Clear epoxy glue: Strong, transparent, amazingly versatile

Epoxies are super strong adhesives. Generally speaking, they are two-component glues that begin to set once the two ingredients (a resin and a hardener) are mixed. Clear epoxy adhesive, as the name suggests, dries to a translucent finish unless colorant is added. Many epoxies are also heat and chemical resistant for a wide range of uses.

What makes 2-part epoxy special is that it dries super hard, so it can be drilled or sanded and even hold a screw once completely dry. It also won’t shrink or crack, making it ideal for filling large gaps between materials.

Additionally, many versions of clear resin glue are available. You'll find epoxy adhesive designed to be compatible with many different materials such as stone and concrete, plastics, wood, metal, and more. It’s also available in formulas that set in just minutes for those quick repairs.

Make sure the surfaces you want to glue are clean and dry. Rough up any surface that is glossy or extremely smooth with some sandpaper to improve adhesion.

Pre-fit your parts to make sure they will join together properly. Then mix your epoxy as follows:

1. Cut the end off the double syringe (if supplied) and squeeze equal amounts of the resin and hardener onto a disposable surface. Replace the cap immediately and mix the 2-component adhesive thoroughly.
2. Apply a small amount of the clear resin glue to both surfaces. Work quickly, bearing in mind the working time for the formula you have chosen.
3. Press the surfaces together and hold (or clamp) the pieces until the epoxy starts to set.
4. Use a clean cloth to remove any excess epoxy before it sets. If it has started to dry, use a razor blade to scrape or cut the epoxy away. Acetone or isopropyl alcohol, applied with a cloth or cotton ball, may help soften the epoxy.

Which clear epoxy glue you choose will depend on the project and the materials involved.

For general use, try Loctite Epoxy Instant Mix 5 Minute. This versatile formula will bond metal, glass, ceramics, wood, fiberglass, concrete, and stone. It won’t shrink or crack and is water-resistant for indoor or outdoor use. Once mixed, it starts to set in 5 minutes and can be handled in about an hour.

Need an even quicker fix? Loctite Epoxy Instant Mix 1 Minute will do the trick. It has the same qualities as the 5-minute version but reaches handling strength in just 5 to 10 minutes. The syringe has a static mix nozzle, so the epoxy is already combined as it comes out of the dispenser. Perfect for crafts and precision work.