PVA glues?

[Celo_11]

I've read all the posts on finishing solutions and decided to set up some cotton sash cord mats with PVA glue which I bought locally. Diluted it 3 to 1 and it soaked into the test piece fine, also dried well.

But, even after drying for a week it seemed to soak in water and look wet when I ran it under the tap. After rubbing it a little the PVA started liquefying and started turning white and slimy. I tried a little drop on a piece of wood and let it set for 2 days - same thing. If I wet it and rub it the glue starts dissolving. Hmmm. This is not labelled as washable PVA so shouldn't do this right? From this experience I'm assuming not all PVA glues are equal and I shouldn't just buy any old brand.

So, what type of PVA should I buy? Should I have bought a sealer instead of a glue? Any advice would be appreciated. Need to find a brand that's waterproof when dry.

[Groundline]

I haven't tried this product but a lot of people use Mod Podge as a durable coating on crafted items. I'm sure the company can answer your questions.

[Sweeney]

Mod Podge is PVA and water. I have never found PVA much use on cordage - if I want to stiffen something I use Ronseal Wood Hardener and if necessary varnish once dry. The wood hardener can be dried pretty quickly with a hair dryer but be careful to ensure good ventilation - and the fumes are inflammable!

Sweeney.

[SS369]

Thinned Shellac works well.
Thin with denatured alcohol and it dries before your eyes.
It will build with subsequent coats after first soaking, with no needing to sand or anything in between the applications.
Available in clear or amber.
I happen to use Zinsser brand available at most of the big box stores.

SS

[Celo_11]

Thanks for all the replies - much appreciated.

I'd rather stick with PVA (pardon the pun) as I don't want to stiffen my mats so much as just protect them from dust and dirt or spills.

Been looking around and it seems one has to look for PVA that is specifically sold as being waterproof. I'm assuming that all others are not actually waterproof. Seen a few that say "water resistant" but that's no use.

Found this Evo-Stik stuff (pic) on Wickes website. More expensive than craft glues but it does claim to be "genuinely waterproof".
I'll look around to try and find cheaper but waterproof stuff will probably all be about the same price.

[ianwhitew]

Although I have heard that many glue manufacturers have simply changed the formula to use their glue for cotton stripes.

[kmrondor]

Yes, this can still be a perfect idea. In general, they may not be designed for use with PVA. This means that in some cases, Seal with Ease sealants may be better for gluing than PVA. That's why some PVC clearance manufacturers have their own adhesive that, unlike others, is designed just for it. They'll have the best compatibility, so I suggest you get glue from the same company as the cotton sash cord mats if there is one, of course. Don't forget to read the labels and choose glue to work with this particular material. The adhesive can be applied to surfaces covered with fabric and shouldn't touch the adhesive backing as a rule of thumb.