Over the years, I’ve tried a ton of different crafting products. Some have been great and stood the test of time, while others have been unreliable and ended up in the trash. Today, I’m sharing my top 5 favorite card making adhesives with you.
I use these adhesives daily. They are reliable and essential for creating quality handmade cards. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced crafter, these products are sure to enhance your card making projects. This list is in no particular order. If there’s an adhesive you like that I didn’t include, please leave a comment below letting me know what your favorites are!
Note: This blog may use affiliate links when available. If you choose to make a purchase through one of these links, I may receive a small commission at no cost to you. I don’t make recommendations lightly, and will only link to products I trust.
My 5 Favorite Card Making Adhesives:
1. 3L Repositionable Permanent Mounting Squares
1/2-Inch x 1/2-Inch, 1000 Pack
These 3L Repositionable Permanent Mounting Squares are my go-to adhesive for most projects. I’ve been using them for over 5 years and continue to be one of my favorite adhesives. These squares are versatile, easy to use, and can be cut in half if needed. They are repositionable, allowing for adjustments and fixing mistakes. If I make a mistake when I’m trying to align my design, it’s no big deal. I can carefully pull the cardstock apart shortly after it’s been positioned, then reset it. Because these mounting squares are repositionable they’re great for new crafters. I’ve also found this adhesive maintains its hold over time.
Forever in Time 3D Pop Dots Square Dual-Adhesive
1/2-Inch, 132 Pack or 1/4-Inch, 528 Pack
Another fantastic adhesive is the Forever in Time 3D Pop Dots Square Dual-Adhesive. I like these pop-dots for many of the same reasons as the 3L mounting squares. They come precut in 1/2 or 1/4 squares, and I usually mix and match them. These foam adhesive squares will quite literally “pop” your image a few millimeters off of the page to add dimension to your cards. Unlike the 3L mounting squares, they are more challenging to reposition if you make a placement mistake, so handle them with care.
3. Scor-Pal Scor-Tape
1/8″X27 Yards, Pack of 3
The 1/8th inch Scor-Pal Scor-Tape is perfect for various projects. While it’s considered a permanent adhesive, it offers an extra firm hold when needed. Originally, I bought it for placing ribbon on cards, but I’ve also used it successfully to tape down watercolor designs. Normal repositionable tape doesn’t hold these designs well due to paper warping, but the Scor-Pal tape keeps them firmly in place without any noticeable warping. It’s also great for creating borders on cards. I prefer the 1/8-inch size as it’s versatile enough, but I can double up if needed for more expansive surfaces.
4. EK Success Zig 2-Way Carded Glue Pen
Jumbo Tip Glue Pen or Fine Tip
The Zig 2-way glue pens are my current favorite liquid adhesive. The fine-tip marker works perfectly for small or intricate accents on cards. When wet (white), the adhesive becomes permanent, but if I need repositionable adhesive, I let it dry for a bit and then apply it once it’s clear. Its versatility means I don’t have to buy multiple products. For larger designs, I use the jumbo pen.
Here’s a fun tip: you can also apply the jumbo glue pen over the entire surface area of an old Cricut mat to extend its lifespan and usefulness, saving you money.
5. Duck Clean Release Blue Painter’s Tape
1-Inch (0.94-Inch x 60-Yard), 3 Rolls
While I don’t directly use this Clean Release Painter’s Tape on the front of greeting cards, it plays an integral role in my watercolor practice. Painter’s tape is excellent for beginners who tend to use too much water in their designs and for creating galaxy backgrounds. I use it to cover up areas I want to keep clean and to tape the paper down on a flat surface, preventing warping as it dries. I like this particular brand because it’s inexpensive and easy to remove without damaging the paper.
Also Great:
Tombow Mono Liquid Glue Aqua
1.69 Ounce
Even though I’ve already listed 5 adhesives, I couldn’t go without mentioning this Tombow Mono Liquid Glue Aqua. I use it a ton! I purchased a 1.69 oz bottle in 2019, and amazingly, I’m still using that same bottle today. This glue is incredibly long-lasting. I’m mindful to put the lid on when it’s not in use, and I rarely encounter any clogging issues. It provides a strong, permanent bond and features small and large applicators on each side of the bottle. This glue dries clear (with a slight shine) and is acid-free and non-toxic. Its versatility makes it perfect for card making and other crafting projects.
Thank you for stopping by to learn more about card making adhesives. Want to learn more about card making supplies? Find the other supplies that I use every day. And don’t forget to sign up for my creative inspiration newsletter for the latest card making tips and tricks. You can also find me on Instagram and Pinterest for the latest at One Paper Street! Or shop my handmade cards here!