Which Glue To Use? PVA, Evostick Contact Adhesive or Fiebing's Leathercraft Cement

Choosing the Right Adhesive for Your Leatherworking Projects

One of the most common questions I get asked is which glue to use. There are so many adhesives out there that it's easy to get confused about which one's right for a project. Here's how I think about three I use regularly - PVA glue, Evostick contact adhesive, and Fiebing's Leathercraft Cement - and where each one earns its place in my workshop.

PVA Glue: The Versatile Workshop Staple

What It Is

PVA (Polyvinyl Acetate) is a water-based adhesive that's widely available and commonly used in woodworking and general crafts. You'll know it as standard white glue or wood glue.

Best For

i: Edge finishing and burnishing
ii: Temporary holds before stitching
iii: Laminating thin leather layers
iv: Budget-friendly projects

Pros

i: Inexpensive and readily available
ii: Water-based and easy to clean up
iii: Non-toxic with minimal fumes
iv: Dries clear and flexible
v: Good for edge slicking when diluted

Cons

i: Not as strong as specialised leather adhesives
ii: Longer drying time
iii: Can be affected by moisture over time
iv: May not hold up on structural bonds

Evostick Contact Adhesive: The Strong Bond Solution

What It Is

Evostick is a solvent-based contact adhesive that creates an instant, permanent bond once two coated surfaces are pressed together. It's a popular choice in the UK and used across plenty of trades.

Best For

i: Bonding leather to leather
ii: Attaching leather to wood, metal, or other materials
iii: Structural bonds that need immediate strength
iv: Large surface area applications

Pros

i: Extremely strong, permanent bond
ii: Instant grab when surfaces meet
iii: Flexible when dry
iv: Water-resistant once cured
v: Works on multiple materials

Cons

i: Strong solvent fumes - needs good ventilation
ii: No repositioning once surfaces touch
iii: Can be messy to work with
iv: Requires coating both surfaces and waiting for tackiness
v: Not ideal for fine detail work

Fiebing's Leathercraft Cement: The Professional's Choice

What It Is

Fiebing's Leathercraft Cement is a specialised rubber-based adhesive made specifically for leather. It's been trusted in the leatherworking community for decades.

Best For

i: Professional leatherwork and fine craftsmanship
ii: Bonding leather pieces before stitching
iii: Attaching linings and reinforcements
iv: Projects where you need precision and a bit of repositioning time

Pros

i: Designed specifically for leather
ii: A strong, flexible bond that moves with the leather
iii: Allows brief repositioning
iv: Dries relatively quickly
v: Won't stain or discolour leather
vi: Trusted by professional leatherworkers

Cons

i: More expensive than PVA
ii: Contains solvents - needs ventilation
iii: Can be harder to find than general adhesives
iv: Needs proper storage or it dries out

So Which Should You Choose?

Choose PVA glue if: you're working on a budget, need something for edge finishing, or want a non-toxic option for lighter work. It's a good one to start with if you're new to this.

Choose Evostick contact adhesive if: you need maximum strength for structural bonds, you're working with large surface areas, or attaching leather to something that isn't leather. Just make sure you've got ventilation and a steady hand - there's no second chance once the surfaces meet.

Choose Fiebing's Leathercraft Cement if: you want a proper, purpose-built leather adhesive. It's my go-to for most bonding before stitching - the right balance of strength, flexibility, and workability.

Pro Tips for Any Adhesive

i: Always test on scrap leather first
ii: Make sure surfaces are clean and dry
iii: Work somewhere ventilated with solvent-based adhesives
iv: Apply thin, even coats - more isn't always better
v: Use clamps or weights for best results
vi: Store adhesives properly, lids tightly sealed

My Thoughts

The truth is, I keep all three in my workshop. Each has its place, and knowing when to reach for which one is part of developing the craft. Start with whatever fits your budget and your project, and you'll naturally work out what suits your own way of working.

What's your go-to adhesive? I'd love to hear about it - drop me a note in the comments.