Bella’s Corner: Adhesives for Metal/Jewelry

Filed under Bella's Corner, Tutorials

The following are adhesives that are currently carried by Alpha Stamps for Jewelry Making. Know of a really good adhesive for jewelry design? Then please, let me know!

Diamond Glaze

An acrylic sealant that’s thick and gives a nice clear finish to small artwork. No special tools needed (but a little patience while waiting for it to dry). Use for glazing photos, collage sheets, scrapbook papers, fabrics, inclusions (beads & other elements).

You can mix dyes into the glaze to create faux stained glass. More info and how-to tips are here. Avoid shaking bottle to minimize bubbles. Watersoluble, but permanent when dry. Dries in 2-4 hours and comes in a 2 ounce bottle.

PROS

• Easy, easy, easy to use!
• Non-toxic, but please don’t drink it.
• Self-leveling.
• Dries to a crystal clear and smooth permanent finish.
• Add color with dye-based inks, watercolor, pearlescent pigments, and pastel chalks.

CONS

• Can have a REALLY strong reaction to copper, creating a dark/blue tint where the glaze comes in contact with the metal. (However sometimes this can look cool!)
• It is NOT waterproof.

G-S Hypo Cement

Works for all types of non-porous bonding such as setting cabochons into a bezel, setting rhinestones on glass or metal, or gluing glass beads together. This glue was originally made for watchmakers. The tube has a pinpoint applicator that makes it possible to do precision gluing.

PROS

• Fine point application.
• Dries quickly.

CONS

• You must use in a well ventilated area.
• Tip can seep.

Glossy Accents

Glossy Accents is a dimensional, water-based, clear gloss medium. It’s perfect for adding dimension and magnifying distinct areas on any scrapbook page, album cover, rubber stamp or paper craft project.

PROS

• Glossy Accents dries to a hard, clear glossy finish.
• Used under embellishments it makes them stick.
• The very thin tip allows for precise placement and it is fast drying.
• Can be used to fill in bezels, pendants, cabochons and small charms.

CONS

• Can be prone to having air bubbles, so watch carefully and don’t shake product.