To assemble EVA foam and Worbla costumes or props, the adhesive cosplayers typically use is contact cement. It’s a very strong glue that ensures flexibility and durability for your cosplays. If you haven’t worked with it before or are still learning to make costumes from EVA foam and Worbla, it’s important to thoroughly learn how to use contact cement. So you can guarantee a strong hold and keep yourself safe.
How to Apply Contact Cement
- Step 1. Prep the surfaces – Always make sure you are working with clean, dry surfaces. You may also need to draw alignment markers to better connect your pieces together later.
- Step 2. Apply the contact cement – Select an applicator for your contact cement. Most containers will come with a brush. Evenly apply a thin coat of contact cement to both surfaces that will be joined together.
- Step 3. Let surfaces dry – Let both surfaces dry until they are tacky.
- Step 4. Join the pieces – Carefully align the pieces together and press firmly as you attach. Work slowly as the bond is instant once touching. For shaped pieces, use a heat gun to shape the foam as you join the pieces together.
What is the Best Applicator for Contact Cement
While most contact cements come with a brush to apply, it isn’t the best applicator. Try these options instead:
The best applicator for contact cement is often the scrap EVA foam.
How Long do You Let Contact Cement Dry
After you apply your contact cement, you need to wait for it to dry. You want to wait until the consistency is tacky. This takes 15-20 minutes unless you heat it up to speed up the process. This however is just your initial drying time. Cure time once your pieces are bonded can take 72 hours to ensure maximum strength.
Do You Need a Mask When Using Contact Cement
Always wear a mask or respirator when using contact cement. You also want to work in a well ventilated area since contact cement’s fumes are harmful and can cause serious health issues.
How to Prep Surface for Contact Cement
You need a clean, dry surface to apply contact cement to. Here’s how you can prep your EVA foam or Worbla for gluing:
- Clean the surfaces – Wipe off the surface with a dry paper towel or cloth. Make sure all dust and debris is removed.
- Make clean cuts – You need smooth edges to join pieces together. Make sure your cuts are clean by using a sharpened knife or box cutter, and sand edges as needed.
- Dry the surfaces – If the foam or Worbla has gotten wet, make sure to dry it before applying your contact cement.
How to Thin Contact Cement
If you need to thin your contact cement, add a small amount of thinner and mix thoroughly. You can use the following thinners:
- Thinner specific for the contact cement brand
- Acetone
- Xylene
- General-purpose thinners like M.E.K.
- Toluene
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