Though marketed as a substitute for PVA glue, Mod Podge isn’t the same product.
Though it may work in some scenarios, it doesn’t always deliver on its promises. Some users end up with clumpy, bumpy sprays.
So, is mod podge the same as PVA glue?
No, they’re actually very different. Mod podge and PVA glue are both glues.
However, mod podge is for crafts, while PVA glue is for construction and attaching objects together.
Mod podge and PVA glue are also very different in terms of appearance. Mod podge is a clear liquid, while PVA glue is a white paste.
Finally, mod podge isn’t very strong, while PVA glue is very strong and durable.
What Is Mod Podge?
Contents
Mod Podge is an all-in-one adhesive that’s used for a wide variety of things around the home and craft projects.
It functions as a glue, a sealer and a finish all in one convenient bottle.
Mod Podge also acts as protective barrier on projects to prevent scratches or dirt from marring your work.
Finally, Mod Podge may act as a varnish or sealant to your project. It dries clear and often adds a glossy sheen to a project when applied properly.
Mod Podge has various non-toxic chemicals in it that allow it to dry quickly, but it won’t harm you or your children when used properly.
What Is PVA Glue?
PVA glue is a synthetic polymer that acts as a binder between other materials such as paper, wood or plastics.
This glue is used to adhere objects together, including paper, fabric and even metal and glass.
PVA glue is popular due to its ability to adhere to a wide variety of materials without drying too quickly or being affected by moisture in the air.
PVA is stronger than Mod Podge and dries more quickly than Mod Podge.
Is Mod Podge and PVA Glue the Same Thing?
No, Mod Podge and PVC are not the same thing. They’re different products with two different purposes and uses.
PVA glue and Mod podge both adhere to different surfaces with different strengths.
So if you’re working on a project that requires a strong bond, you should use a solvent-based adhesive like PVC instead of something that’s meant for crafts like mod podge.
They are comparable in that they are water-based adhesives with similar qualities, but they’re not the same product.
Mod Podge’s primary constituent is polyvinyl acetate (PVA), which is a water-soluble polymer that forms an adhesive when mixed with water.
Mod Podge contains PVA glue, which is a type of white liquid that dries clear.
What Is the Difference Between Mod Podge and PVA Glue?
PVA glue is a white paste, whereas mod podges is a clear liquid.
They are similar in that they are both water-based adhesives with similar qualities. However, they aren’t the same product.
It is water soluble, meaning that it dissolves in water and can be washed off with water after it dries.
Mod Podge is a two-part epoxy glue that comes as a brush-on or spray-on formula and forms a clear protective finish for crafts projects.
Although the two adhesives are nearly alike, there are important differences to be aware of when attempting to substitute one for the other in a project.
Is Mod Podge Better than PVA?
It is said that PVA glue is better than Mod Podge because it sets quickly (it takes seconds) and that it’s strong.
This is due to the fact that it is a synthetic resin-based glue, whereas Mod Podge is a water-based acrylic-latex hybrid which takes longer to dry, but becomes stronger as it cures.
Mod Podge prevents cracking, peeling, bubbling and other imperfections that can occur when using a traditional solvent-based adhesive.
It’s also available in a wide variety of colors, is non-toxic and safe for kids and pets, cleans up with water (no toxic fumes) and dries clear.
There is dishwasher safe Mod Podge, which is even waterproof.
PVA glue comes in many different varieties such as hot glue sticks, thick gels, thin gels and more.
Mod Podge is also superior in that it has a more matte finish than standard household brands which gives it a more professional look than household brands.
Because you don’t need as much of the material to get the same results as with other brands, you’re saving money as well.
PVA glue dries slower than Mod Podger and has a very strong odor. Some people may not like the strong odor of commercial-grade resins or solvents.
Also Read: Is Mod Podge Flammable?
Final Words
Mod Podge and PVA glue are both great adhesives that can be used for a variety of tasks and materials.
They are both safe for use around kids and pets when used properly, although they do have some significant differences that make them more suitable for certain tasks than others.
While both Mod Podge and PVA glue are good at adhering things together, they are better for different purposes and are certainly not interchangeable.
Because of its ability to glue, seal and protect a wide variety of materials and surfaces, I recommend that you try using both in your projects to determine which one you prefer for the task at hand.
While PVA glue is suitable for school projects and gluing everyday items together around the house, it is not suitable for most craft projects that require a strong bond.
For these sorts of tasks, you should use a solvent-based adhesive like PVC instead.
