Are you tired of using fabric glue that leaves a sticky mess or sewing every single piece of felt together? Whether you’re working on crafts for kids or making a special gift, gluing felt can be a quick and easy alternative.
Felt is a versatile and commonly used fabric, appreciated for its non-fraying edges and ease of use in crafting. Whether you’re tackling a DIY project, creating costumes, or assembling handmade toys, knowing how to glue felt together can be incredibly useful.
This process may seem straightforward, but it requires a delicate touch and the right materials to ensure a strong, clean bond that doesn’t alter the appearance or texture of the felt.
In this guide, we’ll explore the techniques, tips, and best practices for gluing felt so that you can approach your next project with confidence and finesse.
What are the Benefits of Using Glue to Attach Felt?
While sewing may be the most common way of attaching pieces of felt together, gluing offers a faster and easier alternative. It eliminates the need for needle and thread and allows you to avoid making precise stitches.
Additionally, gluing is a great solution for those who are not skilled in sewing or need access to a sewing machine. It also allows you to work with smaller pieces of felt that may be difficult to sew together.
Another benefit of using glue to attach felt is its versatility. Unlike stitches, glue can bond different types of materials, such as fabric, wood, paper, and even metal. This makes it a useful adhesive for various crafting projects and repairs.
Types of Glue for Felt
When it comes to gluing felt, not all adhesives are created equal. The best glue for your project will depend on the type of felt you’re using and the purpose of your craft. Some commonly used glues for attaching felt include:
- Fabric Glue: This is a popular choice as it’s specifically designed for use with fabric materials. It dries clear, remains flexible when dry, and is machine-washable.
- Hot Glue: This type of glue quickly dries and creates a strong bond. However, it can be difficult to control and may leave visible messes or strings if not used carefully.
- Craft Glue: Also known as white school glue, this type of adhesive is a budget-friendly option that works well for lightweight projects. However, it may not be as strong or durable as other types of glue.
- Spray Adhesive: This is a quick and easy option for attaching larger pieces of felt together. Using it in a well-ventilated area and following safety precautions is important.
Ultimately, the type of glue you choose will depend on your personal preferences, the type of felt you’re using, and the intended use of your project.
What Will You Need?
Before starting, you’ll need to gather the necessary materials and tools for gluing felt. These include:
- Felt Fabric: Choose high-quality felt in your desired color and thickness.
- Fabric Glue: Look for a non-toxic, clear-drying fabric glue specifically designed for use with felt.
- Scissors: A sharp pair of scissors will help you cut the felt cleanly and accurately.
- Ruler: Use a ruler to measure and mark the felt pieces for precise cutting.
- Parchment Paper: This will help protect your work surface from glue spills or smears.
Once you have everything you need, you can start the gluing process.
10 Easy Steps on How to Glue Felt Together
Step 1. Prepare Your Work Area:
Begin by laying a piece of parchment paper over your work surface. This protects the area and prevents the felt from sticking to the surface once the glue is applied. It’s essential to have a clean, flat workspace to ensure the best possible adherence of the glue to the felt.
Step 2. Measure and Cut the Felt:
Using your ruler and a sharp pair of scissors, measure and cut the pieces of felt you will be joining. It’s important to cut as accurately as possible to ensure the edges match up well when they are glued together. Clean cuts will result in a more professional-looking finish and a stronger bond.
Step 3. Choose and Prepare Your Glue:
Select the type of glue suitable for your project, considering factors such as the weight of the felt, the permanence of the bond required, and the drying time of the adhesive. If using fabric glue or craft glue, make sure to have a damp cloth handy to clean up any excess or spills quickly.
For hot glue, set up your hot glue gun, insert a glue stick, and allow it to heat up. Meanwhile, spray adhesive requires a well-ventilated area, preferably outdoors or in a space with open windows and protective gear like gloves and a mask. Always test the adhesive on a scrap piece of felt before applying it to your project to ensure it bonds well and does not leave unwanted stains or discoloration.
Step 4. Apply the Glue to Felt:
Lay out the felt pieces that you plan to adhere to each other. Apply a thin, even layer of your chosen glue to the edge or surface of one piece of felt. Be sure not to oversaturate the felt, as too much glue can make it soggy and cause it to lose shape.
If you’re using fabric glue, apply it according to the manufacturer’s instructions, typically recommending a thin bead along the edge. For hot glue, work quickly and steadily to apply a clean line of glue, while with spray adhesive, hold the can at the recommended distance and spray a light, even coat.
Step 5. Join the Felt Pieces Together:
Carefully align the edges of the two felt pieces you intend to join. Press them together firmly without smearing the glue. Applying pressure evenly is important to ensure a strong bond across the entire glued area.
If you’re working with fabric glue or spray adhesive, follow the glue’s drying time instructions before handling the felt further. In the case of hot glue, you’ll need to act quickly as it dries fast—press the pieces together and hold them for about 20-30 seconds to ensure a secure bond.
Step 6. Press and Seal the Bond:
Once the felt pieces are joined, place a heavy object, such as a book, on top of the glued area to apply consistent pressure. This step helps to press the felt pieces together, ensuring a tighter bond as the glue sets.
Leave the heavy object in place for the amount of time recommended by the glue manufacturer, which could be a few minutes or longer. Ensure not to disturb the felt during this time to prevent any bond weakening.
Step 7. Check the Bond:
After allowing the glue to set properly under pressure, gently lift the heavy object and examine the bond between the felt pieces. Make sure that they are securely joined with no edges peeling away.
If some areas seem less bonded, carefully apply additional glue under those sections and repeat the pressing process. It’s important to ensure that the bond is uniform throughout to maintain the integrity of your project.
Step 8. Trim and Clean Any Excess Glue:
Inspect the edges of your felt pieces once the bond is secure and the glue is fully dry. If any glue has oozed out during the pressing process, carefully trim it away with scissors. It’s also a good time to clean up any residue or spills on the felt surface.
If the glue used is water-soluble, a damp cloth can gently wipe away the excess. For more stubborn adhesive residue, use an appropriate glue remover, making sure it won’t damage the felt fabric. Proceed with caution, aiming to maintain your project’s clean lines and appearance.
Step 9. Allow the Glue to Cure Fully:
After cleaning any excess glue, allow the project to sit undisturbed so the bond can fully cure. The curing time may vary based on the type of glue used—check the product instructions for specific recommendations.
Typically, waiting at least 24 hours before subjecting the glued felt to any stress or strain is best. This patience ensures that the adhesive achieves its maximum strength and that the felt pieces are securely bonded for use in your final project.
Step 10. Final Inspection and Adjustments:
Perform a final inspection of your project to ensure that the felt pieces have been bonded correctly and that the glue has cured as expected. Gently test the strength of the bond by bending and lightly pulling at the edges to simulate how the item will be used.
If any adjustments are needed, this is the time to make them carefully. Once you are satisfied with the bond, your felt project is ready for display or use. Congratulations on successfully completing your felt gluing project with precision and care!
By following these steps and using the right materials, you can achieve strong, durable bonds between felt pieces that will withstand regular use. Remember to always test your adhesive before application, work in a clean and organized space, and be patient with the curing process for optimal results.
5 Additional Tips and Tricks
- Pre-test Adhesives: Before starting your main project, perform a test by gluing two scrap pieces of felt together. This gives you a chance to see how the adhesive reacts with the felt, ensuring it doesn’t seep through or fail to hold.
- Flat Surface Application: When applying glue to felt, ensure that you’re working on a flat, stable surface. This helps prevent the fabric from bunching up and allows for a more even bond.
- Thin Glue Layers: Use a thin layer of glue to minimize soak-through and to avoid a hardened texture after it dries. You can spread it evenly using a paintbrush or a glue spreader.
- Clamping: If possible, use clamps or place a heavy object on top of the felt pieces after gluing them together. This applies even pressure and helps the pieces to adhere firmly without shifting.
- Drying Time: Allow plenty of time for the adhesive to dry completely before handling the glued felt. Check the manufacturer’s recommended drying time for best results, as this can vary vastly between different types of glue.
With these additional tips and tricks, you can ensure a successful and strong bond when gluing together.
5 Things You Should Avoid
- Avoid Overapplication of Glue: Too much glue can cause the felt to become overly saturated, leading to a messy look and a weaker bond. It’s essential to apply glue sparingly to prevent seepage.
- Steer Clear of Fast-Drying Adhesives Without Positioning Correctly: Repositioning the felt pieces becomes a challenge once an adhesive quickly sets. Ensure everything is properly aligned before using fast-drying glues.
- Don’t Rush the Drying Process: Using heat tools or fans to accelerate drying can cause uneven drying or warping of the felt. Patience is key; allow the adhesive to set for the recommended time naturally.
- Avoid Rough Handling Post-Gluing: The bond can still be delicate even after the pieces seem set. Handle your project gently, especially in the first few hours post-adhesion, to avoid weakening the bond.
- Bypass Water-Based Adhesives for Large Projects: These types of glues can shrink as they dry, which may cause the felt to curl or warp, particularly in more extensive projects. Opt for an adhesive designed for the felt’s size and density.
By avoiding these common mistakes, you can ensure a smooth and successful gluing experience with your felt projects.
What is the Best Glue to Use on Felt?
When it comes to choosing the best glue for felt, there is no one-size-fits-all solution. It ultimately depends on the type and size of your project, as well as personal preference.
Some popular options include:
- Fabric Glue: This type of adhesive is specifically designed for use with fabrics, including felt. It creates a strong bond without seepage or discoloration.
- Hot Glue: Hot glue can be a quick and easy option for smaller projects. However, it may not be suitable for larger or more delicate projects as it can create a stiff and lumpy texture.
- Craft Glue: Similar to fabric glue, craft glues are designed for use with various crafting materials, including felt. They provide a strong bond and are often water-resistant.
- School Glue: This type of adhesive is suitable for simple projects and can be easily found at most craft stores or even in your kitchen pantry.
Ultimately, the best glue to use on felt will depend on your project’s specific needs and your personal preferences. Finding the perfect adhesive may take some trial and error, but by following these tips and avoiding common mistakes, you can ensure a successful bonding experience.
Does Felt Stick to Felt Without Glue?
Felt is often used in crafting because it can stick and hold onto other fabrics or surfaces without needing adhesives. However, whether or not felt will stick to itself depends on several factors, such as the type of felt, its thickness, and the surface to which it is being applied.
Some types of felt have a higher natural affinity for sticking to other materials, while others may require the use of an adhesive to create a strong bond. It is also essential to consider the felt’s thickness; thicker felts tend to stick better than thinner ones.
Ultimately, it is possible for felt to stick to itself without glue, but it may only sometimes be reliable or long-lasting. Using an appropriate adhesive can provide a more secure and durable bond for your felt projects.
Overall, it’s always best to test a small sample before committing to using only felt-to-felt bonding. By following these tips and tricks, you can ensure the success of your crafting projects using felt.
Does Fabric Glue Stick Felt?
Yes, fabric glue is designed to stick to various types of fabrics, including felt. It provides a strong bond without seepage or discoloration, making it a popular choice for crafting projects involving felt.
When using fabric glue on felt, following the manufacturer’s instructions and applying a thin layer evenly across the surface is essential. This will help prevent saturation and ensure a secure bond.
Some popular fabric glues include Aleene’s Original Tacky Glue, Beacon Fabri-Tac, and Dritz Unique Stitch. Testing a small sample before using the glue on your project is always a good idea to ensure it meets your needs.
Conclusion
In conclusion, successfully gluing felt together hinges on selecting the right adhesive, preparing the felt surface, applying glue appropriately, and allowing ample drying time.
Understanding the nuances between different glue types and the nature of felt is crucial for small crafts or extensive projects. By combining the practical tips outlined above with a mindful approach to the materials and the process, you can achieve a strong, clean bond that will hold your felt creation together effectively.
Remember to always test your chosen glue on a scrap piece of felt and be prepared for some trial and error to perfect your technique. With the right preparation and knowledge, how to glue felt together can be a seamless, enjoyable aspect of your crafting endeavors.
About the Author
Adrien Rowe, an expert in knitting, fiber arts, and bookbinding, promotes sustainability and creativity through workshops and tutorials. Passionate about education and community, he inspires crafters of all levels to learn, share, and grow in a supportive, idea-driven environment.
Professional Focus
Specializes in advanced knitting techniques, fiber manipulation, and textile innovation.
Expert in book arts, including cotton papermaking, handmade paper techniques, and bookbinding.
Dedicated to educating and inspiring crafters of all skill levels through tutorials, workshops, and hands-on learning experiences.
Passionate about creating a supportive community where makers can share ideas, learn, and grow.
Education History
Rhode Island School of Design (RISD) – Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Textiles.
University of Iowa Center for the Book – Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Book Arts.
Expertise:
Advanced knitting, fiber manipulation, papermaking, bookbinding, sustainability-focused crafting, educational workshops, creative tutorials, and fostering a supportive maker community.