How to Make the Consistency of Glue Thinner

Use warm water to make the consistency of white glue thinner.

White glues are all-purpose adhesives that are often made from polyvinyl acetates. Commonly used in classrooms for a variety of craft projects, white glue can be too thick if it is used directly from the bottle. If you are decoupaging or doing papier mache, it is necessary to make the consistency of the glue thinner so that it can be spread in thin layers across the surfaces of the art projects.

Things You'll Need

• White glue
• Water
• Measuring cup (optional)
• Plastic bowl
• Plastic spoon

Instructions

1. Pour the amount of white glue you wish to thin into a plastic bowl. Using a measuring cup for this step makes adding the proper amount of water easier.

2. Add a small amount of warm water to the white glue. For a papier mache mixture, add an equal amount of water; for example, if you poured 1/2 cup of white glue into the bowl in Step 1, add 1/2 cup of warm water. To make decoupage medium, add 1 part water for every 3 parts of white glue.

3. Use a plastic spoon to stir the white glue and water together. This thins the consistency of the white glue.

4. Check the consistency of the white glue. You can do this visually by using the spoon to pour the glue back into the container.

5. Add more warm water to the glue mixture in small amounts, if the consistency is too thick. If you have thinned out the glue too much, add more white glue in small amounts to thicken it.

Tips & Warnings

• For children's craft projects, use non-toxic, washable white glues.

References

• Elmers: Frequently Asked Questions: Do It Yourself
• Art Paper: Adhesives for Paper