The Miniature Glue Guide
Which glue should you use for your miniature project? A practical guide to every adhesive used in miniature making and dollhouse construction.
Adhesives covered
- Tacky Glue (PVA) — the workhorse; thick, white, forgiving. Best for paper, fabric, wood, and most general miniature work.
- CA Glue (Super Glue) — instant bond on non-porous surfaces. Best for metal, resin, ceramic, and quick fixes.
- Wood Glue — strong wood-to-wood bond; longer open time than CA. Best for structural dollhouse woodwork.
- E6000 — flexible, waterproof, industrial-strength. Best for heavy items and dissimilar materials.
- UV Resin — cures with UV light; optically clear. Best for water effects, windows, jewels, and fine details.
- Epoxy — two-part, extremely strong. Best for structural repairs and permanent bonds on heavy pieces.
- Mod Podge — sealer, glue, and finish in one. Best for decoupage, paper, and surface sealing.
- Hot Glue — fast and easy but not archival. Best for quick mockups and non-precious pieces.
- Fabri-Tac — flexible fabric adhesive. Best for soft furnishings, rugs, and upholstery.
- Contact Cement — both surfaces coated and joined. Best for leather, rubber, and large flat bonds.
- Glossy Accents — dimensional, glossy finish. Best for water droplets, dew, and glass effects.
- Weldbond — versatile PVA-type; bonds most surfaces. Good general-purpose alternative to Tacky Glue.