Did you know that most pottery that was broken can be fixed? If you have all the pieces and a high-quality adhesive, you can put it back together. Finding the best glue for ceramic repairs is not easy, but with some research and knowledge of what to look for in a good glue, it’s possible. In this article, we’ll cover why certain glues are best suited for ceramics as well as discuss our 5 best glues for repairing broken ceramic and their features. We’ll also provide tips on how to apply and store the glue properly so it lasts longer. So if you’re looking for a sticky solution to your ceramic repair needs, read on!
Ceramics are beautiful, timeless pieces that can be used to decorate any home. Unfortunately, ceramic goods can be fragile and easily break. While it’s best to seek professional help for serious damage, minor repairs can often be done at home with the right adhesive. When looking for the best glue for ceramic repairs, there are a few things to consider. The best glue is going to be strong, create a durable bond and be waterproof. They should also not cause discolouration or staining on the ceramic after drying.
No matter how strong the ceramic glue is, it’s important to note that a repaired item will never be quite as robust, durable and heat-resistant as before. The best glue may be able to hold the pieces together securely, but they won’t always last as long and can become brittle with age or if exposed to moderate or high temperatures.
No matter how strong and durable the glues are, they will not be able to make, for example, a broken ceramic casserole dish or lid oven safe and usable as before. No adhesive can replicate the heat-resistant properties of a solid piece of ceramic, meaning that any repaired item will inevitably be less robust and more fragile than when it was before it was damaged.
The different types of glue for ceramics
There are different types of ceramic adhesives; the best type will depend upon the particular situation and the type of ceramic you are dealing with.
Broadly speaking, there are three types of ceramic glues:
- Super Glues
- Epoxy adhesives
- Modelling epoxy putty
The following infographic gives general guidance. Within each type, some glues will be better or worse than others, which is why we have specific recommendations for the best glue for ceramic repairs.
What makes a good glue for ceramics
The best glue for ceramic repair should be strong, durable and waterproof. It should also not cause discolouration or staining on the ceramic after drying. In general, the best glues are ones specifically designed for ceramics and pottery.
The best adhesive should also provide a strong bond between the broken pieces of ceramic and not be too brittle or prone to cracking when exposed to moderate temperatures (such as being placed in an oven). The glue should also be easy to apply and clean up afterwards.
The 5 best glues for ceramic repair
Rhino Glue
If you are inexperienced and looking for a one-off, quick fix that will get your ceramic mended, Rhino Glue is a powerful and versatile super glue that can be used for various projects.
The glue is easy to use and can bond to various materials, including ceramics, metal, plastic, wood and fabric. Its fast adhesion creates a strong bond that can handle extreme temperatures and weather conditions. I’ve even heard of people using it to repair storm windows and basketball goals!
The manufacturer states that Rhino Glue can bond Wood, Metals, Ceramics, Porcelain adhesive, China, Glass, Rubber, Fiberglass, Plastics, Leather, Resin, pewter, Fabric, Vinyl, Pottery, Electronics, PVC & ABS, Canvas and Styrofoam.
The only downside is the price, which can be pretty expensive, but you get what you pay for. The glue is strong, reliable and long-lasting, so it’s well worth the money. I would definitely recommend Rhino Glue for any of your DIY projects, and it is a brilliant porcelain glue for ceramic repairs. It’s a great product, and I’m sure you’ll be happy with the results.
What customers are saying…
PC-Clear Liquid Epoxy
Recommended by professional repairers, PC-Clear Liquid Epoxy is an excellent product for anyone looking to repair or fix damaged or broken items. It is quick and easy to use and takes only minutes to set, allowing you to get back to enjoying your items in no time. The syringe application is excellent for small and intricate repairs, allowing you to dispense only the amount you need. It is also perfect for larger repairs, as it is easily mixed, applied and has an almost invisible finish. Customers have found that this is an excellent glass cement glue.
The product is also great for Kintsugi work; the two liquids are kept apart to avoid contamination, and the sealing cap is shaped to avoid the tubes of liquid being incorrectly locked. Additionally, it is recommended to warm the tubes of liquid for better flow and mixing.
The PC-Clear Liquid Epoxy is also perfect for bonding plastic to metal and is strong enough to mend a broken stone statue. Many customers have found the product to be of great quality, with many praising the product’s ability to hold well and being easy to use and sand and polish afterwards.
Overall, the PC-Clear Liquid Epoxy is a great product for anyone looking to repair their items. It is of great quality, quick and easy to use and can be used for various repairs. Customers highly recommend it and it is sure to get the job done!
What customers are saying…
Glue Masters Professional Grade Cyanoacrylate
The Glue Masters Professional Grade Cyanoacrylate is one of the best adhesives on the market. It is incredibly strong and holds objects in place securely, making it an ideal choice for difficult repairs. It’s easy to use, and with a durable applicator tip, it can be applied precisely even in difficult-to-reach areas. I have used this glue for a variety of tasks, from repairing broken plastics and metals to glueing wood and fabric, and it has held up incredibly well.
This glue is especially useful for aquascaping, as it ensures that delicate objects stay in place without the need for mortar. I’ve also used it to repair broken antiques, and the bond is strong enough that it won’t come undone. I even used it on a broken plastic roller for a Mr. Heater, and it worked perfectly.
I also found it to be great for 3D printed objects, and it’s held up well on various materials, from porcelain to metal. The only downside is that it requires a few hours of drying time – a minor inconvenience when considering how strong the bonds are. And because you get a lot of glue in one bottle, it’s a great value for money.
Overall, the Glue Masters Professional Grade Cyanoacrylate is a great product, and I highly recommend it. It’s incredibly strong and versatile, and it’s perfect for a variety of tasks, both big and small. Whether you’re glueing rocks together for aquascaping, using it to repair broken pottery, or creating something new, this glue is one of the best choices available.
What customers are saying…
Araldite 2-Part Crystal Epoxy
Araldite’s 2-Part Crystal Epoxy is a great adhesive to have in your toolboxto glue ceramics. It’s an easy-to-use two-part epoxy that sets quickly to a clear joint, perfect for glass and metal repairs. I’ve used it to repair some candle holders and stick a ceramic pot together. It’s easy to mix, and a little goes a long way.
The adhesive sets quickly, allowing for a short window to adjust the joint before it hardens. It’s also suitable for aesthetic repairs, as it dries clear. I’ve used it to stick jewellery bales to glass decorations, and it held perfectly. It’s also strong enough to use on metal or plastic, so it’s great for more extensive repairs.
The instructions are straightforward, and the glue comes with a little tool for mixing and applying it. It’s important to remember to use it quickly once it’s mixed, as it sets fast. It also doesn’t smell too strong, so it’s a great choice for indoor repairs.
Overall, I’d highly recommend Araldite’s 2-Part Crystal Epoxy. It’s a reliable adhesive that sticks well, sets quickly, and is easy to use. It’s a great choice for glass and metal repairs; you can trust it to keep your repairs in place.
What customers are saying…
STARBOND EM-02 Super Fast Thin, Premium Instant Cyanoacrylate
The STARBOND EM-02 Super Fast Thin, Premium Instant Cyanoacrylate is a must-have product for any DIY or crafting enthusiast. The EM-02 has a thin formula that allows it to quickly seep into hard-to-reach places, creating a strong and secure bond. The glue has an incredibly fast drying time and its extended nozzle makes it easy to apply and control. Additionally, the product comes with an anti-clog cap and extra tips to ensure that your glue stays in optimal condition for as long as possible.
I recently had the chance to try the STARBOND EM-02 Super Fast Thin and I have to say, I’m impressed. The glue has a water-like consistency, which I found to be great for getting into tight spaces and crevices. It also dried quickly, leaving me with a strong and secure bond. I also liked the anti-clog cap, which made sure that the glue stayed in optimal condition and wasn’t wasted.
The STARBOND EM-02 Super Fast Thin is great for a wide variety of projects, from creating high-end furniture and jewelry to sealing knot holes on small turned vases. It can even be used to build wooden boats! It is strong, fast-drying, and easy to apply and control.
However, it is important to take caution when using this glue as it can dry quickly and can easily bond skin together if it comes into contact with it. It is also a bit messy to work with, so it is important to cover your work surface and wear gloves.
Overall, the STARBOND EM-02 Super Fast Thin is a great product for anyone who loves to craft and is looking for a strong and secure bond. It is fast-drying, easy to control, and comes with an anti-clog cap and extra tips to ensure that your glue stays in optimal condition for as long as possible.
What customers are saying…
How do you glue broken ceramic together?
Glueing ceramic pieces together can be tricky, but with the right glue and a few tips, it is definitely doable. First, make sure to clean the pieces you are looking to glue with rubbing alcohol or an acetone-based cleaner; this will help make sure that there is no dust on the surface of your ceramics.
Next, make sure to use the best glue for ceramic; this will ensure that your pieces stay together securely and won’t come undone in an hour or two. Many people choose to use a two-part epoxy as it is strong, fast-drying, and provides a secure bond. Make sure to read the instructions carefully, as some glues may require you to mix two parts together in order to activate the glue.
If you are using epoxy glue, make sure there is an even layer of the glue between both surfaces and apply gentle pressure until all surfaces are evenly sealed. This strong adhesive should start to set after a few minutes. Before the epoxy glue sets too hard, scrape off any excess with a sharp blade. You should allow your glued items to dry for 24 hours and then test them to ensure the pieces are securely held together.
If you are using super glue, make sure to apply it directly on one piece only and then press the other ceramic surface gently against it. You may need to hold for a few minutes until it starts to set, but again, leave for 24 hours before testing your newly glued item.
Finally, once your ceramic pieces have been glued together, remember to store them in a cool and dry place away from direct sunlight or moisture. Storing your glues properly will ensure they get their maximum shelf life and are usable the next time you need them.
Lakeside Pottery offers a professional repair service as well as providing lots of help and tutorials for free on their website.
Fine Art Restoration in the UK offers a range of services for the preservation and conservation of fine art as well as porcelain and ceramic.
Tips on how to apply and store the glue properly, so it lasts longer
When using any type of glue, it is important to ensure that you are following best practices for both the application and storage of the product. Here are some tips to ensure that your glue lasts longer:
Conclusion
A Sticky Solution: The best glues for ceramic repair is a great article to help you find the best glue for your ceramic repair needs. We have looked at what makes a good glue for ceramics and presented the best five glues for ceramic repair on the market. We have also given you tips on how to apply and store the glue properly so it lasts longer. Finally, we have discussed why these are considered to be the best glues for ceramic repair. With this information, you should now be able to find the best glue for your needs.
FAQs
What kind of glue to use on pottery?
Epoxy is considered one of the best types of glue to use on pottery. It provides a secure, strong bond that can last for years. It is also reasonably easy to apply and you can adjust the join before it sets, making it ideal for pottery repairs. When selecting an epoxy, make sure to read the instructions carefully and fully mix two parts together to activate the glue. Additionally, ensure there is an even layer of glue between both surfaces and apply gentle pressure until all surfaces are evenly sealed. Once the glue has started to harden, scrape off any excess with a sharp blade.
Finally, make sure to allow your pottery pieces a full 24 hours for the epoxy to set before testing its strength.
Can superglue fix ceramic?
Yes, superglue can be used to fix ceramic. It is best used for minor cracks or chips and provides a strong bond that will hold the two pieces together securely. When using super glue, make sure to apply it directly on one piece only and then press the other ceramic surface gently against it. Again, leave for 24 hours before testing your newly glued item.
Finally, remember to store the glue away from direct heat or sunlight and ensure there is no contact with children or pets, as some glues may be toxic or hazardous.
By following best practices for both the application and storage of the glue, you will ensure that it gets its maximum shelf life and is usable the next time you need it. With this information, you should now be able to find the best glue for your ceramic repair needs.
Is ceramic glue food-safe?
Most ceramic glues are food-safe, but you should never assume and you should always check the manufacturer’s instructions before use to be sure. Some epoxies and superglues may contain solvents or hazardous ingredients that could make them unsafe for kitchen use.
