In this guide we'll walk through E6000 vs E6000 Plus, from what each glue is and what you can use it for, to dry times and the surfaces to avoid. By the end you'll know exactly which one to reach for.

What is E6000 glue?

E6000 is an industrial-strength, permanent adhesive that has been a firm favourite among crafters, costume designers and DIY enthusiasts for years. It's known for its seriously strong, long-lasting hold, even on tricky surfaces.

Once cured, E6000 dries clear and stays flexible, so it moves with your material rather than cracking under stress. It bonds beautifully to a wide range of surfaces, including:

• Glass and ceramic

• Wood

• Metal

• Most plastics

• Rubber and vinyl

• Leather

• Fabric

It's also waterproof once fully set, which is part of why it became such a go-to for so many makers.

The one real downside of the original E6000 is its strong solvent smell. It can be overpowering if you're working in a small or poorly ventilated space, which is exactly the problem the newer formula was designed to solve.

What is E6000 Plus glue?

E6000 Plus is the newer, reformulated version, and it's been a real hit with our customers. It's made using a premium polymer technology that keeps all the strength and flexibility of the original but dramatically cuts the odour.

The headline benefit is simple. E6000 Plus is low odour and solvent-free, so it's far more comfortable to use indoors, in smaller spaces, or around the kitchen table. You get the same reliable bond without the harsh fumes.

It's also waterproof, UV resistant, paintable and washer and dryer safe once cured, which makes it even more versatile than the original. It's a brilliant all-rounder for embellishing shoes, fabric, costume pieces and home décor.

One quick note on safety, since there's a common myth about the E6000 Plus being totally odour-free. E6000 Plus is low odour and much kinder to work with, but it isn't completely fume-free or food safe. Like the original, it isn't recommended for anything that will come into contact with food, drink or your skin. Think of it as the gentler, more user-friendly option rather than a totally chemical-free one.

What is the difference between E6000 and E6000 Plus?

Both glues share the same core strengths, so the differences come down to odour, solvents and a little extra performance. Here's a simple breakdown of how they compare:

The practical takeaway is this. If you line the two up side by side, the biggest real-world differences are the odour, the solvent-free formula and the added UV resistance of E6000 Plus. For most makers, those three things make Plus the easier and more pleasant glue to work with.

You can see both options together in our adhesives collection, or compare them directly: E6000 Plus and the original E6000.

What can you use E6000 Plus for?

So what is E6000 glue actually used for? In short, an enormous range of craft, costume and repair projects. Here's how E6000 Plus works across different types of work:

• Jewellery and beading: ideal for attaching beads, gems and metal settings.

• Fabric and costumes: a strong, flexible bond that's great for larger flatback rhinestones and sew on stones, as well as costume repairs. For more detail on this, see our guide to the best glue for rhinestones on fabric.

• Shoes and trainers: flexible, waterproof and durable, which is why so many of our customers use it to bling up their Converse and trainers. Our guide to choosing and applying rhinestones for shoes walks you through it step by step.

• Crafts and DIY: sticks to wood, plastic, ceramic, glass and more, so it's a great glue to keep in your craft kit.

• Home décor: perfect for securing embellishments to hard surfaces around the home.

• Outdoor projects: UV resistant and weatherproof once cured, so it holds up outside.

One important exception. E6000 Plus is not suitable for nails. For nail art crystals we recommend Fix and Flow Gel instead, which is designed for the job.

What surfaces does E6000 not work on?

A quick check before you start can save a ruined project, so it's worth knowing where E6000 and E6000 Plus don't perform at their best.

Neither glue is recommended for foam or polystyrene, polyethylene or polypropylene plastics, including Styrofoam. E6000 Plus is also not the best choice for acrylic or vinyl.

If your project involves any of these materials, it's always worth testing a small, hidden area first, or getting in touch so we can point you towards a more suitable adhesive.

What's the best glue for rhinestones?

E6000 Plus is a fantastic all-rounder, but if you're looking for the best glue for rhinestones there are a few other great options depending on your project:

• E6000 Plus is the better choice for hard surfaces and fabrics that need to move. No smell, solvent-free and the same strength as the original.

• Gem Tac is a fantastic all-round crafter's glue and a customer favourite. It's less thick than E6000 Plus so it's easier to work with, and it dries clear, though it isn't as good for flexible or water-resistant items.

• Chrisanne Clover Crystal Glue and Jewel Glue are a favourite among dancers and costumiers, and are ideal for bonding rhinestones to stretch fabrics.

• Fix and Flow Gel is our number one glue for sticking rhinestones to nails.

New to all this and just want to add a bit of sparkle? If you're wondering what glue to use to bedazzle your first project, E6000 Plus or Gem Tac are the easiest and most forgiving places to start.

How to use E6000 Plus for the best results

E6000 Plus is easy to work with once you know a few simple tricks. To get a strong, tidy finish every time:

1. Clean and dry your surface first. For smooth, non-porous surfaces like glass or plastic, an alcohol wipe works well.

2. Use an applicator syringe for more control and precision.

3. Don't use too much glue. A little really does go a long way, and too much can ooze out from behind your crystals.

4. Allow 24 hours to cure properly, and up to 72 hours for maximum strength.

5. After use, squeeze a tiny bit out of the nozzle before sealing the cap. It helps prevent clogging.

In summary: which glue should you choose?

If you're stuck between E6000 and E6000 Plus, the good news is there's an easy answer for almost everyone: go for the new and improved E6000 Plus. It's strong, flexible, waterproof, UV resistant and low odour, which makes it the better all-round choice, especially if you're working indoors or would rather skip the chemical smell.

The original E6000 is still available elsewhere if you're already familiar with it and don't mind the fumes, but E6000 Plus is what we stock and recommend.

Remember, if you're ever unsure which glue is right for you and your project, just get in touch. We're always happy to help and can even send samples so you can try before you commit.

Frequently asked questions

How long does E6000 Plus take to dry? 

It gets tacky within a few minutes and begins to set in around ten. Allow 24 hours for a full cure, and up to 72 hours to reach maximum strength, depending on the surface and temperature. Thicker layers and non-porous materials can take a little longer.

Is E6000 Plus as good as E6000? 

Yes. It offers the same strong, flexible, waterproof bond, with the added benefits of low odour, UV resistance and a solvent-free formula. That's exactly why we stock the E6000 Plus rather than the original.

Is there a glue stronger than E6000? 

For most craft and embellishment jobs, E6000 Plus is more than strong enough. For very specific tasks, such as stretch dancewear or nail art, a specialist glue like Chrisanne Clover or Fix and Flow can be the better pick. That's not because it's stronger, but because it suits the material better.

Is E6000 waterproof? 

Yes. Both the original E6000 and E6000 Plus are fully waterproof once cured, so they're suitable for items that might get wet, such as wellies and footwear.

Is E6000 Plus really odour-free?

 It's very low odour rather than completely odourless, and it's a huge improvement on the original for anyone working indoors.

Can I use E6000 Plus on fabric? 

Absolutely. It stays flexible once dry, so it moves with the fabric without cracking, which makes it ideal for costumes and dancewear.