Is it all glue?

If you have ever walked into an art store looking for glue, you probably already know there are many kinds. Knowing what each glue is best for will help you select the right glue for your projects.

This is a list of the glues I prefer to use and what I use them for. I am not a certified glue expert (but I would be if that were a thing), so these are just my opinions.

Matte medium - my most reached-for glue. I prefer Liquitex’s professional fluid matte medium. It is a watery medium that allows you to adhere thinner collage papers (less than cardstock weight). I like that a little goes a long way and it soaks into papers quickly.

Gel Medium - I grab this one when I have paper about cardstock weight. I like Dina Wakley Media gel medium. It comes in a small pot and is easy to scoop out with a spatula. It is thicker and can hold a thicker paper. This is the one I use most often when gluing down ephemera.

Lineco Adhesive - this is my favorite glue for book making. It is a permanent PVA glue that dries clear. When I am assembling a handmade book, this holds everything in place and dries fairly quickly.

Tim Holtz Distress Collage Medium - I save this one for gluing down 3D elements in books and journals. You can also use this for collage. I like that this comes on a squeeze bottle with a small tip. It allows for precise application and less waste.

Fabri-Tac - this is perfect for anytime I am gluing fabric, either onto other fabric or onto paper. I also use this for some heavier 3D items in books. It also dries clear and is fast drying.

Glossy Accents - this is an ultra clear glue that I use when my glue will be visible, for example gluing onto acetate. It dries perfectly clear and also comes in a squeeze bottle with a small tip.

Do you have a favorite glue that is always on your desk?