The Best Glue for Ceramic Repair

Repair your broken ceramics

Polyvinyl acetate (PVA) is the best glue to repair broken ceramics. It is important to put all the pieces of a broken ceramic together precisely when making a repair. Instant glues and five-minute epoxies dry too quickly for precise repairs. Slower setting PVA glue is a better use for repair of broken ceramic.

Examine

Examine the ceramic to determine where you need to make the repair. Check to be sure you have all the ceramic pieces needed and you know how the pieces fit together.

Apply

Apply PVA adhesive to the broken pottery where you want to make the repair. You can find PVA in your local hardware, home supply and art supply stores. Although you can use any type of PVA, clear PVA is often the best choice. Clear PVA will yield a less visible repair.

Hold

Hold the ceramic in place for about one minute until the PVA has set. Remove any excess PVA with a craft knife after the PVA has set.

Repeat

Repeat as needed until all pieces have been put back in place.

Cure

Allow the PVA to fully cure. Let the repaired ceramic to sit overnight before use.

References

• "Big Book of Crafts"; 2006
• "Martha Stewart's Encyclopedia of Crafts: An A-to-Z Guide with Detailed Instructions and Endless Inspiration"; Martha Stewart Living Magazine; 2009
• "Rubbish!: Reuse Your Refuse"; Kate Shoup; 2008
• "Eco Craft: Recycle Recraft Restyle"; Susan Wasinger; 2009

Resources

• This to That: Glue Advice