Glue and gluing is an essential component of woodworking. It’s not exactly something that requires a lot of skill or technique, but I have a few tips that should get you started. Here are what you need to know about glue: the basics.
However, there are a few general tips, no matter the type, that will help it dry faster so you can move on with your project that much sooner.
1. Use New Glue
The first way to make sure your glue dries fast is to be sure that the glue has not expired or is not close to expiring. Age will affect the performance of your glue overall, including extending its normal dry time. Using a fresh bottle will ensure that your glue dries as quickly as it’s supposed to.
2. Thin Application
If you need really fast-drying wood glue then you do not want to apply it using thick layers since this will take much longer to dry. Additionally, a warm environment will help dry the glue faster because warm air can absorb more water from its surroundings. If you need it to dry really fast, think about using a hairdryer on a low setting.
3. Do Not Dilute
Never water down your glue in order to make it dry faster. This does not work in the way that you think. Instead, the diluted glue will just saturate your pieces, in turn making everything hard rather than sticky and ruining your adhesive bond.
4. Resin
If your wood glue is being used in conjunction with a resin then you can add a bit more hardener to the mixture to accelerate drying time. However, you will have to glue things quickly because the solution will begin to harden immediately.
You could also mix up your own fast-drying wood glue. All you need is quick-drying glue and some sawdust from the wood. Mix these two together, apply it, and leave it to dry.
5. Clamps
To make sure your wood glue sets properly and that the pieces are in the right spot you should clamp everything together. Holding the pieces yourself exactly in the right spot for hours is just not feasible.