Effective Adhesives for Bonding Paper and Plastic Surfaces
Gluing paper onto plastic materials requires appropriate adhesives to maintain project integrity. White PVA glue works well for attaching paper to plastic foam, while two-part resin epoxy is suitable for thicker paper and plastic sheets.
By Hayden Hayes
Model airplanes and cars are constructed with plastic and paper.
Selecting the appropriate adhesive is key to keeping your models and craft projects neat and intact. For bonding paper to plastic foam, simple white PVA school glue is a good choice. If you need to attach thicker paper and plastic sheets, a fast-drying two-part resin epoxy is more suitable.
Method for Using White Glue
Step 1
Place newspaper over the table to catch any drips. Using a sponge brush, apply a thin layer of white glue to the back of the paper. It's better to use too little glue than to saturate the paper.
Step 2
Place the paper, glue side down, onto the plastic foam. Check that the paper edges are aligned before pressing it onto the foam. Use your hands to gently smooth the edges and secure the paper to the foam.
Step 3
Put a heavy wood board or glass sheet on top of the foam. This presses the paper down to keep it flat as it dries. Let the glue dry completely for 24 hours before displaying.
Method for Using Resin Epoxy
Step 1
Cover the work area with newspaper. Wear latex gloves to protect your hands. Open the resin epoxy as directed on the package. Some resins come with two parts in a single-squeeze bottle; both parts are squeezed out together and mixed.
Step 2
Dispense a small amount of the two-part epoxy onto the paper plate. The quantity depends on your project size. Start with less to avoid waste.
Step 3
Mix the two-part epoxy with the end of a toothpick for about one minute. Mix both parts together thoroughly.
Step 4
Use the end of the toothpick to pick up a small amount of epoxy resin. Spread it along the edge or backside of the paper.
Step 5
Press the paper into place against the plastic sheet. Hold for about one minute. This should give the epoxy enough time to set so you don't have to keep holding the paper. If the paper won't stay in place, clamp it down. Most epoxies dry within five to 20 minutes. Leave the epoxy to cure overnight before continuing.
