Yes, Gorilla Glue can be used on some fabrics, but the results depend on the type of glue and the material. Gorilla Fabric Glue and Gorilla Clear Grip work best because they dry flexible and clear, making them suitable for cotton, denim, canvas, felt, and other sturdy textiles. Avoid using the original expanding Gorilla Glue on fabric, as it hardens, foams, and can damage delicate materials like silk, satin, and stretchy fabrics. For best results, apply a thin layer, press firmly, and allow 24 hours of drying time.
So, can Gorilla Glue be used on fabric… or will it turn your cute cotton tote into a crunchy, glue-infused disaster? If you’ve ever stood in your craft room holding a tube of glue like a wild scientist ready to experiment, this tutorial is for you. We’ll go through every type of fabric — from denim that can survive anything to diva-level silk — and I’ll give you all the tips you need to avoid the “why is this patch as stiff as cardboard?” moment. Craft safely and glue smartly!
So… Can You Actually Use Gorilla Glue on Fabric?
Short answer: Yes… but also no… and also “it depends.”
Gorilla Glue is strong enough to fix a spaceship hull (probably), but fabric is tricky. Traditional Gorilla Glue (the original brown expanding one) isn’t the best choice: it foams, stiffens, and can leave a crunchy patch that feels like a potato chip glued to your shirt.
But Gorilla Fabric Glue and Gorilla Clear Grip?
✔️ Much better.
✔️ Flexible.
✔️ Doesn’t puff up like a soufflé.
✔️ Won’t turn your silk blouse into cardboard.
What Fabrics Work Best With Gorilla Glue?
Some fabrics play nice. Others scream “ABANDON SHIP.”
1. Cotton
Your safest bet. Gorilla Fabric Glue holds well because cotton drinks glue like café au lait.
Result: Strong, flexible bond. No regret.
2. Denim
Denim laughs at weak glue — but Gorilla Fabric Glue? It salutes.
Perfect for patches, hems, and last-minute “oh no my jeans ripped in public” emergencies.
3. Canvas
Almost too easy. Canvas loves glue.
Great for tote bags, decorative buttons, patches, or adding your fancy Zaza buttons on a canvas pouch.
4. Polyester
Works, but sometimes acts slippery like a politician.
Use light pressure + a longer dry time.
5. Felt
Oh yes. Felt and Gorilla Glue are soulmates.
Perfect for crafts, holiday decorations, or glue-based chaos with kids.
Fabrics That DO NOT Love Gorilla Glue
1. Silk
Silk is elegant, refined, and absolutely offended by thick glue.
Risk: Stiff spots, stains, wrinkles that scream “DIY disaster.”
2. Satin
Same as silk but shinier — and even more dramatic. Avoid.
3. Stretchy Fabrics (Lycra, Spandex)
How to Use Gorilla Glue on Fabric (The Mini-Tutorial)
Step 1 — Test First (like a responsible adult…)
Find a hidden corner and dab a tiny bit.
If the fabric wrinkles, stiffens, or screams, “non merci,” stop.
Step 2 — Apply a Thin Line
Keyword: thin. Gorilla Glue expands.
You want a kiss of glue, not a chocolate frosting swipe.
Step 3 — Press Firmly
Use clips, books, or your cat (just kidding).
Let it sit without moving.
Step 4 — Let It Cure
Fabric glues usually need:
⏳ 24 hours for a solid bond
⏳ 72 hours for full “I could lift a car with this” strength
Tips to Avoid a Glue Catastrophe
✔️ Use parchment paper underneath
Unless you want your dining table permanently wearing a patch of denim.
✔️ Avoid over-gluing
Too much glue = a hard, crusty patch.
And you’ll tell everyone “it came like that.”
✔️ Add a weight
Books work great. (Finally, a use for that dictionary.)
✔️ Wash carefully
Gentle cycle. Cold water.
Or just pretend the glued item is couture and hand-wash only.
When to Choose Sewing Instead
If the project involves:
-
Silk
-
Anything stretchy
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Clothing that needs to flow/move
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Anything near a hemline you fold often
Then sewing > glue.
(Yes, I know sewing requires effort. Courage.)
Final Verdict
Can Gorilla Glue be used on fabric?
✔️ Yes — if you use Gorilla Fabric Glue or Clear Grip, light pressure, patience, and avoid princess fabrics like silk.
❌ No — if you're using the original foaming formula unless your goal is “crispy patch couture.”
Use it wisely and your DIY will look pro — not like a gorilla actually made it.
FAQ
1. Does Gorilla Glue work on fabric?
Yes, Gorilla Glue can work on fabric if you choose Gorilla Fabric Glue or Gorilla Clear Grip, which dry flexible. Avoid the original foaming formula on clothing.
2. What is the best Gorilla Glue for fabric?
The best options are Gorilla Fabric Glue for clothing and soft textiles, and Gorilla Clear Grip for heavier materials like canvas, denim, or tote bags.
3. Will Gorilla Glue wash out of fabric?
Once cured (usually 24–72 hours), Gorilla Fabric Glue becomes permanent and washable. Gentle or cold cycles are recommended to preserve the bond.
4. Can you use Gorilla Glue on delicate fabrics?
It’s not recommended. Silk, satin, chiffon, and stretchy fabrics may stiffen, stain, or wrinkle with glue. Sewing or a gentler textile adhesive is safer.
5. How long does Gorilla Glue take to dry on fabric?
Most fabric-safe formulas need 24 hours to dry and up to 72 hours to fully cure for the strongest bond.
Glue + stretch = sad cracks later.
Use sewing or a flexible fabric adhesive instead.
4. Leather (sometimes)
Gorilla Clear Grip works, but original Gorilla Glue is a NO — it expands and pushes the pieces apart.
This blog contains affiliate links — it won’t change a thing for you, but it might let me earn a tiny commission if you click and buy something… like a nice little Gorilla Glue! So thanks in advance — you’re basically funding my next crafty coffee.