Working with felt is fun, but choosing the wrong glue can turn a cool project into a sticky mess. Some glues bleed through, others don’t hold well, and nobody wants a hard, crusty finish. You need a glue that’s strong, flexible, and easy to use. I’ve tested a bunch of fabric glues on felt to find the best ones for your crafting needs. Whether you’re making toys, decorations, or costumes, these glues will help you get the job done right.
Here’s a quick rundown of the top picks:
- Aleene’s Fabric Fusion Permanent Fabric Adhesive: Best overall for strong, permanent bonds.
- Beacon Fabri-Tac Permanent Adhesive: Quickest drying time, great for fast projects.
- Permatex Fabric Repair Kit: Best for heavy-duty repairs and projects.
- Dritz 401 Fabric Glue Stick: Easiest application, ideal for kids and beginners.
- The Original Tacky Glue: Versatile and reliable for general crafting.
Top 5 Best Fabric Glue for Felt Reviews
1. Aleene’s Fabric Fusion Permanent Fabric Adhesive
Aleene’s Fabric Fusion is a popular choice for its reliable and permanent bond. It works well on various fabrics, including felt, and dries clear. This glue is a solid all-rounder for most felt projects.
Pros:
- ✅ Creates a strong, permanent bond.
- ✅ Dries clear and flexible.
- ✅ Works on a variety of fabrics.
Cons:
- ❌ Can be a bit thick to work with.
- ❌ Strong odor that may bother some users.
- ❌ May require some time to fully cure.
Verdict: A dependable choice for projects where a strong, lasting hold is essential. Great for crafts and repairs.
2. Beacon Fabri-Tac Permanent Adhesive
Beacon Fabri-Tac is known for its incredibly fast drying time. It’s a favorite among crafters who need quick results. Plus, it’s super strong and works on a bunch of different materials, not just felt.
Pros:
- ✅ Dries very quickly.
- ✅ Creates a strong and permanent bond.
- ✅ Works on a wide range of materials.
Cons:
- ❌ Can be stringy and messy to apply.
- ❌ Strong fumes, so use in a well-ventilated area.
- ❌ More expensive than some other options.
Verdict: Ideal for crafters needing a fast-drying, strong adhesive. Just be careful with the fumes and application.
3. Permatex Fabric Repair Kit
The Permatex Fabric Repair Kit is designed for heavy-duty repairs and projects. It includes a black fabric repair compound that’s waterproof and flexible. If you need something tough, this is it.
Pros:
- ✅ Excellent for heavy-duty repairs.
- ✅ Waterproof and flexible.
- ✅ Durable and long-lasting.
Cons:
- ❌ Only available in black, limiting its use.
- ❌ Requires mixing, which can be a hassle.
- ❌ Not ideal for delicate or intricate work.
Verdict: Best for robust repairs where color isn’t a concern. Perfect for fixing tears or reinforcing felt items.
4. Dritz 401 Fabric Glue Stick
The Dritz 401 Fabric Glue Stick offers a simple and mess-free application. It’s perfect for quick fixes, basting, and crafting with kids. I remember using glue sticks like this in elementary school, so it’s definitely beginner-friendly.
Pros:
- ✅ Easy and mess-free application.
- ✅ Great for kids and beginners.
- ✅ Convenient for quick fixes and basting.
Cons:
- ❌ Not as strong as liquid glues.
- ❌ May not be suitable for heavy or complex projects.
- ❌ Can leave a slight residue.
Verdict: A great option for light crafting and temporary holds. Ideal for situations where precision and ease of use are key.
5. The Original Tacky Glue
The Original Tacky Glue is a versatile and reliable option for general crafting. It’s known for its strong initial tack and ability to bond to various surfaces. I’ve used this stuff for years, and it’s always been a solid performer.
Pros:
- ✅ Strong initial tack.
- ✅ Bonds to a variety of surfaces.
- ✅ Non-toxic and easy to clean up.
Cons:
- ❌ Can be a bit thick and difficult to spread.
- ❌ May require some time to dry completely.
- ❌ Not as flexible as some other fabric glues.
Verdict: A great all-purpose glue for a wide range of crafting projects. Just be patient with the drying time.
Buying Guide
Choosing the right fabric glue for felt depends on your project. Here are a few things to consider:
- Project Type: Are you doing a quick craft, a heavy-duty repair, or something in between?
- Bond Strength: Do you need a permanent bond, or will a temporary hold suffice?
- Drying Time: How quickly do you need the glue to dry? Some glues dry in minutes, while others take hours.
- Flexibility: Will the glued area need to bend and move? Choose a flexible glue to prevent cracking.
- Ease of Use: Are you comfortable with liquid glues, or would a glue stick be easier?
- Safety: If kids are involved, opt for non-toxic and solvent-free options.
Also, always test the glue on a scrap piece of felt before applying it to your final project. This will help you ensure that it doesn’t bleed through or damage the fabric.
FAQs
Q: Can I wash felt after using fabric glue?
A: It depends on the glue. Some fabric glues are washable, while others are not. Check the product label for specific instructions.
Q: Will fabric glue damage felt?
A: Some glues can bleed through or stiffen felt. Always test the glue on a small, hidden area first to ensure it doesn’t cause damage.
Q: How do I remove fabric glue from felt?
A: Try using a solvent like acetone or a specialized glue remover. Gently dab the area with a clean cloth and avoid rubbing, which can damage the felt.
Q: Is fabric glue safe for kids to use?
A: Look for non-toxic and solvent-free fabric glues. Glue sticks are generally safer and easier for children to handle.
Q: Can I use hot glue on felt?
A: Hot glue can work, but it can also be bulky and stiff. It’s better for quick, non-delicate projects. Fabric glue usually gives a cleaner, more flexible finish.
Conclusion
Picking the right fabric glue can make all the difference in your felt projects. From Aleene’s Fabric Fusion for a strong, permanent hold to the Dritz Glue Stick for easy kid-friendly crafting, there’s an option for every need. Consider your project’s requirements, test the glue beforehand, and you’ll be well on your way to creating beautiful and durable felt crafts. Happy crafting!
This site contains affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. This means if you click on a link and buy a product, we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.
