Working with spray adhesive can be tricky and as we all know, very messy.  Here are some helpful tips and techniques from the 3M Corporation that will make using spray adhesive easier, cleaner and enable you to get the most out of the product.

3M Super 77 Multi-Purpose Spray Adhesive is one of the most useful and versatile tools for home decorating, crafting, construction and quick household fixes. It is easy to use, dries quickly and yields professional results for practically any project you can think up.

Basic Directions:

1.         Use only in a well-ventilated area.

2.         Make sure surfaces are free of dirt, grease and moisture.

3.         Shake can well before use.

4.         Align nozzle arrow with dot on top of can.

5.         Hold can upright about 6" to 8" away from surface.

6.         Test spray pattern in a protected area away from project surfaces.

7.         Spray with a light, uniform coat.

8.         Wait 30 seconds before securing the bond.

9.         To help prevent clogged nozzles after use, tip can upside down and spray until adhesive does not emit.

General Techniques

Use at room temperature:

3M™ Super 77™ Multipurpose Spray Adhesive works best at room temperature (60°-80°).

Keep it steady.

A light but thorough coating of spray adhesive works best and two coats are much better than one heavy coat.

Keep your distance

Hold the can upright about 6" to 8" from the surface to spray your 3M spray adhesive. Spraying too closely can wet the surface and cause puddling, which can extend drying times, weaken the bond, and affect the look of the finished project.

Protect from overspray of the spray adhesive

Remember to protect surfaces from overspray. Just use an empty cardboard box, mask off surfaces with tape or paper, or cover the work surface with newspaper or other disposable material.

Right is right

Try to hold the can as upright (vertical) as possible. This will ensure that the spray adhesive covers evenly on the surface. Holding the can horizontally, particularly when the can is nearing empty, may cause uneven coverage.

Start off. Finish off

For the most uniform coverage, always start using your spray adhesive from 2" to 3" off of the project's surface on one side and finish spraying 2" to 3" off of the project's surface on the other side. Be sure to protect surfaces from overspray.

Wait 30 seconds

Wait approximately 30 seconds after spraying adhesive before attaching the surfaces together. This allows the solvents to evaporate and improves the bond strength.

Save the nozzles

Nozzles on spray adhesives can get clogged. To combat this, try soaking clogged nozzles in turpentine or mineral spirits to loosen the adhesive. Also, save good nozzles from empty cans to use as replacements.

Avoid bubbles.

A good way to help eliminate trapped bubbles when using spray adhesive to glue surfaces is to apply pressure starting from the center of the material and then carefully working outward.

Purge the can

To extend the life of the can of spray adhesive, turn it upside down when the project is complete. Spray into a safe location (like an empty box) until the glue stops coming out.

Removing overspray

Adhesive overspray is always better prevented than removed. But several common solvents can help clean it off, including mineral spirits, turpentine, citrus-based cleaners or 3M™ Adhesive Remover. Be sure to follow proper precautionary measures when using solvents! On hands, apply baby oil, cooking or vegetable oil, followed by soap and water.  On furniture, use a furniture polish.  On fabrics and carpet, first remove as much glue as possible with masking tape. Then dab the surface with a cloth dampened with one of the solvents listed above. Or spray the surface directly with 3M™

Adhesive Remover or a citrus-based cleaner. Always test solvents and cleaners on inconspicuous areas of fabric or carpet first.

When using solvents, extinguish all ignition sources, including pilot lights, and follow the manufacturer's precautions and directions for use.