Q: <strong>What glue should I start with as a beginner?</strong>

Start with a glue stick and one liquid craft glue . I’d recommend Art Glitter Glue (or Bearly Art Glue) for fine details, and a strong glue stick for larger surfaces. That combo will get you through most beginner projects — no pressure to buy everything at once!

Question 1

What does “acid-free” mean — and why does it matter for glue?

Accepted Answer

Acid-free glue is pH neutral, meaning it won’t cause your paper to break down, yellow, or become brittle over time. This matters especially for keepsake projects or anything you want to treasure for years. It’s a small detail that helps your journal age gracefully.

Question 2

What does “archival grade” mean?

Accepted Answer

Archival-grade adhesives are designed to last a very long time without degrading or harming the materials they touch. They’re often acid-free, lignin-free, and tested for stability. If you’re creating memory journals, heirloom projects, or just want things to stay put beautifully — it’s a great feature to look for.

Question 3

Is it okay to use glue I already have at home?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely — especially if you’re just starting out! Use what you’ve got and see how it behaves with your paper. If your pages wrinkle or the glue starts to lift after a while, that’s a sign it might be time to upgrade. But crafting should never feel like a shopping list — work with what feels doable and build your stash slowly.

Question 4

Can I use hot glue for junk journaling?

Accepted Answer

You can — but with caution. Hot glue sets quickly and holds heavy embellishments well, but it can also discolor thin paper, add bulk, or even crack if your journal bends. I prefer Beacon 3-in-1 or Fabri-Tac for flexible and more paper-friendly results.

Question 5

What if I can’t find the glues you recommend?

Accepted Answer

No worries! The glues I mention are my personal favorites, but the real key is to look for the qualities they offer — low water content, strong hold, acid-free (when possible), and ease of use. You might find a hidden gem at your local craft or office supply store!

Question 6

What glue should I start with as a beginner?

Accepted Answer

Start with a glue stick and one liquid craft glue. I’d recommend Art Glitter Glue (or Bearly Art Glue) for fine details, and a strong glue stick for larger surfaces. That combo will get you through most beginner projects — no pressure to buy everything at once!

Question 7

Why is my paper wrinkling when I glue it?

Accepted Answer

It’s usually because the glue has too much water in it — and the paper soaks it up, causing it to swell and wrinkle. Try using less glue, smoothing it evenly, or switching to a water-free option like Beacon 3-in-1. Some buckling is normal, but it shouldn’t ruin your page.

Question 8

What’s the best glue for fabric or lace?

Accepted Answer

For attaching fabric, lace, ribbons, or trims, I always reach for Fabri-Tac or Beacon 3-in-1. They bond beautifully without bleeding through or warping the page. Just remember: a little goes a long way.

Question 9

Why do my glued elements fall off after a few weeks or months?

Accepted Answer

This often happens with low-quality or repositionable glue sticks. Some glues simply aren’t designed to last. Look for glues labeled as permanent, acid-free, and strong hold, and give them time to dry fully before handling the piece.

Question 10

Can I mix glue types in the same project?

Accepted Answer

Glue is made for adhesion — it’s designed to stick one material to another. Gel medium, on the other hand, is a thick acrylic-based product originally created for artists to mix with paint. But here’s the fun part: gel medium can also be used as a glue — especially in mixed media, collage, and decoupage. It dries clear, comes in different finishes (matte, gloss, etc.), and creates a strong, flexible bond. Unlike some glues, it won’t stay tacky in humid environments, and it’s usually archival safe. I love using gel medium when I want a glue that doubles as a sealer.

Question 11

What’s the difference between glue and gel medium?

Accepted Answer

This often happens with low-quality or repositionable glue sticks. Some glues simply aren’t designed to last. Look for glues labeled as permanent, acid-free, and strong hold, and give them time to dry fully before handling the piece.

Question 12

Can I seal a journal page with glue?

Accepted Answer

Technically, yes — some glues (like Mod Podge or gel medium) can be used to seal your work. But not all glues are meant to sit on top of your paper, and some may stay tacky or attract dust over time. If you want to add a protective finish, I recommend using a matte gel medium or a clear acrylic spray sealer. Both give a professional finish and help prevent smudging or wear — especially on covers, collages, or layered pages.

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