A Guide to Wood Glue

Wood glue is an adhesive that bonds wood together by soaking into the woods fibres thus creating a strong bond. There are many different kinds of wood glue available; differing between strengths, ingredients, and compatibility. The glue is so strong that it is more likely for the wood to break before the bond of the glue. Although all the glues vary, the kind you should purchase truly depends on the material you are going to be glueing together. It is important to note that the older the glue is, the more strength it loses therefore you should always purchase in small quanities so it stays fresh. Listed below are the top wood glues; we will discuss Animal Glue, Polyurethane, Epoxy, Cyanoacrylate, and Polyvinyl Acetate.

Animal Glue

Hide glue is a traditional adhesive made from animal collagen and is used in woodworking for its strong bond and reversible properties. It is available in both liquid and granular form and has a long open time, allowing for adjustments before it sets. Hide glue is known for its excellent creep resistance, meaning it can withstand stress and pressure over time without losing its bond strength. However, hide glue requires careful preparation and application, as it needs to be heated and applied at the correct temperature for a strong bond. Hide glue is available in different strengths, including regular and high-strength versions, to suit different project needs. Overall, hide glue is a reliable adhesive option for traditional woodworking projects. You can purchase the pellets of animal hide and boil them down yourself; Jelly Glue is an online supplier. This glue is very common in woodworking however it is also common in piano repairs and antique restoration.

Animal Glue

Polyurethane Glue

Polyurethane glue, also known as PU glue, is a versatile adhesive used in woodworking for bonding wood to wood or other materials. It creates a strong bond that is resistant to water, heat, and chemicals. Polyurethane glue expands as it cures, allowing it to fill gaps in joints and create a strong, solid bond. It is ideal for outdoor projects or projects exposed to moisture due to its waterproof properties. Polyurethane glue has a long open time, allowing for adjustments before it sets. It is available in regular and foaming formulations, with the foaming version expanding more to fill larger gaps. Overall, polyurethane glue is a reliable adhesive option for a wide range of woodworking applications.

Polyurethane Glue

Epoxy Glue

Epoxy glue is a two-part adhesive consisting of a resin and a hardener. When mixed together, these components create a strong, durable bond that is resistant to water, chemicals, and heat. Epoxy glue is commonly used in woodworking for bonding wood to wood or other materials where a strong, permanent bond is required. It is known for its ability to fill gaps in joints, making it ideal for projects where a tight fit is not possible. Epoxy glue has a long open time, allowing for adjustments before it cures fully. It is available in different formulations, including fast-setting and slow-setting versions, to suit different project needs. Click here to purchase Epoxy Glue!

Epoxy Glue

Aliphatic Resin Glue

Aliphatic resin glue, also known as yellow aliphatic glue, is a type of adhesive similar to PVA glue but with a slightly stronger bond. It is commonly used in woodworking for bonding wood to wood or other porous materials. Aliphatic resin glue is known for its excellent sandability and stainability, making it ideal for projects where the appearance of the glue line is important. It also has a longer open time compared to other wood glues, allowing for more adjustment time before it sets. Aliphatic resin glue is available in regular and water-resistant formulations, making it suitable for a variety of woodworking applications.

Aliphatic Resin Glue

Hot Melt Glue

Hot melt glue, also known as hot glue, is a thermoplastic adhesive used in woodworking for bonding wood to wood or other materials. It is applied using a hot glue gun, which heats the adhesive until it melts and can be applied to the surface to be bonded. Hot melt glue sets quickly and forms a strong bond, making it ideal for projects that require rapid assembly or repairs. One of the key advantages of hot melt glue is its versatility, as it can bond a wide range of materials. However, it is not suitable for load-bearing applications or projects exposed to high heat. Overall, hot melt glue is a convenient adhesive option for woodworking projects that require a quick, strong bond.

Hot Melt Glue

Cyanoacrylate Glue

Cyanoacrylate glue, commonly known as super glue, is a fast-setting adhesive used for bonding wood to wood or other materials. It forms a strong, permanent bond in seconds and is ideal for quick repairs or assembly. Cyanoacrylate glue is available in different viscosities, including thin, medium, and thick, to suit different application needs. It can bond a wide range of materials, including wood, metal, plastic, and ceramic. However, it has a short open time, so it is important to work quickly once the glue is applied. Cyanoacrylate glue is not suitable for use on porous materials like foam or paper. Overall, cyanoacrylate glue is a versatile adhesive option for woodworking projects that require a fast, strong bond.

Cyanoacrylate Glue

PVA Glue

Polyvinyl acetate (PVA) glue, commonly known as white glue or carpenter's glue, is a versatile adhesive used in woodworking. It is easy to use, dries clear, and creates a strong bond between porous materials like wood, paper, and fabric. PVA glue is water-based, making it easy to clean up with water before it dries. It is suitable for a wide range of woodworking projects and does not require clamping in many cases. However, for the best results, clamping is recommended until the glue has fully cured. PVA glue comes in different formulations, including regular, water-resistant, and waterproof versions, making it suitable for both indoor and outdoor applications. PVA glue can be purchased as Elmer's Glue.

PVA Glue

Additional Resources

For more information on types of wood, click here! To learn more about wood finishes, click here! To learn about all our available art supplies, click here!

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