How to Glue Fabric to Plastic
In this guide on how to glue fabric to plastic, we share the best glues to use as well as the steps you need to take before and after gluing. We found that purpose-built plastic adhesive works better than fabric glue but there are others you can use too.
The many types of fabric, and plastics, can make it difficult. Fabric can soak up the glue and some plastic can be sensitive (dissolved) by some glues, especially if thin. Setting times vary in this area so you may need to prepare something like clamps to hold your pieces in place.
Which Glue Should You Use for Fabric to Plastic?
When gluing fabric to plastic, we first need to decide if we want a rigid and structural result, or if a flexible result is more suitable. Other factors are the size of gluing area and the aesthetics. As some glues soak into fabrics and can discolor.
Sounds like many variables to cover here, but the following glues should give great options for a variety of cases.
Spray Adhesives
Spray adhesives, such as 3M Multi-Purpose Spray Adhesive, are a simple and easy solution for gluing fabric to plastic. They are a great choice for gluing larger areas with ease, due to their spray can application method.
Spray adhesives are best for non-structural applications because their tensile strength of the bond is lower than our next option. They dry with a flexible bond, making them excellent for fabrics.
Spray adhesives are compatible with almost all materials. They are easy to use and their set time is usually 1 to 30 minutes depending on the application. A bonus of spray adhesives is they require very little surface preparation.
Vinyl, Fabric & Plastic Glue
This glue is the all-around best choice for gluing fabric to plastic. It dries clear and does not yellow with time. Making it perfect for applications where the join is visible.
Loctite Vinyl & plastic glue is literally designed for fabric and plastic. Giving a strong bond that is flexible and works on many types of plastic. Check the label of course.
One downside is a long-ish setting time of 30 minutes. So for this glue, you may need something to hold your pieces in place.
Super Glue
Super glue is amazing for gluing fabric and plastic, especially in smaller areas. It sets in seconds and is extremely strong. Super glue sets rigid and takes 24 hours to achieve max strength, so these points need to be considered for your job.
How To Prepare Fabric and Plastic Before Gluing
Preparing fabric and plastic for gluing is quite minimal. Ensure both surfaces are free from debris and dirt. Consider if ironing the fabric will help, by reducing wrinkles in the finished product. This will vary depending on your project, especially if the join is visible.
If using spray adhesives consider the overspray regions and protect them, newspaper should be fine for this. Spray adhesives usually clean up with warm water.
If your plastic is shiny, it may be a good idea to scuff or sand the surface to make the glue bond even better.
How to Apply Glue to Fabric and Plastic
Apply glue to fabric and plastic surfaces like any other glue. Have awareness that the fabric may soak the glue and it can come through the other side of the fabric. So take care when putting them together and wear gloves if needed (especially with super glue).
Spray adhesives do not usually soak through. Only one surface needs the spray adhesive applied to it.
If your project requires it, clamp or hold your pieces together and be mindful that if these clamps are plastic they may stick to the join. Use some paper in between the job and the clamps to avoid this.
How to Cure Fabric and Plastic Glue
Glues for fabric and plastic joints cure on their own with no special actions needed. Setting times will vary between seconds and hours, so be prepared to clamp or hold the pieces in place. Anything from sticky tape to spring clamps should be fine.
Conclusion
The best glue for gluing fabric to plastic is the Loctite Fabric & Vinyl glue. Due to its all-around compatibility with many materials, ease of use, and strength. For larger-size jobs, consider the spray adhesives. Remember to have aware not to glue the clamps to the job, especially if they too are plastic.
We hope this guide on how to glue fabric to plastic has helped you with your project. Send us your project pictures!
