Discover which glues are right for your kids' crafts and how best to use them.
There are so many glues available at the craft store that choosing the right glue for kids crafts can be daunting. For starters, white glue is perfect for all your paper gluing needs and it is safe for children to use. Rubber cement should only be used under strict adult supervision. Super glue should be avoided altogether.
Learn about each of these types of glues, including fabric glue and glue sticks, below.
White Glue (Polyvinyl Acetate)
This is one of most popular types of glue for kid’s crafts. It is a white glue that dries clear and comes in a bottle. For craft projects, use white glue for gluing paper together and lightweight items, such as fabric onto paper or cardboard. White glue is water-soluble which means it will easily wash off your hands. Do not use this glue for any outdoor items because the glue will dissolve in the rain.
Rubber Cement
Rubber cement is a popular glue used in schools as well as in the graphic arts industry. It can be used for applying labels on jars, making cards, collages, and other paper crafts. For photo projects, purchase an acid free rubber cement. Rubber cement can sometimes stain fabric. Adult supervision is needed for this glue for both young and older children. Use only in a well ventilated area.
Super Glue (cyanoacrylate)
WARNING: Never allow children to use super glue. An adult must be in charge of gluing any item that needs to be super glued. Wear gloves when using.
Some crafters use super glue because it is strong and durable. It is also water resistant. However, children should never be allowed to use super glue and adults should take every precaution to make sure children do not come in contact with this glue. Superglue can be used for crafts involving the gluing of unwanted CDs and some plastics. Not recommended for fabrics or woods due to possible staining.
Fabric Glue
Fabric glue should only be used by older children and under adult supervision. Great for making puppets, dolls, and felt and quilt projects. Fabric glue can be washed.
Glue Sticks
Under adult supervision some older children can use a glue gun for craft projects. What types of glue sticks you purchase for a glue gun depend on the glue gun you own and the project it will be used for. For example, there are all-purpose and all-temperature glue sticks that can be used for silk flower arrangements, ribbon crafts, and paper crafts. There are also glue sticks for wood projects. Knowing what type of glue gun you have and the project you have planned, you will have to read the packaging on the various types of glue sticks available.
