Using different types of materials for your crafting can be tricky at times. For example, do you want to try gluing fabric to leather but don't know if it's possible? Is an adhesive product strong enough to hold fabric and leather together? Will the result be permanent?

Luckily, we've done plenty of research and have the answers below!

Yes! You can glue fabric to leather. Generally, you need to find an adhesive that mentions fabric and leather compatibility, as those products will give you the best result.

However, many all-purpose types of glue also can work for these materials, so an epoxy or superglue may suffice. Regardless, you want to use a waterproof and permanent glue for fabric/leather because they'll age better.

As we start this post, we will discuss gluing fabric to leather. Whether you're new to making garments, have a leather surface you want to decorate or have additional questions: we're here to assist. With that said, let's dive right into this topic!

Is It Possible To Glue Fabric To Leather?

Yes, you can glue fabric to leather using certain glue formulas. Typically, fabric glue will work well for this type of project, as it adheres to the uneven texture of the two surfaces.

For example, Aleene's Leather & Suede Glue promises a permanent bond between fabric and leather, making it an excellent option for your project.

On top of that, you want to try and find glue formulas with polyurethane, cyanoacrylate, or rubber cement for your fabric-to-leather project, as these tend to work the best.

It can be tricky to use one glue for two very different materials. Therefore, even an all-purpose fabric-friendly adhesive may do the trick.

Before using it, you need to figure out what surfaces your bond is compatible with to prevent staining and messiness on your craft.

Some glues may work for typical fabrics, while others have a more difficult time. Many experts recommend going as far as roughening the texture of your leather and fabric before gluing.

The rougher the underside of your two materials, the better your glue can adhere to them.

Aleene's Leather & Suede Glue

This glue works on fabrics, and leather, is permanent, dries clear, has a non-toxic formula, won't soak or stain leather, and comes in a four-ounce bottle.

See it on Amazon.

Does Fabric Glue Work On Leather?

Depending on your fabric glue formula, there's a chance it will also work for leather. As we mentioned, polyurethane glue products are perfect for combining leather and fabric.

Specifically, you might want to use a water-based polyurethane adhesive to attach the two. Since many fabric adhesives are made for fabric-only applications, this can make your search more difficult.

For example, a weaker glue that mainly works for cotton/polyester/nylon materials won't always be able to stick to the leather. You want to remember that leather has a more slippery texture, making it harder for the glue to adhere and dry correctly.

Therefore, super or all-purpose glue with leather and fabric compatibility seems to be the middle ground. 

Another factor to consider is what you'll do with your bonded project. If you're making a leather jacket with fabric embellishments, how do you plan to clean it?

Unless the glue you apply between the two materials is waterproof, you could see the fabric fall off after a few trips to the washing machine.

That can make finding the perfect adhesive even more challenging. Luckily, most all-purpose or outdoor glue products have a water-resistant formula, which will help with the washing.

Bouaegr Leather Repair Glue

This glue product works for leather and fabric, is clear and won't damage fabrics/leather, includes three precision tips, dries quickly, is made with eco-friendly ingredients, and comes with a satisfaction guarantee.

Check out this leather glue on Amazon.

How Do You Glue Fabric To Leather?

Now that you know what types of glues work best for combining fabric and leather, how do you do this? Luckily, it shouldn't be too hard to attach fabric pieces to leather if you prepare each surface.

According to experts, you can do this by following these steps:

1. Prepare your fabric and leather surfaces (make sure they're clean and dry).
2. Use 220/250-grit sandpaper on your leather to give it texture.
3. Apply the glue to the back of your fabric, sticking it to the textured leather.
4. Hold your fabric in place on the leather for a few minutes.
5. Allow the two materials to dry for 24-48 hours, and you're done!

You can see that this entire process won't be too challenging. However, focus on preparing the leather you are applying adhesive to, as this will help the fabric bond to it better.

Many experts recommend cutting small lines with an X-acto blade, so that's one idea to go with. Furthermore, it could be worth it to sand down the leather section you want to glue fabric to.

As we mentioned earlier, a rougher texture is best for glue, especially if you have different materials. Leather doesn't always make it easy for the adhesive to settle and dry, so it will require additional prep time.

On top of those tips, it's also a good idea to use glue products with finer tips. That allows for better control of your bond, so you don't spill it all over your leather or fabric pieces.

X-Acto® Knife Blades

These knife blades are perfect for prepping leather, come with a safety dispenser, include 15 individual blades, are made of carbon steel material, and come in a bundle with a knife if you don't have one.

Follow this link to view them on Amazon.

Fandeli 36027 Multi-Purpose Sandpaper

This sandpaper is 220-grit, has a heavy-duty design, works for all surfaces, is a high-quality aluminum oxide material, measures 11 "L x 9 "W, and promises to make less mess on surfaces.

View this 220-grit sandpaper on Amazon.

How Long Does Glue Last On Fabric And Leather?

Although the results from your glue may vary by brand and application, you should get a permanent bond between leather and fabric.

Assuming you use fabric/leather glue for your project, it will last the lifetime of the two materials. However, this can depend on whether or not the bond is permanent and waterproof.

Remember, waterproof glues tend to last longer on clothing since you will need to wash them periodically. You can expect a much shorter lifespan if your bond isn't water-resistant.

As we mentioned before, all-purpose/outdoor adhesives may work better for your two materials as long as they're recommended for them.

A great example of this would be a clothing-friendly epoxy product. So, let's say you want to use Tacky glue to bond your leather and fabric but don't know which exact formula is best.

This brand makes an outdoor/weather-friendly super glue titled "Aleene's Super Gel Adhesive," which bonds nearly any material to another. They also make a fabric-specific one that holds out a while.

You could try using it for your fabric and leather project. One of the nice things about all-purpose superglues is that they're incredibly versatile. Unlike fabric glue, you have more leeway with what you use it on.

Can I Use Gorilla Glue On Fabric And Leather?

Even though you can technically use some Gorilla glue products for leather, they're not usually recommended. This superglue company tends to focus more on plastic, metal, wood, etc.

However, since Gorilla does offer a few leather-friendly bonds, you could try their "Micro Precise Super Glue" on leather and fabric, but the results seem to be iffy.

As we said before, not all adhesives (extra-strength or regular) can stick to both leather and fabric. A common issue crafters run into is using glue that might work for leather but not fabric or vice versa.

This is the case with Gorilla products. With that said, some people have found luck using "Gorilla Fabric Glue," specially formulated to bond with fabrics and other similar materials.

The brand's website mentions this adhesive being suitable for hems, embellishments, and trim, so it might be worth looking into.

On top of that, this formula promises a fast-drying and permanent result for your leather/fabric. You can also expect Gorilla glue to wash well, which is a major win for anyone designing garments.

How Long Does It Take Glue To Dry On Leather And Fabric?

Depending on the glue formula, your adhesive could take two days to dry fully. Generally, fabric and leather-specific glues take longer to set than superglue products.

That's because they aren't formulated for every type of surface. As we said, leather and fabric glues are very on-and-off for some crafting, even not working between the two.

However, that doesn't mean fabric/leather glues will always take ages to cure. A good rule of thumb is to let your project dry for 24-48 hours, which should be enough time for the adhesive to dry.

On top of that, many glue products dry to the touch in as little as 10-15 minutes. So, you can move your leather and fabric item to another spot or hang it once the "instant-dry" kicks in.

Just remember not to throw your item into the washer or use it before two or so days!

To Wrap Things Up

Whether you have a leather jacket you want to embellish or want to try 3D art with leather and fabric pieces, it's always good to know how to combine them.

We found that attaching fabric to leather with glue is possible using a compatible formula. Most times, all-purpose glues and leather/fabric ones are the best choices.

Try and find a product mentioning polyurethane, as that is generally a good option for the two.

And while we have your attention, check out these helpful articles below!

Do You Have To Seal Leather After Dyeing?

Can You Carve Faux Leather? [Here's How To Create The Effect]

Can You Glue Buttons To Fabric? [And How To]