Expertises: Architecture, Design, Art, Home improvement, Painting
You might be wondering why it is so difficult to use regular glue on leather items.
The reason for this is very simple. Being an organic material, leather tends to flex and bend a lot, and ordinary glue cannot maintain its bond in such conditions. In fact, using regular glue on leather can even damage it.
That’s why leather requires a special type of adhesive that not only creates a strong bond but is flexible enough to maintain that bond even after flexing.
But finding such an adhesive can be quite challenging as there are several options to choose from, and going through their reviews usually takes a lot of time and effort. Luckily, our informative review-based guide of the top 6 products, comprising a buying guide and some FAQs, can help you out. Then, you’ll able to repair your leather couch, chair, shoes, clothes, handbags, and every other repairable leather product with potent adhesives.
Best Leather Glue Adhesives
Contents
Here is the list of the 6 best leather glue adhesives for a strong and secure bond.
1. Gorilla Super Glue – Best for Impact Resistance
Gorilla Super Glue Gel, 20 Gram, Clear, (Pack of 1)
- GEL FORMULA: No run control gel formula that is great for...
- ANTI CLOG CAP: Helps keep the glue from drying out. It's...
Whether you’re looking for quick-drying adhesives, super glue, or craft adhesive, Gorilla Glue has it all. Both DIYers and professionals swear by this brand, which is why the Gorilla super glue gel for bonding leather is the next item we’ve included on this list.
Why Did We Like It?
Coming with a host of innovative features, the gorilla glue is a compelling choice if you are looking for the perfect leather adhesive. Firstly, its formula does not run, which makes it easier to use on all types of surfaces. This can come in really handy if you intend to use the glue to make repairs on wall hangings and décor.
Moreover, the anti-clog cap prevents this leather glue from drying out once opened. You should know that due to their nature, adhesives start drying very quickly once the cap has been opened since they get exposed to air. However, that is not the case with this product.
Additionally, the Gorilla Glue brand is known for making high-quality products that can easily resist impacts, which is another fascinating property of this adhesive. The high-strength bond is durable while also offering the flexibility required for bonding fabrics and leather.
What Could’ve Been Better?
Due to its comparatively thicker consistency than other leather glues, the Gorilla glue can take some time to enter into smaller crevices where it is applied. Although this problem does not occur with thinner adhesives, it’s only a minor issue, and overall we were quite impressed with the results.
Pros
- Non-runny formula
- Very strong bond
- Dries clear
- Versatile
Cons
- Thicker consistency
Bonding Material: Cyanoacrylate | Drying Time: 10-30 sec | Waterproof: Yes | Heat Resistant: Yes (up to 200F) | Size/Volume: 15g/0.53 oz
2. Aleene’s Leather And Suede Glue – Best for Precise Application
Aleene's15594 Leather & Suede Glue 4oz
- Includes one (4 fl. oz.) bottle of Aleene’s Leather &...
- Ideal for bonding leather to leather; suede to suede
Aleene’s is another well-known brand in the adhesive industry, offering a wide range of glue products ranging from crafting glues to DIY adhesives. This leather and suede glue is an outstanding product from the manufacturer, perfect for all types of suede and leather repairs.
Why Did We Like It?
Those looking for leather glue from a reputable brand cannot go wrong with Aleene’s leather fabric and suede glue. This glue works well on all types of fabric and leather items by creating a strong and permanent bond quickly.
Plus, the manufacturer has designed this glue to make it incredibly easy to use. It comes with a multi-size applicator tip that can be adjusted according to the needs of the project, ensuring precise and mess-free application.
Another one of the features that we really liked is that this leather cement does not soak through the material, unlike most other fabric adhesives. It prevents the material from getting stained and also makes the application process easier.
Moreover, being a highly versatile leather glue, this adhesive can be used for all types of bonding projects. It includes repairing leather goods like belts and bags while working well with other materials as well.
What Could’ve Been Better?
While testing this glue, we discovered that the bond was adversely affected by water. This means that it is not completely waterproof and should not be used on surfaces exposed to water. Make sure you keep this factor in mind when using this glue.
Pros
- Versatile
- Easy application
- No soaking and non-staining
- Strong, durable bond
Cons
- Not waterproof
Bonding Material: Polyurethane | Drying Time: 2-4 hours | Waterproof: No | Heat Resistant: No | Size/Volume: 4oz
3. Fiebing’s High Strength Adhesive – Best for Leather Projects
Sale
Fiebing's Leathercraft Cement - Leather Glue (4oz) - Quick...
- Proudly Made In The USA
- Super High Strength Leather Adhesive
Moving on to the next item on the list, we bring you Fiebing’s high-strength adhesive. This brand specializes in the development of leather care items, including dyes, glues, and patinating products. You can use this adhesive for gluing leather with minimal effort while still getting superb results.
Why Did We Like It?
While the other items on our list have been developed to work with several types of materials, Fiebing’s leather glue has been designed especially for leather projects. Yet, it provides equally amazing results when working with materials like fabric since it creates a very strong, permanent bond that is flexible enough for all types of surfaces.
Besides creating a strong bond, Fiebing’s leather cement has a non-flammable and nontoxic formula which makes it an ideal choice for children’s crafts projects. Plus, it dries completely clear, so you do not need to worry about visible signs of repair on your leather shoes.
Also worth mentioning is the fact that this glue allows you to perform modifications after application due to its considerable curing time. This property makes it the best glue for leather if you need to make adjustments, and we only wish more manufacturers incorporated this property in their products.
What Could’ve Been Better?
The only thing we noticed while testing Fiebing’s leathercraft cement is that it does require a longer period to cure compared to other leather glues on the market. While this does not affect its overall performance, it does make this glue unsuitable for emergencies or projects that need to be completed urgently.
Pros
- Wide application
- Allows modifications
- Completely safe to use
- Clear drying
Cons
- Takes some time to cure
Bonding Material: Rubber, Resin, Acetone, Alcohol | Drying Time: 15-30 sec | Waterproof: No | Heat Resistant: No | Size/Volume: 4oz
4. Tear Mender Fabric And Leather Adhesive
Tear Mender Instant Fabric and Leather Adhesive, 2 oz...
- Instant durable bond: Adhesive dries and forms and instant...
- Durable household repairs: Forms a long lasting and...
We’ll start this list with a powerful leather glue from Tear Mender, a leading manufacturer of fabric adhesives, supplying quality products since 1932. This glue is nontoxic and offers instant results so that you can complete your repairs in no time.
Why Did We Like It?
The best adhesives are those that combine ease of use with fast results. And that is the primary reason which makes this product from Tear Mender a great choice. It can create a powerful bond with any leather or fabric material within three minutes, so you don’t have to wait long to get your favorite leather jacket repaired.
Another thing that we liked about this leather glue is that it does not require any heating, ironing, or solvents for the curing process. That makes it very easy to use and also ensures that the process is a lot less cumbersome. Plus, the durability of the glue guarantees that the results are permanent.
Apart from that, you’ll love how versatile this leather adhesive is. It can be used for making repairs on clothing, upholstery, leather, sports gear, and more. You can even use it for DIY or arts and crafts projects with excellent results.
What Could’ve Been Better?
We did not come across any significant downsides to this impressive product from Tear Mender. However, it tends to leave a yellowish mark on certain fabrics, so it may not be the best choice for situations that require invisible repairs. But this does not affect the overall performance of the glue.
Pros
- Provides results quickly
- Waterproof
- Easy to use
- Versatile application
Cons
- Leaves a visible mark
Bonding Material: Natural latex, Water | Drying Time: 3 minutes | Waterproof: Yes | Heat Resistant: Yes (up to 150F) | Size/Volume: 6oz
5. Barge All-Purpose Glue
Up next is the Barge all-purpose glue, developed not only for use on leather and fabric but also for bonding surfaces like metal and wood. This makes it the most versatile leather crafting glue currently available on the market, ideal for all kinds of repair or DIY projects.
Why Did We Like It?
The Barge glue is an incredibly powerful adhesive that cobblers have used for several decades due to its strong bonding capabilities. We tested it out on a leather bag that had a broken strap and was delighted by the results. It was easy to apply and cured quickly, making the bag look as good as new.
Also, since it is an all-purpose adhesive, you can use it on rubber, wood, glass, and metal objects. Naturally, it is suitable for home DIY repairs as well as professional jobs that require only the best quality adhesive.
Adding to these features is the fact that this leather repair glue is both moisture and impact resistant. You can easily use it outside without worrying about the adhesive getting damaged. And finally, to top it all off, it is available at a surprisingly affordable price, making it a fantastic value-for-money option.
What Could’ve Been Better?
When buying this leather glue, keep in mind that it emits strong fumes which could make you uncomfortable. That’s why it is highly recommended to use this glue in a well-ventilated space or outside. Other than that, there are no issues with the Barge all-purpose cement.
Pros
- Suitable for home and professional purposes
- Easy to use
- Wide application
- Value for money
Cons
- Emits strong fumes
Bonding Material: Neoprene, Nitrile rubber | Drying Time: 10-15 min | Waterproof: Yes | Heat Resistant: Yes (up to 180F) | Size/Volume: 1 quart
6. Krazy Glue SuperGlue
Krazy Glue, Max Bond Gel, EZ Squeeze, 4 g
- Maximum Bond Formula Sets Fast And Delivers An Extra-Strong,...
- No-Run Gel Is Great For Vertical Surfaces And Difficult...
As we near the end of our list, it is time to introduce the Krazy Glue superglue to you. This multipurpose adhesive is among the fastest-acting ones on the market and is perfect if you need to bond leather, make household repairs, or complete DIY projects.
Why Did We Like It?
Similar to Gorilla Glue, Krazy Glue is a well-known brand famous for its high-quality adhesives, which have been in use for several years. This super glue from the brand has been developed for use on leather, wood, metal, rubber, and plastic materials, offering a wide range of uses.
What makes it such a great option is that it can create a very strong and durable bond within minutes of application. Plus, using it is a simple process as it comes with a clog-resistant applicator and an easy-to-hold bottle.
Apart from that, the leather glue itself has been designed in such a manner that it does not run across the surface. It helps prevent any mess during application while also ensuring that it’s suitable for vertical surfaces.
Lastly, this super glue has a temperature-resistant formula, so you can use it outside or on surfaces exposed to temperature changes without any worries.
What Could’ve Been Better?
Krazy Glue does a marvelous job of making sure its products provide effective results, and this super glue is no different. However, like many others in this segment, this adhesive is toxic and should be kept out of reach of children and pets.
Pros
- Easy to use
- Fast-acting
- Non-messy
- Versatile
Cons
- Toxic
Bonding Material: Cyanoacrylate | Drying Time: 10-30 sec | Waterproof: Yes | Heat Resistant: No | Size/Volume: 2g/0.07 oz
Best Leather Glue Adhesives Comparison Table
| Product | Bonding Material | Drying Time | Waterproof | Heat Resistant | Size/Volume |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Gorilla Super Glue | Cyanoacrylate | 10-30 sec | Yes | Yes (up to 200F) | 15g/0.53 oz |
| Aleene’s Leather And Suede Glue | Polyurethane | 2-4 hours | No | No | 4oz |
| Fiebing’s High Strength Adhesive | Rubber, Resin, Acetone, Alcohol | 15-30 sec | No | No | 4oz |
| Tear Mender Fabric And Leather Adhesive | Natural latex, Water | 3 minutes | Yes | Yes (up to 150F) | 6oz |
| Barge All-Purpose Glue | Neoprene, Nitrile rubber | 10-15 min | Yes | Yes (up to 180F) | 1 quart |
| Krazy Glue SuperGlue | Cyanoacrylate | 10-30 sec | Yes | No | 2g/0.07 oz |
Buying Guide For The Best Leather Glue Adhesive
So, these were the top ten leather adhesives available on the market right now. However, knowing about these options is not enough to ensure you find the right product. That’s why we’ve created this in-depth buyer’s guide, which lists some of the essential factors which should be considered when buying leather adhesive.
1. Bond Strength And Durability
The most important factor when selecting an adhesive, not only for gluing leather but other materials as well, is its bonding strength. Adhesives that contain rubber cement, polyurethane, and cyanoacrylate work best with leather, while products with more bonding strength will offer greater durability.
Long story short, purchasing the best glue will ensure that any repairs or projects undertaken with it will last for a very long period.
2. Drying Time
For urgent projects or emergency repairs, it is necessary to have glue that dries quickly. This is especially true for mending small rips or tears on clothing or accessories.
On the other hand, for projects that require alterations and adjustments, you will need an adhesive that takes some time to dry. So, make sure to select the glue that offers the required drying time for your project to stand out.
3. Element Resistance
Having waterproof and heat-resistant glue is always an advantage since it ensures that the finished project will not be damaged by exposure to heat and water. It also makes it possible to use such adhesive outside, adding to the versatility of the product.
Similarly, cold-resistant glues will guarantee that any tears and rips repaired using that glue do not crack in extremely low temperatures.
4. Ease Of Application
Irrespective of whether you are a professional needing an adhesive for work, or a homeowner who needs to get some repairs done, ease of use is an important consideration.
Any adhesive that is designed to be applied easily can help save a lot of time and effort while performing repairs or completing projects. Hence, when buying leather glue, read the customer reviews, which can help you find out how convenient it is to use it.
5. Compatibility With Materials
Leather glues can be used on all types of objects, such as belts, bags, pouches, gloves, and more. Most adhesives designed for leather are suitable for use on other materials, such as rubber, fabric, metal, PVC, etc. However, how effective they are when used with various materials varies from manufacturer to manufacturer.
We suggest selecting the glue, depending on how compatible it is with the materials you need to use it for.
6. Budget
When deciding which glue to select, make sure to take into account the cost of the adhesive. You do not require professional-grade glue for general household repairs and DIY projects, which can be quite costly. On the other hand, it is inadvisable to go for the cheapest option that might not provide effective results.
Just make sure to gauge both the performance and the price of the product you select before making a final decision.
Leather Glue FAQs
Does fabric glue work for leather?
Most fabric glues work very well with leather since both these materials are of a similar nature. However, the best way to determine this is to read about the product on the manufacturer’s website. At times, the label of the product mentions the types of materials the adhesive is compatible with.
Does hot glue work on leather?
Hot glue contains adhesive made using thermoplastic, which does not bond well with leather. It can even crimp leather products, which makes it unsuitable for gluing leather items. Additionally, once hot glue cools down, it can easily get removed from the surface even with the slightest pressure.
Can an adhesive be used to glue leather to leather?
For gluing leather to another leather material, you will require a special type of glue that has been specifically developed for the purpose. Ordinary wood glues or DIY adhesives do not have the bonding strength to glue leather surfaces together.
Conclusion
Based on our evaluation of the 9 best leather glue adhesives in 2023, three top expert recommendations emerge. Gorilla Super Glue proves to be an ideal option with its impact resistance and strong bond, making it suitable for a wide range of leather bonding needs. Aleene’s Leather and Suede Glue excels in precise application and versatility, providing a strong and permanent bond for various fabric and leather items. Fiebing’s High Strength Adhesive emerges as the right choice for leather projects, offering a durable and flexible bond, non-flammable formula, and the added benefit of allowing modifications even after application.
These top three recommendations cater to different needs and preferences, providing options for impact resistance, precise application, and leather-specific projects. Choose the one that best suits your requirements and enjoy reliable and effective results.
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