Making it Stick (Dollhouse Adhesive Options)

What’s the trickiest aspect of miniatures? Honestly, probably every time that I knock something over with my Ginormica hands. (I’m trying to remember to use tweezers…) But seriously, it’s how to make things stay in place for as long or short as we want. This means everything from durable, permanent adhesive methods to temporarily hanging art and affixing seasonal decor.

Over the years, we’ve tested out everything we could get our hands on, and we’ve definitely found some winners along the way. Have you tried some of these? Which are your favorites, and have we missed a good one.

Craft Bond

Hands down, our favorite product for all-around dollhouse adhesive. It works well with wood, paper, glass and even dries on fabric without becoming stiff. We use it to glue on door handles and trim, as well as to finish off pillows and so much more.

PROS: Wide range of uses, dries clear, remains flexible.
CONS: Not suited for temporary decor items.

FIND IT HERE:
Elmer’s Craft Bond Tacky Glue

White Tack

We love white tack for keeping every little thing in place in a non-permanent way. While we’ve used a blue version of this in the past, as well as a yellow version, they both left a small amount of staining behind when removed. White tack leaves no discoloration, no greasy mark, no damage to paper, paint or delicate decor items.

PROS: Re-usable, leaves no residue.
CONS: Unlike glue or tape, you’ll have a small amount of density to work with. So, the key is figuring out how small of an amount you can get away with.

FIND IT HERE:
UHU White Tack

Mod Podge

Mod podge is a difficult-to-define wonder. While popular amongst decopague enthusiasts, we love it for turning paper into durable surfaces. When we’ve finalized a flooring or wallpaper choice, we’ll use mod podge for the installation. And, making all of our dreams come true, it comes in both glossy and matte. So it works equally well for glossy tile floors and matte shiplap walls.

PROS: Provides a durable, lasting finish.
CONS: Is scary to get started with—we definitely had to practice a bit before we stopped feeling panic at initial bubbles. Mod podge takes awhile to dry as well.

FIND IT HERE:
Mod Podge Kit

Double Sided Tape

Great for keeping flooring sheets in place (learn more about flooring installation here), even hanging cabinets! Double sided tape can be a quick solution for multiple dollhouse projects.

PROS: Fast, quick hold.
CONS: If you change your mind and want to remove something, it can damage wallpaper, delicate items and even pull off paint.

FIND IT HERE:
Scotch Permanent Double Sided Tape

Adhesive Spray

Adhesive spray works on a wide range of materials to be adjusted, removed and reapplied throughout the life of the bond.

PROS: Non-wrinkling, repositionable bond.
CONS: You’ll need to be careful about getting the adhesive only on the back of the material.

FIND IT HERE:
Adhesive Spray

Wood Glue

This is what were using when serious structural construction is underway. If you are building or remodeling the main structure of a wooden dollhouse, you’ll want to use wood glue.

PROS: Strong, permanent hold for wood.
CONS: If you get drips and don’t notice them, they are hard to remove. Like, power tool hard.

FIND IT HERE:
Gorilla Wood Glue

Super Glue Gel

While our trusty craft bond gets the widest use, there are still moments when a teeny, tiny dot of super glue is called for. Best for the smallest applications, where a quick dry is preferable.

PROS: The gel formula means that there is minimal dripping (and fewer glued fingers). Dries quickly so you aren’t holding something for long stretches while it sets up.
CONS: We find that it makes clear glass cloudy. And, of course, I routinely stick a finger to something.

FIND IT HERE:
Super Glue Gel

Masking Tape

Masking tape is the best for holding together projects temporarily. We use it to test furniture and house builds before gluing. When you are ready to glue, use it in conjunction with wood glue to hold joints that need time to dry.

PROS: Easy to remove when used on wood or painted surfaces.
CONS: Not a permanent option, can tear paper when removed.

FIND IT HERE:
Masking Tape

Museum Wax

We used this product for about a year with mixed results. It works well on wooden surfaces, and requires only a very small amount for a secure hold. We used it to adhere string lights to the upper walls of a dollhouse during the holidays. It was easy to remove from the painted surfaces and metal wire. But, it doesn’t work well on unsealed wallpaper and fabrics.

PROS: Clear and nearly undetectable.
CONS: Leaves waxy residue, not recommended for wallpaper or fabric.

FIND IT HERE:
Museum Wax