The 8 Best Glue For Cardboard Projects

What Type of Glue to Use on Cardboard 

Adhesives are developed for a variety of applications. The category of adhesive and manufacturer have an impact on performance, adhesion process, and longevity. PVA adhesives are the most commonly used glue for cardboard in general. However, many different adhesives can be used on cardboard. All of them are listed below, along with their properties and applications. 

Rubber Cement Glue (Contact Cement) 

Contact cement glue is one of the best options for cardboard projects. It is a liquified rubber mixed with other chemicals. After application, its solvents vaporize, leaving a thin layer of solid rubber that holds objects. 

It is a time-sensitive glue, which means its glue quality dampens over time. But for this, you can clean it easily. However, it is not recommended to use it on paintings and photographs; it can cause damage to the items by leaving a residue.

Super Glue 

Super glue is an allrounder glue that adheres to almost every object, from plastic to ceramics. It is an easy-to-use glue that dries quickly. 

For adhering to lighter cardboard, superglue is a good option. It is super strong and creates a permanent bond. But be careful while using it because you cannot remove it with water if it falls on your skin. Instead, you will have to use acetone-based solvents to remove it.

Hot Glue 

Hot glue is mechanized to use a gun to melt the glue stick. It is widely used for craft making and gluing different substrates. 

Hot glue is an ideal cardboard adhesive. It’s not runny, dries fast, and creates strong adhesion. However, everyone should be cautious while using it, especially kids.

Spray Adhesive 

For adhering cardboard to cardboard quickly, spray adhesive is an ideal match. It works well for any material, even fabric and felt.

Spray adhesive is designed to adhere to large surfaces. For this, it lacks precision, and for the same reason, it saves a lot of time while gluing a larger art project. In addition, spray adhesive doesn’t form the toughest attachment; get the help of other glues for heavy tasks.

Glue Sticks 

Depending on the manufacturer, glue sticks are composed of either polyvinyl acetate (PVA) or polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP). They are a popular glue among crafters because of their easy-to-use and non-toxic. They also dry quickly while easily washable. Moreover, glue sticks can be used for precise gluing.

Epoxy Glue

Epoxy glue is composed of two materials: the hardener and the resin. This durable glue is used to bond almost every form of the compound: rubber, plastics, wood, ceramics, etc. 

It is a strong industrial adhesive that can be used for cardboard applications too. There are two forms of this glue available: paste and liquid. This flexible, strong, and water-resistant glue can be used for wide-area coverage as well as for smaller applications.

PVA Glue

Among all the other forms of glue, PVA glue stands out for cardboard projects. Though it is widely used for almost every kind of substance,

PVA glue matches perfectly with porous surfaces, and cardboard is a porous material. Moreover, it is a toxin-free adhesive that doesn’t emit any unpleasant odors. Its color is white, and it doesn’t leave any ugly marks once dried. For all of this integrity, many crafters and artists choose it over any cardboard adhesive.

White Glue

White glue is the most commonly used glue in households. It might not adhere to the strongest bond, but it is available and versatile. This adhesive is mainly used for light crafts like paper or cloth. Also, you need to clamp the objects together for 30–45 minutes to make the glue effective.

The main advantage of white glue is that it’s cheap. Other than that, it is non-toxic and safe, which makes it a good choice for new crafters and school projects. This adhesive is not water-resistant. You can clean it simply by pouring water over it and rubbing the residues away. 

Yellow Wood Glue

Yellowwood glue is a wet glue and is formulated from the same vinyl acetate polymer (PVA) as craft glue. It is specially made for wood, but it works well for cardboard. It is a tacky glue, which means it sticks to any object immediately whenever it touches it.

The yellow glue is thick and not runny. It is ideal for concealed and well-looking crafted projects as it dries clear without leaving a mark. It usually adheres with a rigid joint for cardboard and wood, so the joint is not flexible and is more easily broken. It is not intended to fill the voids left by wood and cardboard.

Polyurethane Glue

Polyurethane glue is a highly durable glue that adheres to dual-component objects perfectly. Its durability offers usage for both static and tactile bonding projects. 

Polyurethane, or PU, glue is waterproof. As a result, you can use it both indoors and outdoors without hesitation. It is resistant to impact and shock and can provide a bridge between surfaces. For thick and heavy cardboard projects, it can work well with its lasting durability and strength.

8 Best Adhesive for Cardboard

Best Spray Adhesive- 3M General Purpose Spray Adhesive

Last update on 2022-05-17 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Are you looking for the strongest glue for cardboard that works flawlessly? Then go with 3M spray adhesive.

3M General Purpose 45 Spray Adhesive is formulated to give you a mess-free, neat and clean project. It is an easy-to-use glue and binds almost any lightweight material like cardboard, paper, fabric, felt, etc. The glue does not soak through paper or cardboard. If glue penetrates the paper, this will warp or wrinkle the project.

This cardboard glue dries quickly and without a mark. So if your craft demands neatness, 3M general purpose spray adhesive is there for you. In addition, it is pH neutral and therefore will not harm your photos or acid-sensitive appliances.

Specs

• Compatible Material: Wood, Foam, Fiberglass, Paper, Plastic, Fabric
• Volume: 10.25 Fluid Ounces
• Brand: 3M
• Package: Aerosol Can
• Color: White
• Type: Spray
• Country of Origin: USA

Features

• Applicable Surfaces: The glue works well on Paper, Cardstock, Cardboard, Light plastics, Foils, Wood, Foam, Fiberglass, Fabric
• Large Cover: Excellent coverage on larger surface, it covers 70 square feet.
• Secured Bond: Acts fast, create effective bond within 30 seconds to 15 minutes
• Repositionable: Quickly repositionable for perfect placement

Cautions

• Extremely flammable liquid and vapor, use gently and never use it if the fire is around.
• Can cause eye and skin irritation, use protective mask and make sure your working area is well-ventilated.
• Wash your hands or skin immediately if the spray falls on.

Best Glue for Paper to Cardboard- Beacon Crafting Glue

Last update on 2022-05-17 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Beacon 3-in-1 Advanced Crafting Glue is the perfect DIY craft glue. It bonds almost everything, from plastic to felt. In addition, it securely bonds paper with cardboard. The bottle is larger compared to the same-priced product, so it’s an excellent value as well.

Water-based glue tends to penetrate the paper surface and cause the paper to wrinkle. This Beacon glue is not a water-based type, so using it will be the right choice if you work with papercrafts. 

This cardboard glue dries quickly. But you will have some time to reposition or adjust the pieces. Scrapbookers and paper crafters love this glue for another reason: it is acid-free. Acidic paste reacts and damages the photos and other paper-based stuff.

Specs

• Compatible Material: Plastic
• Volume: 4 FL oz
• Brand: Beacon Adhesives
• Package: Plastic bottole with nozzle
• Color: Clear
• Type: Wet glue
• Country of Origin: USA

Features

• Applicable surfaces: The glue mainly compatible with plastic. However, it performs great on Paper items, like cardstock, cardboard etc.
• Acid Free: It never turns yellow overtime, so your project is safe rom being tint.
• Waterproof: It does not washed away, howeverm make sure the glue gets well cured.
• Crystal Clear: As the adhesive dries clear, it will not upset you with an ugly yellow mark on your project.

Cautions

• Sometimes it may flow out once opened. So immediately putting the cap on will save you from this little problem.
• Highly flammable liquid and vapor.
• Can cause eye irritation. 

Best Glue for Fabric to Cardboard- Elmer’s Craft Bond Glue

Last update on 2022-05-17 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

You can’t use just any adhesive to glue fabric. Fabric gets torn apart or may lose its color if you use glue that isn’t applicable. But Elmer’s craft bond glue is one of the few adhesives that is highly compatible with both fabric and paper. It keeps your fabric appliances intact without any mess. Other than fabric, you can use it as papercraft glue.

There is no doubt about this PVA glue’s strength. Moreover, this glue dries permanently with tacky adhesion when it’s wet, so you don’t have to worry about clearing your fabric.

Acids react with fabric to make it torn or discolored. This glue is acid-free. So you can use it on your clothes without stressing about discoloring.

Specs

• Compatible Material: Paper, Fabric
• Volume: 4 Fluid Ounces
• Brand: Elmer’s
• Package: Bottle
• Color: Multicolor
• Type: Wet
• Country of Origin: USA

Features

• Applicable Surfaces: The glue works great on mostly fabric, and paper items like cardstock, cardboard, etc.
• Dries Clear: This adhesive dries transparent, so no one will even notice you used glue on your fabric.
• Launderable: Normal washing does not affect its adhesion.
• Washable: You can clean up moist glue with soap and water.
• Permanent Bond: The glue forms a permanent bond once it dries.

Cautions

• A little problem when the bottle sometimes gets a bit stiff, so you may have to squeeze it harder for the adhesive to come out.
• The glue faintly smells before drying.

Best Hot Glue for Cardboard Boxes- Syntrific Hot Glue Gun Sticks

Last update on 2022-05-17 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Sealing and assembling card boxes might get tedious and painful. But it will not be if you have synthetic hot glue sticks in your glue gun. Synthetic hot glue sticks are strong glue that bonds with most materials, including jewelry, glass, ceramics, and more. It melts easily and quickly, providing a permanent and durable adhesion.

It dries neat and clear. So your cardboard box sealing will look appealing and esthetically clear. Moreover, it bonds in less than 30 seconds. Other than that, synthetic hot glue sticks are safe to use as they are non-toxic.

Specs

• Compatible Material: Foam, Wood, Paper, Leather, Ceramic, Plastic, Metal, Fabric
• Weight: ‎8.1 Ounces
• Brand: SYNTRIFIC
• Package: Plastic packet
• Color: White
• Type: Stick

Features

• Applicable Surfaces: The glue bonds to virtually any material.
• Versatile Fitting: With a 4″ length and a 0.28″ diameter, the glue sticks fit 99% of mini glue guns. In addition, it’s safe for both high and low-temperature glue guns.
• Fast Dry: Acts fast, creating an effective bond within 30 seconds.

Cautions

• The downside to this glue is its viscosity. It may sometimes get runny and stick here and there, resulting in disastrous results like jamming the glue gun.
• The glue stick will not fit some glue guns, so make sure the diameter of your glue guns matches.

Best Waterproof Glue for Cardboard- Mod Podge Decoupage Satin Glue

Last update on 2022-05-17 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Mod Podge Decoupage Satin Glue is an all-rounder glue that serves all your needs in a single 8 oz. bottle. You can use it as a sealant, glue, and finisher all-in-one. As the name suggests, nothing beats this adhesive when it needs to bond decoupage. 

This satin glue dries with solid adhesion on various surfaces, such as paper, canvas, plastic, tin, styrofoam, wood, and more. While you use it as a sealant and glue, it dries quickly and clears with a subtle sheen. There are several types of finishes for using it as a finisher, like sparkly, glossy, or matte. So testing it before will be a better decision.

Mod Podge Decoupage Satin glue is non-toxic. As it’s an easy-to-use glue, you will only need a paintbrush or sponge applicator to apply the adhesive.

Specs

• Compatible Material: Foam, Wood, Paper
• Volume: 10.25 Fluid Ounces
• Brand: Mod Podge
• Package: Bottle
• Color: Multicolor
• Type: Wet
• Country of Origin: USA

Features

• Applicable Surfaces: The Mod Podge glue works on a variety of surfaces such as wood, paper, canvas, plaster, tin, craft foam, styrofoam, terra cotta, and more.
• Easy Cleanup: You can clean the water-based glue easily on overuse; just clean up any extra with soap and water. 
• Versatile Use: You can use it for several purposes, including glue, sealer, and finisher.

Cautions

• When using this glue as a sealer, first apply a thin coat and wait for 15-20 minutes between coats.
• To eliminate tackiness, apply clear acrylic sealer over the cured mod-podge.

Best Super Glue for Cardboard- Gorilla Super Glue Gel

Last update on 2022-05-17 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Gorilla Super Glue Gel is a strong adhesive that virtually bonds anything when you put it on. There are times when you need to apply superglue (cyanoacrylate, or CA glue) to cardboard and paper projects. Do not ever think of using any other adhesive than Gorilla Super Glue Gel.

With a long-lasting permanent bond, Gorilla Super Glue Gel dries in 10–45 seconds. The main problem with using liquid glue is the lack of reusability because it either dries within the bottle or gets clogged over time. But Gorilla came up with a great solution. They added an anti-clog cap with a metal pin that guarantees an airtight seal for maximum reusability. 

You may face the problem of runny adhesive; sometimes, you want to glue only one or two drops, but squeezing it with a bit of force may end up a large amount of gel. So be gentle while using it. Excessive amounts may cramp and warp your project. Moreover, be cautious not to get in contact, as this may bond skin within seconds.

Specs

• Compatible Material: Wood, Paper, Leather, Ceramic, Plastic, Metal
• Weight: 20 Gram (1.5 ounces)
• Brand: Gorilla
• Package: Cartridge
• Color: Clear
• Type: Liquid
• Country of Origin: USA

Features

• Applicable Surfaces: The glue works well on light and heavy materials equally, but the manufacturer recommends not to use it with polythelene or polypropylene plastics.
• No run, Control Gel Formula: This glue’s unique thicker formula makes it drop and crack-resistant,and gives you a controlled application. That is why it is your perfect adhesive during vertical applications. 
• Anti Clog Cap: The specially manufactured cap helps keep glue fresh use after use; and you can consume each and every drop in the bottle.
• Repositionable: Quickly repositionable for perfect placement
• Cure time: Allow 24 hours for the strongest binding.

Cautions

• Shake well before use.
• After using it, clean the nozzle with a dry cloth and
• Eye and skin irritants, also sometimes produce allergic reactions.
• Bonds skin immediately, so wash your hands or skin without delay if the spray falls on it.

Best Glue for Thick Cardboard- Bearly Art Precision Craft Glue

Last update on 2022-05-17 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Nothing is more painful than a poked-up bubble or a wrinkle after you finish gluing your project. Of course, you may have tried a lot of glue to avoid these. But have you ever tried Bearly Art Precision Craft Glue?

If you haven’t tried it yet, you should. Because this glue was specially formulated to prevent warp and wrinkles on paper items. Plus, even the thinnest paper will not get wrinkled if you apply the required glue. Moreover, this cardboard glue creates flexible adhesion that resists cracking, and at the same time tough and long-lasting.

Bearly Art Precision Craft Glue has multiple-sized tips, including ultra-fine tip, fine tip, and tip cap. These let you work on any surface with pinpoint precision. Other than that, as fine tips are prone to clogging, the manufacturer included a cleaning pin. So you won’t have to hassle with a clogged tip.

Specs

• Compatible Material: Paper
• Volume: 4 Fluid Ounces
• Brand: Bearly Art
• Package: Bottle
• Color: White
• Type: Liquid
• Country of Origin: USA

Features

• Multiple Sized Tips: 3 different sized tips provide you with more choices while using it. You can switch between the tips and get better accuracy, freedom, and control with those that twist and snap into place!
• Wrinkle & Clump Resistant: This glue is specially formulated to stay smooth and reduce wrinkling. When you need to avoid single warping, be conservative with the application of glue.
• Freeze & Melt Stable: In tests, the glue was found to be freeze and thaw stable for five freeze/thaw cycles. So do not worry about ordering it in winter whether many manufacturers avoid shipping in winter.

Cautions

• This glue is pretty runny. So do not use much force, which may end up squeezing out extra adhesive.
• Excess gel increases the setting time. You might have to clamp or hold your pieces for several minutes after applying glue. So use it precisely.

Best Glue for Cardboard Models- Elmer’s Disappearing Purple School Glue Sticks

Last update on 2022-05-17 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Elmer’s Disappearing Purple School Glue Sticks are easy-to-use glue that works for paper, foam, cardboard, and more. It provides a mess-free neat project with strong adhesion. Glue sticks are popular for easy gluing, but low-quality glue sticks may lead to a damp project. So if you do not want to lose your money and effort to go in vain, buy Elmer’s Disappearing School Glue Sticks.

This glue is perfect for any type of arts and crafts project. Moreover, with some good properties like acid-free and non-toxicity, it is friendly for your kids’ school work.

And remember, it is not permanent glue, so do not use it if you need a lasting craft.

Specs

• Compatible Material: Foam, Paper
• Volume: 1 Fluid Ounce
• Brand: Elmer’s
• Package: Tube
• Color: Purple (disappearing)
• Type: Stick
• Country of Origin: USA

Features

• Applicable Surfaces: Bonds to paper, cardboard, foam board, display board, and many more papercrafts.
• Dries Clear: These glue sticks are purple when you use them, and the purple disappears while drying. That means it does not leave any glue marks. So, no worries about using it with white paper.
• Fast Bonding: This glue dries fast, sometimes within 8-10 seconds. It is a real issue when you may have to adjust or straighten the project. So clamp the object together as fast as you can after applying it.
• Washable: You can easily wash any unexpected adhesives off your hands and out of your clothes. Pour some water and rub the residue away. Do the same for removing overuses. 

Cautions

• The stick is only 8 cm long, so it is not recommended for kids under 3 years old.

How to Choose the Right Glue for Cardboard

When getting excited about a project, always do a little test. Don’t just blindly use one glue for all projects. Otherwise, you may end up with a ruined craft.

Keep in mind that every glue is formulated differently. Most crafters and artists may have their favorite adhesive. But they, too, need a particular adhesive for different surfaces. Because each glue has a different impact on the surface of the material, for example, white glue is suitable for porous surfaces like paper and cardboard. Still, it won’t bind metal or ceramics. So first, list which type of material you are working on. Then find out if you are bonding paper to wood or cardboard to plastic. After that, do a little research to find a suitable adhesive. 

Other than the surface, you need to consider flexibility, if your craft needs to be only water-resistant or waterproof, and how long the adhesive should hold up the craft. For example, Gorilla glue is a super strong glue, but it won’t give you much space for flexibility. White glue needs to be clamped together for at least 30–45 minutes; on the other hand, hot glue or superglue will dry in less than a minute. Contact cement is one of the best choices for cardboard and papercrafts, but its bond will weaken over time.

How to Glue Cardboard Together? 

The best type of glue for cardboard to cardboard is PVA, such as wood glue. Follow these simple instructions for adhering cardboard to cardboard with wood glue.

• Put a layer of glue on the surface, which will bond with other cardboard.
• Use a foam brush or finger to spread the adhesive into a thin layer.
• Press the second cardboard onto the first.
• Clamp it together with a heavyweight like a book for several hours.

Best Way to Glue Paper to Cardboard

 You can use various glue for the binding paper to the cardboard with different adhesives. The result will also vary according to the glue you are using. 

• White Glue: White glue is wet glue. The porous surfaces of the cardboard and paper absorb it to make a strong and permanent bond. You need to hold the bond together for at least 30 to 45 minutes to dry. Gluing paper to cardboard is a good option.

• Hot Glue: Hot glue is another easy option to bind cardboard and paper. You can use this adhesive without any mess. But always make sure you are not overusing it. Otherwise, you will end up with a bumpy surface.

• Spray Adhesive: If you want to cover a large area in the least amount of time, spray adhesive is a good option. It is suitable for scrapbooking and craft covers. Be careful when spraying, and always read the instructions on the label.

How to Glue a Puzzle to Cardboard?

Gluing a puzzle to cardboard can be messy if you don’t follow the proper method. Follow these steps to have a clean, mess-free puzzle in a cardboard box.

• Don’t ever put glue on your puzzle before you have solved it and completed it. Most novice crafters try to glue every piece apart. Mistakes can happen. After that, you have to peel off the entire surface, which dampens both the puzzles and the cardboard. Glue together your solved puzzles into small groups.
• After you have solved the puzzle, Pick up the cardboard and put your preferred glue on it. Use wet glue or mod podge. Spread the glue with a foam brush. Using a spray adhesive may save you some time.
• Now put these small groups sequentially upside onto the cardboard. Use a roller to flatten the surface. Keep them for two to three hours. 

How to Use Glue to Seal Cardboard Boxes? 

Sealing cardboard boxes is a two-step process. First, choose the correct adhesive, and second, pick the sealing boxes method.

Choosing the suitable adhesive: Hot gun glue works well for a proper seal. The advantage of using hot gun glue is that your box will look a lot cleaner. Moreover, the bond will last for a long time. 

Method for sealing boxes: Insert a stream of dots or a layer of glue into one flap (side). Stick the other flap on the layered side. Put them in a stronghold for a minute, then keep them for 1-2 hours to dry and harden the material.

Safety Precautions 

It is always better to prevent any catastrophe, even if the percentage of occurrence is low. So always be careful when gluing with cardboard and paper, especially when there are kids around. Here are some precautions below to avoid any unwanted events.

• The main problem with putting adhesive on the skin is that glue can fall on the skin and stick to fingers. Some glue can be washed away with water, but there are still chemical components. Also, hot glue and super glue can peel off your skin. So always wear gloves.
• Some glues emit fumes that can be hazardous. So read the instructions on the label of the glue bottle. Wear a mask or respirator if necessary.
• Try to use glue in a well-ventilated area.

Frequently Asked Questions

Final Words

Your perfect plan and tools will not be enough without the adhesive that your project or craft demands. If you fail to choose the right one, all your effort, time, and money will be good for nothing. 

With our suggestions and top picks, you can exactly make your project look like you planned it in no time. We hope this article clears up all of your queries and guides you to choose the best glue for your crafts and projects. Best of luck!