What Sort of Glue Should I Use To Make Jewelry?

That's a question that's oft debated.

If you are REPAIRING jewelry, such as re-setting rhinestones, then you want to use HYPOTUBE cement.   There is nothing better.  It won't eat the foil on your stones, and the hold is great.

We do sell it on the website at http://www.bsueboutiques.com.

Some complain that they do not like the tube on this sort of glue.  I will freely admit, you need to keep the tip clean and you need to develop a bit of a 'hand' in using it.    It's worth the trouble, because again, this is THE glue product you want for this application.

When using hypotube cement, less is more.   Don't fill the cup with glue, just apply it to the back of the stone and set.   If you fill the cup with glue, it will take a long time to set up.

IF YOU ARE MAKING JEWELRY:  For the best hold that will stand the test of time, E6000 glue is the glue of choice every time.  We carry it on the site at http://www.bsueboutiques.com, as well.   You will need to develop a bit of a technique to use it, but basicly it's very simple---I sort of like the chip and dip method, just get a little on one side of the item you are gluing and then slide it.

You do need to be careful when using these two glues, they do have noxious fumes.   Work with adequate ventilation, keep it off your hands and skin, and don't eat while you are using it.   Wash up well when you are done using it or if you have to take a bathroom break.  If you are a production artisan and use glues alot, this is more important than ever.

Another glue that works okay for some sorts of collage is Crafter's Pick Ultimate Glue, and we carry that one as well at http://www.bsueboutiques.com  This is a NON TOXIC glue and has the best hold of any non-toxic glue I have ever tried.  It takes about twice as long as E6000 to set up, however.

Other glues that work are Devcon two-part epoxies (you have to mix this one up and use it fast) and Elmer's Stix-All.   I like the Elmer's product as it is less noxious than many glues, and the hold is very tight.   But, it does not dry clear, so it will not work for every application.

A GLUE YOU SHOULD NEVER USE FOR MAKING JEWELRY is hot glue, not even the industrial-strength ones.  Hot glue expands and contracts with heat and cold, so you can imagine what might happen to your jewelry, given the test of time.    It just won't hold up.