Need Some Education On Adhesives

[lazybum]

Hi

Ive been doing leatherwork for a couple of weeks now and all ive been using is contact cement as my only adhesive. Is there any place where I can find information about the different types of adhensives used in leatherworking and their specific uses? Ive been thinking what kind of glue is suitable for gluing fabrics to leather?

Edited January 13, 2011 by lazybum

[RobDude30]

Hi

Ive been doing leatherwork for a couple of weeks now and all ive been using is contact cement as my only adhesive. Is there any place where I can find information about the different types of adhensives used in leatherworking and their specific uses? Ive been thinking what kind of glue is suitable for gluing fabrics to leather?

Contact cement seems to be the glue of choice for most of the jobs. Use it when you can as it will generally make the strongest bond.

From most of the research I have done when it comes to gluing cloth to leather, if the cloth is very thin and soaks up the contact cement, you have a couple of choices: Some folks apply contact cement only to the leather, let it mostly dry, then attach the cloth. Other folks use spray adhesive on both the cloth and leather, let it set for a minute or two, then stick together. I use both methods depending on what I am making. You will have to use some trial and error to see what works for you.

If the cloth is thick or has a backing, use contact cement. Again, trial and error to see what works for your project.

FYI, the best spray glue I have found is the 3M branded Super 77 or Hi-Strength 90. They both will dry completely. Some other brands (like Duro) will stay tacky forever and can leach through thin cloth making it sticky. Read the label before you buy.

[lazybum]

Ok thanks! What about when gluing grain side to grain side? Do you guys use contact cement as well? It doesn't seem to work very well since both surfaces are smooth.

[katsass]

Ok thanks! What about when gluing grain side to grain side? Do you guys use contact cement as well? It doesn't seem to work very well since both surfaces are smooth.

When cementing grain sides together, just scuff up the areas to be glued with a piece of fine sandpaper, both pieces. Mike

[RobDude30]

Also, one other thing to add about the contact cement - make sure you are letting it set until it is nearly dry to the touch before you stick the two pieces together. The pieces will bond immediately on contact (hence the name) and will make a permanent bond that will tear the leather before the cement comes apart.

[Randy Cornelius]

When I want to glue cloth to leather, like secureing zipper cloth edges to be sewn, I use a product called "Fabric Tac" It is a clear glue that drys fast and is really strong, it can be purchased at the craft department of most big stores, Walmart, Hobby Loby etc. It also works great on leather to leather bonds also. I use it for small projects like glueing edges together before sewing.

Randy

[lazybum]

All right thanks for the help! Will take note!

[RobDude30]

Hey Randy,

Just curious - does the Fabric Tac stay flexible? Like if it were used to glue a cloth liner into a wallet bill pocket, would it be soft or would it stiffen the wallet?

I've heard a few people mention the product, but have never tried it myself. Always looking for something "better".

Thanks!

Rob