Skip to Content
Article
Let’s spray together

How to glue cardboard together: Your guide to spray adhesive

Need to know how to glue cardboard together? Our handy article on spray adhesive will show you how while also answering any possible questions.

5 min read

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.

The best way to glue cardboard together

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. 

A person sprays liquid from a spray can onto a surface.
Spray adhesive is great for learning how to glue cardboard together, as it covers large areas

How to glue cardboard together: Simple instructions

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.

i

It’s important to clean up immediately after use. To avoid adhesive blocking the spray nozzle, turn the can upside down and spray for about two seconds. Then wipe off the nozzle with a clean cloth or paper towel dampened with mineral spirits. This ensures your spray will be ready for the next project. Also, mineral spirits work well to clean up any overspray.

The right adhesives to glue cardboard together

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.

A person holds a spray can upside down and sprays in the direction of a cardboard.
How to glue cardboard together: After use, you should turn the spray can upside down and spray briefly to prevent adhesive blocking

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.

Related Products

  • lepage spray adhesive heavy duty 468g en
    LePage Heavy Duty Spray Adhesive

    LePage Heavy Duty Spray Adhesive dries clear and has a superior bonding strength for indoor use on porous and non-porous substrates.

  • lepage spray adhesive multi purpose 312g can
    LePage Multi Purpose Spray Adhesive

    LePage Multi-Purpose Spray Adhesive dries clear and has a superior bonding strength for indoor use.

Related Articles

  • 5 min read
    How to glue foam together: What every handyman needs to know
  • 2 min read
    Spray Adhesive: A Fine Mist For Your DIY Needs
  • Wooden workbench with various woodworking tools, clamps, and a bottle of wood glue.
    5 min read
    How to glue: Your guide for uses, techniques, and easy repairs
  • 7 min read
    How to glue 3D prints: The expert’s guide to bonding and repairing
  • 7 min read
    Contact cement: Durable, versatile, quick and easy to use
  • A hand touches a piece of fabric lying on a wooden panel.
    2 min read
    Gluing fabric to wood: Use spray adhesive for best results
  • 2 min read
    DIY Home & Office Craft Ideas
  • A hand strokes blue felt on a workbench.
    5 min read
    How to glue felt: Top two methods for a strong bond