Adhesives 101: Which Glue to Use (and Where) for a Clean, Professional Card Finish

A clean, elegant handmade card isn’t about using more supplies — it’s about using the right adhesive in the right spot. If you’ve ever had paper warp, layers slide out of place, or glue show through vellum, this guide will fix that.

1/21/20261 min read

Quick Adhesive Cheat Sheet (Save This)

Best choices by task:

  • Card base + large panels: strong double-sided tape (or a quality tape runner)

  • Layering (mats, frames): tape runner or double-sided tape

  • Tiny die cuts + detailed pieces: liquid glue (fine tip)

  • Dimension: foam tape/foam squares

  • Embellishments (gems, pearls): strong liquid glue or glue dots

  • Vellum (no adhesive showing): mini glue dots hidden behind a sentiment/layer, or thin tape hidden behind darker areas

  • Glitter paper / slick surfaces: strong double-sided tape (liquid glue often lifts)

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