There are many different, quality glues to use out there.  When searching for glue, look for cyanoacrylate glue, which is a quick bonding super glue.  We recommend these two...

Super New Glue works great on leather.  The main ingredient is cyanoacrylate, which is a strong, fast acting adhesive that is used in industrial, medical, and household settings. Super New Glue is made in the USA (Yay for U.S. Made!).  It sets in seconds of application.  One drop bonds approximately one square inch of leather, rubber, metal, glass, ceramics, porcelain and plastic. 

Use 1-3 drops per clasp, depending on the size of the clasp.  For example, you may only need 1 drop for tiny 3mm flat or round metal clasps.  For 10mm flat leather clasps, we typically use 2 drops of glue.  For larger clasps, such as 20mm-60mm, we recommend using 3 drops of glue.  

It is best to apply the glue to the metal and then insert the leather or stringing material, otherwise the glue may absorb into the leather and the bond will not be as secure.  AVOID using too much of this glue, 3+ drops into a clasp may cause it to leak out when you insert the leather.  You may be able to salvage the leather if you quickly wipe the glue away.  However, certain leathers react differently to this glue and it may stick to the leather and completely ruin the look of your bracelet. 

Please use this glue with caution! Super New Glue will bond to anything, including your skin. Immediately wash any exposed areas with warm soapy water.  Some of us here at Best Beads use rubber gloves when working with super new glue to avoid the possibility of this glue sticking to our fingers. 

We do not have a solvent for this glue, or know of any solvents that are guaranteed to work. Customers have used acetate with mixed success.  So, be careful, be precise, take your time when making your bracelets!

PROS: Super New Glue will last longer than Loctite.  1 bottle will go a long way.

CONS: Doesn't offer the precision that Loctite gel glue offers.

We love this stuff! We don't sell loctite super glue, but you can find it at any major retailer like Walmart, Target, Walgreens, Home Depot, etc. 

The gel applicator on Loctite glue allows for precise application.  Again, with this glue, a little bit will go a long way.  I like to squeeze a small drip into the left and right sides of the clasp and a thin layer on the top and bottom to make the attachment secure. 

There is a sweet spot when it comes to how much glue you should use...too little will make the leather fall out, too much will ruin the leather and leak out.  Practice makes perfect when making your own jewelry.  You'll find the sweet spot after making a couple bracelets ;)

PROS: The precision tip makes it easier to apply the glue, and less likely that it will leak out.

CONS: More expensive than Super New Glue and won't last as long.

Questions or concerns? Leave a comment!