Cardboard is a versatile and commonly used material in various industries. From packaging and shipping to arts and crafts, cardboard is a go-to choice for its lightweight and durable nature. When it comes to assembling or repairing cardboard items, having a reliable adhesive is crucial. This is where super glue comes into play.
This article will explore the pros and cons of using super glue for cardboard projects and how to use it effectively. We will also provide alternatives to super glue along with our top picks.
Super Glue Gel vs. Liquid Super Glue for Cardboard
Yes, super glue is a great option for gluing pieces of carboard together. But what kind of super glue should you choose?
When using super glue on porous materials like cardboard, you have two main formula options – the thick super glue gel or the thin liquid super glue. Each has advantages, and the right choice depends on your specific cardboard project.
The gel-based super glues:
- have a thicker, non-runny texture, making application much easier for vertical surfaces and filling gaps
- with cardboard’s uneven and absorbent surface, the gel glue can be applied precisely where needed without running
- the gel consistency gives you more working time to align cardboard pieces before the glue sets. It helps prevent drips and messy application issues on porous cardboard
In contrast, the traditional liquid super glues:
- have a thin, fast-flowing consistency. They instantly soak into porous cardboard, setting within seconds
- allow for precise bonding of tight-fitting cardboard edges and seams. Their thin consistency can sometimes permeate the cardboard layers better than gels
But the liquid glues can be messy and lack gap-filling abilities.
For most cardboard uses, the super glue gel formulas provide the best balance of viscosity and curing time needed. They offer you more control for applying enough adhesive and smoothly aligning the cardboard before drying.
Tips for Using Super Glue on Cardboard
When using super glue to bond cardboard, follow these tips for best results:
- Make sure the cardboard surfaces are clean before applying the glue. Any dirt will hinder the super glue from bonding correctly
- Apply super glue sparingly – less is more in this case
- Use super glue gel for easier application control on the uneven cardboard surface. The gel consistency helps prevent unwanted drips
- Align the cardboard pieces quickly after applying the glue. Super glue begins drying immediately and bonds rapidly
- Hold the glued pieces tightly together for 30-60 seconds to allow the initial bond to set before handling. Then avoid stressing the joint until the glue has cured
- For larger bonding areas, press glued surfaces together and slide slightly rather than just pressing straight down
- When gluing cardboard edges, ensure the pieces fit tightly together for maximum edge bond strength.
- Let any newly glued cardboard creation cure undisturbed for several hours before use for the strongest bond
Super Glue Example: Is Gorilla Glue Good for Cardboard?
Yes, Gorilla Clear Glue is considered one of the best for cardboard. It is known for its strong bond and clear drying properties. However, it is more expensive than other options, such as PVA glue or contact cement.
Advantages of Using Super Glue for Cardboard
Here are some of the pros of using super glue to bond cardboard:
- Strong bond – When applied properly, super glue forms an extremely strong, rigid bond between cardboard surfaces
- Fast drying – Super glue sets and dries within seconds, allowing cardboard projects to be assembled quickly
- Versatile – Super glue can be used with various types of cardboard, including corrugated cardboard, paperboard, or even cardstock
- Invisible – When dry, super glue is transparent, and the bond line is barely visible. This gives a cleaner look to cardboard crafts
- Affordable – Super glue is inexpensive and readily available at most hardware and grocery stores
- Easy to apply – Super glue gel formulas give you more control and less mess when gluing cardboard
- Gap filling – Super glue gel can bond two uneven cardboard surfaces by filling the small gaps between them
- Minimal prep – Cardboard surfaces don’t need much sanding or cleaning before super glue application
Disadvantages of Using Super Glue for Cardboard
Here are some of the main challenges that can arise when trying to glue cardboard:
- Porosity – Cardboard is a porous material, meaning the glue can be absorbed too deep into the surface fibers and not bond well
- Flexibility – Super glue bonds can make cardboard stiff and less flexible. This can be problematic for areas that need to bend or fold
- Moisture – Any condensation or dampness on the cardboard can interfere with super glue bonding and cause it not to adhere properly
- Drying time – Super glue starts drying extremely fast. A weak bond can result if the cardboard surfaces aren’t aligned quickly
Super Glue Alternatives for Cardboard
While super glue is a quick, strong adhesive for cardboard, some situations call for other options.
Super glue can make cardboard joints stiff and brittle. Here are several common super glue alternatives specifically for gluing cardboard:
Contact Cement
Contact cement is a liquid latex-based adhesive that creates a strong yet somewhat flexible bond with cardboard.
Contact cement is a good choice for joining large cardboard sections since it remains flexible. Limitations are the longer drying time and ventilation needed.
Hot Glue
A hot glue gun uses solid glue sticks that melt when heated in the gun. The liquid glue solidifies rapidly as it cools, bonding surfaces.
Hot glue adheres well to cardboard, sets fast, and is helpful for quick bonds and small laminating projects. But it may not provide the strongest long-term bond for heavy items.
White Glue
Basic white glue, like Elmer’s glue, bonds cardboard effectively while remaining flexible. White glue takes much longer to dry than super glue, requiring taping or bracing to hold pieces in place.
White glue is useful for general arts and crafts projects using cardboard.
Spray Adhesive
Spray adhesives come in aerosol cans, creating quick, even glue coverage over large areas. It provides full coverage and bonds multiple materials like paper and plastic sheets. But spray application requires ventilation, and the bonds may soften over time.
Epoxy Glue
Two-part epoxy mixes to create an extra strong adhesive and sealant useful for structural cardboard projects. Epoxy takes longer to cure but forms rigid, water-resistant bonds that can support the weight.
It also works as a gap filler. Epoxy is an excellent super glue alternative when extremely durable cardboard bonds are needed.
Conclusion
I hope you found this “Does super glue work on cardboard” guide helpful. Super glue is an excellent choice for bonding cardboard due to its strong adhesion, quick curing time, and versatility.
Following the suggested tips, you can effectively use super glue to assemble, repair, or enhance your cardboard projects. Remember always to read and follow the instructions provided by the manufacturer for the best results.
