What type of glue to use for decorating clay pots

Jocelyn
by Jocelyn

I want to embellish my clay pots with glass. What is the best medium to use?

  10 answers
  • Cynthia H Cynthia H on Aug 11, 2018

    Hi Jocelyn! I prefer E-6000 glue. I've also used exterior Gorilla Glue. Just make sure you buy one that says it dries clear.

  • 2dogal 2dogal on Aug 11, 2018

    I'd use E6000 glue.

  • A A on Aug 12, 2018

    I've used three different products with varying results, for outdoor applications.


    E6000 does not hold indefinitely. Within a year I was having to do repairs. I used it for glass on glass, glass on clay and plastics; pretty much any combination of applications. It used to be my go-to product. All of the outdoor items required repair from time to time, because the adhesive "let go". The interesting advantage to E6000 is that you can peel off the old adhesive if you want to reuse or make changes to an object. It's not always easy to remove, but it can be done. E6000 does not adhere quickly, it does require some drying time. You can buy this almost everywhere but shop around because the prices vary greatly from store to store.


    Loctite makes an outdoor adhesive that adheres quickly and creates a very strong bond. I've used it on various applications and have had to make no repairs. On the downside, it's very permanent so reusing or changing will probably not be an option. It's not the cheapest, but you don't a lot to do the trick. Actually, I've been impressed with all of the Loctite products I've used (they even make an adhesive that you can use in high heat environments (like a clothes dryer - I had to re-glue the gasket on the filter). The outdoor adhesive wasn't as readily available and I bought it on Amazon; I've since found it elsewhere. https://www.amazon.com/Loctite-1716815-1-Ounce-Outdoor-Adhesive/dp/B000DZBHK4


    Now, let's talk Gorilla. I LOVE Gorilla products and I've not found one that I wouldn't recommend. From their tape to caulk to other adhesive, this is the best (in my opinion). This stuff will adhere permanently (possibly eternally  , just kidding). I will say that their products are not usually the cheapest, so that could be a consideration. If I'm looking for an adhesive, Gorilla is the first place I'll look and they are available in lots of stores (big box, Target, etc.).

  • Lynn Lynn on Aug 12, 2018

    Weldbond is used by mosaic artists to both waterproof a terra cotta pot befrore embellishments are added and also for gluing the embellishments to the pot. I have even used it to glue mosaic glass to a birdbath.

  • Patti Nicholas Patti Nicholas on Aug 12, 2018

    I’ve successfully used E6000 but you must follow the directions exactly to have a permanent bond. That being said, if I’m going to use the finished product outside or in a wet location, I use exterior caulk, it comes in various colors including clear (though if it’s a thick layer it tends to dry cloudy). If I want the finished product to be very shiny/translucent/glass like I would use clear epoxy, it costs a little more and is more complicated to use but gives a beautiful, professional finish

  • To Work With My Hands To Work With My Hands on Aug 12, 2018

    I used Mod Podge for this project, where I attached acorns to a pot, and tacky glue for this one using cheesecloth.


    I'd recommend Mod Podge for the gems since they're a little heavier.

  • 4637385 4637385 on Aug 12, 2018

    A permanent adhesive (E6000) is a good idea,or just use a hot glue gun!

  • Joann Gonnella Cope Joann Gonnella Cope on Aug 12, 2018

    I have made gazing balls from old bowling balls and used, bath tub tile adhesive and caulk, comes in a tube for about $3-4 I have a ball I have left outside for years and I live in Minnesota.

  • River River on Aug 13, 2018

    E-6000 works best and will hold them in place. Make sure you follow directions on how to use it. Do not out too much, just a dab in middle and press it to desired service. Gorilla glue can cause a very messy suitiin, but it does work also. Cheaper to use E-6000.

  • Rebecca Rebecca on Aug 13, 2018

    There’s a website called “ThisToThat” and you enter what you are glueing to what and it gives the best adhesive(s) to use for your project. Be sure to enter glass, plastic, etc. because it could be a different result.