Most Permanent Fabric Glues once properly applied and cured will create a semi-permanent bond that won’t be as strong and durable as conventional sewing techniques. And because of this, it shouldn’t be used to make garments or for situations that require maximum strength and durability.
But Fabric Glues are strong and effective enough to have practical uses such as mending tears, fixing hems and pockets, and attaching embellishments.
How Long Does Fabric Glue Last on Clothes
It’s important to note that the bonds that are created by fabric glues are only permanent under certain conditions but in most cases, they are only temporary. You see fabric glues tend to weaken when exposed to water, heat, and chemicals such as detergents. This means as you wash it the glue would weaken.
Most permanent brands of fabric glues once properly applied and allows to cure completely can last around 5-6 washings before it starts to fall apart.
Now if you don’t wash the fabric and don’t put too much strain on it the glue can potentially last for an indefinite period of time.
The strength of your fabric glue will also vary based on:
- The type of fabric glue used – they are many types and brands of fabric glues, and the effectiveness of each will vary based on the specific conditions and fabrics that they are used on.
- The type of material being glued together – different types of glues were designed to work with specific types of fabrics. For example, most porous fabrics like cotton and wool work better with latex-based fabric glue.
Related Article: 6 Best Fabric Glue Alternatives That Work Just As Good
Tips to Make Fabric Glue Last Longer
1- Let It Cure Completely
One of the most important things that you can do to make your fabric glue stronger and last longer is to ensure that it is set and cured properly – meaning as per the instructions for that specific brand of fabric glue. You see the length of curing time will vary with each brand of fabric glue.
So ensure that you read and follow the instructions that come with your fabric glue to give you maximum strength.
Related Article: Tips on How to Use Fabric Glue & How Long to Let it Dry
2- Use the Right Fabric Glue
Different types of fabric are held together more firmly by using specific types of fabric glue.
Cotton, denim, silk, and other natural fabrics work best with a latex glue such as Tear Mender Fabric Glue, you can click here to see the current price for a bottle on Amazon.
Synthetic fibers such as polyester and nylon work best with a glue like Fabri-tac Fabric Glue, you can click here to see it on Amazon.
And I highly recommend Fiebing’s Leathercraft Cement when working with leather.
3- Clamp or Hold the Fabric Down whilst Curing
When gluing fabric it is essential that you hold the fabric in place as the glue sets and cures. You see fabric has a tendency to move around easily which can either slow the rate of curing or make the fabric set in an incorrect position.
So the easy way to fix this is to use pins, and clothes pegs or you can even rest something heavy on it to keep the fabric in place as the glue is cured.
4- Apply Thins Coats
Some fabric glues work best when applied sparingly – meaning that they are usually best applied in thin coats. This is because if you apply too much you can risk over-saturating the fabric which hinders the curing process.
5- Avoid Washing it
The best way to make your fabric glue hold and last long is to avoid washing it often. And if you can’t avoid washing it you should wash it on a gentle cycle and avoid using hot water.
6- Ensure the Fabric is Free from Dirt and Residue
Dirt, dust, and other sediments on the fabric can hinder the effectiveness of the fabric glue. So you need to ensure that the fabric is clean and dry before applying the fabric glue.
