Have you ever asked, what kind of glue to use on ceramic, after discovering a shattered mug, a cracked vase, or a treasured porcelain figurine? Choosing the right adhesive is essential for a repair that’s strong, clean, and durable. Ceramics are non-porous, brittle, and sometimes glazed, so they require specialized glues that adhere well, bridge gaps, resist water and heat, and—when needed—remain as reversible as possible. This guide covers every option, technique, and consideration you’ll need to make a flawless repair.
Understanding Ceramic Repair Needs
Ceramics present unique challenges:
- They are hard and brittle, easily cracked or chipped.
- Many have glazed surfaces—smooth and non-porous.
- Repairs must manage tensile and shear forces without visible glue lines.
- Functional items may require food-safe, waterproof, or heat-resistant solutions.
Knowing what kind of glue to use on ceramic is all about matching the adhesive’s properties to the item’s needs.
1. Super Glue (Cyanoacrylate): Fast, Seamless for Clean Breaks
Cyanoacrylate adhesives, commonly known as super glue, are ideal for clean snap breaks in non-porous ceramics.
- Bonds almost invisibly within seconds
- Offers high tensile strength, but low shear resistance (ZDS Adhesive)
- Requires perfect mating surfaces—does not fill gaps
- Thin viscosity may wick away in porous materials
- Not suitable for joint stress or prolonged heat exposure
Best Use: Immediate repairs on glazed, small shards; works for decorative pieces not exposed to stress.
2. Two-Part Epoxy: Strong, Gap-Filling, Water-Resistant Fix
Two-part epoxies (resin + hardener) offer unmatched structural repair ability:
- Fills chips and gaps; cures to very strong bonds (~3600 PSI) (Lakeside Pottery)
- Multiple curing speeds (5-min to slow-cure)
- Resistant to heat and water—ideal for functional ceramics
- Slight visible glue line which can be sanded or glazed over
Best Use: Dishes, mugs, cookware, or decorative pieces needing structural repair.
3. Conservation-Grade Adhesives: Paraloid B-72 for Museum Work
Paraloid B-72, also known as Acryloid B-72, is a favorite in conservation:
- Clear, non-yellowing acrylic resin (conservationresources.com, Ceramic Arts Daily Community, Reddit, Wikipedia)
- Reversible using solvents—ideal for heirloom preservation (Lakeside Pottery)
- Moderate tensile and shear strength; considered structural in conservation context (CoOL)
Best Use: Gallery-quality, antique ceramics where reversibility is essential.
4. High-Temperature Epoxy: Heatproof Repairs
Specialty epoxies like J-B Weld offer high-heat resistance:
- Withstands up to 500–600 °F; bonds ceramics, metal, stone, and more (Wikipedia)
- Thick, durable, and machinable after curing
- Lessc clera than standard epoxies—visible repair lines possible
Best Use: Repairing ovenware, outdoor ceramics, or fixtures exposed to heat.
5. Silicone & Craft Adhesives: Flexibility for Decorative Fixes
Adhesives like E6000, silicone, or hot glue are useful for non-structural bonds:
- Flexible, shock-resistant
- Easy to use—but jumbo visible lines, and not food-safe (ZDS Adhesive, Ceramic Arts Daily Community, Reddit)
Best Use: Craft pieces, jewelry, or display items—not for functional ware.
6. Kintsugi: Golden Highlight Method for Aesthetic Repair
Kintsugi is the Japanese art of repairing ceramics with lacquer mixed with gold powder:
- Highlights cracks as part of the design
- Uses urushi lacquer, not traditional glue
- Requires skill and humidity-controlled curing
Best Use: Decorative display items where the crack is celebrated, not hidden.
Comparing Adhesive Types
| Adhesive | Strength | Gap Filling | Heat/Water Resistance | Visibility |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Super Glue | High tensile, low shear | None | Moderate | Invisible with clean break |
| Two-part Epoxy | Very high strength | Yes | High | Slight but manageable |
| Paraloid B-72 | Moderate | Limited | Moderate | Very clear, museum-grade |
| High-temp Epoxy | High | Yes | Very high (500–600 °F) | Thick, visible |
| Silicone/Craft | Moderate | Yes | Moderate | Highly visible |
| Kintsugi | Moderate | No | Moderate (no fragile heat) | Artistic gold cracks |
Step-by-Step Repair Process
- Clean the pieces: Remove old glue with solvent; dry thoroughly (Lakeside Pottery, CoOL, conservationsupportsystems.com, ZDS Adhesive)
- Test fit dry: Ensure pieces align perfectly
- Choose appropriate adhesive based on use case
- Prepare surfaces: Lightly sand for better bonding
- Apply glue correctly (e.g., thin for super glue, mix epoxy 1:1)
- Clamp and support until cure completes
- Remove excess before full cure
- Sand or finish epoxy lines; apply matching paint or glaze
Real-World Tips from Ceramic Artists
- Super glue gel soaks into porous ceramic and holds up well—even dishwashers (Wikipedia, Reddit)
- Epoxy is reliable for structural pots and plates, but choose clear variants for low visibility
- Avoid expanding glues like Gorilla Glue—they misalign pieces (Ceramic Arts Daily Community)
- Paraloid B-72 is trusted for conservation, used in museum-quality repairs (conservationresources.com)
Choosing Based on Ceramic Type
- Glazed porcelain: Super glue or clear epoxy for visible cracks
- Unglazed stoneware: Gap-filling epoxy works wonders
- Earthenware/terracotta: Primer coat then epoxy
- Heirlooms: Use reversible Paraloid B-72
Safety & Handling Advice
- Work in well-ventilated spaces—many adhesives emit strong fumes
- Use food-safe epoxy for drinkware and bowls
- Avoid moisture during setting to prevent bond failure
- Store glues per instructions to preserve shelf life—e.g., CA glues in cool, dry conditions (Lakeside Pottery, resources.culturalheritage.org, Ceramic Arts Daily Community, Wikipedia)
Glossary of Adhesives
- Cyanoacrylate (CA/Super Glue): Instant-setting, invisible, non-gap-filling
- Two-Part Epoxy: Resin + hardener; strong and gap-filling
- Paraloid B-72: Acrylic resin used by conservators; reversible
- High-temp Epoxy (e.g., J-B Weld): Durable, heat-resistant
- Silicone/Craft Glue: Flexible but visible and non-food-safe
- Kintsugi Urushi Lacquer: Decorative lacquer with gold for artistic repairs
Summary of Selection Guide
- Quick, clean fix: Super glue gel
- Structural repair: Two-part epoxy
- Conservation/museum: Paraloid B-72
- Heat-exposed items: High-temp epoxy
- Decorative crafts: Silicone/DIY adhesives
- Artistic enhancement: Kintsugi lacquer
By considering the ceramic’s material, intended use, required strength, heat exposure, and desired aesthetics, you can confidently answer what kind of glue to use on ceramic. The right adhesive, applied with care, restores not just function but also beauty—giving your pieces a second life meant to last.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the best glue for ceramic repair?
The best glue depends on your project needs:
- For clean breaks: Super glue (cyanoacrylate) is ideal.
- For strong, gap-filling, and durable fixes: Two-part epoxy is preferred.
- For heirlooms and valuable items: Paraloid B-72 is the best conservation-grade choice.
2. Can I use super glue on a ceramic mug?
Yes, super glue works well for small, clean cracks on ceramic mugs, especially decorative ones. However, for mugs used with hot liquids, food-safe epoxy is a safer and more durable option.
3. Is epoxy glue safe for dishes and food-contact ceramics?
Not all epoxy is food-safe. Look for FDA-approved, food-safe epoxy for dishes, mugs, or bowls that come into contact with food or drink. Always follow manufacturer guidelines.
4. How do I remove old glue from ceramic before re-gluing?
Use acetone or isopropyl alcohol to soften cyanoacrylate (super glue). For epoxy, carefully sand or scrape the residue off. Be gentle to avoid further damage to the ceramic.
5. How long does ceramic glue take to cure?
- Super glue sets in seconds and cures in minutes.
- Epoxy can take from 5 minutes (quick-set) to 24 hours (slow-cure) for full strength.
Always check the label for precise curing time.
6. Is there a heat-resistant glue for ceramic?
Yes. High-temperature epoxy such as J-B Weld can withstand up to 500–600°F (260–315°C), making it suitable for cookware or fireplace ceramics.
7. Can I use Gorilla Glue on ceramic?
Gorilla Glue works on ceramic but expands as it cures, which can misalign parts. It’s better for porous or rough surfaces rather than fine ceramic repairs.
8. Is hot glue good for ceramic?
Hot glue is not recommended for structural ceramic repairs. It’s best suited for temporary fixes or lightweight, decorative items.
9. What glue is best for outdoor ceramic repairs like garden pots?
Choose a weather-resistant epoxy or exterior-rated construction adhesive. These provide water resistance and strong adhesion for outdoor conditions.
10. What is the most invisible glue for ceramic?
Super glue dries clear and offers nearly invisible seams on clean breaks. Clear epoxy is another option that can be sanded and painted for a seamless finish.
Conclusion
Ceramic items, whether functional or decorative, often carry sentimental or practical value. When they crack or break, knowing what kind of glue to use on ceramic can mean the difference between a temporary fix and a long-lasting restoration. From super glue for quick fixes to high-performance epoxies and museum-grade adhesives for valuable pieces, the right product depends on your specific project.
For structural repairs, epoxy leads the way with strength and versatility. For delicate or heritage items, Paraloid B-72 ensures a reversible and clear finish. And for artistic restorations, Kintsugi offers a timeless, beautiful approach.
By matching your adhesive to the ceramic’s use, material, and exposure to heat or moisture, you can restore everything from coffee mugs and flowerpots to antique porcelain. With the right glue and careful application, your ceramics can return to full beauty and function—sometimes even stronger than before.
