If you are reading this article, then I’m sure you know the pain of sewing embellishments on your designed dress only to watch them fall off. When all that effort goes down the drain, you can’t help but scream internally.
I have faced this dilemma more often than I like to admit. Working with the fabric glue & adhesive has reduced my frustration by a long shot.
However, it does take a significant amount of time to find the best among all the options out there.
Fortunately for you, I have put together a detailed fabric glue buying guide to make sure you don’t put your money in the wrong place.
Our Top Picks:
- Best Overall: Tear Mender Instant Fabric and Leather Adhesive
- Best Permanent: Beacon Fabri-Tac Permanent Adhesive
- Best Temporary: Odif USA 505 Spray Fabric Adhesive
- Best Waterproof: Gorilla Waterproof Fabric Glue
- Best Repair Kit: Permatex 25247 Fabric Repair Kit
- Best Machine Washable: Aleene’s 23473 Fusion Fabric Adhesive
- Best Heavy Duty: Aleene’s Platinum Bond Adhesive
- Best for The Money: Dritz Home 44153 Liquid Adhesive
- Best Strongest: Aleene’s 3 Pack 8 oz Tacky Glue
What is fabric glue?
Fabric glue is a special kind of adhesive that you can use for several DIY household projects. You can use them for repairing flexible materials such as tarps, clothes, and leather upholstery.
DIY projects like card making and gift wrapping can also benefit from this adhesive.
What is Fabric Glue Used for?
You can use fabric glue to replace sewing kits on your fashion design projects.
Many people use it to attach embellishments to their dresses permanently. It is a quick and easy alternative to sewing.
You can even repair torn clothes and tents with fabric glue. It’s also useful for mending broken household items.
Is There a Permanent Fabric Glue?
Due to modern technological advances, you can now use fabric glue to bind certain materials permanently. They have an impressive bond that even water can’t deter.
I am going to review some of those fabric glues in this article.
Can I Use Fabric Glue Instead of Sewing?
You can surely use fabric glue as a quick alternative to sewing. The application process is much easier and will save you plenty of time in the long run.
Things to Consider Before Buying Fabric Glues
You can’t just browse for the best brands of fabric adhesives without knowing their main features first. This will help you determine which is the best choice for your purpose.
These factors will allow you to pick the fabric glues that won’t put your money down the drain.
Washable or Not
The first crucial factor that you need to consider is how permanent the adhesive is.
Since you are applying the glue on fabrics, you might need to put them to the test in the washing machine. Although some of these fabric glues are water soluble, others can’t be washed off with water.
It’s better to pick machine-washable fabric glue if you want a long-lasting effect.
Keep in mind that this factor only applies to fabric glues made for repairing clothes. This feature will be useful if you want to attach embellishments to your dresses.
Type of Fabric
The type of fabrics you wish to work with should also give you an idea about which brand to pick. Some are only suitable for cotton and denim, while others are perfect for attaching embellishments to silk dresses.
The adhesive you choose should depend on the projects you wish to work on.
If you want to work on a variety of DIY projects, then there are some very versatile fabric glues as well. You can even find adhesives that are as good at gluing wooden vases together as they are at attaching fabrics.
Application Method
A fabric glue’s efficiency is also determined by how easy it is to apply. There are two main types of fabric adhesives – bottled and spray-on.
Some require you to apply heat with an iron. Although it may sound time-consuming, they usually dry off faster than the others.
Spray-on fabric glues are good for covering long pieces of fabric in one go. This feature will help you a lot when you are carrying out applique projects.
I recommend choosing a fast-drying fabric glue that doesn’t leave any yellowish residue afterward.
Guide on Using Fabric Glue
Just knowing about the different fabric glues on the market won’t do you any good if you have no idea how to use them.
Hence, I am going to give you a proper guide on how to apply glue to fabric without damaging it.
Repairing Clothes With Fabric Glue
You can easily mend your torn dresses and age-old T-shirt by following these few simple steps.
- Before you start gluing the clothes together, you must make sure to wash them thoroughly. This will allow the glue to settle more evenly.
- Make sure the piece of cloth is laid down evenly. Get rid of any creases before applying the glue in a single line. Hold the two pieces of cloth together and apply gentle pressure.
- All you need to do now is to wait patiently for the glue to dry off. This can take anywhere between 3 minutes and 2 hours.
Applying Glue Spray on DIY Projects
You can even create some amazing homemade DIY projects with these fabric glues. The process is quick and easy.
- Repeatedly shake the can to make sure the glue isn’t condensed.
- You need to stay at least 10 inches away from the fabric before spraying it. Once you are in a perfect position, you can spray generous amounts of glue vertically.
- If you want an instant bond, keep spraying until the coat is even. Beware that this will allow the glue to dry faster.
- It’s time to place the other piece of fabric on the coat of glue. You must ensure it’s in the right position before placing it on the surface. All you need to do next is to wait for up to 10 minutes.
The 9 Best Fabric Glues & Fabric Adhesive Reviews
We all know how challenging it is to determine the best products among all the choices in this day and age. The same goes for choosing fabric glues and adhesives.
Therefore, I am making this short list of 9 fabric glues with the most beneficial set of features.
1. Tear Mender – TTB-6-D-B Instant Fabric and Leather Adhesive
Rarely any fabric glue on the market allows you to repair household items with ease. Even if you find one that lasts long, they usually take a lot of time to dry off.
Fortunately, you won’t have to face this hassle when you have this adhesive at your disposal. It doesn’t take any longer than 3 minutes to dry.
This fabric glue will allow you to repair torn clothes within the shortest time. What makes it even better is you can use the repaired fabric almost instantly.
Its unique formula makes it hard to wash off after application. In fact, you can even wash the repaired fabric within 15 minutes.
It offers you a permanent solution for household repairs with the utmost level of versatility. The manufacturer ensures that the adhesive remains waterproof and UV resistant.
You don’t even need to apply heat to dry it off. It’s incredibly suitable for repairing furniture and leather upholstery in your house.
Pros:
- Dries in 3 minutes
- Quick and easy fix
- Machine washable in 15 minutes
- UV resistant
- Can fix leather upholstery
Cons:
- The glue could be denser
2. Beacon Fabri-Tac Permanent Adhesive
If you are looking for an adhesive that is perfect for repairing wooden furniture, then your search ends here. This tiny bottle of permanent fabric glue allows you to attach broken furniture without any hassle.
It successfully creates a strong bond between two pieces of wood that is hard to break. This permanent adhesive is also good for repairing torn fabrics.
It’s cheap and easy to apply and has a long-lasting effect. I was glad to find that the glue doesn’t wear off even when you wash it.
Only a few drops are enough to mend any broken items in your household.
The best part is this 4-ounce pack is available at a very cheap rate. It’s very challenging to find such an effective fabric adhesive for such a reasonable price.
The fact that it’s made in the United States makes it even more reliable.
Pros:
- Suitable for wood
- Permanent bond
- Affordable price
- Doesn’t wear off in the washing machine
- Made in the USA
Cons:
- Damages the fabric upon peeling off
3. Odif USA 505 Spray and Fix Temporary Fabric Adhesive
The most powerful fabric adhesives usually contain some toxic materials that can harm your respiratory system. Although I don’t mind their odor, some people find it irritating.
That’s why I decided to include a fabric glue that doesn’t give off an unappealing scent.
They achieved this feat by restricting the use of any toxic chemicals in their formula. It does make their bond a bit weaker, but it’s surely worth the compromise.
Besides that, you can easily spray this liquid adhesive on any surface. This feature makes the application more convenient.
Moreover, this adhesive is suitable for machine embroidery. It helps to keep the fabric in place while you are sewing it.
Due to its temporary bond, you can easily remove the fabric without tearing it. It is widely recommended by DIY craftsmen for its ease of use and lightweight package.
Pros:
- Lightweight packaging
- No toxic chemical
- Odorless application
- Suitable for machine embroidery
- Perfect for DIY projects
Cons:
- It can damage the fabric if you overspray
4. Gorilla Waterproof Fabric Glue
At number 4, I have an exclusive fabric glue that stands out because of its unmatched bond. Its one-of-a-kind formula allows you to attach multiple stones and embellishments to your clothes.
The stones don’t fall off even after multiple trips to the dry cleaner. I know how time-consuming it is to adorn your fabrics with different types of stones.
These stones tend to fall off, and you end up losing them out of nowhere. You will never have to worry about this issue again with this Gorilla adhesive in your sewing kit.
Instead of spending hours sewing embellishments to your clothes, you can now attach them instantly. Apart from that, it’s suitable for felt, ribbons, canvas, and denim as well.
It barely takes any time to dry. The fabric glue’s unique formula makes it a permanent solution for distressed DIY enthusiasts.
Pros:
- Reliable bond
- Dry cleaner safe
- Suitable for attaching embellishments
- Quick and easy application
- Dries quickly
Cons:
- Relatively expensive
5. Permatex 25247 Fabric Repair Kit
If you have a pet in your house, then you probably found your carpet split in half more often than once.
What if I told you there is a fabric repair kit specifically for this purpose?
This incredible fabric adhesive is the perfect solution for repairing torn carpets, curtains, and even broken furniture.
What I love the most is this manufacturer prioritizes user convenience over anything. The repair kit consists of an application spatula that makes it easy to use.
They have also included a detailed instruction manual for first-timers. Besides that, you will find 7 cups of fabric repair mixtures for various materials.
Most colorful fabric adhesives tend to stand out and cause an eyesore. Unlike other brands, they include 7 different colors to get rid of this issue.
Now you can choose the exact color and texture for specific types of materials. It’s a good way to repair your fabrics and also make them look appealing.
Pros:
- It can repair torn carpet
- Includes application spatula
- Detailed instructions included
- Available in 7 colors
- Enhances the look of your fabrics
Cons:
- The color might wear off
6. Aleene’s 23473 Fabric Fusion Permanent Fabric Adhesive
I have yet another amazing fabric glue that is meant to attach embellishments permanently to clothes. It’s every DIY enthusiasts dream come true. It contains an exceptional formula that creates a steady bond between different types of fabrics.
Now you can create unique designs and execute them with this adhesive.
Unlike most fabric adhesives on the market, this fabric glue is made from non-toxic ingredients. The bond remains strong over the years, which allows you to wash the fabrics in the washing machine.
It’s an all-around adhesive for various types of fabrics as well. This versatile fabric glue makes sure the embellishments don’t fall off after application. Applying this glue is easy, and it dries without leaving any stains.
It doesn’t create any strings that can ruin the look of your clothes.
Pros:
- Suitable for designing clothes
- Doesn’t contain toxic chemicals
- Machine washable
- Versatile adhesive
- Doesn’t form strings
Cons:
- Some glue patches are weak
7. Aleene’s Platinum Bond Super Fabric Adhesive
There has never been a more flexible fabric glue than this one. It’s super easy to apply, which makes attaching stones an absolute breeze.
Now you can quickly attach embellishments without spending hours sewing them to the fabric. Moreover, it shows the same results no matter what type of fabric you are working with.
It offers a permanent bond between the fabric and embellishments. Needless to say, you can even repair torn fabric without leaving a visible residue.
The fabric glue doesn’t leave any yellowish stains like most of its kind after drying. Speaking of which, it dries much faster than you might expect.
Due to its strong bond, you can experiment with the heaviest embellishments. The long-lasting bond keeps your DIY designs intact for an extended period.
Although the fabric glue is machine washable, I recommend waiting for at least 72 hours before you send it to the Laundromat.
Pros:
- Flexible fabric glue
- Permanent bond
- No yellow stains
- It isn’t affected by the washing machine
- Repairs torn fabrics
Cons:
- Can’t be washed before 72 hours
8. Dritz Home 44153 Liquid Adhesive Unique Stitch
Coming in at number 8 is the most reasonably priced fabric adhesive that creates an excellent bond. We all know how hard it is to find fabric glue that lets you repair broken items for such a low price.
This will give you all the benefits of the best brands for half the price.
What I love the most about this adhesive is how well it goes with my home décor.
It’s specifically made for attaching decorative items to gifts and fabrics. The adhesive’s water-soluble property gives you room for error.
If you make any mistakes, you can easily wash them off without any severe repercussions.
However, you can only do so before it dries. Once it dries, the fabric remains attached for a significant amount of time.
Since you don’t usually put your home décor in the drier, you won’t have to worry about the glue coming off. Each pack consists of 1.25 ounces of permanent adhesive.
Pros:
- Suitable for home décor
- Water soluble
- Allows you to make corrections
- Reasonable price
- 1.25 ounces bottle
Cons:
- The application could be easier
9. Aleene’s 3 Pack 8 oz Tacky Glue
It’s only fair to end this list of reviews with the strongest pack of fabric glue. This Tacky glue is globally renowned for its permanent bond and easy application.
It’s the perfect ally for any craftsman due to its incredibly versatile nature. You can use it for any purpose, from making postcards to repairing wooden projects.
The amount of surfaces it’s compatible with is simply astonishing. This adhesive also works well with wood and glass.
Even if you find fabric adhesives versatile, they will usually contain some form of harmful chemical. I was relieved when I didn’t find a single toxic ingredient in its formula.
This fabric glue is a revolutionary find in the world of DIY craftsmanship. As if that wasn’t enough, the glue also dries quickly and doesn’t become yellow over time.
It barely emits any odor either. This powerful fabric glue is a good choice for kids in your household.
Pros:
- Offers permanent bond
- Compatible with multiple fabrics
- Suitable for wood and glass
- No harmful additive
- Doesn’t become yellow
Cons:
- Moderately pricey
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does fabric glue last on clothes?
These days there are many fabric glues that can keep clothes together for ages. That’s why they are the best choice for repairing old, torn clothes.
Does fabric glue make fabric stiff?
No, fabric glues are usually made from non-toxic materials that make them flexible. It doesn’t make the clothes rigid and doesn’t leave any visible residue.
How long does fabric glue take to dry?
The fabric glues dry up in less than 10 minutes. On the other hand, some of these adhesives can take up to a couple of hours to dry. It depends on the type of fabric glue you buy. So, choose carefully.
Does fabric glue stay flexible?
Yes, fabric glues consist of a special formula that allows them to stay flexible after application. This feature makes it suitable for mending regular household items like vases.
Does fabric glue work on felt?
There are different kinds of fabric glue that are specifically made for use on felt. They last almost permanently. Some even allow you to wash the fabric.
Does fabric glue work on polyester?
Yes, fabric glue is compatible with polyester and will keep them attached permanently after drying.
While most fabric glues can’t keep denim clothes together, there are some exclusive brands that specialize in this sector.
Final Words
By now, you have all the information you need to know to pick the ideal fabric glue and adhesive. Each of them has subtle differences in benefits.
I hope you go through each of them before you make a choice. Make sure you keep the important factors I listed in mind before you buy them.
FAQs
The 9 Best Fabric Glue and Adhesives Reviews (2023)? ›
Aleene's Platinum Bond Super Fabric Adhesive
This industrial-strength glue can be used to make permanent, machine-washable bonds on leather, vinyl, polyester blends, felt, denim, satin, canvas, and more. It dries clear and quickly and can be washed 72 hours after it is applied.
Aleene's Platinum Bond Super Fabric Adhesive
This industrial-strength glue can be used to make permanent, machine-washable bonds on leather, vinyl, polyester blends, felt, denim, satin, canvas, and more. It dries clear and quickly and can be washed 72 hours after it is applied.
Crafts and fabric glue
For crafting projects, we recommend trying Loctite Craft Spray. This versatile fabric glue spray is an ideal clothing glue because it dries clear, is repositionable and won't bleed through materials.
The Adhesive
The name of the world's strongest adhesive is DELO MONOPOX.
Fabric glue like Dritz Unique Stitch and Dritz Liquid Stitch are fabric glues that also provide a permanent bond. These glues are non-toxic, clear when dry, and machine washable and dryable. If your fabric doesn't hold up to heat well or if you don't have an iron, this fabric glue is the best no-sew option.
What is super fabric adhesive? ›Super Fabric Adhesive is an industrial-strength glue that works super fast! Permanently glue fabrics and heavy duty, hard-to-hold embellishments with a clear, flexible bond that dries quickly and is even machine washable to keep up with your busy schedule.
Is Gorilla Glue good for fabric? ›This permanent and washable glue from Gorilla is great for all your fabric craft projects. It is the perfect alternative to traditional hemming and can also be used to secure beads and other embellishments on your clothing and accessories.
Does fabric glue come off after washing? ›Fabric glue can go through the wash, but it is not recommended. Fabric glue will eventually dissolve in water and cause holes in your fabric. Additionally, fabric glue can leave a sticky residue on your fabrics that may be difficult to remove. Fabric glue is a versatile product that can be used in many different ways.
What kind of glue do upholsterers use? ›A small application of extra-strength fabric glue is both sufficient and efficient enough to get the job done. However, keep in mind that fabric glue is far inferior in terms of bonding ability and strength than spray adhesives or hot glue.
What works better fabric glue or hot glue? ›Hot glue is not flexible and won't really soak into fabric. It will be thick and hard. But Tacky Glue can be used on non-washable fabric projects for a fairly flexible, yet strong hold. Unlike hot glue, Tacky Glue isn't limited to just gluing "this to that." There's so much more you can do with it!
Is fabric adhesive the same as fabric glue? ›
Fabric glue (also called fabric adhesive) is a glue that, depending on the formula, permanently or temporarily adheres fabric to other fabrics. It can also be used to fasten trims, beads, lace and other embellishments to fabrics. It's a super fast way to add accents and pieces without having to sew.
How long does it take fabric glue to fully dry? ›If necessary, you can hold it in place using tape or pins while you wait for the glue to set. Let it dry. Drying takes at least 2 to 4 hours. After 48 hours, the garment will be washable.
What is the world's best glue? ›The Adhesive
The name of the world's strongest adhesive is DELO MONOPOX.
Loctite is the largest brand within the Adhesive Technologies business unit. Loctite products are used in more than 130 countries globally and in industries including aerospace, automotive, and industrial assembly and repair. It is also widely used in consumer applications.
What is the strongest adhesive known to man? ›What is the strongest adhesive? In terms of tensile strength the strongest adhesives are epoxy adhesives, specifically single component heat curable epoxy adhesives.
Can I glue fabric together instead of sewing? ›Fabric glue is a quick solution for repairs that you just don't have the time or skill to stitch. But just because you can use fabric glue instead of sewing doesn't mean it's the perfect solution for all your sewing needs.
How long does Aleene's Super Fabric glue take to dry? ›A general dry time estimate for this glue is 27-37 minutes based on testing with a 3-millimeter coating at 70-73 degrees Fahrenheit. Thicker applications will dry at a slower rate.
Is E6000 good for fabric? ›E6000 Fabri-Fuse Adhesive
Fabri-Fuse is an exceptional adhesive choice for all types of fabric and decorative items. Its extreme flexibility allows fabric to move and stretch - even after washing!
Gorilla Glue Original will work well on many types of plastic; however, we do not recommend for use on polypropylene (PP) or polyethylene (PE) plastics or any type of rubber with high oil or plasticizer content.
What material does Gorilla Glue work best on? ›PRODUCT FEATURES. VERSATILE: Easily bonds wood, stone, metal, ceramic, foam, glass, concrete and much more!
How long does clear Gorilla Glue take to dry on fabric? ›
Clamp It
Full cure in 24 hrs. You can use heavy objects to achieve clamping pressure.
Let The Glue Dry
Never make the mistake of removing glue from your clothes while it is still wet. Always make sure that it has dried out before you take any steps further. WD-40 works best on dry glue and glue residue as it loosens the particles and makes them come off in a hassle-free manner.
A: Rubbing alcohol or nail polish remover can remove a variety of glues from fabric. First, soak a cotton swab or clean cloth in the alcohol and test it on a small, inconspicuous area of fabric. This will ensure it doesn't damage or discolor.
Will vinegar remove glue from fabric? ›Some glues like super glues or epoxies need to be soaked for longer and acetone may dry off too quickly. In these cases, a dedicated glue remover works best. To remove sticker residue from fabric, try warm white vinegar, then rinse thoroughly. Rubbing alcohol can also do the trick.
What is the strongest adhesive for furniture? ›Polyvinyl Acetate (PVA)
It is the glue most commonly used to join two pieces of wood together, and it has the longest storage life among other wood glues. It provides one of the strongest bonds in woodworking as it soaks into the wood and bonds it very securely.
PVA glue is used for almost all of the chair repairs I do. This glue is very common, but I make sure I have a good quality brand. I prefer to use the Lee Valley brand as it cleans up well after it dries. You also want to make sure your glue is less than a year old.
Which is best adhesive for furniture? ›Gorilla Wood Glue is the reliable glue for woodworking that woodworkers, carpenters and hobbyists trust for their projects. Gorilla Wood Glue, a PVA glue, offers the benefits of an easy-to-use water based adhesive.
What is the fastest glue for fabric? ›Formulated to bond fabric, and hard-to-hold embellishments, Gorilla Fabric Glue provides a fast setting, permanent bond that remains flexible after washing. This high strength adhesive dries crystal clear and can be used on a variety of surfaces, making it the perfect alternative to a traditional needle and thread.
What is the best high heat glue? ›- J-B Weld ExtremeHeat Paste. Metallic compound. ...
- Rutland High Heat Silicone. Silicone adhesive. ...
- Loctite Stik 'n Seal Extreme Conditions. Silane-modified polymer adhesive. ...
- Permatex High Heat Epoxy. Two-part epoxy. ...
- DAP High Heat Mortar Fire Stop Caulk. Silicate cement.
Mod Podge is an all in one glue, sealer and finish for fashion accessories to wall art, furniture and more. Mod Podge offers a huge range of creative possibilities. Ideal for gluing fabrics so that they are durable, washable and tough.
How do you speed up fabric glue drying? ›
You can use a blow dryer or a heat lamp to help speed up the glue drying process. Generally, the thinner the application of glue and the warmer and dryer the climate, the faster the glue will dry.
What is the strongest way to sew two pieces of fabric together? ›To quickly hem a thick piece of fabric or to join two pieces of fabric together, the whip stitch is your best bet. Unlike the running stitch or back stitch, the whip stitch goes right over the edge of the fabric so can seal in loose fibers.
What is the most common way to put together your fabric pieces? ›A plain seam is the most common type of machine-sewn seam. It joins two pieces of fabric together face-to-face by sewing through both pieces, leaving a seam allowance with raw edges inside the work. The seam allowance usually requires some sort of seam finish to prevent raveling.
Is Gorilla glue good for fabric? ›This permanent and washable glue from Gorilla is great for all your fabric craft projects. It is the perfect alternative to traditional hemming and can also be used to secure beads and other embellishments on your clothing and accessories.
Is super glue better than fabric glue? ›Using super glue on fabric is not a good idea. Super glue tends to polymerize rapidly when added to fibers like cotton, therefore it will quickly generate heat that may burn the fibers. In addition, super glue cures into a brittle form that is not bendable and flexible like clothing needs to be.
Is E6000 glue good for fabric? ›E6000 FABRI-FUSE creates an exceptional bond for general fabric applications. Its extreme flexibility, stretch and recovery won't create bumps or bulges on fabric and will allow fabric to remain flexible—even after washing. It bonds permanently, dries clear and is acid-free with almost no odor.
Does fabric glue come off in the wash? ›Wash on a high heat
Another way to remove fabric glue: wash it in the washing machine on high heat. As always, make sure that your fabric can take both machine washing and hot water.
Epoxy is the strongest of the reactive adhesives and is resistant to high temperatures, solvents, UV light and impact. Epoxy cures in two to 60 minutes (longer is stronger), reaching full strength in 24 hours.
What will E6000 not stick to? ›E6000 is also not recommended for use on any polystyrene, polyethylene or polypropylene plastics.
How long does it take for E6000 to dry on fabric? ›E6000 starts getting tacky in approximately 2 minutes and begins setting in approximately 10 minutes. A full cure takes between 24 and 72 hours. Remember, temperature and humidity will affect dry time. To speed drying, apply heat using a handheld dryer set on low.
What is the difference between E6000 and E6000 Plus? ›
E6000 Plus offers virtually the same performance characteristics as the original E6000 adhesive but without the odor. It's formulated using a premium polymer technology and can be used on most any substrate and in just about any application.
What glue will hold fabric together? ›Formulated to bond fabric, and hard-to-hold embellishments, Gorilla Fabric Glue provides a fast setting, permanent bond that remains flexible after washing. This high strength adhesive dries crystal clear and can be used on a variety of surfaces, making it the perfect alternative to a traditional needle and thread.