As crafters, hobbyists, woodworker (husband), and homeowners, we have lots of glue. Lots of it. 

So it occurred to my husband that a comparison test of some of the glues in our glue cabinet might be an interesting experiment. So we got out the eight (yes, eight) bottles we use the most – and that are likely among the most popular glues that lots of people use. 

We started by gluing eight sets of two small-ish clean scrap pieces of basswood plywood together, each set using a different glue. We clamped them, leaving them to dry and cure overnight. And then we tested the bond strength of each by trying to tear each set apart. We used a hammer and slot screwdriver to see if we could break each joint apart. Below are our results.

 

 

1. HFT Super Glue (Harbor Freight)

  • Yes, it's super glue 
  • Dries clear but the wood soaks up a lot of glue
  • Using hammer and screwdriver, we broke wood, but the glue joint stayed intact
  • Good for very permanent small hobby jobs
  • Caution: do not glue your fingers to your eyeglasses.

2. Cascamite

  • This is a water + powder combo. Mix to peanut butter consistency
  • Dries milky and crumbly
  • Did not inspire confidence. Partial glue joint failure when using hammer and screwdriver
  • Would not recommend

3. Elmer’s Wood Glue

  • For interior use only
  • Dries yellow
  • Partial glue joint failure when hammered
  • Would not recommend

4. HFT Wood Glue (old version) (Harbor Freight)

  • Dries milky
  • Using hammer and screwdriver, we broke wood, but the glue joint stayed intact
  • Very viscous, and messy to work with, but adequate

5. Elmer’s School Glue

  • For interior use only
  • Dries clear
  • Using hammer and screwdriver, we broke wood, but the glue joint stayed intact
  • I have concerns about how strongly it it would bond larger pieces

6. Gorilla Wood Glue Ultimate

  • Dried wood colored
  • Using hammer and screwdriver, we broke wood, but the glue joint stayed intact

7. Gorilla Glue Original

  • Dries foamy yellow
  • Using a hammer, we broke wood, but the glue joint stayed intact
  • Slight smell, but the dried residue makes it unsuitable for projects that need a clean look

8. HFT Wood Glue (new version) (Harbor Freight)

  • Dries clear but slightly shiny
  • Watery consistency, need to shake the bottle vigorously
  • Using a hammer, we broke wood, but the glue joint stayed intact
  • Easy to apply with brush, finger, or q-tip
  • Great price
  • This is my hands-down favorite for attaching pieces in laser projects

So there you have it. If you have any info on other glues, or any favorites that you like, let us know!