Staples, tacks, and nails are important for providing support to your upholstery, but using a fabric glue can help smooth edges and add extra security. Fabric glue is specifically designed for sticking fabric pieces together, but a good upholstery glue should also be able to bind fabric to other materials such as wood or metal. When reupholstering furniture, especially vintage pieces, it’s essential to choose a high-quality fabric glue that can bear the weight of dense upholstery material while blending seamlessly into the furniture piece. The glue should also offer flexibility once dried to avoid any issues.
From personal experiences with upholstery and fabric glue, it’s clear that investing in a good fabric glue is crucial for the longevity of your upholstery. It’s better to do the upholstery correctly the first time rather than dealing with the hassle of removing old glue spots. After researching customer reviews and considering key factors, here are some of the best fabric glues for upholstery.
Best spray upholstery adhesive: 3M Super 77
A spray adhesive is essential for achieving an even application when attaching upholstery to surfaces like wood or foam cushions. 3M Super 77 Spray Adhesive has a high solids content that prevents it from soaking through upholstery fabrics. This clear, drip-free spray effortlessly binds upholstery and carpet materials to various surfaces such as wood, foam, metal, plastic, and cardboard. With a dry time between 10 seconds and 20 minutes, you can easily reposition your upholstery for a smooth finish. Once dry, the bond is water-resistant and very strong.
Fastest drying time: Speed-Sew
Speed-Sew allows you to reposition your upholstery as needed before drying to a strong hold in as little as 30 minutes. It works well for attaching fabric to foam or other fabrics, including velvet, suede, and leather. Speed-Sew is machine-washable and easy to clean off hands and surfaces. However, it’s not recommended for outdoor use in below-freezing temperatures.
Best for heavy-duty jobs: E6000
E6000 is ideal for dense fabrics like velvet, suede, or leather, offering a strong hold when applied correctly. It’s important to use a small amount to avoid the glue becoming stiff. For the best results, roughen surfaces with sandpaper before applying the glue. E6000 can withstand rough weather conditions and temperatures between -40 and 180 degrees Fahrenheit.
Best hot glue option: Surebonder Fabric Stik
Surebonder Fabric Stiks are designed to work on a variety of fabrics, including leather, cotton, and lace, making them suitable for upholstery. They can be used in high- and low-temperature glue guns and are available in white or black to blend with different fabric colors. Once dried, this glue stays flexible and is machine-washable.
Best for outdoor furniture: Loctite Vinyl, Fabric & Plastic
Loctite Vinyl, Fabric & Plastic Flexible Adhesive is perfect for outdoor upholstery projects, as it works on a wide range of materials and is waterproof after 24 hours. It can withstand tough weather conditions and UV rays, making it ideal for outdoor furniture pieces.
Best bang for your buck: Aleene’s Fabric Fusion
Aleene’s Fabric Fusion provides sturdy results without breaking the bank, making it a great option for affordable upholstery projects. While it may not be as heavy-duty as other glues, it offers a strong hold once cured and is easy to use, clean up, and is machine-washable. Fabric Fusion is a good choice for light projects and crafters.
