For various reasons, leather is a favored material: it looks good, it’s durable, and it can be very versatile. However, leather can also be tricky to work with, and if you’re not careful, you could end up with a big mess on your hands. That’s why it’s essential to use the correct type of glue when working with leather.
In this article, we will go through different features and criteria to select the best glue for leather crafts.
Let’s go for it.
BEST RUNNERUP   E6000 Glue
| BEST OVERALL   Barge All Purpose
| BEST BUDGET   Gorilla Micro
|
How to Select the Best Adhesive for Leather?
Leather has been used for centuries and has many applications. Today, leather goods are made from animal hides and synthetics such as vinyl. Leather can be found in jackets, shoes, handbags, and furniture, to name just a few items. However, when looking for the perfect leather glue for your projects, there are some specific qualities to look out for.
The leather adhesive should be able to form a strong bond with both the leather and whatever you’re attaching it to. It’s also important that it doesn’t damage the surface. Remember that some adhesives can cause the material to become brittle or even crack over time. Plus, you’ll want to avoid any products that contain solvents, as these can also degrade the leather.
There are a variety of adhesives on the market that meet all these requirements, so it’s essential to do your research before making a purchase. Check products that are specifically designed for bonding leather, or you could opt for an all-purpose adhesive that has been tested and proven to work well with this material.
No matter what you choose, read the instructions carefully and follow them to the letter. This will ensure a successful project and a long-lasting bond between your leather and whatever it’s attached to.
Glue for Leather: What Kind of Glue to Use on Leather
You will find many types of glues on the market, but not all of them will be compatible with leather. In fact, most glues and adhesives will damage leather, so it is crucial to select the right product for the job.
There are a few specific types of glue that work well on leather including contact cement, vinyl adhesive, and rubber cement. All three of these products form a strong bond with leather, and they’re also waterproof. This makes them ideal for projects that require a watertight seal.
If you’re looking for a general-purpose adhesive, try rubber cement. It is not as strong as the other options, but it is still suitable for most projects. Just be sure to test it on a small area of the leather first to make sure it does not cause any damage. Whatever glue or adhesive you choose, always read the instructions carefully before using it. This will help ensure that you get the best results possible.
- Leather Glue: This leather bonding glue is specifically designed to attach two leather pieces. It is an adhesive that dries clear and flexible.
- Contact Cement: This glue is used for bonding metals, plastics, rubbers, and other non-porous surfaces together. It is a solid adhesive and should be used with caution.
- Superglue: This glue is ideal for bonding small pieces of metal, plastic, or wood together. It dries quickly and forms a powerful bond.
- PVA Glue: PVA glue is a multipurpose adhesive that can be used on various materials such as paper, fabric, wood, and metal. It dries clear and is non-toxic.
- Polyurethane Glue: This glue is a strong adhesive that can be used on numerous materials. It dries quickly and is waterproof.
- Craft Glue: Craft glue comes in a variety of formulations, but they all have one thing in common: they’re designed to bond different types of materials together, such as paper, fabric, wood, and metal. They’re also usually non-toxic.
Which type of glue should you use? It depends on the materials that you’re trying to bond together. When choosing the right kind of glue for your project, it is also essential to consider the material you will be bonding together and the environment it will be used in.
For example, if you’re working with water-sensitive materials like wood or fabric, you will want to use a waterproof adhesive like polyurethane glue.
If you’re working with a delicate material like lace, you will want to use craft glue designed for porous materials. Always read the label on the adhesive before using it to make sure you’re using the correct type of glue for your project.
10 Best Recommended Products Review
Best Glue for Leather to Leather: Barge Leather Glue
- Barge All Purpose Cement is a professional strength glue (adhesive) that can be used on leather, rubber and vinyl.
- Ideal for patching rubber boots, resole leather shoes, boots, wood, rubber, metal, plastic, plaster, paper,...
- ONE QUART, 32 oz. can comes with an applicator brush attached to the lid.
Last update on 2022-05-17 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
The Barge All Purpose Cement is a professional-strength glue for leather, rubber, and vinyl surfaces. This adhesive is ideal for repairing rubber boots and resoling leather shoes or boots.
Besides, this adhesive also works on rubber, wood, metal, plastic, plasterboard, paper, concrete, and much more. The Barge All-Purpose Cement comes in one quart (32 oz.) can, and the lid has an applicator brush attached to it for ease of use.
Specs
- Compatible Material: Wood, Leather, Paper, Concrete, Plastic, Metal, Rubber
- Volume: 947 Milliliters
- Brand: Barge All
- Package: Can
- Color: Original Version
- Type: Cement glue
- Country of Origin: USA
Features
- All-purpose contact cement: This adhesive works well with leather, rubber, vinyl, wood, metal, plastic, etc.
- Professional strength: The adhesive has a superior bonding strength.
- Waterproof: Ideal for using outdoors and it is waterproof.
- Easy to spread: This glue is flexible and easy to spread.
Caution
- Emit harmful vapors.
- Flammable.
- Can cause eye and skin irritation if misused.
Best Glue for Synthetic Leather: E6000 glue Leather
- 2 ounce tube of clear adhesive
- Washer/dryer safe
- Adhesive Bullet Point
Last update on 2022-05-17 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
This E6000 craft adhesive is known for its industrial tenacity and adaptability. This favorite crafting adhesive can be used to make solid and waterproof connections on various materials, including textiles, glass, metals, ceramics, and more.
In addition, this glue is easy to work with and flexible in cooler temperatures to avoid brittle connections.
Specs
- Compatible Material: Glass, Metal, Fabric, Wood, Ceramic
- Volume: 7 Milliliters
- Brand: E6000
- Package: Tube
- Color: Clear
- Type: Liquid glue
- Country of Origin: USA
Features
- All-purpose adhesive: This adhesive works well with leather, rubber, vinyl, wood, metal, plastic, etc.
- Industrial strength: The adhesive creates a strong bond when thoroughly dried.
- Waterproof: Ideal for using outdoors and it is waterproof.
- Easy to apply: This glue is easy to work and can be used in cooler climates.
Caution
- Emit harmful vapors.
- Flammable.
- Can cause eye and skin irritation if misused.
Gorilla Glue for Leather: Gorilla Micro Precise Super Glue
- Impact Tough: Reinforced to increase impact resistance and strength
- Smooth Application: Precise, controlled dispensing tool that fits comfortably in hand
- Fast Setting: Dries in 10 to 45 seconds, no clamping required
Last update on 2022-05-17 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Gorilla is well-known to make some of the best and strong glues, and the Gorilla Micro Precise Super Glue is no exception. This Gorilla super glue comes in a new dispensing tool for an easier and more precise application.
The Gorilla Super Glue form easily fits in hand. Like other Gorilla products, this super glue dries fast within 10 – 45 seconds and is perfect for bonding plastic, wood, rubber, leather, metal, ceramic, paper, and more.
Specs
- Compatible Material: Wood, Paper, Leather, Ceramic, Plastic, Metal
- Volume: 0.21 Oz
- Brand: Gorilla
- Package: Cartridge
- Color: Clear
- Type: Superglue
- Country of Origin: USA
Features
- Easy to use: The dispensing tool is easy to use, lightweight, and precise. It’s designed to be held in the hand without being bulky or uncomfortable.
- Fast setting: The glue dries within 10 to 45 seconds.
- Compatible material: It bonds plastic, wood, metal, ceramic, rubber, leather, and paper.
Caution
Bonds skin instantly.
Can cause irritation if it comes in contact with the skin.
Best Glue for Leather to Wood: Mitreapel Super CA Glue
- Easy Bonding - The simple to use instant glue will make your projects so much easier! After cleaning both surfaces,...
- Powerful Professional Adhesive - Our two part CA Glue with activator will help you achieve a clean and professional...
- Quick Cure Time - No time to wait? With our instant bond adhesive, your project will be ready in seconds! Thanks to...
Last update on 2022-05-16 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
The Mitreapel Super Ca Glue is one of the best glues with excellent bonding capability for all your projects. The bonding time is just 5-12 seconds if used in conjunction with the included aerosol super glue accelerator. However, if you don’t have the spray accelerator or don’t want to use it, the curing time can take up to 2 minutes.
This super glue is ideal for all industrial and personal projects. This cyanoacrylate accelerator can be used on various materials, including wood, glass, and stone. However, it should not be used on polyethylene products or nonstick surfaces.
Specs
- Compatible Material: Wood, Fiberglass, Glass, Leather, Ceramic, Plastic, Metal, Rubber, MDF, Foam, Stone
- Volume: 400 Milliliters
- Brand: Mitreapel
- Package: Aerosol Can
- Color: Clear
- Type: Super CA glue
Features
- Easy to use: 2-3 drops of glue are enough to bond two surfaces.
- Powerful all-purpose adhesive: This adhesive is ideal for industrial and personal projects.
- Quick cure time: This CA super glue has a fast curing time of just 5-12 seconds.
- Mess-free application: The Aerosol Super Glue Accelerator produces a fine spray that is simple to manage, and the glue’s liquid is viscous.
- Outdoor Usage: Can also be used for outdoor projects and repairs.
- Compatible with multiple materials: This cyanoacrylate accelerator can be used on metal, glass, stone, wood, leather, and much more.
- Setting Time: Form quick bonds within 5-12 seconds.
Caution
- Bonds skin instantly.
- Can cause irritation if it comes into contact with the skin.
Best Glue for Patches on Leather: Tear Mender Fabric and Leather Adhesive
- INSTANT DURABLE BOND: Adhesive dries and forms and instant bond that is flexible and usable/wearable within 3...
- DURABLE HOUSEHOLD REPAIRS: Forms a long lasting and permanent bonds to fabric and leather that is waterproof,...
- QUICK AND EASY REPAIRS WITH PERMANENT RESULTS: Application requires no heat, ironing, or solvents to cure
Last update on 2022-05-16 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
This all-natural latex glue from Tear Mender is waterproof, flexible, and UV resistant; hence it can be used both indoors and indoors. It’s ideally suited for garments, leather, upholstery, sports/marine gear, household decor, tents, boat covers, tarps, and many more. The bond is durable and the adhesive dries quickly.
The bond is also washable after 15 minutes of application. In addition, it’s free of toxic chemicals and is acid-free, so it’s environmentally friendly.
Specs
- Compatible Material: Leather, Fabric
- Volume: 59.14 Milliliters
- Brand: Tear Mender
- Package: Bottle
- Color: White
- Type: Liquid glue
Features
- Forms Instant Bond: This adhesive dries and becomes flexible in an instant. If used on leather or fabric, the item can be used in just three minutes and may be washed in 15 minutes.
- Durable Bond: Forms a long-lasting, durable bond on fabrics and leather within 3 minutes.
- Water Resistant: This glue is waterproof, flexible, and UV resistant.
- Non-toxic Formula: The adhesive’s natural latex formula is free of toxic chemicals and is acid-free.
- Quick and Easy Curing: Surfaces bond quickly without any heat, ironing, or curing solvents.
- All-purpose Adhesive: Can be used both indoors and outdoors.
Caution
- Doesn’t work on glass, plastic, wood, etc.
Best Glue for Leather Repair: Aleene’s Leather & Suede Glue
- Bonds with leather, china, wood, rubber, metal, paper, ceramic and most plastics
- Achieves Maximum bonding strength in 15 - 30 seconds
- Extra-long tip allows for easy application on hard-to-reach surfaces
Last update on 2022-05-16 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Leather and suede projects require safe glue, and Aleene’s Leather & Suede Glue is one of the best ones in the market. This fast-tacking adhesive dries fast, is flexible, and dries clear. Furthermore, it won’t soak into or stain your pricey leather goods. As a result, it’s ideal for stitching, fringe trimming, and other fabric treatments. Overall, it’s a non-toxic, good performing adhesive with a great formula that you can use to repair leather and suede clothing, accessories, and house decor projects.
Specs
- Compatible Material: Leather, Suede
- Volume: 118 Milliliters
- Brand: Aleene’s
- Package: Bottle
- Color: Clear
- Type: Liquid glue
- Country of Origin: China
Features
- Ideal For Leather & Suede Repairs: Aleene’s Leather & Suede Glue is a fast-tacking glue that can be used to attach leathers, suede apparel, and other home décor items.
- Non-toxic: This glue is non-toxic with excellent bonding properties.
- Multi-Size Applicator Tip: Aleene’s Leather & Suede Glue features a customizable tip that allows you to control the glue flow according to your needs.
- Won’t Stain Leathers and Suedes: The glue from this Aleene’s leather and suede will not soak through or stain, and the connection is transparent and permanent. So there won’t be any unsightly discoloration or residue, either.
Caution
- This glue is not washable.
- This glue isn’t recommended for dry cleaning.
Best Super Glue for Leather: Loctite Professional Super Glue
- Bonds with leather, china, wood, rubber, metal, paper, ceramic and most plastics
- Achieves Maximum bonding strength in 15 - 30 seconds
- Extra-long tip allows for easy application on hard-to-reach surfaces
Last update on 2022-05-16 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
The Loctite Professional Super Glue includes a pin-point tip that allows for accurate application without dripping or oozing. The glue bonds to leather, china, wood, rubber, paper, ceramic, metal, plastics, and more.
The glue’s epoxy formula achieves its maximum bonding strength in 15 – 30 seconds, making it ideal for heavy-duty projects and repairs. Furthermore, it is flexible and can endure high temperatures. It’s also waterproof and solvent-resistant.
Specs
- Compatible Material: Wood, Leather, Ceramic, Metal, Rubber
- Volume: 1.4 oz
- Brand: Loctite
- Package: Tube
- Color: Clear
- Type: Superglue
- Country of Origin: Ireland
Features
- Form bonds instantly: Achieves maximum bonding strength in 15 – 30 seconds
- Easy to use: The pin-point nozzle ensures an accurate application without dripping and oozing. The patented quick-open/lock-closed cap prevents spills, blockages, and glue buildup at the tip when not in use. The extra-long tip makes it simple to apply glue on hard-to-reach spots.
- Versatile: Can be used in extreme hot or cold temperatures. It is waterproof and solvent-resistant as well.
Caution
- Bond skin instantly
- Can cause severe eye injuries
- Avoid contact with eyes, skin, and clothing
- Use in a well-ventilated area
Best Leather Glue for Car Seats: J-B Weld Glue
- Leatherweld: For durable, long lasting fabric repair on furniture, clothes, & more, rely on LeatherWeld, our...
- What the professionals use: Builders, mechanics & repair pros know our products bond strong to a variety of...
- Included: Kit contains all the necessary tools to make professional style repairs: 3 oz. leather repair paste,...
Last update on 2022-05-16 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
The LeatherWeld Leather and Vinyl Repair Kit from J-B Weld is a versatile, long-lasting solution for all of your leather and vinyl needs. This leather and vinyl repair kit can help you repair and preserve the integrity of leather, treating stains, aging and discoloration.
This kit has all the tools you’ll need to repair your leather goods like gloves, boots, jackets, and belts. It’s durable, dependable, and will work on any leather or vinyl material with no heat required.
This leather and vinyl patching kit is ideal for leather jackets, clothing, automobiles, boats, furniture, leather accessories, as well as household and automotive uses.
Specs
- Compatible Material: Leather, Fabric
- Volume: 3 Fl. Ounces
- Brand: J-B Weld
- Package: Repair Kit
- Color: Clear
- Type: Paste glue
- Country of Origin: USA
Features
- Durable and long-lasting repair: This LeatherWeld leather and vinyl repair kit offer durable, long-lasting repair for leather, leather accessories, furniture, clothes, and much more.
- No Heat Needed: This repair kit fixes tears, rips, and cracks without external heat.
- Versatile & Dependable: Ideal for leather jackets, footwear, furniture, boats, car interiors, upholstery, and more.
- Included Accessories: 3 oz. leather repair paste, a fabric back, an applicator, and an easy instructions manual are included in the kit
Caution
- Avoid contact with eyes, skin, and clothing
Best Glue for Leather Shoes: Shoe Goo Glue
- Shoe Repair and Protective Coating for Leather, Vinyl, Rubber or Canvas
- Bonds, protects and rebuilds for a permanent repair
- Excellent sealant – Perfect for patching Small holes
Last update on 2022-05-16 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Shoe Goo is a superior glue and sealant that can mend all kinds of shoes. Shoe Goo is versatile enough to be used on a variety of surfaces, including leather, canvas, rubber boots and waders, galoshes, and other types of footwear. It can also be used to repair cracked or worn soles or damaged heels on shoes and protect them from early wear. For better adhesion to flexible materials, the glue’s formula comprises a proprietary blend of chemicals that provide superior bonding and abrasion resistance. Shoe Goo may be used to mend rubber soles, holes in canvas or leather tops, and fraying shoelaces. It is waterproof and, after curing, turns to a flexible rubber ideal for fixing waders and boots without breaking or cracking.
Specs
- Compatible Material: Leather, Vinyl, Rubber, Canvas
- Volume: 3.7 Fl. Ounces (109.4 Milliliters)
- Brand: Shoe Goo
- Package: Tube
- Color: Clear
- Type: Paste
- Country of Origin: USA
Features
- Unique Formula: The glue’s unique blend of chemicals provides excellent bonding and protective coating for leather, vinyl, rubber, or canvas surfaces.
- Excellent sealant: An ideal sealant for patching small holes in leather shoes, rubber boots, or waders.
- Waterproof: Despite water exposure, the bond is not jeopardized.
- Provides extra traction: It can be used on skateboards.
Caution
- Flammable
- Emits harmful vapors
- Use in a well-ventilated area
Best Leather Bonding Glue: Fiebing’s Leathercraft Cement
- Fiebing's Leathercraft Cement is an easy to use, quick drying glue for leather as well as other materials.
- Water-based contact adhesive can be used for a variety of crafts and on leather items such as shoes, purses,...
- Super high strength, permanent bonding with long lasting results.
Last update on 2022-05-16 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Fiebing’s Leathercraft Cement is a fast-drying, water-based glue for repairing leather, leather accessories, and other materials. This water-based contact adhesive is safe, non-toxic, and free of flammable compounds.
In addition, it’s one of the perfect adhesives for your DIY projects, crafts, and leather goods, including shoes, handbags, jackets, wallets, baseball gloves, furniture, and much more.
Specs
- Compatible Material: Leather
- Volume: 4 Fl. Ounces (118 Milliliters)
- Brand: Fiebing’s
- Package: Bottle
- Color: White
- Type: Liquid glue
- Country of Origin: USA
Features
- Easy To Use: This adhesive cement is easy to use, and quick-drying glue
- Water-Based: This contact adhesive is water-based, non-toxic, and contains no flammable compounds.
- Versatile: The glue dries clear and can be used for crafts and repairing leather and leather items such as shoes, purses, wallets, baseball furniture, etc.
- Excellent Bonding Strength: The adhesive offers dependable, long-lasting bonding.
Caution
- Avoid contact with eyes, skin, and clothing
- Don’t freeze
FAQs
Can you use super glue on leather?
Super glue is not the best glue for leather. It can dry out the material and cause it to crack. A better option would be a contact cement or an adhesive specifically designed for leather.
What is the best glue for leather?
The best glue for leather is contact cement. Contact cement is perfect for using on materials like leather because of its ability to dry clear and not leave any residue on the surface that could get in the way of sewing or finishing work. Of course, it’s best to use a non-drying contact adhesive so you can reposition it if needed, peeling off extra material with your fingers before pressing once again. The best thing about contact cement is its unique glossy finish, which makes all this effort worthwhile when your resulting job looks polished and finished professionally.
Does super glue work on leather?
Yes, and no. Superglue does not work best as leather is a porous material. The best glue for leather would be adhesives that dry clear. Superglue will work best for something like wood to glass or metal; however, it may leave a white residue on your leather if not cleaned up quickly enough.
Does gorilla glue work on leather?
A few different types of glue work on leather, and gorilla glue is one of them. It’s best to test a small area first to ensure the glue doesn’t cause the leather to become discolored or stiff.
Does fabric glue work on leather?
No. You’ll need to use a different type of glue for that. If you’ve got one, the best bet would be contact cement, but if you don’t, it’s best to stop by your local craft store and find the best option there.
Wrap Up
When choosing the right type of glue for your project, it is essential to consider the material you will be bonding together as well as the environment it will be used in. For example, if you’re working with water-sensitive materials like wood or fabric, you will want to use a waterproof adhesive like polyurethane glue. On the other hand, if you’re working with a delicate material like lace, you will want to use craft glue designed for porous materials. Always read the label on the adhesive before using it to make sure you’re using the correct type of glue for your project.
We hope this article has helped you choose the right glue for your leather works and repairs. Let us know how they work out and what types of projects we can help with next time!