Which glue is better to use for decoupage?

Decoupage is a way of decorating various household items with a cloth or special paper napkins. Recently, this type of needlework has gained immense popularity. And it is no coincidence, because, having mastered the secrets of decoupage technique, you can turn any old worn-out thing into a real masterpiece. Among the materials necessary for creativity, glue for decoupage is not the last. High-quality adhesive composition from a well-known manufacturer will facilitate the work and will allow for many years to enjoy the exclusive thing created by your own hands.

Features of decoupage adhesive

The ever-growing interest in decoupage technique contributes to the development of new materials designed specifically for this type of work. Well-known companies compete with each other in the production of glue and varnishes used by craftsmen in home creativity.

It is sometimes difficult for the buyer to understand the abundance of the products offered, so it will be useful to know what requirements a good decoupage adhesive should meet.

1. One of the main signs of quality glue is its consistency. The composition should not be too liquid, otherwise it will drain from the brush. And at the same time, it is undesirable to buy very thick glue, since it will be difficult to apply to the surface.
2. For work, drying speed is important. If the glue is set instantly, the needlewoman does not have the opportunity to correct the pattern or smooth out wrinkles that appear on the paper.
3. After drying, a good glue becomes completely transparent and does not change color for many years.
4. A sharp synthetic smell indicates that the glue contains chemicals that are hazardous to health.

In addition, the quality of the product can be judged by the packaging. Large manufacturers for the convenience of applying the connecting composition provide the tubes with a special device built into the lid. In order not to make a mistake with the choice, you must ask the seller for a certificate of goods.

Which glue is better - an overview of the products of major manufacturers

Decorating in the style of decoupage is gaining momentum. An increasing number of masters of applied art give preference to this type of needlework. To meet the growing demand for consumables, many well-known companies specialize in the production of decoupage glue. For example, the German company Kreul, founded in 1838 and today supplies art paints and varnishes in more than 60 countries.

Here are some of the most popular formulations for decoupage.

• Textil potch

Textil Potch decoupage adhesive has a water base and is used in fabric decoupage. This composition belongs to a series of JAVANA products and is indispensable in gluing the thinnest napkins. Using this tool is extremely simple. The surface of the fabric is treated with glue, a napkin is applied, on top of which another layer of Textil Potch is applied. After this, the product must be allowed to dry for a day and then fix the pattern with a not too hot iron. The decorated thing can be washed at a water temperature of 40 ° C.

• Art potch

Universal tool Art Potch combines glue and decoupage varnish. After drying leaves a light shine on a napkin. It can be used for finishing wood, ceramics, stone, cardboard and other surfaces. Products decorated with this adhesive are not subject to intensive and prolonged use, but simply serve as decoration of the room.

• Glitter art potch

This adhesive composition has two functions - it holds the materials together and adds elegance to the new product. This is due to the flickering holographic particles contained in the product.

• Kerzen potch

The glue is designed specifically for decorating candles with cloth or paper. Due to the special composition containing wax particles, when a candle burns, the picture on the outer surface melts with it. Refractory adhesive does not exert an unpleasant odor, dries quickly, becoming completely transparent.

• Porzellan potch

Adhesive for decoupage of ceramics, porcelain and glass. With this glue, you can decorate a plate, carafe or glass, and then use the dishes as intended. Dry the finished product in a hot oven for at least one and a half hours, after which the dishes can be washed in the dishwasher without fear of spoiling the surface.

• Mordan

Decoupage of any water-repellent surfaces with gold leaf or potala can be done using mordan glue, manufactured by Italian manufacturers. Despite the high cost of this adhesive, it is undesirable to replace it with cheaper compounds, especially PVA, as there is a risk of spoiling the expensive finishing material.

• Mod podge

The glue was developed by a well-known American company specifically for outdoor work. Combines the properties of glue, sealant and varnish. Great for decorating concrete and wood, slate and metal. It dries within 15 minutes, covering the product with a thin transparent film.

• Decola

Universal adhesive product manufactured in St. Petersburg, excellent for fabrics, glass, metal and wooden surfaces. The low cost of the product makes it attractive for beginner needlewomen.

The use of PVA glue for decoupage

Decoupage glue, sold in stores for home creativity, has a special composition, which professionals worked on. Naturally, a small jar of such a tool is quite expensive. Therefore, some needlewomen try to replace it with conventional PVA, and in most cases they succeed.

Important!

It is better to purchase PVA for decoupage in a hardware store, and not in departments with office supplies. PVA used for repair and construction has a more dense and high-quality composition.

Before you start decorating with PVA, it should be diluted to the desired consistency. To do this, the glue is combined with warm water in a ratio of 2: 1 and thoroughly mixed with a wooden stick.

DIY glue recipes

There are several methods known for making glue for decoupage with your own hands. For this work, the most ordinary products that are found in every household are suitable.

• Glue with sugar and starch

To obtain an adhesive, you will need 200 ml of water, 100 g of granulated sugar, 1 tsp. vinegar essence, 100 g of starch. Mix sugar with a glass of water and bring to a boil. Vinegar is added to the boiling syrup and continued to heat for another 20-30 seconds. The mixture is then removed from the heat and starch is added. Stir thoroughly and set aside to cool. The finished glue, similar in texture to sour cream, is similar in properties to PVA: it glues parts tightly, and after drying it becomes completely transparent.

• Egg white glue

To prepare glue for decoupage, you need to take two chicken eggs, select the protein from them and beat it in a small bowl. Then in the protein mixture should be added 2 tbsp. l chopped sugar and mix until the grains are completely dissolved. At the end of cooking, add half a teaspoon of vinegar or tartaric acid to the mixture.

Natural glue obtained in this way can only be used when the finished product is covered with several layers of varnish.

For any home creativity, including decoupage, expensive supplies are not always needed. Glue can be made with your own hands, and it will work no worse than bought in a store.However, in some cases, for example, when decorating dishes, it is necessary to use special adhesive compounds, which should be bought from trusted manufacturers.