Can Gorilla Glue work its magic on leather? Yes.
As someone who enjoys DIY projects and preserving leather goods, I’ve put Gorilla Glue to the test many times.
Activated by moisture, Gorilla Glue expands as it cures, filling gaps effectively and creating a strong bond that can withstand significant stress.
Whether repairing a torn leather strap on a bag or crafting custom leather accessories, Gorilla Glue has proven its versatility and strength.
In this article, I’ll share my experiences and insights into how Gorilla Glue can effectively bond and enhance leather items.
Things to Keep in Mind When Using Gorilla Glue on Leather
Here are some things to keep in mind to ensure you get the best results.
Gorilla Glue may not be suitable for all types of leather. It’s best for smooth, finished leather. Avoid using it on suede or nubuck leather.
Before applying the glue, clean the leather surface. Dust, oils, or dirt can weaken the bond. Once I tried to fix my favorite leather bag without cleaning. The glue didn’t hold up.
Gorilla Glue expands as it dries, which is great for filling gaps but can get messy if you use too much. A thin layer is usually all you need.
Gorilla Glue needs time to cure properly. It can take up to 24 hours to fully set. I once tried to rush a repair on my leather wallet, only to have it fall apart the next day.
This glue can get everywhere and it’s tough to remove once it sets. Use some newspaper or an old cloth to protect your work surface.
Leather can react differently to adhesives, so it’s a good idea to test a small, inconspicuous area first. I once skipped this step and ended up with a visible dark spot on a light leather jacket.
Types of Gorilla Glue Available
Gorilla Glue offers several formulations designed for specific applications
Original Gorilla Glue: It creates a strong, durable bond due to its unique polyurethane formula, which expands into the material’s surface for a superior grip.
Gorilla Super Glue: A quick-setting adhesive designed for precise, instant repairs on smaller surfaces. It’s perfect for bonding leather, metal, and more with a fast, stronghold.
Gorilla Wood Glue: Specifically formulated for woodworking projects, this glue dries natural wood color and offers superior strength.
How to Apply Gorilla Glue on Leather?
When using Gorilla Glue on leather, follow some key steps to ensure a strong and durable bond. Here’s a simple guide on how to apply Gorilla Glue on leather:
1. Prepare the Glue
Give the Gorilla Glue bottle a good shake before use. Remember, this glue is polyurethane-based and expands as it cures.
2. Apply the Gorilla Glue
Squeeze a small amount of Gorilla Glue onto one of the leather surfaces. Do not over-apply the adhesive. A little goes a long way.
3. Spread the Glue
Use a disposable brush or a small spatula to spread the Gorilla Glue evenly over the leather surface. Ensure that the glue covers the area where you want the bond to be strong.
4. Join the Surfaces
Press the two leather surfaces together firmly to create a strong bond. You may want to use clamps or heavy objects to hold the pieces in place while the glue cures.
I once used a stack of heavy books to clamp down on a leather patch repair, it worked perfectly.
5. Allow Curing Time
Gorilla Glue requires time to cure and bond successfully. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for curing time. I always give the item a full 24 hours before using it again.
6. Clean Up
Wipe away any excess glue with a damp cloth before it dries completely. Once the glue is cured, it forms a strong bond that can withstand daily use.
Pros and Cons of Using Gorilla Glue on Leather
Here’s a table outlining the pros and cons of using Gorilla Glue on leather:
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Gorilla Glue forms a strong bond that can hold up to wear and tear. | Gorilla Glue can dry stuff, making the repaired leather less flexible and uncomfortable. |
| Once cured, Gorilla Glue becomes water-resistant, protecting the repaired area from moisture damage | Once applied, Gorilla Glue is very difficult to remove from leather, making mistakes permanent. |
| Gorilla Glue sets quickly, allowing you to complete repairs faster. | Gorilla Glue dries clear, but the bond line may be noticeable depending on the leather color. |
| Inexpensive | Not ideal for all leather repairs |
When to Use Gorilla Glue on Leather?
Knowing when to use Gorilla Glue on leather depends on the nature of the project and the desired outcome. Here are some scenarios where Gorilla Glue is particularly suitable:
1. Structural Repairs
When repairing leather items that require a strong, durable bond, Gorilla Glue is an excellent choice.
I fixed the torn strap on my favorite leather bag using Gorilla Glue. The repair held strong, and the bag has been in use without any issues since then.
2. Waterproofing Needs
Once cured, Gorilla Glue forms a waterproof and weather-resistant bond, making it suitable for leather items exposed to moisture.
3. Versatile Crafting
In crafting and DIY projects, Gorilla Glue offers versatility for bonding leather to various materials such as wood, metal, or fabric
4. Quick Fixes and Temporary Solutions
It’s effective for emergency repairs on leather items such as torn straps or loose seams, providing a reliable solution until a more permanent fix can be applied.
When a strap on my leather sandals came loose just before a trip, Gorilla Glue provided a quick fix.
Alternatives to Gorilla Glue for Leather Repair
Several alternatives to Gorilla Glue can be used for leather repair. Here are a few options:
Specific adhesives designed for leather such as Barge Cement or Tandy Leather’s Eco-Flo Leathercraft Cement are great alternatives. They are strong and flexible, making them ideal for leather repairs.
Super Glue can be effective for small, precise repairs on leather. It dries quickly and creates a strong bond, but it may not be the best option for larger or flexible repairs.
Epoxy adhesives like JB Weld or Devcon are strong and versatile options for leather repair. They can bond well to various materials and are durable once cured.
I once repaired a leather seat cushion using epoxy resin. It created a solid bond that has lasted through spills and everyday use without any issues
Contact cement such as DAP Weldwood or 3M Super 77 is a popular choice for leather repair. I’ve used it to repair leather shoe soles and fix a loose leather handle on a bag. It’s an instant fix.
For more substantial repairs or to reinforce glued seams, use a leather stitching kit. This can provide a durable and professional-looking repair for leather items.
Tips for Maintaining Your Leather Items
Here are some tips I’ve picked up over the years to keep my leather items looking fantastic:
Dust and dirt are the enemies of supple leather. Give your leather items a gentle wipe-down with a soft, dry cloth every week.
Store leather items in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. That harsh UV can fade and dry out your leather goods.
To keep your leather items supple and beautiful, condition them every few months. I prefer natural-based conditioners without harsh chemicals, as they nourish the leather without leaving a greasy residue.
Harsh cleaners and solvents can damage leather’s natural oils and finish. Stick to gentle, leather-specific cleaners and avoid DIY remedies that can do more harm than good.
Avoid exposing leather items to sharp objects or rough surfaces that could scratch or tear the leather. I always hang my leather bags instead of placing them on rough surfaces.
Source: DesignByDay YT Channel
Conclusion
Gorilla Glue can be used, but it’s not the optimal choice for leather and many other materials it claims to work well with.
When used correctly and in the right circumstances, Gorilla Glue can provide a strong bond that can help repair and restore leather items.
However, it’s important to consider the type of leather you are working with, as well as the specific needs of the project.
Follow the instructions carefully and allow proper drying and curing time to ensure the best results.
Resources Consulted
- What Is Caiman Leather? A Detailed Guide - July 25, 2024
- What Is Tumbled Leather?A Complete Guide - July 25, 2024
- What Is Kip Leather? Premium Leather Choice - July 24, 2024