Skip to content

Best Art Glues & Pastes of 2026

Ann Hale Avatar
Ann Hale

Last Updated:

Save
Share

* We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation.

Art glues and pastes are essential tools for any artist or crafter. These products come in a variety of forms, including liquid, gel, and paste, and are designed to adhere a wide range of materials, such as paper, fabric, wood, and metal. They are perfect for creating collages, scrapbooking, and other art projects. Some of the most popular types of art glues and pastes include PVA glue, Mod Podge, and hot glue. These products are easy to use and provide a strong, reliable bond. Whether you're a professional artist or just starting out, art glues and pastes are a must-have in your toolkit.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Top 10 Art Glues & Pastes

#TOP 1

Mod Podge Matte Sealer Glue & Finish 8 oz

Mod Podge Matte Sealer Glue & Finish 8 oz Cover

Mod Podge Matte Sealer, Glue & Finish: All-in-One Craft Solution- Quick Dry, Easy Clean, for Wood, Paper, Fabric & More. Non-Toxic - Craft with Confidence, Made in USA, 8 oz., Pack of 1

The Mod Podge Matte Sealer is a handy all-in-one glue, sealer, and finish that comes in a convenient 8 oz size, perfect for your craft supplies. It provides a clear, matte finish that helps keep your decoupage projects looking beautiful and protected. You’ll appreciate how quickly it dries on surfaces like wood, paper, canvas, and more, allowing you to move through your projects without long waits. Plus, cleanup is simple—just use soap and water to remove any extra glue, making your crafting experience easier and less messy.

9.9

FTB Score

What We Like

  • Strong adhesion and sealing
  • Dries quickly and evenly
  • Matte, non-glossy finish
  • Low odor and easy cleanup
  • Versatile for various crafts

What We Don't Like

  • Slight shine on some surfaces
  • Small bottle size

What Customers Say

"I've found this matte Mod Podge to be incredibly dependable for all kinds of craft projects—from adding glitter to roses to classic paper mâché. It goes on smoothly, dries nicely, and the matte finish looks great with no unwanted shine. The adhesive strength is impressive and it keeps everything in place once dry. While the bottle is on the smaller side, a little goes a long way, making it a great value. This is definitely a must-have in my crafting toolkit and I'll be buying it again."

"This product has become a household staple for our arts and crafts. The matte formula is perfect—it doesn’t stick to other surfaces once dry, unlike the glossy type. It’s low odor, dries within hours, and leaves projects looking clean and finished. The small bottle is easy to store and the price is great for what you get. I even keep it on subscription so I never run out."

"I love using Mod Podge for my creative projects. It adheres, seals, and even waterproofs my crafts. In my experience, nothing else gives such a clear and reliable finish. The price is very reasonable for the quality, and it’s always my go-to adhesive for a professional result."

#TOP 2

Tombow Mono Aqua Liquid Glue

  • Tombow
  • 52180
  • Original Version
  • 1 Count (Pack of 1)
Tombow Mono Aqua Liquid Glue Cover

Tombow 52180 MONO Aqua Liquid Glue, 1.69 Ounce, 1-Pack. Dual Tip Dispenser for Precise to Full Coverage Application that Dries Clear.

The Tombow Liquid Glue offers a reliable and permanent bond that dries completely clear, making it perfect for various art projects. With its dual applicators, you can easily choose the pen tip for precision in small areas or the broad tip for covering larger surfaces. This versatility allows you to tackle different tasks with ease. Plus, you won't have to worry about leaks or clogs, ensuring a mess-free experience. Being odorless, acid-free, and washable adds to its convenience, making it a safe choice for all your crafting needs.

9.8

FTB Score

What We Like

  • Strong bond for paper
  • Precision and broad tip options
  • Dries clear and fast
  • Easy to use and control
  • Minimal mess, easy cleanup

What We Don't Like

  • May wrinkle thin paper

What Customers Say

"I've been using this glue for my Bible journaling and craft repairs, and I'm really impressed with its strong, permanent hold on paper. The precision tip makes it easy to apply just the right amount, and it dries quickly and smoothly without wrinkles on most paper. I use it so much that I'm planning to get the refill bottle next time!"

"I work with kids on various art projects, and this glue is my go-to for crafts. It's easy for children to handle, helps them avoid using too much, and wipes off hands and surfaces effortlessly. The bottle design makes it super simple to use, and the quality is perfect for classrooms."

"I needed glue for building miniature wood kits and book nooks, and this product is a game changer compared to standard glues. The fine pen tip is perfect for detailed work, and I appreciate the quick drying and strong hold. The two applicator options make it versatile for both small and large areas."

#TOP 3

Aleene's Tacky Glue

Aleene's Tacky Glue Cover

Aleene's All Purpose Tacky Glue, 8-Ounce, Clear (15599)

Aleene's Glue is a versatile 8-ounce adhesive that dries clean and flexible. It's easy to clean up with water, making it convenient for craft projects. The nontoxic formula is safe for various surfaces, providing peace of mind for users. With Aleene's Glue, you can explore different techniques and find inspiration on ilovetocreate. Whether you're working on art projects or DIY crafts, this glue is your go-to choice.

9.6

FTB Score

What We Like

  • Versatile 8-ounce size
  • Easy water cleanup
  • Nontoxic for all surfaces
#TOP 4

Mod Podge Dishwasher Safe Waterbased Sealer CS15059

Mod Podge Dishwasher Safe Waterbased Sealer CS15059 Cover

Mod Podge Dishwasher Safe Waterbased Sealer, Glue and Finish (8-Ounce), CS15059 Gloss, 8 Ounce

The Mod Podge Dishwasher Sealer is a handy 8-ounce bottle of all-in-one glue, sealer, and finish that you can easily add to your craft supplies. It’s perfect for projects that need to go through the dishwasher since it creates a strong, shiny coating that protects your work. This sealer dries quickly on many surfaces like coffee mugs and wine glasses, so you don’t have to wait long to move on to your next step. Plus, cleaning up after your project is simple—just use soap and water to wash away any extra glue. It’s a convenient and reliable choice for your arts and crafts.

9.6

FTB Score

What We Like

  • Dries clear and streak-free
  • Dishwasher safe finish
  • Thick, easy-to-apply consistency
  • Economical, a little goes far
  • Works well for glass and crafts

What We Don't Like

  • Strong odor, needs ventilation
  • Long curing time

What Customers Say

"I'm hooked on decoupage and Mod Podge is usually my go-to, but this version has a noticeably strong smell and a very long curing time—it took a whole month before my decorated mason jars were ready to use. But honestly, after waiting, the results were fantastic: my iced coffee glasses held up beautifully, even after hand-washing and sweating, with no stickiness or damage to the artwork."

"I picked this up for a glass decoupage project and found the thick texture greatly reduced drips compared to other glues. It dries completely clear and a little bit covers a lot, making the bottle really last. It's definitely a cost-effective choice for craft projects."

"I use this Mod Podge for all my crafts. It applies smoothly without streaks and dries quickly. Just a couple of layers are usually enough, and the bottle has lasted me for months. It's my reliable, go-to crafting supply."

#TOP 5

Mod Podge Gloss Waterbase Sealer, Glue (16-Ounce)

Mod Podge Gloss Waterbase Sealer, Glue (16-Ounce) Cover

Mod Podge Gloss Sealer, Glue & Finish: All-in-One Craft Solution- Quick Dry, Easy Clean, for Wood, Paper, Fabric & More. Non-Toxic - Craft with Confidence, Made in USA, 16 oz., Pack of 1

Mod Podge Gloss Waterbase Sealer, Glue (16-Ounce) is a versatile and convenient all-in-one glue, sealer, and finish that comes in a 16 oz bottle. It provides a clear, glossy finish that preserves the beauty of your decoupage paper and dries quickly on multiple surfaces such as wood, paper, canvas, tin, terra cotta, and more. Moreover, the clean-up is effortless with soap and water, and it is proudly made in the USA.

9.5

FTB Score

What We Like

  • All-in-one glue, sealer, finish
  • Crystal clear, glossy finish
  • Fast drying, easy cleanup
  • Strong adhesion, durable protection
  • Versatile for many surfaces

What We Don't Like

  • Some brush texture visible
  • More cleanup than spray adhesives

What Customers Say

"If I could rate Mod Podge Gloss Sealer, Glue & Finish six stars, I absolutely would. This product is the MVP of my crafting toolkit—glue, sealer, and glossy finish all in one. I trust it for everything from paper collages to transforming furniture, and it always delivers a stunning, professional shine. The durability and clarity are unmatched, and it’s so easy to clean up! I won’t waste money on separate products again."

"As someone who crafts frequently, Mod Podge Gloss Sealer is a must-have for me. The medium bottle lasts through both small and large projects, and its versatility is impressive. I love the polished look it gives my polymer clay charms, plus it works well for collages and as a protective sealant. At this price, the quality is unbeatable for beginners and pros alike."

"I use Mod Podge mostly for paper flowers and mixing with acrylic paints. It adds a beautiful, extra shine and protects my crepe paper creations perfectly. The product is easy to apply, dries fast, and has no bothersome smell. It always gives a clear, glossy finish that enhances my craft projects."

#TOP 6

Bearly Art Precision Craft Glue

Bearly Art Precision Craft Glue Cover

Bearly Art Precision Craft Glue - The Original - 4fl oz - Tip Kit Included - Dries Clear - Metal Tip - Wrinkle Resistant - Flexible and Crack Resistant - Strong Hold Adhesive - Made in USA

Bearly Art Glue is a premium craft adhesive made in the USA. It dries clear, making it perfect for professional-looking crafts. The multiple-sized tips allow for precise application, minimizing mistakes. Its wrinkle and clump-resistant formula ensures smooth results without warping. Additionally, being freeze/thaw stable, it's ideal for year-round shipping and holiday projects.

9.3

FTB Score

What We Like

  • Precision applicator tips
  • Strong, clear, wrinkle-free bond
  • Quick drying time
  • No clogging issues
  • Works on various materials

What We Don't Like

  • Dries quickly, needs cap on
  • Higher price point

What Customers Say

"As someone who’s tried countless craft glues, I can honestly say this is my absolute favorite for precision and strong holds. The fine tips let me control the amount perfectly and keep my work mess-free, and I love that the glue dries crystal clear with zero wrinkles. I also appreciate the quality, since it’s made in the USA. Highly recommended if you want reliable results and clean application."

"I make a lot of cards and paper crafts, and this glue has completely transformed my process. The precision tip lets me apply glue exactly where I want it, and it never clogs or wrinkles the paper. I’ve tried many brands, but this one holds the best and keeps everything neat. If you’re serious about crafting, this glue is a must-have."

"I was hesitant to try this at first because of the price, but after using it, I’m convinced it’s worth every cent. The interchangeable nozzles are genius for switching between detailed work and larger areas, and the pin prevents any clogging. Plus, once it dries, everything stays put—nothing falls off. Definitely a great investment for any crafter!"

#TOP 7

GANE ADH0901 Yes All-Purpose Glue

  • GANE
  • ADH0901
  • Original Versio
  • 19 Ounce Jar
GANE ADH0901 Yes All-Purpose Glue Cover

Gane ADH0901 Yes All-Purpose Stik Flat Glue, 1-Pint

The GANE All-Purpose Glue is a versatile adhesive that allows you to reposition your work thanks to its slow-setting formula. This feature is particularly useful when you want to make adjustments during crafting or scrapbooking. It dries clear, ensuring a neat finish, and cleanup is easy with just soap and water. Additionally, it is free from allergens, making it safe for various users. The glue's ultra-thick consistency prevents bubbles and wrinkles, providing a smooth application on multiple surfaces, including paper, leather, and glass.

9.3

FTB Score

What We Like

  • No paper wrinkling or buckling
  • Slow drying for adjustments
  • Strong, long-lasting adhesion
  • Works on various surfaces
  • Easy cleanup with water

What We Don't Like

  • Somewhat messy application
  • Thick, sticky consistency

What Customers Say

"I was amazed at how Yes! Paste keeps paper perfectly flat—no wrinkling at all—even when gluing large areas. It’s much better than glue sticks or even Art Glitter Glue for big projects. The only slight hassle is that it’s a bit messier to apply, but the results are worth it. My tags came out flawless, and I love using a silicone brush with it."

"Honestly, I thought regular school glue would be fine for my dollhouse wallpaper, but this paste blew me away—it applies so smoothly, lets me make tiny adjustments, and there’s zero peeling or rippling. I’m hooked and probably won’t use anything else now!"

"As a collage artist, I used to struggle with buckling and bubbling using gel mediums. With Yes! Paste, my images stay flat and I can even reposition pieces before it dries. It’s a bit pricier, but for me, it’s a must-have for paper projects."

#TOP 8

Bearly Art Precision Craft Glue - 2fl oz

Bearly Art Precision Craft Glue - 2fl oz Cover

Bearly Art Precision Craft Glue - The Mini - 2fl oz with Tip Kit - Acid Free Archival - Strong Hold Adhesive - Ideal for Fine Paper Crafting Scrapbooking and Card Making - Made in USA

Bearly Art Precision Craft Glue is a clear-drying, premium art glitter glue that provides a strong hold adhesive with wrinkle and clump resistant features. It comes with a tip kit that includes multiple-sized tips for better accuracy and control. The glue is made in the USA and is safe to use for various projects with an industrial strength bond. It is also freeze/thaw stable and has a 1-year shelf life.

9.1

FTB Score

What We Like

  • Precision applicator tips
  • Dries clear
  • Strong bond
  • Low odor
  • Works on paper and wood

What We Don't Like

  • Higher price
  • Easy-to-lose pin

What Customers Say

"I've tried a lot of craft glues, but Bearly Glue stands out with its amazing precision tips and mess-free application. I love that it dries completely clear and comes with multiple applicator options. The included pin stopper is super convenient to keep the glue from drying out—makes my projects so much easier!"

"I was hesitant to spend a bit more at first, but after using Bearly Art glue, I’m convinced it’s worth it. The glue stays exactly where I put it, doesn't run, and dries invisible. The variety of tips makes it perfect for different craft needs, and the cleaning needle is a thoughtful touch. This glue has made my paper crafts look truly professional."

"For intricate projects, this glue is my go-to because it gives great control and dries fast without any strong smell. The ultra-fine tip is a lifesaver for small details. Even though it’s a bit expensive and I sometimes lose the pin, I still think it’s the best option for my crafts."

#TOP 9

Yasutomo NP56J White Nori Paste 10 oz

Yasutomo NP56J White Nori Paste 10 oz Cover

Yasutomo NP56J Nori Paste, 10-Ounce , White

The Yasutomo Nori Paste White is a versatile adhesive ideal for all your school and craft projects. This natural starch paste dries slowly, giving you extra time to work and perfect your creations. It's gentle enough to use on delicate papers and tissues without damaging them or soaking through fabrics. Plus, you can easily adjust its thickness by adding water, making it perfect for various crafting needs. While the paste is wet, you can reposition your materials to get everything just right. Once dry, it leaves a clear finish without any sticky residue, ensuring your projects look clean and professional.

9.0

FTB Score

What We Like

  • Easy to use
  • No wrinkles or bubbles
  • Minimal odor
  • Works on multiple surfaces
  • Easy cleanup with water

What We Don't Like

  • Packing issues
  • Not returnable

What Customers Say

"As a professional collage artist, I can confidently say this paste is the best I've used. It's incredibly easy to spread, doesn't cause the paper to wrinkle, and dries flat and smooth. I only need a small amount for a thin layer, and it cleans up effortlessly with water. It works perfectly under acrylic paints or matte medium, and I always recommend a topcoat as a final seal. No chemical smell and truly outperforms other pastes like YES paste!"

"I was very happy with this glue—it did exactly what I needed with almost no risk of damaging my book. Applying it was simple, even with just my hands, and a tiny amount goes a long way. Easy to clean up, long curing time, and it’s still usable after months. I just store it in the fridge to keep it fresh. Highly recommended for book repair!"

"Great adhesive for a variety of materials like paper and wood. Brushes wash out easily with water, and it adheres really well. Just be aware that packing can be inconsistent—one of my jars arrived partially dried out due to poor packaging, and returns are not straightforward. Still, I keep coming back for the product quality."

#TOP 10

FITTDYHE B7000 Clear Craft Adhesive Kit 110ml

FITTDYHE B7000 Clear Craft Adhesive Kit 110ml Cover

110 ml B7000 Adhesive for Crafts, Clear Glue with Spreaders and Dotting Pen Tool, Multipurpose for Rhinestones, Fabric, DIY, Makeup, Shoes, Jewelry Making, Nail Art

The FITTDYHE B7000 Craft Glue is a versatile adhesive kit perfect for various projects. It comes with a large 110ml bottle of clear glue, ideal for crafting, jewelry making, and even nail art, giving you plenty of supply for your creative needs. Included glue spreaders help you apply the adhesive evenly without getting messy, while the two-way dotting pen offers precise control for detailed work. The glue features a special anti-clogging needle cap and an ultra-fine tip, so you can easily place small drops exactly where needed. Plus, it dries quickly in just 3 minutes and cures fully within 1-2 days, ensuring a strong, waterproof bond for your crafts.

8.8

FTB Score

What We Like

  • Precision needle tip
  • Dries crystal clear
  • Strong adhesion
  • Low odor
  • Easy to use

What We Don't Like

  • Slow drying time
  • Poorly translated instructions

What Customers Say

"I love how the precision tip lets me apply just the right amount of glue, even on tiny or delicate pieces. It’s been perfect for my daughter’s book nook models and other small crafts. It dries clear and holds really well without any mess, which is a huge bonus for detailed work. This glue has made our projects so much easier!"

"This is my favorite craft glue now—the tube size is just right, the smell is minimal, and it’s gentle on my hands. I appreciate that it comes with a picker pencil and dotting wand, making precise placement super easy. It works great for jewelry and resin projects and dries crystal clear. I’m definitely buying it again!"

"I used this glue to attach decorations to my graduation cap—it held everything firmly, even though the decorations were heavy. As long as you let it set properly, it works great for art projects. The adhesive is reliable and the application is simple."

Editor's Notes

During our art glues & paste research, we found 24 art glues & paste products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 611,548 customer reviews through our big data system to write the art glues & pastes list. We found that most customers choose art glues & pastes with an average price of $7.39.

The art glues & pastes are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of art glues & pastes, including Mod Podge, Tombow, Aleene's, Bearly Art, GANE. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 384 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.

Written by

Ann Hale Avatar

Ann Hale

Ann Hale is a seamstress, pattern maker, and fashion designer with extensive sewing experience. She has worked in the fashion industry for over 10 years now after receiving Associates's Degree in fashion design in 2010. Also as a writer, she has many creative and unique insights when it comes to articles.

Art Glues & Pastes Comparison Table

#TOP 1 Mod Podge Matte Sealer Glue & Finish 8 oz Cover #TOP 2 Tombow Mono Aqua Liquid Glue Cover #TOP 3 Aleene's Tacky Glue Cover #TOP 4 Mod Podge Dishwasher Safe Waterbased Sealer CS15059 Cover #TOP 5 Mod Podge Gloss Waterbase Sealer, Glue (16-Ounce) Cover #TOP 6 Bearly Art Precision Craft Glue Cover #TOP 7 GANE ADH0901 Yes All-Purpose Glue Cover #TOP 8 Bearly Art Precision Craft Glue - 2fl oz Cover #TOP 9 Yasutomo NP56J White Nori Paste 10 oz Cover #TOP 10 FITTDYHE B7000 Clear Craft Adhesive Kit 110ml Cover
Brand Mod Podge Tombow Aleene's Mod Podge Mod Podge Bearly Art GANE Bearly Art Yasutomo FITTDYHE
Specific Uses For Product Interior Art, Craft, Poster, School Fabric, Art, School, Poster, Craft, Woodworking, Repair, Flooring, Jewelry, Carpentry, Furniture, Glass, Table Top Coating Craft Interior Craft Art, Craft Art, Craft Art, Craft Art, Craft, Fabric, Jewelry, Nail
Material Waterbased Sealer Water-based adhesive Plastic, Wood, Glass, Ceramic, Paper, Metal Paper Paper,Wood Craft Glue Paste Craft Glue Starch Glass,Wood
Item Form Liquid Liquid Cream Liquid Liquid Oz Paste Gel Paste Gel
Special Feature Matte finish Strong Versatility on various surfaces, excellent performance on miniatures, scrapcraft, and odd surfaces, water resistance, non-toxic formula Dishwasher Safe Dries Clear, Fast Drying, Non Toxic, Waterbase Sealer Crack Resistant, Dries Clear, Glitter, Strong Paste is used on most materials like leather, wood, metal, glass, paper, cloth, printed surfaces and more. Paste containing dextrin cleans up with soap and water. All-purpose paste is non-toxic and dries out clear. - Dries Clear, Repositionable Fast Drying, Non Toxic, Strong, Washable
Color Matte - - - Gloss Clear - White White -
Item Package Quantity 1 - - - 1 1 - 1 1 -
Package Information Bottle - - - Bottle Bottle - Bottle Can -
Item Volume 8 Fluid Ounces - - - 16 Fluid Ounces 4 Fluid Ounces - 2 Fluid Ounces 10 Fluid Ounces -
Viscosity low - - - Low to Medium Medium - Medium to High High (but not explicitly specified) -
Water Resistance Level Water Resistant - - - Water Resistant Not Water Resistant - Not Water Resistant Not Water Resistant -
FTB Score
9.9
9.8
9.6
9.6
9.5
9.3
9.3
9.1
9.0
8.8
Where to Buy