When it comes to crafting, especially card making, adhesives are often the unsung heroes of our projects. In our crafting spotlight, we’re highlighting adhesives and showcasing the many ways they can transform your creative experience. From basic glues to specialty tapes, choosing the right adhesive can significantly impact the durability and appearance of your handmade cards.

In this post, we’ll dive into the best adhesives for paper crafting, explore their ideal uses, and share expert tips to help you get the most out of your adhesive collection.

Best Adhesives for Card Making and Their Uses

Multipurpose Liquid Glue
- Best For: Paper-to-paper bonding, layering, and small embellishments.
- Tips: Liquid glue provides a strong hold and a bit of wiggle room before it sets, allowing you to adjust your pieces for perfect placement. Use sparingly to avoid warping your paper.
Tear & Tape Adhesive
- Best For: Card layers, adhering ribbon or fabric, 3D projects including gift boxes and creating a clean, mess-free bond.
- Tips: Double-sided tape offers a quick and convenient bond, especially for larger surfaces. For a seamless look, tear or cut the tape to match the exact size of your project layers.
Stampin’ Dimensionals
- Best For: Adding dimension and depth to your cards.
- Tips: Dimensional adhesives are perfect for raising focal elements off the card base, creating visual interest. Use them under sentiments or embellishments to create a layered effect.
Glue Dots
- Best For: Small embellishments, such as sequins, buttons, and gems.
- Tips: Glue dots offer a strong bond for 3D elements. They’re also a great choice for adhering delicate items without getting glue on your fingers!
Adhesive Sheets
- Best For: Creating stickers out of die-cut shapes, adhering vellum, or any intricate element.
- Tips: Adhesive sheets are incredibly versatile and allow you to add adhesive before cutting out your shapes, making even the smallest pieces easy to stick down.

Expert Tips for Using Adhesives Effectively

Consider the Weight of Your Materials
- When working with heavier items, like chipboard or layered embellishments, choose a strong adhesive such as Multipurpose Liquid Glue or Tear Tape. For lightweight elements, glue dots or dimensionals can be effective without adding bulk.

Minimise Mess and Warping
- Apply adhesives sparingly to avoid over-saturation, especially with liquid glue. Use an applicator tip or a fine brush to control the amount of glue for a clean finish.
Mix and Match for Dimension
- Combine different adhesives to create various levels of dimension. Dimensional adhesive can be used to lift larger pieces, while glue dots can secure smaller embellishments at varying heights, adding depth to your design.

Test Before You Commit
- If you’re unsure about the strength or finish of an adhesive, do a quick test on a scrap piece. This will help you determine if it’s suitable for your project’s materials.

Adhesive Challenges in Paper Crafting and How to Overcome Them

Even the most seasoned crafters encounter adhesive-related challenges. Here’s how to solve a few common issues:

Paper Warping: To avoid warping, use minimal amounts of liquid glue and opt for dry adhesives when working with thin paper.
Sticking to Fingers: Avoid handling glue dots or small adhesive pieces directly. Instead, use tweezers to place them accurately on your project.
Visible Adhesive: For transparent or delicate materials like vellum, use adhesive sheets or carefully hidden double-sided tape to maintain a clean look.

Elevate Your Projects with the Right Adhesive

Mastering the use of adhesives can truly enhance your card-making experience. With the right tools and techniques, you can create beautiful, durable designs that showcase your creativity and craftsmanship.