How to Use Spray Adhesive: A Simple Guide for Florists, Crafters & Event Stylists
SUMMARY:
- Spray adhesive is ideal for bonding lightweight materials like paper, foam, fabric, and floral decor.
- Prep surfaces by cleaning and protecting your workspace before spraying.
- Shake the can well and spray from 15–20 cm in light, even passes.
- Wait 30–60 seconds for tackiness before pressing surfaces together.
- Full bond takes ~24 hours and can last years if kept dry and properly applied.
Spray adhesive, or spray glue, is a fast, clean, and versatile solution for bonding lightweight materials — from floral foam and paper, to fabric and signage. Whether you're layering materials for a craft project or assembling decor on the fly at an event, this handy tool can save you time and mess.
Here’s a simple step-by-step guide to using spray adhesive safely and effectively.
What is spray glue used for?
Spray adhesive works best for bonding:
- Paper, cardboard, and cardstock.
- Foam and foam board.
- Fabric and ribbon.
- Wood (for light-duty projects).
- Artificial and dried florals and moss.
- Lightweight signage or decor.
What You’ll Need:
Prep yourself with the following.
- Spray adhesive (select based on your materials — general purpose or repositionable)
- The two surfaces you want to bond
- Drop cloth or cardboard to protect your workspace
- Gloves and a mask (for safety and cleanliness)
- Ventilated workspace (ideally outdoors or near an open window)
Step-by-step instructions - how to use Spray Adhesive:
Follow these steps for optimal adhesion.
1. Prepare Your Surfaces: Make sure both surfaces are clean, dry, and dust-free. If one is textured or uneven (like foam or fabric), test a small section first.
2. Protect Your Workspace: Lay down cardboard, newspaper, or a drop cloth to catch any overspray. Spray adhesive is sticky and can settle on anything nearby.
3. Shake the Can Well: Before using, shake the can for about 30 seconds to ensure the adhesive is properly mixed.
4. Spray from 15–20 cm away: Hold the can upright and spray in even, sweeping motions, keeping 15–20 cm (6–8 inches) away from the surface. For temporary bonding, apply a light coat to one surface. For a stronger or permanent hold, apply to both surfaces.
5. Wait 30 Seconds. Let the adhesive become tacky — usually 30 seconds to 1 minute. It should feel sticky, not wet.
6. Press Surfaces Together. Align and press the surfaces together firmly, starting from one edge to avoid bubbles. Hold in place for a few seconds to secure.
Pro Tips:
Level up your glue spraying by keeping the following in mind.
- For repositionable spray adhesive, you can move and adjust pieces for a short time after sticking.
- Avoid spraying too heavily — excess glue can bleed through delicate materials like paper or fabric.
- Use in short bursts to control coverage and reduce waste.
- Full bonding usually takes approximately 24 hours. Factors affecting this include humidity, temperature, material type (porous vs non-porous), and whether one or both surfaces were sprayed.
- Once bonded, spray adhesive can last several years, if applied correctly and kept dry. Strong bonds on paper, foam, fabric, and light wood typically last the life of the project.
Spray adhesive is a great tool to have on hand for quick fixes, layering, and lightweight bonding — especially when working with intricate displays or delicate materials. With the right technique, you’ll get a smooth, mess-free hold, every time. For more information about florist supplies, see our blogs Air Duster: A Quick Guide for Florists, Crafters & Event Stylists and A Visual Guide: How to Spray Paint Floristry and Craft Items like a Pro.