Using Starbond as an Adhesive

Although Starbond has a reputation for use in filling voids and as a finish for turned objects, it’s a handy, quick curing adhesive for a range of materials. Here’s how to use it as a glue.

How do I apply Starbond?

To ensure proper bonding, first prepare the surfaces so they are not oily or dirty. When applying, use only the right amount of glue. As a general guideline, use one drop of CA glue per square inch of the surface you want to glue together.

Apply glue sparingly to one side of the surface, because if you coat both sides with glue, it may not result in instant bonding.

You can also apply the accelerator directly onto a glued joint or spray one side of a joint and apply glue to the other for instant bonding (Photo 1).

Wear gloves to prevent the glue from sticking to your fingers, and if desired, wear glasses or goggles to avoid irritation from the CA fumes.

Photo 1 – Using Starbond and accelerator to glue a miter joint.

In the next section, we run through the process of using medium/thick Starbond to fill a large void around a knot, leaving a flat, smooth surface ready for finish sanding.