used for arts and crafts projects where you want to leave color behind (such as sticking feathers onto a bird). The glue comes in various colors, so your art works can be highly colored if you wish.
Colored glue is water soluble, so it's easily washable from your hands or any artwork that you don't want to permanently stick.
13. Craft glue
Craft glue is another good adhesive for paper or card projects, and can be used on other materials too. It's a type of PVA based glue but it dries clear so you can see the items being glued. It comes in different versions from permanent to one that allows you to add paint over the dried product to enhance it.
14. Epoxy resin
Epoxy resin is the strongest of all permanent glues. It's waterproof and made from two parts which must be mixed together before use. When the two parts are combined they set in just three to five minutes, so it's best suited for projects that don't require a lot of time for setting!
15. Contact cement
Contact Cement is a good choice for sticking plastics or metal surfaces together. A layer of glue is applied to one side, which dries clear and then a second item can be stuck on top.
Contact cement is not recommended for items that will be handled or put under stress as it's permanent when dried. It's also water soluble so you may need to use glue remover if you get any on your hands!
16. Spray mount
Spray mount is used in arts and crafts to hold paper, card, or fabric onto a surface (such as walls or windows) without using pins or tape. It's a temporary adhesive that can be removed and repositioned as many times as needed without damaging the surface it was applied to.
Popular Glue Brands:
If you are looking for good quality glues, below is a list of brands that you should consider:
1. Elmer's Glue (very popular with crafters and artists)
Elmer's Glue is a popular choice for crafters, artists and DIY projects in general. Elmer's has been around for more than 75 years and produces an enormous range of glue, adhesive, sealant and surface protector products that are guaranteed to help your next project turn out the way you want it.
If you need any more reasons to rely on Elmer's for all your adhesive needs, then read on!
2. Selleys
Selleys has been producing adhesives and such since 1936. They provide a range of products including PVA, contact cements and caulks for professionals as well as home improvers.
3. DAP
Problem: Glue is an essential item for any household, but it can be difficult to find the right one.
Agitate: There are so many types of glue and each one has its own unique properties. It's hard to know which type will work best for your project.
Solution: DAP offers a range of adhesives that are perfect for different applications like crafts, school projects or general repairs around the house. Their products include spray mount, contact cement and fabric glue among others. You'll never have to worry about finding the right adhesive again!
4. Loctite
Loctite is a leading brand which produces adhesives to help you achieve your goals. They have the knowledge and experience to develop products for almost any project including glues that are waterproof, flexible or perfect for fabrics and paper.
Glues that are manufactured by reputable brands will provide superior quality and durability. They are designed to meet specific requirements and will deliver the performance and strength that you need.
If you have a project in mind, it's best to use a glue brand that is specially designed to perform well on your chosen material or construction type. For example, if you want to install tiles on your walls, then choose a tile adhesive and not an epoxy glue which is designed to be strong but difficult to remove.
5. 3M
3M is a global company that creates innovative products and solutions for customers in more than 100 different industries. They produce all sorts of adhesives for both the professional and DIY markets, including special construction glues and super strength glues.
6. Titebond
Titebond was founded by two brothers who shared a love of wood. Their goal was to create the best wood glue on the market and they're proud of their extensive range of specialty glues that are perfect for everything from furniture repair to model making and beyond.
7. Beacon
At Beacon, their mission is to put an end to the struggle between you and your projects. They believe that a great project starts with great materials so they've developed a range of glues designed to make your next project easy and successful.
8. Titebond
Titebond was founded by two brothers who shared a love of wood. Their goal was to create the best wood glue on the market and they're proud of their extensive range of specialty glues that are perfect for everything from furniture repair to model making and beyond.
FAQs:
1. How do I remove dried glue from my fingers?
If you put too much on or your hands are wet when you apply the glue, you may have a tough time getting it off of your hands. The best way to get rid of excess glue is to use a tool like an orange stick (a small wooden or cardboard stick soaked in paint thinner) or a popsicle stick that you can slide under your dried glue, then scrape it off your fingers.
2. How do I remove dried glue from my carpeting?
If you get any drops of glue while putting together your project, use a paint brush to sweep it into a pile and then use the flat edge of an orange stick or a popsicle stick to scrape up as much glue as possible. You can also put on rubber gloves and rub your hand over the area where there is glue, which will dissolve it from the carpet fibers.
3. Can I use hot glue to fix a broken dish?
You can, but you should only use it for gluing the edges back together. If you break anything into pieces, don't glue them onto something else - try to find the exact same replacement piece instead. Glue might be strong enough to hold together two pieces, but pressure or stress may cause it to break again.
Conclusion:
There are different types of glue that you can use depending on what your needs are. Make sure to do some research if you want to know which glue is the best for a job. Do not attempt DIY projects without using the correct type of glue!
