Attaching patches and appliques to clothing and fabrics can be a fun way to customize and repair your garments. However, choosing the right adhesive is crucial for creating durable bonds that withstand washing and wearing.
What to Consider When Choosing Fabric Glue
Not all fabric glues are created equal. Here are the key factors to keep in mind when selecting an adhesive:
Bond Strength
The strength of the bond is essential – you want a glue that keeps your patches firmly attached through repeated laundering and wear. Permanent fabric glues designed for patching tend to provide the strongest adhesion.
Flexibility
Since fabrics bend and move, the glue should remain flexible after drying and not become overly stiff or brittle. This prevents cracking or peeling over time. Flexible fabric glues are ideal.
Washability
Many fabric glues are washable, meaning the bonded area remains intact when machine washed and dried. Check the product description to ensure the glue you choose is laundry-safe.
Fabric Types
Consider what fabrics you’ll be gluing – delicate silks vs. heavy canvas, for example. Choose a fabric glue compatible with the specific materials you plan to use.
Drying Time
Faster drying glues allow you to wear or wash the garment sooner. However, slower drying ones provide more time to reposition patches. Assess your needs and preference.
Toxicity
Fabric glues range from non-toxic to highly toxic. If using around children or for clothing, choose a non-toxic, low odor adhesive. Well-ventilated areas are recommended for all gluing.
Reviews: Best Fabric Glues for Patches
With a wide range of fabric glues available, it can be tricky to determine which is best for your project. Here are in-depth reviews of top-recommended adhesives for securely bonding patches:
1. Aleene’s Fabric Fusion Permanent Adhesive
Aleene’s Fabric Fusion is a popular choice for its incredibly strong, permanent bond on all types of fabric. It maintains flexibility after drying and is machine washable and dryable.
This fabric glue is specially formulated to attach patches, appliques, embroidery, and other embellishments to fabrics like cotton, linen, polyester, denim, canvas, and more. Just apply an even layer to the back of the patch and fabric, let dry 2-4 minutes, then press together firmly.
Aleene’s Fabric Fusion dries transparent, remains flexible, and can withstand repeated washing. It’s great for clothing, accessories, quilts and is handy for hemming, crafts and home decor projects too. For patches and appliques, Aleene’s is a top performer.
- Pros: Extremely strong permanent bond; flexible when dry; clear finish; washable and dryable
- Cons: Not ideal for delicate fabrics like chiffon or silk
2. Beacon Fabri-Tac Permanent Adhesive
Beacon Fabri-Tac is beloved by crafters as one of the best fabric glues for patches and appliques. This versatile adhesive provides a transparent, permanent bond on all kinds of fabrics, including challenging synthetics like vinyl.
To use, apply a thin, even layer of Fabri-Tac to the back of the patch and the fabric. Allow it to become tacky for 2-3 minutes before firmly pressing together. The bond remains flexible when dry and is machine washable.
Beacon Fabri-Tac is an ideal choice for attaching embellishments to clothing, quilts, crafts, and home decor items that require hand or machine washing. It also effectively bonds fabric to painted surfaces.
- Pros: Bonds all fabrics including synthetics; flexible hold; dries clear; washable
- Cons: Strong odor during drying
3. Dritz 2099 Fabric Glue
Dritz 2099 is a fabric glue specially designed for patching and applique work. This non-toxic adhesive provides a strong, permanent bond that remains flexible when dry.
To apply, coat the back of the patch and position on the fabric. Gently press together and smooth with your finger, then let fully cure overnight before laundering. Dritz 2099 works on natural and synthetic fabric blends, though may not perform as well on 100% synthetic materials.
Crafters love Dritz 2099 for attaching patches to clothing, quilts, and craft projects thanks to its durability and washable hold. It’s easy to control the amount applied for more delicate fabrics.
- Pros: Made for fabric applique work; flexible bond; non-toxic; washable
- Cons: Not as effective on 100% synthetics
4. Gorilla Waterproof Fabric Glue
Known for its incredible holding power, Gorilla Waterproof Fabric Glue permanently bonds fabric and patches with a flexible, water resistant finish.
This heavy duty adhesive is easy to apply – just coat the back of the patch and the fabric, wait 60 seconds, then press together firmly. Gorilla Fabric Glue creates a super strong bond that remains somewhat flexible when dry.
Use this waterproof glue when attaching patches to outdoor gear, water bottles, tents, or items exposed to moisture. It works on canvas, denim, leather, and other heavy textiles. Allow 24 hours cure time before washing.
- Pros: Extremely strong waterproof bond; good for outdoor gear and water bottles
- Cons: Rigid when dry; visible white glue line
5. Loctite Liquid Professional Fabric Flexible Adhesive
Loctite Liquid Professional Fabric Flexible Adhesive is a versatile glue suitable for bonding fabrics, felt, patches, appliques, and many other materials.
This fabric glue provides a strong yet flexible hold. To apply, coat the surfaces to be bonded, allow the adhesive to become tacky, then press together. Loctite offers a long working time of up to 5 minutes for easier positioning of patches.
The fabric glue has a smooth consistency that helps prevent oozing and messy application. It dries clear and remains flexible to prevent cracking. Loctite Liquid Fabric is a great multi-purpose choice for crafters.
- Pros: Flexible bond; smooth consistency; long working time; clear finish
- Cons: Not specifically designed for fabric applique
6. E6000 Craft Adhesive
E6000 is a popular heavy duty craft glue suitable for firmly bonding fabric patches and embellishments. This permanent adhesive creates a strong, long-lasting hold that resists water and humidity.
To apply E6000, coat the back of the patch and position on the fabric. Allow 24 hours to fully cure before laundering. It maintains some flexibility when dry. This glue adheres well to cotton, poly-blends, denim, and canvas.
E6000 is an ideal choice when adhering patches to items like outdoor gear, umbrellas, bags, and shoes that require maximum strength and water resistance. Proper ventilation is recommended.
- Pros: Extremely strong permanent hold; water and humidity resistant
- Cons: Not designed for delicate fabrics; toxic fumes
7. Heat N Bond Iron-On Adhesive
Rather than liquid glue, Heat N Bond is an iron-on adhesive used to attach patches to fabrics. This double-sided fusible webbing has a heat-activated coating that bonds to fabrics when heated with an iron.
To apply, place the adhesive side up and position the patch. Then place the fabric right side up on top and fuse them together by pressing with a hot iron. The heat melts the glue, bonding patch and fabric.
Heat N Bond creates a permanent hold that remains after washing. It’s simple to use and a great option for iron-on patches and appliques.
- Pros: No glue needed – iron to adhere; permanent hold; simple process
- Cons: Requires an iron; doesn’t work well on heavy fabrics like denim
Tips for Using Fabric Glue on Patches
Follow these tips when using fabric glue to attach patches for the strongest hold:
- Always read the manufacturer’s instructions and follow drying times. Don’t rush the curing process.
- Apply the glue in a thin, even layer on both surfaces. Avoid using too much glue which can ooze out.
- Position the patch where desired and press down firmly. Use your fingers to smooth it out.
- Let the glue fully dry as directed, often 24 hours, before laundering or excessive wear.
- Start by testing a small area first, especially with delicate fabrics like silk or sequined material.
- Wash gently by hand or use a cold, delicate cycle in the washing machine. Avoid harsh detergents.
- For best results, sew around the edges of the patch after gluing to reinforce stitches.
The right fabric glue makes patching and applique work much easier and achieves professional-looking results. With so many options available, focus on choosing an adhesive that offers a permanent, flexible bond and suits your project needs. Our top picks provide strong adhesion for securely attaching patches to all types of fabrics and garments.