Whether you intend to make a kid’s costume, fix a garment, or bind some leather, the best fabric glue can make a huge difference. With sub-par products there is a risk that they will not stick in the same way you might expect, so the results can be disastrous. Not everyone wants to or has time to sew certain fabrics together which is where a fabric glue comes in handy.
When compiling our list of the best fabric glues we looked for more than a product that dries fast. The following are reliable products that have provided proven results and can be used on a variety of materials.
The 7 Best Fabric Glues
#7 Aleenes All Purpose Multi Fabric Fusion Glue,2-Pack
For an easy application, these fabric glue pens are one of the best available. They come as a 2-pack and tend to last a long time when used sparingly. The fine tips make it easy to glue with accuracy and it dries clear within 4 hours, often a lot less when not using as much. Both pens contain .63 fl oz and are a permanent adhesive that can be used on a variety of fabrics.
They can be used on other surfaces too including glass, rhinestones, sequins, trims, beads, and more. Water-based and non-toxic, it doesn’t have the same strong smell like a lot of the competition, and when dry remains flexible to make any garment comfortable.
#6 Plaid Delta 108 Sobo Premium Craft and Fabric Glue, 8-Ounce
A reliable craft glue that is easy to use and is available in a larger, 8-oz bottle. This is going to go a long way so expect to use it for years of quick repairs. It can be used on both semi-porous and porous surfaces to bind fabrics and dries clear. It is also flexible when dried and a permanent solution that won’t yellow over time.
The downside is that it is not washable so it is not well suited to garments but for crafts and other projects, it is still perfectly fine. A non-toxic crafting material that is popular among schools as well as families.
#5 Permatex 25247 Fabric Repair Kit, Single Unit
For repairing fabric, this is a useful kit that can come in handy. It is popular with anyone who needs to fix upholstery and amend minor blemishes in a car seat, furniture, or clothing. Included are easy to follow instructions and a color matching guide to help make it a seamless repair. The pack contains 7 cups of fabric repair in various colors, 2 cups of adhesive, application spatula, a mixing bottle, and more.
Easy to use, and great for making sure there are no different colors when dry, it relies on the user’s ability to mix the right color, but with helpful instructions, this shouldn’t be too difficult.
#4 Aleene’s Fabric Fusion Tape
this fabric glue tape offers something a little different and is arguably the easiest product to use on our list. It offers the chance to fix on the spot and when time is of the essence, this is about as convenient as it comes. The 20 ft length ensures it will last through many repairs and at 5/8 inches thick there is plenty of it to bind two fabrics together or fix blemishes and holes.
It is a double-sided adhesive tape that binds two fabrics together permanently so once it is on, there is no need to worry about the tear opening again. It remains flexible and can be washed on a gentle cycle with cold water. No need to sew or iron, making it easy to hem curtains, eliminating the need for sewing for a lot of projects.
#3 Aleene’s Fabric Fusion Permanent Fabric Adhesive, 2-Ounce
For the price, this is easily one of the best fabric glues available. The 2-oz container makes it good value and easy to use, simply brushing on some glue onto the fabrics before pressing together lightly. After 48 hours, the garment or material can be washed without having to worry about it damaging the results. Just remember to run it inside out and wash on a gentle cycle.
It is a popular product for parents that want to glue patches onto their kid’s clothes and can be used on denim, flannel, cotton, and more. The low odor glue comes out clear and remains flexible when dried so it doesn’t move against the wearer. Try to use a sensible amount or it might take longer than expected for the glue to dry.
#2 Beacon Fabri-Tac Permanent Adhesive, 4-Ounce (FT4D)
Another sand out fabric glue that is known for its fasting application and fast-drying formula. This is also a flexible adhesive that does not become tough when dried, allowing for the comfortable wear of a garment. It bonds a variety of fabrics and materials including leather, glass, lace, wood and trims, and more. It is acid-free, washable, and good value considering the price.
It dries clear and is popular in the wedding industry where a quick fix is vital but also for costume design. We like that it doesn’t soak into the fabric and can be put to use for a variety of craft projects. Some people use it to hold fabrics together when sewing which goes to show that there are loads of ways it can be used.
#1 Tear Mender Instant Fabric and Leather Adhesive, 6 oz Bottle, TG06H
This quality fabric glue is a favorite for many. The 6 oz bottle is sure to last a long time and can be used on a variety of fabrics and leather. It is labeled as a tear mender which is exactly what is main strength lies, drying, and bonding fabrics so there is no need to throw them out. One of the best attributes is how fast it dries. It takes just 3 minutes and then 15 minutes for it to be machine washable.
It is also safe for dry cleaning and is a non-toxic formula. It is more than a fabric glue though and can be used to fix household repairs. When dry, it is waterproof and UV resistant and requires no heat or solvents to cure. Available in different sized bottles, it won’t harm the skin, is durable, and made from renewable resources.
More products picked by Amazon also worth checking out:
Fabric Glue Buyers Guide
It doesn’t matter if you have a deadline, are in desperate need of a quick fix right at that very moment, or just don’t want to throw out something that can be repaired, a fabric glue has many uses. They can bind a variety of fabrics, and at times will eliminate the need for a needle and thread.
This is only if you purchase a quality product though, and there are plenty of sub-par brands on the market. Because we don’t want anyone to waste their money, we have created a fabric glue buyer’s guide. By the end of it, you will know what to expect from the better products.
What To Look For In A Fabric Glue
Fast Drying
This can be even more important with young kids around, but perhaps you are gluing something on the morning of a wedding, there are plenty of circumstances where time is valuable. Most products in the niche claim to be fast-drying, but anything over 6 or 7 hours isn’t always that fast. Be sure to consider the intended use because anyone using it for crafting may have more time to afford, and fast-drying becomes less important.
Non-Toxic
Although most reputable products will proudly display their lack of toxic ingredients, not all of them do so be sure to pick a product that is not going to harm you or cause you to have to open every window when using it. Still, it is important to follow the instructions before using any fabric glue and another thing to look for is a glue that does not have a strong scent.
Clear Drying
This is especially important when using fabric glue as you don’t want any yellowish finish that is going to stick out and make any repairs obvious. The best fabric glues go on clear and dry the same leaving the area with a subtle finish.
Flexible When Dry
Everyone wants a bit of elasticity in their fabric glue when it is dry so that it does not feel rough if it is in a garment and can move and stretch a little as the fabric does. Any repairs to upholstery will need the same treatment as otherwise, it can cause the glue to break and impact the adhesiveness.
Water Resistance
This is important when washing the fabric, but any moisture in the air can cause low-quality adhesive damage. Over time, the glue will lose its adhesiveness which can lead to more repairs down the line.
Washability
Not every fabric glue is washable so be mindful of this before purchasing. Some people only want to use these products for crafting, in which case, it doesn’t necessarily have to be washable. Even those that are should be treated with caution since they often have to be washed on a gentle cycle or low temperature. The same applies to machine drying.
Value
There is an argument that any glue that works is a good value compared to a large bottle of something that is not so effective but you still want a decent return in terms of value. Most bottles are available in different sizes but if you aren’t going to use it often, then a small, quality bottle is best.
Why Use Fabric Glue?
There are various reasons why a fabric glue is an important piece of any crafter or sewers set up, including the following:
Eliminates The Need For Pins
By holding everything in place, it makes sewing pockets much easier. There is always a risk of the pins moving out of place which is not an issue that will occur when using an adhesive.
It Is Fast
Setting up a sewing machine and repairing a garment can take a while, and not everyone has 30 minutes to spare. In the moment, fabric glue can be a lifesaver should it be on the morning of a wedding, or for costume design.
Convenience
Again, not everyone has a full-sized sewing machine to hand when they need it but fabric glue is easy to take anywhere. The convenience of a fabric glue tape or pen is even better as they are easy to apply with accuracy and eliminate the risk of spills.
Ideal For Patches
Fabric glue can be used to fix a patch to a dress with a hole, or a kid’s jeans in need of repair or modernizing. It works fast and provides seamless results.
How To Use Fabric Glue
Every product is different and will come with its own set of instructions. But, as a general guide, here is how to use fabric glue.
Wash The Fabric
Start by washing the garment and area, even spot cleaning will help. This is because any dirt around the place you need to glue can lessen its adhesiveness. Before applying, make sure the fabric is dry as any damp surface will also reduce the impact of the glue.
If you are in a hurry, spot clean and use a hair dry to quicken things up but wait for the fabric to return to room temperature.
Prepare To Use The Glue
Although we advise looking for non-toxic fabric glue, it can still be a good idea to open the nearest window. Any detection of a strong smell should mean it is a good idea to ventilate the area. Some are fine to gt on the skin without needing to rush to wash it off but it can also be a sensible approach to wear protective gloves when applying.
Apply A Thin Layer
Using too much glue can not only cause it to lose some of its effectiveness but will also mean it takes longer to dry. If you are unsure as to how the glue will impact the fabric, test it on a spot that is out of the way.
Brush It Out
this can b with a small piece of card or anything else you have available but it helps to ensure the glue is applied evenly. This will smooth any blobs that can mak te repair obvious and makes for a smooth adhesion.
Will Fabric Glue Wash Off?
This depends on the brand and type. Most permanent fabric glue is not designed to be washed off even on a cycle but if the glue is a temporary adhesive then it is possible.
