Regardless of your experience level in sewing, you are bound to have some questions about sewing from time to time, and one of these questions might be about fabric glue and sewing. The questions might include the appropriate time you should use fabric glue, which projects it is apt to, how to use it, and so on.
Also, you might want to know: is fabric glue better than sewing? The answer is that fabric glue is a better option if you want to combine the things that not require to wash a lot temporarily. However, in case you need the clothing to last long, it would be better to choose sewing.
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Does Fabric Glue Really Work?
Yes, fabric glue really works. But, it depends on the purpose that you are using it for. But fabric glue does wonder if you are adding embellishments such as gemstones or sequins. It also works when you are working with certain types of fabrics.
It won’t work while you are making an article of clothing. It will only work when you are applying it on a smaller portion of that clothing like appliqué.
What Is Fabric Glue Used For?
Fabric glue is used for a variety of things during sewing projects. It is used while adding embellishments or for temporary purposes. It is also used while doing projects with kids.
Now, for garments like a top that need to last for quite a while, you wouldn’t be using fabric glue. However, for accessories like jewelry, shoes, or bags, you can easily use fabric glue. Also, it would help if you used fabric glue where sewing is impossible. An example of this is thick heavyweight materials like leather.
How to Use Fabric Glue?
The steps to be taken to use fabric glue are—
- Ensure that the fabric you intend to use the fabric glue on is there in the manufacturer’s specifications.
- Ensure that there isn’t any dust, dirt, or something else that will make the fabric glue not stick the fabrics well enough.
- Ensure that the fabric is not stretched or folded before you apply the fabric glue.
- Ensure that you wash the fabric before applying the glue so that if any shrinkage has to occur, it does before the fabric glue is applied.
- Make sure that you wet the fabric only after the fabric glue is completely dried.
Also, ensure that your fabric is machine washable if you wish to put the fabric through the washing machine.
How Do You Glue Fabric to Clothes?
All fabric glues work the same way, depending on the purpose and the type of glue you are using. Apply an even layer of fabric glue, not very thick, on the back of the fabric, and then put the other joining piece on top. Later, press with an iron so that the fabric glue is set into place.
Ensure that you do not iron the fabric pieces for too long as it again tends to loosen the glue and make the process a messy one. It is best if you have some layering on the top of the actual fabric that you have applied the fabric glue to ensure that there is even distribution of heat while you are pressing with an iron.
How Fabric Glue Reacts When Washed?
A few ways in which fabric glue will be affected when washed, depending on the type of fabric used, how the glue was used, and the type of fabric glue used.
It is recommended that before you wash the fabric in a washing machine or any other manner, you let the fabric glue dry and set properly.
Read also: How Fabric Glue Reacts When Washed?
Can You Sew Over Fabric Glue?
Yes, you can sew over fabric glue. However, it is recommended that you wait until the fabric glue is completely dry to ensure that the needle is safe and does not end up gummy due to the glue.
Whenever possible, do pin the fabrics and sew rather than using the fabric glue.
Read also: Can You Sew Over Fabric Glue? What Should You Pay Attention To?
Is It Possible to Use Fabric Glue Instead of Sewing?
Yes, it is indeed possible to use fabric glue instead of sewing. However, it depends on what you are using the fabric glue for and what you are creating. Fabric glue is best for hard to sew things and things that are temporary.
Fabric glue isn’t recommended for things that are being made to last or for things that would generally require sewing rather than gluing. Make things that you don’t plan to wash regularly with fabric glue.
For instance, fabric glue would be perfect for a Halloween costume but not for a daily wear top.
What Can I Use Instead of Fabric Glue? Alternatives to Fabric Glue
There are many alternatives to fabric glue that you can use, like sewing, fusible bonding tape, spray paint, etc.
Let us look at the alternatives to fabric glue.
#1. Traditional Sewing
Traditional sewing is the most common and the most effective alternative to fabric glue. It ensures that the project you have created remains intact for a very long time.
Though this method is extremely long-lasting, it is quite ineffective in holding together non-traditional things. Things like foam, glitter, and others cannot be imbibed into your clothing through traditional sewing.
#2. Fusible Webbing
Fusible webbing is one of the quickest and easiest ways to attach two clothing pieces without using fabric glue or sewing.
You put a thin webbing layer between the two pieces of clothing that you want to join and then press it with an iron so that the heat melts the webbing and binds the two pieces of fabric together.
To hem a piece of clothing without showing the stitching or the seams, fusible webbing is one of the best techniques.
This, again, is a great technique to bind two hems in a straight line if you are unsure that you can sew a straight line as hems are mostly visible.
Similarly, you can use fusible tape, which is very much like fusible webbing.
#3. Glues- Other Types
Though these other types of glues aren’t as perfect as fabric glue, you may require to use them from time to time.
These glues are gorilla glue, tack glue, hot glue, and so on.
Be prepared for these glues not to be very durable and not withstand machine washes as these glues aren’t made for these purposes.
Due to these glues’ consistency, it might be like applying a coat of regular paint on the top of fabric paint, which might make your fabric a little stiff and not so bendy.
Ensure that you are absolutely positive about the glue you are using for the project and its strength to hold for a longer duration or for the duration you intend it to.
Where to Buy Fabric Glue?
Fabric glue is pretty easy to find. You can purchase it from any store that sells fabrics. You can purchase fabric glue from craft stores and also from places you purchase sewing supplies. An online store like Amazon is another great choice.
You can also purchase it from chain stores, though your options may be limited here.
Permanent fabric glue: What Is It and Does It Work?
Permanent fabric glue is basically the same as fabric glue, only much stronger and more long-lasting. It is no different than the regular fabric glue.
When it boils down to it, permanent fabric glue washes out a little later than the others. It lasts longer than the other fabric glues.
Depending on how strong and how long you need your project to last, you need to select your glue type.
How to Remove Fabric Glue from Clothes?
To remove fabric glue from clothes, follow the given procedure—
- From the fabric, scrape off the glue as much as possible.
- Along with a stain remover in hot water, soak the fabric.
- Then, wash the fabric at as high a temperature as allowed by the fabric.
Removing fabric glue from clothes is a tough task. However, it is one that a person must embark upon if they have used fabric glue, and they do not want it on the fabric anymore.
Final Words
Fabric glue is one of the easiest tools to use in your sewing tool kit. It is fun, too. It is also a bit tricky if you don’t know how to use it best.
Now, you can even replace sewing if you know the correct usage of fabric glue, and you know which fabric glue is meant for which fabrics. Fabric glue, if you know what you are doing, can survive a machine wash.
The only thing you need to keep in mind is that you need to use the correct glue and know what the particular glue will do to your project.
Being equipped with the above knowledge, you will be able to use fabric glue in all of your projects and create wonderful craft and clothing projects, which will bring out the genius in you!