How to using PVA as a wood glue?

7 steps to using PVA to glue wood

PVA is a low cost, water-based, non-toxic way to glue wood to itself. Wood glue is a particularly strong version of ordinary PVA, ideal for heavier jobs. It dries completely clear but you can also buy pre-coloured versions that are less visible on wood surfaces.

Squeeze the glue onto the surface of both of the bits of wood you want to glue together

Remove any excess or spills immediately using a damp cloth

Use either a specialist plastic spreader or a brush to spread a thin coat of glue over the surface of both pieces of wood

Push the pieces together, rubbing the surfaces from side to side to remove trapped air and make sure the glue spreads evenly

Grab a G-clamp or two and clamp the pieces securely

Leave it for 24 hours before taking the clamps off

Sand off any dried excess glue

The disadvantages of PVA glue

Various fungi, algae, yeasts, lichens and bacteria can break down and degrade polyvinyl acetate

PVA shouldn’t be allowed to freeze because it breaks up the polymer, which makes the glue useless

You can’t varnish over PVA…but you can paint over it

It takes 24 hours for the bond to achieve full strength

It is not fully waterproof