Can Gorilla Glue Be Used On Fabric?

Plenty of us may love nothing more than to work with fabric, but not all of us know the first thing about sewing. However, there is no need to feel down about this when we have glue to help! 

Key Takeaways

  • Adhesive Properties: Gorilla Glue is a strong, multi-purpose adhesive known for its versatility and bonding strength.
  • Fabric Compatibility: While Gorilla Glue can bond a variety of materials, it is not recommended for use on fabric.
  • Limited Flexibility: Gorilla Glue tends to dry hard and rigid, which may not be suitable for flexible fabric surfaces.
  • Potential Damage: Using Gorilla Glue on fabric can lead to stiffness, discoloration, and potential damage to the fabric fibers.
  • Alternative Adhesives: For fabric-related projects, consider using fabric glue or specific adhesives designed for fabric bonding.
  • Precautionary Measures: Always read and follow the manufacturer’s instructions when using adhesives, and test on a small, inconspicuous area of the fabric before applying to the entire surface.

Whether you have a rip in your jeans that need repairing or need to reattach some fallen accessories, glue can work wonders for your fabrics.

But, what about Gorilla Glue? Will this product transform your fabrics?

Can Gorilla Glue Be Used On Fabric?

What Is Gorilla Glue?

Gorilla Glue is a popular adhesive, known for its powerful strength and hold. Since its debut in 1994, Gorilla Glue has grown incredibly, catching the attention of many alike. Because of this extreme strength, this is a glue which can bind almost anything. 

Not only is Gorilla Glue waterproof, but it is still able to take effect in any temperature. Its incredible strength means that anyone can use it, whether than be workmen on a job or to keep in the kitchen drawer. Out of all the glues on the market, Gorilla Glue is one of the top choices.

You can find Gorilla Glue for yourself here:

Can You Use Gorilla Glue On Fabric?

Gorilla Glue is one of the strongest glues on the market today and with its amazing holding capabilities, this glue is perfect for fabric. Its biggest defense is its durability.

Gorilla Glue is a glue with a hold that will last and because it is waterproof, you do not have to worry about the glue losing its stick. 

When it comes to using glue on fabric, it can be easy to turn your nose up at the idea. However, stitching fabric is not the only method you can use.

When you have a glue that is strong enough, such as Gorilla Glue, your mended fabrics will withstand. Have a torn pair of jeans? Simply use this glue to bind it together. 

You can even put it in a washing machine and it will still survive. If you are not comfortable with sewing, have run out of thread, or are simply not good at the skill, just know that you will always have Gorilla Glue to fall back on.

RELATED: How Many Skeins of Yarn Do You Need to Crochet a Blanket?

The Best Gorilla Glue for Fabric

It is important to note that there is more than one Gorilla Glue. Since the 90s, this product has grown immensely to the point of branching out to make multiple glues. These different glues hold different properties, each being specifically tailored to certain tasks.

Some Gorilla Glue products include:

  • Gorilla Glue Original
  • Gorilla Wood Glue
  • Gorilla Super Glue
  • Gorilla Glue Clear
  • Gorilla Contact Adhesive Clear

These are only some of the many products Gorilla Glue has to offer, however each of the products sold by them get the job done.

When it comes to which glue to use for fabric work, we recommend the Gorilla Contact Adhesive Clear glue. This is the perfect glue to get as although all the glues have great hold, this one presents the best results.

Waterproof

One of the most important properties needed when it comes to gluing fabric is its waterproof abilities.

It is inevitable that you will need to wash your fabric or clothing at some point, so you need to trust that the glue will survive a washing machine. With Gorilla Contact Adhesive Clear, this need will be met. This glue is 100% waterproof, ideal for fabric work.

Clear

Another must have for gluing fabric is the color. You do not want to be gluing on gems and buttons or mending tears when you can see the clear. You want your work to be seamless, just as it would be with sewing.

Gorilla Contact Adhesive Clear is, just as the name suggests, crystal clear meaning you will not be seeing any signs of gluing on your fabric. Not only will this make your work neat and tidy but it also hides any mistakes which may have occurred.

Flexibility

Working with fabrics can be fiddly and mistakes can be made. Because of this, it is understandable for people to become wary when it comes to using a glue, especially one as strong and reliable as Gorilla Glue.

When it comes to using Gorilla Contact Adhesive Clear, you will be relieved to know that this glue allows plenty of flexibility to move and reposition as you wish.

No Mess

Although mistakes can be made, you will know that with this Gorilla Glue you will not ruin your fabric. Gorilla Contact Adhesive Clear uses a no-run formula meaning that the glue will hold in place when used. You do not need to worry about the glue running and ruining your fabric project.

Will Other Gorilla Glue Work On Fabric?

Whilst it is true that all Gorilla Glue is strong and long lasting, this is not to say that it is ideal for everything. For example, you may choose to use Gorilla Glue Clear as it is strong and will not show its color, however this will be suitable for things such as stone, ceramic and wood.

You may also want to try the Gorilla Glue Original – again, this is not the best choice and you will not receive the best end result with your fabrics.

Gorilla Glue – How to Use It And Staying Safe

It is vital that you know how to use Gorilla Glue properly. Because of its maximum strength, this means that this glue is dangerous too if used inappropriately. It is important to not only know how to use it right for the benefit of your fabric but also for your own safety.

Below, we will be taking you through the steps to using Gorilla Glue as well as some safety tips.

Steps For Using Gorilla Glue

  • Before using any glue, you want to make sure that your fabric is washed. Make sure you wash this without using any fabric softeners.
  • The fabric you will be using needs to be fully dried. Only once it has dried can you begin gluing. Do this by applying the adhesive onto the fabric, being careful not to use too much. This is not only because it is wasteful to use too much but you don’t want too much getting on your fingers and hands.
  • Once you have applied the Gorilla Glue, be sure to wait 1 to 2 minutes for the adhesive to partly dry. By waiting, you are allowing the glue to become tacky which will enhance its bond strength in the long run.
  • Finally, press your material firmly, gluing on/together what you need to.

Using Gorilla Glue Safely

Avoid Skin and Eyes

Gorilla Glue is a very powerful adhesive and because of this it is very important to avoid your skin and eyes when using this product. This means you should glue with a steady hand, avoid applying too much adhesive and spilling onto skin, and most importantly avoid rubbing your eyes.

Both the skin and eyes are sensitive areas of the body so this strong adhesive coming into contact with these areas can lead to permanent damage.

Can Gorilla Glue Be Used On Fabric?

The safest thing to do is to always wear plastic gloves when using the Gorilla Glue as well as eye gear (goggles) and long sleeves.

In case of any incidents in which this product does come into contact with your skin and/or eyes (adhesive in eyes, fingers stuck together), please seek medical assistance immediately.

Work Space

As well as yourself, it is also essential to protect the space around you. Getting this powerful adhesive on furniture, floors or any valuable possessions can ruin these objects. Before using the Gorilla Glue, make sure you have a suitable space to do your gluing and a space you do not mind getting glue on.

RELATED: How To Get Yellow Stains Out Of White Shirts

Does Gorilla Glue Work On All Fabric?

Unfortunately, Gorilla Glue does not work on every kind of fabric out there. Its abilities only go so far so it is understandable that it will not work on every kind of material.

The fabrics you should avoid are natural fabrics such as cotton and wool. Gorilla Glue is sensitive to natural fabrics, and this is because the glue uses moisture to bond. As well as this, the adhesive also foams and expands which can create plenty of mess and ruin the fabric.

Furthermore, to use natural fabrics is dangerous as it can lead to white choking smoke or even for it to burst into flames. The safest move is to avoid wool, cotton and any other natural fabrics alike which can cause harm.

When To Use Glue On Fabrics

It should be made clear that fabric glue is not ideal for everyday use. Whilst using glue is handy and allows a strong hold, fabric glue is best suited for certain projects:

Emergency Repairs

Many have experienced that moment when they are getting ready to leave the house then notice a clothing malfunction. It could be that you have a rip in your dress or an accessory has fallen off. If this is the case, fabric glue is the best choice to fix this. It is quick, easy and efficient.

Crafts with Kids

There is nothing more fun than arts and crafts, especially with the kids. Using glue for fabrics is a great choice as it will lead to less injury. But with this said, please make sure that they are using this glue with a responsible adult.

Using Thick Materials

It may be that you are working on a project that requires you to use a thick material (e.g., stitching leather or vinyl onto plastic). If you are in this predicament, fabric glue is the best option. It is much easier and presents any risk of breaking your sewing machine.

Attaching Accessories

Many projects require attaching accessories such as beads, bows and badges. Using fabric glue is a much better option as there is less work involved, makes the process quick and easy and delivers great results.

RELATED: How Much Is A Yard Of Fabric? Yard Of Fabric Information – Fabrics By The Yard

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Use Fabric Glue To Make Everyday Garments?

Whilst Gorilla Glue can be used to make everyday garments, it is best used for other fabric projects. This is because your garments will be going through more wear and tear as well as being washed frequently.

Eventually, this will have an effect on the hold of the glue. Using Gorilla Glue for other fabric projects, however, will last a greater amount of time.

How Do I Remove Gorilla Glue From Clothing?

It is very easy to get Gorilla Glue on your clothing when in the middle of a fabric project. Because of its maximum strength, it is not too easy to remove this glue.

Your best option will be to use nail polish remover with acetone to peel away and remove the adhesive.

How Long Does It Take For Fabric Glue To Dry?

The amount of time it takes for fabric glue to dry all depends on the product itself. You can find it taking as little as 3 minutes for some fabric glues and as long as 24 hours for others. For a quick dry time, choose Gorilla Glue.

Final Thoughts

Gorilla Glue is a great product, known for its superior strength and great durability and because of this, this adhesive can even be used on fabric.

It is easy to assume the worst when it comes to choosing glue over sewing, however Gorilla Glue will get the job done. If you are not comfortable with sewing, just know that you have this adhesive to turn to.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UHHbIlyvt-I
Amanda Brown
Share
0 0 votes
Article Rating
Subscribe
Notify of
guest
0 Comments
Inline Feedbacks
View all comments
0
Would love your thoughts, please comment.x
()
x