Best Art Glues & Pastes of 2025

Ann Hale Avatar
Ann Hale
Last Updated: Jan 14, 2025

* 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

Elmer's Glue Sticks, 30 Count Cover #TOP 1
Elmer's Glue Sticks, 30 Count
ftb score rating icon 9.9
Bearly Art Precision Craft Glue - 2fl oz Cover #TOP 2
Bearly Art Precision Craft Glue - 2fl oz
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Aleene's Clear Gel Tacky Glue 4oz Cover #TOP 3
Aleene's Clear Gel Tacky Glue 4oz
ftb score rating icon 9.6

Top 10 Art Glues & Pastes

Elmer's Glue Sticks, 30 Count

E556
White
30 Count
Elmer's Glue Sticks, 30 Count Cover
Elmer's All Purpose School Glue Sticks, Washable, 7 Grams, 30 Count

Elmer's Washable Glue Sticks are a versatile and convenient option for all your arts, crafts, and school projects. These 7-gram glue sticks apply smoothly without clumps and dry quickly and colorlessly. They bond to various surfaces, including paper, cardboard, foam board, and display board. The glue is washable, nontoxic, acid-free, and photo safe, making it ideal for children's projects. The quick-drying feature saves time and prevents smudging, while the washable feature ensures easy cleanup. The glue sticks come in a pack of 30, providing ample supply for multiple projects.

What We Like
Strong adhesive quality
Easy to clean up
Vibrant colors for precise application
Great value in bulk
Reliable for classroom projects
What We Don't Like
Holds limited glue
#TOP 2

Bearly Art Precision Craft Glue - 2fl oz

20-3006-0002
White
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.

What We Like
Great control for small pieces
Quick drying time
Multiple precision tips included
Strong adhesion without warping
Ideal for paper crafting
What We Don't Like
Pricey for some users
Thin tip can clog easily
#TOP 3

Aleene's Clear Gel Tacky Glue 4oz

17374
Multicolor
4 FL OZ
Aleene's Clear Gel Tacky Glue 4oz Cover
Aleene's Clear Gel Tacky Glue 4oz

Aleene's Clear Gel Glue is a great addition to your art supplies. Its clear gel formula makes it environmentally safe and easy to clean up with water. For best results, wait about 30 seconds before adhering the item to be glued to the surface. This glue is perfect for creating your own DIY slime. The 4oz bottle is the perfect size for all your crafting needs. With Aleene's Clear Gel Glue, you can have maximum adhesion and create your own unique projects with ease.

What We Like
Dries quickly
Dries clear and shiny
Great for various crafts
Reusable without residue
Affordable option
What We Don't Like
Thick consistency can be tricky
May require a tool for application
#TOP 4

Bearly Art Precision Craft Glue

20-3006-0004
Clear
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.

What We Like
Easy application with different tips
Dries quickly and strong
No odor, durable adhesion
Precision for intricate projects
Long-lasting with careful use
What We Don't Like
Higher price point
Dries quickly, challenging alignment
#TOP 5

Mod Podge Puzzle Saver 8 oz

48592
White
8 oz
Mod Podge Puzzle Saver 8 oz Cover
Mod Podge Puzzle Saver (8-Ounce), CS15068, White

The Mod Podge Puzzle Saver is a versatile 8-ounce adhesive, sealer, and finish that is perfect for preserving your puzzle masterpieces. Its durable formula dries to a hard, glossy finish, enhancing the beauty of your completed work. You’ll appreciate how quickly it dries, making it ideal for various decoupage projects, so you can enjoy your craft without long waits. Cleanup is a breeze too; just use soap and water to remove any excess once you’re finished. This product is a must-have for any arts and crafts enthusiast looking to protect their creations.

What We Like
Dries clear and glossy
Easy to apply
Flexible and sturdy finish
Good for multiple puzzles
Vibrant color enhancement
What We Don't Like
Can bend larger puzzles
May prefer stickers for big puzzles
#TOP 6

Aleene's Tack-It Over & Over Liquid Glue

29-2
White
1 per pack
Aleene's Tack-It Over & Over Liquid Glue Cover
Aleene's 29-2 Tack-It Over & Over Liquid Glue 4oz, Clear

Aleene's Tack-It Over & Over Liquid Glue is a versatile adhesive that offers a temporary hold on various materials such as appliques, ribbon, trim, and other embellishments. With this glue, you can easily transfer these items from one garment to another without the need to reapply the adhesive. It works not only on fabric but also on metal, wood, paper, plastic, and glass. This non-toxic glue conforms to safety standards, making it a reliable choice for your crafting needs. Made in the USA, Aleene's Tack-It Over & Over Liquid Glue is an essential tool for any artist or crafter.

What We Like
Strong adhesion for various projects
Durable finish for crafts
Versatile for classroom use
Cost-effective and long-lasting
What We Don't Like
Waiting time before application
Messy drying process
#TOP 7

GANE ADH0901 Yes All-Purpose Glue

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.

What We Like
Adheres well to various surfaces
Easy to use and apply
Non-toxic and archival quality
Dries clear and without wrinkles
Long-lasting adhesion
What We Don't Like
Expensive compared to alternatives
Requires careful cleaning of the jar

Scotch Wrinkle-Free Glue Stick

6008WF-2
['Transparent']
2-Pack
Scotch Wrinkle-Free Glue Stick Cover
Scotch Wrinkle-free Glue Sticks 6008WF-2, 2 Pack, .27 oz (7.65 g) Each, 36.00 per case

Scotch Glue Stick is a patent-pending clear formula that strongly bonds most papers and photos without clumping or wrinkling. This makes your projects look more professional. The tube is clear, allowing you to see when the glue level is low, and the choke-resistant cap is designed for safety. Additionally, this glue stick is both acid-free and photo-safe, making it perfect for craft projects. With two glue sticks in each package, you'll always have a spare when you need it. Scotch Glue Stick is a reliable and convenient choice for all your crafting needs.

What We Like
Strong hold for mixed media
Wrinkle and warp resistant
Convenient pack of two
Dries clear and fast
Long-lasting and easy to use
What We Don't Like
Can get glue on tube top
#TOP 9

Elmer's Washable Disappearing Purple School Glue Sticks

E15917-3
Clear/Purple
3 Pack
Elmer's Washable Disappearing Purple School Glue Sticks Cover
Elmer's® Washable Disappearing Purple School Glue Sticks, 0.21 Oz., Pack Of 6 + 2 Bonus Sticks

Elmer's Purple Glue Sticks are the perfect choice for kids learning how to glue. With their disappearing purple formula, these glue sticks allow kids to see exactly where they are sticking their charts, pictures, and more. The glue applies smoothly and dries clear, ensuring a mess-free appearance. As the #1 teacher brand, Elmer's Purple Glue Sticks are ideal for younger learners, crafting, making poster presentations, and more. The non-toxic and acid-free formula makes them safe for use in classrooms and homes. Get Elmer's Purple Glue Sticks for a convenient and reliable bonding solution.

What We Like
Easy to use
Color change aids visibility
Quick drying time
Effective for various projects
Great customer service
What We Don't Like
Small quantity for price
Delivery issues reported
#TOP 10

Tombow Mono Aqua Liquid Glue

52180
Original Version
1 Count (Pack of 1)
Tombow Mono Aqua Liquid Glue Cover
Tombow 52180 Mono Aqua Liquid Glue, 1.69 oz, Bottle

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.

What We Like
Quick-drying
Strong bond
Clog-free application
No bad odors
Versatile applicator tips
What We Don't Like
May run out quickly
Small size for some uses
Buying Guide Image
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 350,277 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 $6.41.

The art glues & pastes are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of art glues & pastes, including Elmer's, Bearly Art, TULIP, Mod Podge, GANE. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 385 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.

Written by
Ann Hale Avatar

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

#TOP1
#TOP2
#TOP3
#TOP4
#TOP5
#TOP6
#TOP7
#TOP8
#TOP9
#TOP10
Brand Elmer's Bearly Art TULIP Bearly Art Mod Podge TULIP GANE Scotch Elmer's Tombow
Specific Uses For Product School Art, Craft - Craft Puzzle, Craft Art, School, Craft Art, Craft Art, School, Craft School, Art, Craft Art, School, Craft, Poster
Compatible Material Foam, Paper, Cardboard Cardboard, Paper - Paper, Fabric Cardboard Wood, Glass, Paper, Plastic, Metal, Fabric Wood, Glass, Paper, Leather, Metal Paper Crafting Paper
Item Form Stick Gel - Oz Solid Cream Cream Putty Sticks Liquid
Material Plastic Craft Glue - Craft Glue Water-based Polyvinyl Acetate (PVA) Paste Paper - Water-based adhesive
FTB Score
ftb score rating icon 9.9
ftb score rating icon 9.8
ftb score rating icon 9.6
ftb score rating icon 9.6
ftb score rating icon 9.6
ftb score rating icon 9.5
ftb score rating icon 9.3
ftb score rating icon 9.1
ftb score rating icon 9.1
ftb score rating icon 9.0
Where to Buy