Best Glue for Paper – Finding the Best Glue for Paper to Paper

This post may contain affiliate links. We may earn a small commission from purchases made through them, at no additional cost to you.

When crafting, we have all had a moment where the project falls apart completely. Do not panic – it often takes DIY crafters many tries before they are satisfied. This is why glue is such an important item in a crafter’s toolbox. You do, however, need to have the correct glue for your particular project, and to select the correct glue, you need to understand which glue is ideal for your project. We hope to provide you with the information and knowledge required to select the right best glue for paper.

Types of Paper Glue

There are countless different types of paper adhesives or glues (over 350 types, in fact) available, which makes choosing the right one for your project very overwhelming. Each type of glue has its own unique characteristics; some are more effective for scrapbooking, others are best used for general papercraft projects, and some are ideal for card making. The two main adhesive types are dry and wet adhesives, each of which offers an assortment of types of glue and forms of application.

Wet Adhesives

These are referred to as glues and come in liquid glue, paste, or even spray forms. The best glue for paper to paper is that of a spray adhesive. Wet adhesives can be used for non-porous items such as plastic or metal, photographs, and an assortment of sizes of paper sheets. Adhesives can either be repositionable (this means you can move the item around before it dries completely), temporary, or permanent. Your project requirements will determine which wet glue you select.

Glue Sticks

Glue sticks are popular for scholars and crafters and come in a ChapStick or tube form. These are water-based and are very effective on big projects that require smaller details, or even when making cards. Glue sticks, as mentioned, are used by many scholars and are ideal for bonding paper to paper.

The glue from a glue stick dries clear so if you have made an error, it is not a problem. Due to it being non-toxic, water-based, and acid-free, it is also perfect for scrapbooking. This type of glue can be washed off with ease, making it perfect for use by both children and adults. However, it will not adhere to any forms of plastic.

Glue Pen

A glue pen is a practical option when paper gluing as you have control over the amount of glue you need to dispense. It is also easy to carry around as it is portable. Be careful not to put too much glue on your project when you are using the glue pen, however, as it will warp or crumple up the board or paper and leave you with a finished piece that looks unprofessional.

You can write a message with the glue pen or put a bit of the glue onto the paper and then sprinkle it with confetti or glitter to create a magical effect. This is a must for crafters, as you can use it on an assortment of craft projects and DIY art pieces.

PVA Glue

This form of glue is also called white glue or tacky glue and is ideal for attaching embellishments to ribbon, lace, paper, or for making cards. It stays wet for roughly 10 minutes, giving you sufficient time to move your item before it sticks completely and dries clear. If you have any heavy items such as coins, this glue is not suggested, as it is more suited for lighter items. It is normally used for kids’ projects such as papier mache, decoupage, or photo collages and handmade party items. You need only soap and water to wash the glue off.

Glue Bottles

This is an environmentally friendly paper gluing option while also being economical, as you can purchase it in large containers and then decant the glue into smaller bottles, making it easy to use. The glue bottles come with different tip sizes and shapes, and the bottles are completely reusable. The tips can be sealed when you are finished using the glue by replacing the cap, which stops the nozzle from being clogged up by glue. It is simple to apply the glue and there will be no mess or dripping.

Mod Podge

This is a sealer, glue, and a finish that you can use for any of your craft and art projects. It is non-toxic, water-based, and is quite similar to acrylic paint. You can use it for decoupage craft projects by taking pieces of cut-up shapes of paper or fabric and adhering them to other surfaces with the mod podge to glue them down.

Glossy Accents

This clear glass, 3D medium (also known as glossy glue) will heighten and brighten an area of your paper projects. It acts as a paper adhesive that will stick on top of your paper and under your embellishment to make it glossy and protect it. These accents are water-resistant but not waterproof so they will become cloudy and soften if water lands on them.

Glue Gun

Glue guns are extremely popular and have been on the market for years. You just have to place a glue stick in the gun and turn it on – the glue will be warmed up and softened and then can be dispensed through the tip of the gun onto your project. These are ideal if you have to glue any hard-to-reach places, as hot glue can reach all the cracks and crevices.

This glue gets super-hot and can potentially cause burns, so that this is not recommended for kids to use. The glue dries quickly, so you do not have much time to work with the glue to place your item. You will see the glue forms sticky threads when hot, which must be removed quickly as they can create a mess. You can use the glue gun for papercrafts and it will work amazingly well when gluing any accessories to your paper surfaces.

Clear Wet Glue

This glue is stronger than PVA glue or white glue and is often called cold-hot glue. This glue can be used on heavier items and is highly durable. The glue dries clear, making it great for use with craft projects. It does give off a pungent smell, however, so if you are using it to create cards, allow a few days for the smell to wear off before you give the card.

Silicone Glue

This glue dries like a rubber or plastic and can hold its shape. It creates a bond that is resistant to chemicals, moisture, weathering, and heat. It is clear, acid-free, and odorless, and is great for making cards. The glue can also be used on foam and glass and is ideal for decoupage.

Spray Adhesive

This glue comes in a can and can be sprayed onto large areas, so it is not recommended for general crafting or making cards. You need to be working in a well-ventilated area when you are applying it and you need to be wearing protective equipment. This is the best glue for gluing paper to paper, such as for a large wedding seating plan – the glue can hold down an item well and can be used to cover a large surface area as an adhesive.

Superglue

Craft projects do not normally require superglue unless you are using plastic or metal items. If you do choose to work with superglue, keep in mind that it dries almost instantly, so you will only have a short time to work with it.

Dry Adhesives

This form of adhesive comes in different shapes and formats such as photo corners, tabs, dots, and tape, and can be used for the majority of papercrafts. These are great for use on porous surfaces like card stock, chipboard, and paper. Dry adhesives are, of course, easier to clean up than their wet counterparts.

Glue Dots

In magazines, you will sometimes find that free samples are stuck to the pages. If you look at the back of the free sample, you will see a sticky adhesive glue dot, which can also be used in crafting. The small adhesive dots adhere well to glass, plastic, metal, paper, and vinyl. You buy them in a roll and, when wanting to use one, simply remove the dot from the sheet and place it directly onto the project’s surface.

Then can be used to attach embellishments such as lace, jewelry, scrapbooking pieces, and so much more. They can be bought as permanent, semi-removable, and removable, and are ideal for adding finishing touches to your craft projects.

Runner Tape

Runner tape is easy to use and can be applied faster than the other options. It has clean and simple look to it and is amazing for use on all papercrafts. It is acid-free, photo-safe, and you can replace the refill cartridge with ease. We do recommend using it on smooth surfaces only for the best results.

It is as simple as rolling out the tape you require – no cutting or peeling required. If you do not want to bother peeling off back strips, then runner tape is for you. This is an ideal option for children’s projects, craft projects at home, or tasks at the office.

Double-Sided Tape

Double-sided tape (also called finger-lift tape) is quick and easy to use, can be cleaned with ease, and will stick to the surface it is applied to instantly. In addition to being easy to apply, double-sided tape is also heat-resistant and acid-free. Being heat-resistant is great as if you use a heat gun for speeding up the drying process or embossing, the glue will not come unstuck.

This tape can be bought in different widths in a rolled format. The go-to width is narrow, as it is ideal for use for layering and matting. Should you have a heavier and larger project, then you may require a wider and thicker tape. Double-sided tape is ideal for use on card stock, chipboard, and paper. Before buying the tape, take note that certain tapes need to be cut off while others can be torn off. Most crafters prefer the tape that can be torn off as it is quicker to use, but it is up to you.

Washi tape

This is a decorative tape that can be purchased in an assortment of colors, patterns, and designs for beautifying your projects. The effect created by washi tape is much like adding glitter to double-sided tape, but without the mess and providing a good-quality look. Washi tape is loved by children of all ages as it allows them to create an assortment of designs and patterns on many different materials. You can decorate your nails, school books, ornaments, and even your home’s walls using washi tape.

Foam Tape

If you are looking to add dimension to your project, then foam tape is a great option. It is a double-sided tape that has a layer of foam in the middle, and it is simple and quick to use. The tape is made from polyurethane foam rubber, which is exceptionally flexible and durable.

You can buy foam tape in different colors, depths, and widths. This is great for matching the tape to the color of the card so that it is not visible. This is an amazing tape to use for making cards and for scrapbooking, as it creates a 3D effect.

Foam Pads

These sticky pads can be bought in sheets or rolls and are available in different sizes. They are simple to peel off and apply, are acid-free, and can be used to create 3D effects with smaller embellishments on smaller areas. Foam pads can adhere to fabric, plastic, wood, paper, and many more surfaces. You can apply them to your foam tape to create additional layering and to provide dimension and depth. These are mainly used when you want to avoid the type of sharp edges you get from foam tape.

Masking Tape

Masking tape (also known as low tack tape) is usually used to mask off a certain area or to stick something down temporarily. Test out the tape first before using it, as it may leave marks on your board or paper. Also, remember not to leave it stuck too long on your board or paper, as it may begin to bond, thus making it harder to remove.

There are so many different types of glue available that it can be hard to select the correct one for your requirements. We have put together two tables: one where you will be able to compare the different glues and see which surfaces each works with, and another to see whether these glues are acid-free, permanent, and/or removable.

Different Types of Cardboard Glue

There are a number of different types of glue available on the market, and each offers a unique application for use with cardboard. Knowing a little bit more about the different options available will aid you in selecting the correct product for your requirements.

Rubber Cement Glue

This is a polymer latex adhesive that forms an incredible bond. You would normally combine this glue with a solvent such as acetone to allow for easy application by keeping it fluid. This glue dries clear and does not wrinkle paper, and it will not shrink once dry, providing you with a layer of solid rubber. It is perfect for crafting projects and the use of cardboard.

Hot Glue

If you wish to bond cardboard together, then hot glue is a great option. It does not run due to it being very thick, and it provides a very strong bond while drying very fast. It can be quite a messy substance to work with, so it is important to know what you are doing.

PVA Glue

PVA (Polyvinyl Acetate) contains a water-based resin and is used in an assortment of wood glues as the primary ingredient, and is also found in the glue children use at school every day. PVA is ideal for paper, lightweight wood items, and cardboard. The glue dries fast, remains flexible once dry, and forms a strong bond. It cannot, however, be used to bond heavy items.

Spray Adhesive

If you are looking to create a quick bond of cardboard to paper, felt, or even to more cardboard, then a spray adhesive is perfect. It is best used on larger surface areas due to it being a spray, so the application is not very precise. Spray adhesives do not provide the strongest bond, so try not to use them on heavy materials, as you do not want your project falling to pieces.

If you are trying to bond cardboard with glue, regardless of the type, you will need to consider certain safety precautions. For example, many of the glues mentioned give off harmful fumes. Thus, it is best to wear a respirator mask when working with them. Ensure that you work in a well-ventilated area and always consult the manufacturer’s guide for more information.

Best Glue for Cardboard: LINECO Neutral pH Adhesive

To transform your project into a masterpiece will require time, energy, and the correct adhesive. The best option on the market for a crafting adhesive is that of Lineco’s neutral pH, PVA-based adhesive. It will create a bond quickly while providing a satin-like finish. Your glue will not dry out either, as it comes in a bottle that is easy to reseal. This glue is long-lasting, high-quality, and is used for storing records and archival purposes. It is a great option for photography and framing.

LINECO Neutral pH PVA Adhesive

• Permanent PVA adhesive dries clear and remains flexible
• Excellent lay-flat properties and buffered for added protection
• Apply at room temperature and avoid freezing

View on Amazon

You can lengthen the drying time of the glue simply by adding water to it, as it is water-soluble. You can also thin it out by adding water if you find it is too thick. When dry, this adhesive offers a clear finish that will not yellow over time. It is also acid-free and will dry quickly. You can apply multiple coats of this glue, which makes it ideal for use in photo albums, poster boards, and a lot more. This product by Lineco is thought of as the best glue for cardboard projects.

What Is the Best Glue for Scrapbooking?

When selecting the ideal glue for scrapbooking you have to use one that is acid-free in order to ensure that your photo memories last forever. In the past, one’s choices for scrapbooking adhesives were limited, but these days there are some amazing options available. This article aims to assist you in picking the best glue for scrapbooking.

Acid-Free Adhesive

It is imperative to remember that acid and photographs do not mix, as it is an acid formulation that is used to process photographs. When the acid from the adhesive combines with the acid in the photograph, a chemical reaction occurs. The photo will begin to yellow as the acid begins to bleed, which can potentially irreversibly damage the image. To ensure that this does not occur, you will have to use an acid-free, pH-neutral glue.

Wet versus Dry Paper Glues

You will have to determine whether you will be using a wet or dry adhesive, or for some projects, perhaps both. Wet adhesives come in the form of acid-free sprays and glue sticks – you want to ensure that you purchase a brand that does not cause the glue to become brittle once dried or wrinkles the paper. Dry adhesives can be bought as tape, dots, or photo corners, which are great for gluing photographs or scrapbooking, and you can use the spray when you are working with a larger surface area.

Repositioning Photos

You need to decide if you want your photos permanently stuck down or if you want to be able to move them around your scrapbook at a later stage. When you begin with your scrapbook, you may not be certain of the correct position for your photos and if you apply glue to them, they will stay where you have placed them. Do not worry if you have stuck your photos down and you now wish to reposition them; simply take some dental floss to carefully remove the photos from their position.

Best Wet Glue for Scrapbooking: 3M Scotch Spray Mount Repositional Spray Adhesive

When using a wet paper adhesive to glue paper, there is a wide assortment of options for you to choose from. We suggest using this spray adhesive by the well-known 3M brand, as it is the ideal choice for sticking items (such as photos and embellishments) into your scrapbook as well as many other art projects. It is an acid-free adhesive that has been specially formulated not to wrinkle the paper or bleed through, and it dries very quickly. It has been made to glue a large surface area.

3M Scotch Spray Mount Repositionable Spray Adhesive

• Repositionable and photo-safe adhesive spray for mounting artwork
• Fine mist spray is ideal for delicate papers as it will not wrinkle
• Formulated to be acid-free with full coverage and a strong hold

View on Amazon

The specially designed spray canister causes the spray to work at a wide angle for larger areas and bigger paper surfaces. You will not need a lot of sprays to adhere your photos to the pages of your scrapbook – just use a small amount. One single spray should suffice in mounting your images to the pages of your scrapbooks. If you have placed it in the incorrect spot, do not worry as you can pick it up and replace it where you wish it to go.

You will have roughly 12 hours before the spray dries for repositioning your images. The bond that forms will not become brittle with time and will not yellow either. We suggest using a mask when you are spraying and to ensure that you are working in a well-ventilated area. That being said, this spray is not nearly as noxious as some other spray glues available.

Best Dry Glue for Scrapbooking: GLUE DOTS Stitch Glue Square Dispenser

As we have shown in the above article, there is an assortment of options when working with dry glue. Glue dots are a great option for almost everything and everyone, and we recommend that you always have them in your toolbox or crafter’s supplies. The fact that this glue is a dry adhesive means that you will not need to worry about waiting times or any messes to clean up afterward. These specific glue dots are non-toxic, multi-purpose, and acid-free. They will stick to most surfaces once you apply a little pressure including paper, fabric, plastic, and glass.

GLUE DOTS Stitch Glue Square Dispenser

• These permanent glue squares are multi-purpose and stick instantly
• Transforms a variety of mixed media materials into fine works of art
• All ingredients are non-toxic and acid-free, making them 100% safe

View on Amazon

These glue dots are available in dispensers with a set of 200 of the 3/8-inch dots, and can be found in both permanent and removable formats. These dots can be used for many craft projects including stained glass, greeting cards, decorating, scrapbooking, photos, and so much more. Glue dots in general are available in different sizes, but these particular ones are the perfect size for scrapbooking.

Best Double-Sided Tape: 3M Scotch Double-Sided Tape

Double-sided tape is perfect for adhering large items to the pages of your scrapbook as it bonds instantly and creates no mess. You can purchase the Scotch double-sided tape in various widths in a roll form, although the narrow width should be your go-to for scrapbooking as it is perfect for matting and layering. Keep in mind that you can also buy rolls that simply tear off as well as other rolls that you have to cut off with scissors. The format you choose to buy is entirely up to your personal preference.

3M Scotch Double-Sided Tape

• Both sides coated with permanent adhesive without a glue mess
• Cleaner way than glue to create and craft presentations
• Holds things together without being seen and is refilled easily

View on Amazon

Double-sided tape can be frustrating as it can be cumbersome to peel off the backing strip, but manufacturers have come up with a solution for this by creating a tape that has a finger-lift. This means that the tape has dry edges on either side that allow you to remove the backing strip more easily. You can also get runner tape, which is simply tape that can be rolled out without any peeling or cutting required. Scotch double-sided tape is a great aid in paper gluing when you do not want the adhesive to be visible.

Should I Make my Scrapbook Archival?

We suggest using photo corners if you want your scrapbook to last for a long time, as that way you will be able to remove the photos if you want, either switching the order around or replacing the images completely. If you are not concerned about the photos being removed again, they can be stuck down permanently using either double-sided tape or dots.

It can be difficult to select the right glue for use with paper, particularly as there are so many options available. Our guide should assist you in selecting the correct option for your project requirements, ensuring that you create a stunning final project.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will You Get a Permanent Paper Bond When Using Hot Glue Sticks?

While you do get a strong bond when using hot glue sticks, we do not suggest using them for structural applications.

Can I Use Hot Glue on Cardboard?

Hot glue works perfectly on cardboard, as well as paper and cards!

Can Superglue Be Used on Paper?

You can use superglue on paper, but be sure to only apply a little bit and then evenly spread it out (without getting any on your fingers). While you can use superglue, there are many other options that are better to use with paper.

Can Superglue Be Used on Cardboard?

Yes, but superglue can result in the cardboard becoming quite rigid and stiff afterward. There are other adhesive options available that are better for cardboard.

Can Superglue Be Applied to Any Surface?

You can use superglue on the majority of surfaces such as hard PVC, ceramics, metal, plastic, wood, fiberglass, polycarbonate, and many more. Keep in mind, though, that particular smooth and hard plastics surfaces require specialized glues.

Is It Effective to Use Epoxy Adhesive on Cardboard?

An epoxy adhesive can be used to bind your cardboard, but over time the cardboard might tear away. Basically, the epoxy adhesive will likely outlast the cardboard.

What Is PVA Glue?

PVA (Polyvinyl Acetate) forms part of a non-toxic adhesive formulation as a synthetic polymer, bonding porous materials such as plaster, wallpaper, cement, and loads more. You will be most familiar with PVA as white craft glue.