The best adhesives on the market are generally multi-purpose. They can be successfully used to bond a broad spectrum of materials, including wood, fabric, foam, felt, leather, we could go on and on. Sometimes it's difficult to suss out the right adhesive for your project, so we took on that task for you. Check out our list below and see which one you stick with.
Elmer's Disappearing Purple School Glue Sticks
Staff pick
Our best overall will look familiar to Millennials like me; Elmer's Glue was a childhood crafting and school staple. Their non-toxic disappearing purple glue sticks are offered in various quantities, from a single stick up to a 60-count case that would better suit a classroom. The formula washes out easily and won't stain clothing or surfaces. For scrapbooking or paper art lovers, its acid-free formula dries clear and won't discolor your project over time.
Loctite Ultra Gel Control super glue
Affordable at any size
Loctite's cyanoacrylate Ultra Gel Control super glue is foolproof to use because it's clamp-free, transparent-drying, and comes in a side-squeeze bottle. It's formulated for instant adhesion, sets fully in 60 seconds, and its gel consistency won't drip, run, or (worst of all) get on your fingers. This glue's bond is also shock-proof and is rubber-toughened for protection from weather, temperature, and vibration.
EZlifego double-sided heavy-duty multipurpose and removable tape
Damage-free removal
Crooked carpets and skewed picture frames have met their match in EZlifego's double-sided clear tape. Its weight capacity is 1 pound per 4 inches of tape, and it will stick to almost every smooth surface you can think of. The best feature of this acrylic gel tape is that it's washable, reusable, and won't mark up your walls. Simply rinse it in water, and once it's dry, it's usable again and grips just as tightly. Available in 9.85-foot and 16.5-foot sizes, you'll want to use it all over your home.
3M General Purpose 45 Spray Adhesive
Even distribution
If your project requires an even application of glue, then consider 3M's 45 spray adhesive. Within 30 seconds, it bonds securely and is actually ideal for lightweight materials like balsa wood, fiberglass, cork, and more. 3M's spray adhesives are PH neutral, and therefore photo safe. However, suppose you're sensitive to chemical smells. In that case, I'd recommend using this spray adhesive outdoors or at least in a well-ventilated area.
Gorilla XL Super Glue Gel
Gorilla gets it done
Super glue is notorious for clogging at the tip, but not this tube. Gorilla designed its cap to discourage this, via a metal pin that keeps the glue tip airtight and free-flowing. Gorilla's XL super glue has a no-run gel texture that sets in just 10 to 30 seconds. Its bond is impact-resistant thanks to the incorporation of rubber particles, much like Loctite's formula above.
Aleene's Original Tacky Glue
Classic hobby glue
DIY mavens and makers of all sorts are likely familiar with Aleene's all-purpose Tacky Glue already. For over 50 years, it's been the go-to craft glue for nearly any project. Its liquid consistency is easily spreadable, making it ideal for permanently bonding flat surfaces. The tip of its cap can be trimmed to release more adhesive if needed. Aleene's tacky glue is also low-odor and does dry clear without discoloration over time.
Stick with it
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Adhesives are generally all-purpose and meant for multiple surfaces. Specialty glues exist as well, though, and often have faster drying times. Our best overall, Elmer's disappearing purple glue stick, isn't just for schoolchildren—its acid-free, clear-dry formula and firm bond make it a fine choice for crafters of all ages. Thankfully, these glue sticks wash out easily, which is essential when kids are using them.
When you need a particular glue for a specific project, chances are that superglue is the adhesive for the job. Thicker gel formulas are far simpler (and neater) to use than the original liquid Krazy Glue that leaks everywhere. Hence, it's no coincidence that Gorilla's XL super glue would be on our list instead. Its clog-proof cap with a metal pin keeps your glue flowing longer, discouraging it from drying shut and wasting the rest of the tube.