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How to repair porcelain: The DIYer’s guide 

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If you have a broken porcelain fixture or decorative item, you can learn how to repair porcelain here. We’ll show you the inexpensive supplies you’ll need and the best methods to fix your broken porcelain.

Choose the correct adhesive to fix porcelain

Porcelain can be used for many applications around the home. The key to fixing porcelain items is to choose the correct adhesive. The glue will vary depending upon the item and its use.

For example, suppose you need to repair a porcelain bowl, sink, or another item that will come into contact with food. You will need a “food-safe” glue, and likely “dishwasher-safe” as well. Likewise, a repair to a porcelain baking dish requires an adhesive that is resistant to the temperatures reached inside an oven.

Joining broken porcelain pieces together requires a strong adhesive, such as super glue. In addition, you may want to choose a gel adhesive to prevent it from seeping out or running before it dries.

Repairing chipped porcelain is a bit different. A gap-filling product, such as an epoxy, will bring the surface up to level. Then, a porcelain touch-up kit in a matching colour will provide a perfect finish.

Close-up of hands carefully handling a cracked porcelain piece of a cup.
Struggling on how to repair porcelain? Find the right solutions and techniques that can be applied to restore and repair your cherished items

How to repair broken porcelain

Once you have chosen an appropriate adhesive, you can get started. Always work in a well-ventilated area when using adhesives.

As with any repair, test fit the broken parts to make sure they are all present. Next, clean away any dirt, dust, or residue that may prevent the glue from bonding. Then, follow these easy steps:

  1. Apply a small amount of glue to one surface and join the pieces together.
  2. Hold the item until the glue sets, or apply tape or a clamp to prevent disturbing the bond.
  3. Once the bond has set, use a razor blade to carefully scrape away any cured adhesive from the surface of the item. If any residue remains, wipe the area with acetone and a clean, soft cloth.

Best method to fix chipped porcelain

If you have a chipped bathtub or sink, the best way to proceed is to buy a repair kit from the manufacturer to ensure the colour matches. Then, closely follow the instructions for application.

If no kit is available for your item, you'll need a gap-filling adhesive, sandpaper, and a touch-up glaze to match the surface colour.

Begin by cleaning the chipped area with alcohol or a commercial cleaner. Next, fill in the chipped area. We recommend Loctite Universal Instant Epoxy Liquid 5 Minute. Once this two-part adhesive is mixed, the formula will set to a hard, durable finish in just 6 minutes. It bonds to ceramic, metal, glass, tile, and fiberglass surfaces. Once it is fully dry, sand the repaired area smooth and paint with porcelain touch-up paint.

Close-up of hands applying carefully glue to repair a broken porcelain cup.
Super glue permanently reunites fragmented porcelain pieces

Best adhesive for broken porcelain

To repair broken porcelain, try Loctite Super Glue. It forms a durable and long-lasting bond to porcelain, china, and many other materials. In addition, it is transparent when dry and as well as water and dishwasher resistant.

Products used

  • LOCTITE Super Glue

    LOCTITE Super Glue: The extremely strong superglue by the Henkel-brand LOCTITE is ideal for smaller repairs in the house or crafting jobs.

  • LOCTITE Universal Instant Epoxy Liquid 5 Minute

    LOCTITE Universal Instant Epoxy Liquid 5 Minute Transparent, Instant Mix, Multi-Material. Bond smooth surfaces and fill gaps fast!

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