How To Make Homemade Glue Using Natural Ingredients

I don’t know about you, mama, but my kids love getting messy making art! Construction paper, markers, glue, paint… you name it… they’re into it!

Unfortunately, art and craft supplies, depending on what they’re for, can oftentimes be fairly toxic, and I’m the kind of mama that is trying to do what I can to minimize the toxins my kids are exposed to. 

Because of this, my kids and I make a lot of our own art supplies. Sometimes this can feel overwhelming, but most times, these homemade art supplies are simple and quick to make.

Today, I’d like to share a tutorial with you on how to make homemade glue using natural ingredients that’s simple and easy to make, and the best part is that it actually works to hold things together.

Tutorial: Homemade Glue Using Natural Ingredients

This glue is your typical “white glue,” and it’s similar to Elmers glue that you’d buy at the store. 

The following recipe will make around 1 cup of glue, and the best way to store it is to put it in small jelly jars (be sure to label it), freeze all but one, and store the one you’re planning on using in the fridge. It should stay good for 2-4 weeks. When you’re ready for a new jar, simply pull one from the freezer, let it thaw to room temperature, give it a good stir to make sure it’s nice and smoothe, and put it in the fridge.

You’ll need:

• 3/4 cup + 1/4 cup of water (divided uses)
• 1/4 cup + 1/4 cup of non-gmo cornstarch (divided uses)
• 2 tablespoons of glycerin
• 1 teaspoon of white vinegar

Directions:

1. Add 3/4 cup of water, 2 tablespoons of glycerin, and 1 teaspoon white vinegar to a saucepan.
2. Slowly whisk 1/4 cup cornstarch into the water until well-blended.
3. Heat mixture over medium-high heat, stirring constantly, until it thickens. It should look like a thick, semi-transparent cream. Once it’s thickened, remove from heat and set aside.
4. Whisk 1/4 cup cornstarch and 1/4 cup water together until smooth in an airtight glass storage container where you will store your glue.
5. Add the thickened mixture from your saucepan into the container and whisk until everything has blended together smoothly.
6. Let your glue cool to room temperature before using it.

So there you have it. A quick and simple recipe for homemade glue using natural ingredients that you probably already have in your home.

Are there any other homemade art supplies you’d like to see tutorials for here on Growing Up Herbal? Let me know in the comment section below, and I’ll do my best to make it happen!