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Tip
#36
Gluing Up
(continued)
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Application
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Figure
1. To get an even glue spread, apply glue to one
surface, rub the two mating surfaces together in circular
motion, then check to be sure the glue has spread over
the entire gluing surface.
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Follow
the manufacturer’s directions for application. Urea resin
and resorcinol should be applied in a thin coat. Others, such
as mastics, hot melt or contact cements are applied in thick
beads or layers. Generally, glues are applied in one of two
ways. Either to a single surface (single spreading) or to
both surfaces (double spreading).
But whether
you’re applying a thin or a thick coat . . . to one surface
or to both...it is of the utmost importance that the application
be even. The most common aliphatic resin or polyvinyl resin
glues can be spread with a stick, your finger or a brush.
Contact cements and some special veneer glues are best applied
with a glue spreader -- a flat piece of metal or plastic with
a serrated (or grooved) edge. The deeper the grooves, the
thicker the glue coat. Again, follow the manufacturer’s instructions
for the best method.
When applying
glue to a single surface, press and rub the two pieces together
for an even spread, then allow the glue to soak into the adjoining
surfaces for a strong bond (See Figure 1.)
The end
grain of wood soaks up glue like a sponge (See Figure 2).
Therefore, when gluing end grains, press and rub the pieces
together, then take them apart and apply a little more glue
before clamping.
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Figure
2 . The same amount of glue was applied to two blocks
and left to stand for 5 minutes. Glue soaks into end
grains (left) faster than flat grains (right).
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When applying
glue inside small holes, cracks, or hard-to-reach joints,
try a glue injector (See Figure 3).
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Figure
3. A glue injector is used for reaching small holes,
cracks and tiny gluing surfaces.
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Continue
to Clamping
Back to Choosing the right glue for
the job
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