Glue & Glue Sticks

Which glue should you choose?

Not all adhesives work in the same way. A standard glue stick is practical for paper and cardboard, but if you need to repair an object or bond two different materials together, you may need a different type of adhesive.

Below are some common options and their typical uses.

Glue sticks and office glue

For paper, cardboard, and simple craft projects, glue sticks are often a convenient choice. They are easy to use and help avoid mess when mounting pictures, documents, and presentation materials.

Liquid office glue can be a good alternative when you need to apply adhesive to smaller areas or where a glue stick is not suitable.

All-purpose glue and super glue

All-purpose glue is useful when bonding different types of materials. Suitable materials vary by product, so always check the instructions before use.

Super glue, also known as instant glue, is often used for small repairs where parts need to bond quickly. It is particularly suitable for joining small surfaces, but keep in mind that not all materials are compatible with super glue.

Spray adhesive, hot glue, and adhesive tape

When bonding larger surfaces, spray adhesive can be a practical solution. Depending on the product's properties, it is often used for mounting paper, photos, and decorative materials.

Hot glue is applied with a glue gun and is commonly used for crafts, decorations, and simple assembly work.

Adhesive tape is another option when you need to attach paper or lightweight materials without using liquid glue. It can be especially convenient for office work and craft projects.

Fabric glue

Fabric glue is designed for bonding fabric and other textile materials. It can, for example, be used for minor repairs and craft projects where you prefer gluing instead of sewing.

Check whether the adhesive is suitable for the fabric you intend to use and whether it is washable if this is important for the finished result.

Choose adhesive based on the material and application

The most important thing is to choose an adhesive that is suitable for the materials you want to bond. Paper and cardboard are usually straightforward to glue, while plastic, metal, and other smooth surfaces may require specialised adhesive products.

Also consider how durable the bond needs to be over time. Should the parts be permanently attached? Does the bond need to remain flexible? Or must the item withstand moisture and temperature changes?

Think about drying and curing times as well. Some adhesives bond quickly, while others require more time before the joined parts can be subjected to stress.

Read the product information and follow the manufacturer's instructions regarding materials, application, and drying time. This reduces the risk of choosing an adhesive that is unsuitable for the task.