How to Use Rubber Cement for Art

Rubber cement was a staple of the commercial art industry for years before it became mainstream. Its formulation has changed some over the years and there is now a one-coat version available for crafting. Rubber cement is removable, making it a miracle product for commercial art applications. It allows art work to be adjusted without the artist starting from scratch. A commercial artist will use rubber cement for the creation of mechanical art boards. A fine artist would use rubber cement to attach two-dimensional art to a board for display purposes or mounting of art work.

Things You'll Need

• Rubber cement Rubber cement applicator Two paper surfaces Rubber cement remover Rubber cement remover dispenser Rubber cement eraser

Instructions

Joining Surfaces

1. Layout flat the two surfaces you intend to join. This could be paper, fabric, foam board, whatever you are working with.

2. Cover both surfaces to be joined with rubber cement, apply using a brush. Covering more area than needed is o.k., the rubber cement is removable.

3. Allow the rubber cement to dry on both surfaces.

4. Join the two surfaces covered with rubber cement together. The rubber cement will stick to itself making a very tight bond.

5. Use the rubber cement eraser and rub any additional residue away from the unnecessary areas. The rubber cement residue will form a "build up" on the eraser. You can tear it off and throw it away.

Repositioning or Removal

1. Flood the surface with rubber cement thinner and while wet, separate the two surfaces.

2. Allow both surfaces to dry. This will happen quickly since the rubber cement thinner is alcohol based and evaporates.

3. Apply any additional rubber cement as needed. Allow it to dry. Reposition the piece.

4. Reposition the piece.

Tips & Warnings

• Rubber cement can stain some colored surfaces. Do a small test area and remove the cement. If there is discoloration, cover the entire surface with rubber cement so as to change the color evenly.