Tacky Glue Vs. Gorilla Glue: I compared the nitty gritty details like their viscosity, clamp and dry times, ideal working temperatures, and toxicity.

Tacky Glue Vs. Gorilla Glue: What’s The Difference?
Tacky Glue has been the tried-and-true favorite for crafters and DIYers for years. This white glue is water-based, non-toxic and easy to use for indoor paper crafts and lightweight materials. But lately, Gorilla Glue has entered the chat with its claims of superior strength and water resistance for wood and outdoor projects.
My Hands-on Test of Tacky Glue
✅Pros of Tacky Glue
When I saw a dorky cardinal ornament for my tree, I had to pick it up. Unfortunately, my kid instantly ripped off the styrofoam bird as soon as she saw it. I had super glue in the house, but it’s not recommended for styrofoam, and the tape didn’t work either.
Adheres to Styrofoam
So I used Tacky Glue. At first, it was very slippery, but it dried all the way, and now the cardinal doesn’t budge! I’m impressed by its strength. Keep on reading, it also works well for other repairs and projects around the house.
Kids-Friendly
If you’re working on projects with kids and want to avoid any risk of burns, tacky glue is the way to go. While glue guns may be faster for adults, tacky glue provides a safer option when working with children.
I first discovered the power of tacky glue at a kid’s workshop where each child built a small toy sailboat. Some used Tacky glue, while others used Elmer’s glue. The difference was remarkable. Tacky glue dried much faster and provided a stronger hold on both fabric sails and glued wooden parts, such as masts. The sailboats even held up during playtime on the beach, in the water. Almost a year later, one of the boats is still intact after numerous bathtub adventures.
Versatile
Tacky Glue is versatile and works great for various craft projects. I recently squeezed it into multiple cups with glitter, mixed it, and applied each color to a bra. What I love about this glue is that it’s white when applied but dries clear, allowing the sparkle from the glitter to remain intact. It’s truly amazing!
Flexibility
Aleene’s tacky glue is a classic staple that has been around for as long as I can remember. It’s an inexpensive and essential adhesive to have on hand. What sets it apart is its flexibility, making it more versatile than other glues. It’s thicker than school glue and provides a better bond than stick glue, while also being safer than a hot glue gun.
Another advantage of this glue is that it washes off easily before it dries, making clean-up a breeze.
❌Cons of Tacky Glue
While the glue itself is excellent, I found that the bottle was a bit challenging to squeeze. However, I had no issues with dried glue at the opening, and the lid fits tightly. The glue dries quickly, which is beneficial, but it can be a bit difficult to pour onto wax paper and work with due to its quick-drying nature.
FAQ of Tacky Glue
Q: Is Tacky Glue suitable for attaching an older doll wig that is starting to loosen? Can it be used on children’s dolls?
A: Yes, many people use Tacky Glue to attach doll hair. However, please note that I’m unsure if any glue is safe for children to put in their mouths, so exercise caution when using it on children’s dolls.
Q: Can Tacky Glue be used to attach gripper slippers to slippers made with yarn?
A: It should work for that purpose.
Q: Is Tacky Glue suitable for basting, similar to Roxanne’s glue baste?
A: Yes, if you need a temporary adhesive that washes out when laundered or soaked in water, the Original Tacky Glue should work. Another option is Aleene’s No Sew glue.
Q: Will this tacky glue be effective for foiling?
A: Most crafters would recommend using a decoupage glue for foiling. Look at my analysis on yes paste.
Q: How long does it take for Tacky Glue to dry?
A: To be on the safe side, I would recommend letting it dry for 24 hours.
Q: Can Tacky Glue be used with fabric that is dry clean only?
A: Since it is a removable glue, it is unlikely to damage the fabric. However, I recommend testing it on a small, inconspicuous area first like I did on e6000 vs b7000 for fabric. Some materials may leave a stain when using Tacky Glue. Apply a drop inside the hem or another invisible part of the garment, leave it for 24 hours, and then check if it leaves a spot.
Q: What can I use on the inside of clothing to prevent slipping?
A: You might find rubberized strips or tape more suitable for that purpose. Such products are designed for use in undergarments and costumes to prevent slipping. While glue might work, I suggest using a glue specifically made for fabric. Aleene’s is a strong option, but it is primarily meant for crafting and may not withstand sweat, body oil, or detergent.
Q: Is Tacky Glue waterproof?
A: Yes, Aleene’s makes waterproof sealants. Their Original Tacky Glue, which is extra thick and tacky, is an all-purpose glue that works well on papers, wood, metal, glass, ceramics, and most plastics. It dries permanent and clear, and it remains flexible on fabrics. Additionally, it is non-toxic and water soluble.
Q: Can Tacky Glue be used to adhere fake snow to a large styrofoam ball for arts and crafts, or is there a better option?
A: Yeah it is recommended for this purpose. It can adhere styrofoam to various materials, including fabric and metal.
Q: Can I use Tacky Glue to attach rhinestones to canvas sneakers?
A: I would not recommend it, as Tacky Glue is primarily intended for crafting. The rhinestones might be too smooth to stick well to fabric. It would be better to use liquid fusion glue for rhinestones for this purpose.
Q: Can Tacky Glue be used to glue a patch onto a baseball cap?
A: Yes, it can be used for that purpose. However, please note that it may not hold up through washings, so you may need to reapply Tacky Glue. If you want a more permanent hold, sewing the patch on would be a better option.
Q: Will Tacky Glue work well and dry quickly for making pom pom pets by gluing pom poms together?
A: It has been some time since we used Tacky Glue, but it worked well for the project we did. It is thick, and if I recall correctly, it dried as quickly as elmer’s rubber cement dry time.
Q: Is Tacky Glue flammable?
A: No, it is not flammable as it is water-soluble and does not contain any flammable ingredients.
Q: I used clear tacky glue to attach pearls to a wooden box. The box will be stored in a hot shed. Will Tacky Glue melt or crackle off?
A: It’s difficult to say without knowing the specific conditions, but if you anticipate extreme heat, we recommend using one of our Aleene’s Industrial Strength Adhesives, such as the Mixed Media Adhesive.
Q: Can Tacky Glue be used to attach baked polymer clay pieces to a metal base?
A: When gluing polymer clay to metal, it is best to use a physical bond instead of an adhesive bond. You may consider using epoxy glue or aleene’s liquid fusion for a more secure attachment.
Q: Is Tacky Glue acid-free?
A: This particular glue is not acid-free. However, you can try Aleene’s Acid Free Tacky Glue for your needs.
My Hands-on Test of Gorilla Glue Original
To my surprise, someone had also left a baggie filled with most of the broken chips. I couldn’t bear to see this magnificent piece go to waste, especially considering its significant value. Determined to rescue it, I hauled the 100-lb sculpture uphill for two hours, and then made a second trip to retrieve the missing piece. Back in my garage workshop, I carefully examined the sculpture and realized that Gorilla Glue was the perfect solution for this restoration project.
✅Pros of
Using Gorilla Glue, I embarked on the meticulous process of repairing the sculpture. The glue worked like magic, ensuring a sturdy bond. After a few days of careful work, I managed to restore the sculpture to its former glory. The few missing chips can easily be retouched with ceramic paint. Gorilla Glue truly saved the day, allowing me to turn an unexpected roadside discovery into a breathtaking masterpiece. It’s truly an awesome product.
Fixing a Kitchen Cabinet Door
Impressed by its performance, I decided to utilize Gorilla Glue for some repair projects at my house. One notable success was fixing a kitchen cabinet door. The top hinge had pulled out, and even with a larger screw, it wouldn’t hold. However, with the help of Gorilla Glue, a brace to keep the door in place, and a large binder clip to ensure a tight fit, I managed to repair the door effectively. After a couple of hours, the glue had dried, and the door was as good as new. It worked like a dream!
Versatile
Now, let’s talk about the glue itself. Gorilla Glue is a top-notch brand that consistently delivers high-quality adhesive. It’s perfect for all your household needs and projects. I’ve used it on various surfaces and materials, and it never fails to exceed my expectations. This particular glue is incredibly versatile, capable of bonding everything from metal to wood, and even stone. Its impressive strength and waterproof properties make it ideal for a wide range of applications.
❌Cons of
While Gorilla Glue is undeniably a fantastic adhesive, there are a few things to keep in mind. The applicator tube tends to get clogged quickly, and unscrewing the cap can cause it to glue shut, presenting a minor inconvenience. However, the adhesive’s performance more than makes up for these minor drawbacks.
FAQ of Gorilla Glue Original
Q: I have a small screen on top of my fountain that is no longer functional. Can Gorilla Glue be used to secure a piece of screening from the outside?
A: Yes, Gorilla Glue can be used to secure a piece of screening from the outside to fix the functionality of your fountain.
Q: What is the weight capacity of Gorilla Glue? I’ve seen it being used to repair chairs in the demos. Can it support the weight of an average American?
A: While I don’t have the exact weight capacity information, Gorilla Glue is known for its strong bonding capabilities. When used according to the manufacturer’s instructions, it can provide reliable support for various applications.
Q: Can Gorilla Glue bond an anodized aluminum alloy to a hard polymer surface like nylon 6 polymer? Is there any special preparation required, such as removing oils?
A: Gorilla Glue can bond to aluminum, but it is not recommended for use on nylon surfaces. It’s best to follow the manufacturer’s instructions and consult their Consumer Affairs team for specific application recommendations.
Q: Can Gorilla Glue instantly bond foam to cardboard?
A: The suitability of Gorilla Glue for bonding foam to cardboard may depend on the type of foam being used. It’s advisable to consult the Gorilla Glue Consumer Affairs team for guidance specific to your application.
Q: Will Gorilla Glue hold well on the frames of eyeglasses made of plastic and metal?
A: Gorilla Glue is not recommended for repairing eyeglasses as it requires clamping and expands during curing. It’s best to explore other adhesive options specifically designed for eyeglass repair.
Q: Does Gorilla Glue work effectively for fastening wood to melamine?
A: Gorilla Glue can be effective for fastening wood to melamine surfaces. However, it’s important to carefully follow the application instructions for optimal results.
Q: Is Gorilla Glue resistant to gasoline?
A: Gorilla Glue has not been tested for gasoline resistance. It’s recommended to contact the Gorilla Glue Consumer Affairs team for more information or specific inquiries regarding your application.
Q: Can I use a mixing bowl that has been repaired with Original Gorilla Glue?
A: Original Gorilla Glue is not confirmed to be non-toxic once cured, so it is not recommended for use on items that may come into contact with food or be ingested.
Q: Will Gorilla Glue work on plastic that gets wet, such as the spray arm in a dishwasher?
A: While Gorilla Glue can adhere to many plastics, it may not provide optimal results on plastic surfaces that are constantly exposed to water or moisture. It’s best to consult the Gorilla Glue Consumer Affairs team for guidance specific to your application.
Q: Can Gorilla Glue bond vinyl to wood?
A: Yes, Gorilla Glue can effectively bond vinyl to wood surfaces.
Q: Will Gorilla Glue effectively bond metal to metal?
A: Yes, Gorilla Glue can effectively bond metal to metal surfaces.
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Q: I need to re-apply a plastic label to a plastic panel under the hood of my car. Will Gorilla Glue work and resist oil, dirt, and heat?
A: Gorilla Glue can be used to reapply a plastic label. Once cured, it should provide a strong bond and resistance to oil, dirt, and heat.
Q: Can Gorilla Glue bond rubber to drywall?
A: Gorilla Glue does not adhere well to rubber, so it is not recommended for bonding rubber to drywall. For alternative options, it’s best to consult the Gorilla Glue Consumer Affairs team.
Q: Can Gorilla Glue be used to bond ceramic tiles to a wooden surface?
A: Gorilla Glue is not recommended for bonding ceramic tiles to a wooden surface. It’s best to use a tile adhesive specifically designed for that purpose.