Thread: Elmer's for basting...NOT!

Was curious about the references I've seen on the Board about using Elmer's Spray Adhesive for basting quilts so I checked it out today. BEWARE, while the can intimated that it could be "temporary" if you read the instructions you will see what they mean by "temporary". The adhesive cannot be washed out like the sprays made specifically for basting. Basting sprays are made to be washed out with soap and water. Elmer's may say "temporary" but please read what they mean by that. Their interpretation of "temporary" does not mean that it can be washed out.

The Elmers glue for basting that I use is the "school glue" - not a spray. This IS washable and works wonderfully - heat setting (pressing) the binding or pieces - they stay put and I don't mangle my hands with pins.

Originally Posted by Lisa_wanna_b_quilter

Yep. That's the only Elmer's I use and it is wonderfu.

I use the glue sticks for my bindings....and I stock up at back-to-school time when they are real cheap. For spray basting, I use Dritz...cheap and washes out well. I also looked at the Elmers spray adhesive and it does say permanent (that means it won't wash out).

Originally Posted by LindaM

The Elmers glue for basting that I use is the "school glue" - not a spray. This IS washable and works wonderfully - heat setting (pressing) the binding or pieces - they stay put and I don't mangle my hands with pins.

Was also asked to come back to confirm whether I am using glue for the whole quilt sandwich or just what ... I was referring to 'basting' as holding pieces together - binding, applique, matching seams. I've only ever used the washable school glue, for binding and perfectly placing seams and applique, not sandwiching the layers.

The *bottled*, washable school glue, that's what I use.

Originally Posted by JUNEC

So are you using the white liquid glue with the twist open top?? Or glue sticks??

Junec, I'm using the liquid glue, altho I've seen people post about using the glue sticks. The liquid glue with the twist tops can put down just teeny dots, which work very nicely. I've just found a clear gel washable school glue, also with the twist top, works well too!

Originally Posted by LindaM

The Elmers glue for basting that I use is the "school glue" - not a spray. This IS washable and works wonderfully - heat setting (pressing) the binding or pieces - they stay put and I don't mangle my hands with pins.

Yes, Elmer's school glue for piecing and binding only, 505 spray for basting the quilt sandwich only.
I use them both all the time, can't make a block without it.