How to Glue to Melamine

In construction, melamine is often found as a hard outer coating on particle board, plywood, or multi-density fiber board (MDF) and used for projects such as cabinets, bookcases, and shelving because of its water-resistant qualities. Because melamine is a hard, slick surface, the right preparation and glue choice is key to successfully gluing objects to melamine.

1. Pour 1/4 cup dishwashing liquid into a quart-size spray bottle. Fill the rest of the bottle with warm water and shake the bottle to mix the contents.

2. Spray the cleaning mixture directly onto the melamine surface. Be careful not to get the cleaning solution on exposed edges of particle board, plywood, or MDF, or the wood may warp.

3. Wash the section to be glued with a sponge and rinse with a sponge and cool water. Dry the melamine with a towel.

4. Apply rubbing alcohol to the end of a soft rag and rub the area to be glued with the rubbing alcohol. The rubbing alcohol will remove any dirt or grease that remains on the melamine. Allow the rubbing alcohol to dry completely.

5. Place an “S” shaped line of glue down the back of the object you want to glue to the melamine. The glue must be suitable for gluing surfaces such as melamine, vinyl, and laminate.

6. Place the object on the melamine and hold in place until the glue sets. Setting time will depend on the type of glue used and the temperature and humidity in the room, but will probably take several minutes. If you have clamps, you can clamp the object onto the melamine while it dries. Wipe any excess glue away immediately with paper towel.