Leather Adhesives

Whether it is a stylish purse or sleek seats on a new car, leather is the epitome of high quality and high class. Leather is animal hide that has been treated to last and can be used to make a wide range of products. It can be made from a variety of different animals and also comes in several different grades.

Bonding leather can come with its challenges because using the wrong adhesive or applying it incorrectly could have you ruining the look of the leather or even the leather itself. Bonded leather that has adhesive coming out the seams or that has been discolored by glue is a big turnoff for any consumer. You also need an adhesive that is durable and will be able to last.

Types of Glue for Leather

Not every adhesive can bond leather successfully. Some may damage the material while others may not be able to create a strong enough bond to last. Although not every adhesive is made for leather, there are several glues for leather applications available.

Some of the most commonly used adhesives for leather are polyamide hot melt adhesives. These thermoplastic adhesives are known for their strong bonds from their internal hydrogen bond. They also work in a wide range of temperatures and are resistant to grease and oil, so they can withstand environmental conditions that other hot melts cannot.

Open times for these adhesives can range from a few seconds to a few minutes depending on the specific product. Products can also vary in their flexibility and tensile strength, so look for a product that will best meet your needs.

How to Bond Leather

Leather is perceived as having a high-quality look and being built to last so when gluing leather, you want to make sure you uphold these qualities. If you choose an adhesive for leather applications and apply it according to the manufacturer's instructions, then you should be able to get good results.

Typically when gluing leather, surface preparation will involve cleaning the leather and allowing it to dry completely before applying the leather adhesive. Because leather can be sensitive to water, cleaning often involves using a damp rag and special soap to lightly remove dirt and other contaminants. Another dry rag can be used to help remove the soapy residue and water. If you are bonding the grain side of the leather, a light sanding may help the adhesive stick better. Just be sure to clean away the residual leather particles after.

After the leather substrates are dry, the next step is applying the actual adhesive. It is often a good idea to test the adhesive before applying in large quantities. Most manufacturers will recommend wearing protective clothing and working in a well-ventilated area. While many leather glues have shorter open times, it is still important to give the bond time to cure before putting it under stress. Some manufacturers may even recommend using clamps to apply pressure and allow the bond to fully form.

For best results, the leather glue should be stored appropriately. Most polyamides require storage in a cool, dry space, but specific requirements can vary from one product to another. Improper storage can decrease the strength of the adhesive or make it unusable altogether.

Get the Leather Adhesive You Need

There are many adhesives for leather available and the right one for you will depend on your unique needs. At Hotmelt.com, we can help you determine the best leather adhesive for your application and budget. Contact us today to get a free and personalized product recommendation.