If we look back to some of our very fundamental school skills past sharing and recess, it was possibly cutting something, gluing something and then creating something. Our younger selves were often very proud of our creations. If it wasn’t perfect, it was still well received and loved. Remember as you go through your creative journey, it will not always be perfect. Let’s start with some basics.
Adhesive! Most crafters will gladly tell you their favorite and probably worst experience. If you go shopping either in a brick-and-mortar store or online, there are many options. As with most tools, different adhesives have different jobs. Some will work better than others for these jobs. In this post, let’s look at liquid glue verses a double-sided tape. In the above picture, it shows three of my “go to” liquid adhesives. While they vary in price and the way they apply on a project, practice with each will give you an idea of which you prefer.
Tombow is produced by a company that originally began operations in 1913 and manufactured pencils. In the early 1970’s, Tombow started with glue sticks and started the next decade moving into liquid glue. In the late 1990’s, they expanded into glue runners. Bottom line, they have the experience and quality in their products.
Looking at the difference between the Multi (white application) and Aqua (clear application), both dry clear if anything seeps out or shows. Multi Liquid glue is thicker in application and when adhering two papers together, there is little time for repositioning. Aqua Liquid glue is thinner and more liquid formula. Pending on the weight of the paper, Aqua Liquid glue if over applied can cause a wave in the paper when it dries. Both have the same kind of applicators.
Art Glitter Designer Adhesive does not have physical glitter in it! Art Institute Glitter has been around since the early 1980’s. The adhesive is a water-based, solvent-free, and permanent PVA glue. This glue may give you more value for your purchase. The company offers different size bottles which makes it easy to accommodate your hand comfort and style. The other feature point is the very fine tips it offers. This control and ability to use a very thin stream make projects adhere together without wrinkles.
The last adhesive pictured is a form of double-sided tape. It can be referred to as Tare and Tape. This type of adhesive will stick to just about anything, including you! It will have a stronger bond than a liquid adhesive but remember, there is no forgiveness or time to re-align or adjust. It works great for making treat boxes, pockets or attaching photos. To remove it from work surfaces or skin, alcohol pads or hand sanitizer works well.
Most folks in the Northwoods know, our weather, well…it often dictates how and where we do our projects. It may be the same where you are. So, if you are struggling with one choice of adhesive, try another one! But do remember, our weather, air temperature, humidity will all play a factor in our paper crafting projects.
Until next time, be creative!
Cara