How to glue cardboard together: Your guide to spray adhesive

If you want to know how to glue cardboard together, you’ll get all your answers here. Spray adhesive is the best way to attach cardboard together because it’s quick, easy to use, and forms a strong bond.

School projects, arts and crafts, and minor repairs often require gluing cardboard together. But what is the most effective glue for the job? For many applications, the answer is spray adhesives. With a spray, you can cover large areas quickly and easily without a mess. You won’t have to worry about drips or runs, and you can usually join the pieces immediately. Another advantage is that this type of adhesive won’t bleed through the cardboard or wrinkle the surface. 

Follow these simple steps to glue cardboard together with spray adhesive. 

1. Whenever you work with adhesives, make sure the area is well-ventilated. Also, protect surrounding objects from overspray. 
2. Gather the materials you want to bond and ensure they fit together properly. 
3. Remove the lid of the can and turn the spray tip to the black dot or arrow indicator.
4. Shake the can thoroughly. Shake the adhesive for about one minute to ensure adequate mixing. 
5. Hold the can upright as much as possible while spraying. Spray from about 8–10 inches (20–25cm) away from the surface. Use a steady, continuous motion when applying the adhesive.
6. Apply a light, even coat to one surface, then join the two pieces together. Reposition quickly, if necessary, as the glue will start to set within minutes. Then press and hold firmly. Thicker adhesive applications will likely set more quickly and form a stronger bond. 

Make sure to allow the adhesive to fully dry before normal use of the item. Please see the manufacturer’s directions for more details.

Now that you have the knowledge you need for gluing cardboard together, here are two excellent adhesives we recommend for your next project.

LePage Multi-Purpose Spray Adhesive is a premium-quality glue compatible with many common materials. It dries clear and can be repositioned or used for permanent bonds. This product offers excellent results for most porous and non-porous surfaces, including cardboard. It won’t bleed through or cause the materials to curl.

For more robust jobs, try LePage Heavy Duty Spray Adhesive. This formulation creates a high-strength bond that will withstand a wide range of temperatures. It can be used indoors or out and won’t bubble or yellow, even when applying a thick coat for extra holding power.