When it comes to creative paper art, you can make a lot from a little. Origami, paper flowers, handmade cards, paper garlands, paper banners–all of these require little more than paper and glue. Of course, it’s helpful to have some expert guidance on hand, such as the 20 step-by-step paper art projects in Mollie Makes Papercraft. The new book is a maker’s dream, with techniques that include quilling, folding, papier mâché, and more.
 |
|
| Do this cut-and-fold handmade card project by designer-maker and author Kirsty Neale, featured in Mollie Makes Papercraft |
If you’re new to handmade paper crafts, then you’ll appreciate the book’s list of different types of paper adhesives. Glues have various properties, so refer to the list below to better understand the best binder for the paper art projects you create.
You’ve probably been using some of these adhesives since you were a toddler. Tried-and-true, they’re worth including in this list along with some lesser-known types. Read through the list, then comment below and let us know how you use your favorite type of adhesive–we’ll choose a random winner* to receive some mixed-media art goodies.
 |
|
| Jaina Minton shares a step-by-step paper-cut diorama in Mollie Makes Papercraft |
10 Adhesives for Creative Paper Art from Mollie Makes Papercraft
PVA (white) glue: This is a water-based liquid glue that dries clear. It’s a good, general purpose glue suitable for most materials, and diluted with water, it’s essential for papier mâché techniques.
Glue stick: These tubes of solid glue tend to be less messy than liquid adhesives. Simply rub the stick over the area to be adhered to leave an even coat of stickiness.
Glue pen: A liquid adhesive in a handy pen format, this is ideal for detail work and for sticking small pieces of paper and cardstock with a little more control than a glue stick.
Glue gun: The adhesive is supplied in the form of glue sticks. These are inserted into the gun, where they are heated up to release a hot, runny adhesive at the press of the trigger. It provides a strong, fast-tack bond and is useful for working with foam board and for sticking plastic to paper.
Super Glue: Use this when an instant, long-lasting adhesion is required. A word of caution: It can damage your work surface (and you!) if handled without extreme care.
Spray adhesive: Available in permanent or temporary versions, spray adhesive is ideal for covering large areas, and for fixing delicate items or finely cut motifs.
Double-sided tape: Available in different widths, this is handy for sticking most things.
Low-tack (masking) tape: This is useful for holding things in place temporarily without leaving a sticky residue behind. It also makes a good construction tape but needs to be concealed later in the assembly process as it’s not very attractive.
Foam mounting pads: Since these have a thickness to them, they’re ideal to raise pieces off the surface to give a three-dimensional effect.
Self-adhesive dots: Quick and convenient, these are ideal for keeping glue localized. They generally come in sheets or rolls, but can be expensive.
This list is part of the book’s paper art techniques section, which will be incredibly helpful for those new to paper crafts as well as more experienced mixed-media artists. The guide covers everything, including how to fold a handmade card, how to create variations of quilling coils, and more. You’ll also love the templates section, which will help you get a strong start on the paper art you create.
Get your copy of Mollie Makes Papercraft at the Interweave store–it’s sure to become one of your favorite resources.
Have fun!
*Comment winner will be chosen Friday, August 7, 2015. Must be a U.S. resident due to international contest regulations.
Sign up for the Cloth Paper Scissors newsletter and get a free download on paper art.