***IMPORTANT UPDATE*** I consider MAC Glue to be the best glass on glass adhesive however with MAC glue being out of production for the time being many are using Prep MultiUse Adhesive which is an Australian product. You can import it from Ebay or direct from Australia, even with shipping its very cost effective. :)
Peter, thank you for yet another informative video! For my fellow mosaic artists: Maryland Mosaics sells Weldbond for about $10, and Mac for $16-$25 (4 and 8 oz bottles).
Thanks for your video. I use both, but since most of my pieces are GOG, I am beginning to use mostly MAC because Im so tired of waiting for Weldbond to dry.
My pleasure, yes you are correct, Weldbond takes a longer time to dry sometimes months on a GOG, Mac is quicker drying however Mac also slows down when adhering larger pieces of glass so its best to keep the smaller if you have a deadline. :)
I specifically watched this episode because I'm an 'Old Mosaic Crone' who uses neither. When I started GOG back in the 70's, neither existed, there was no UA-cam Community, and I was an oddity. Today there are so many products, but I'm kind of set in my ways. I have always used clear-dry Silicone. However, the info you've shared here is very informative. Where I live (the Canadian Rocky Mountains) we can hit temperatures of -30 to -40 Celsius in the winter, and 30+ Celsius in the summer, so I have always doubted glue products viability. I design the majority of my pieces for indoor/outdoor use. The great thing about silicon is that it's easily scrapped off around individual pieces if it leaches out when it dries, and I have never once had to consider a barrier wash before grouting. I will definitely consider Mac glue for indoor pieces. One question, I always, always seal my pieces befoe starting them, no matter my substrate (including glass), why isn't this common practice? I have yet to have any of my pieces fail (even after 20+ years). Love your informative videos. Thanks.
Thankyou so much. There is nothing wrong with the "old" ways especially when you consider how many thousands of years ago mosaics were made and are still around. People that think outside the box like yourself starting back in the 70's with GOG the world needs rather than following the norm. There are many products around today but many of them duplicate or imitate others, adhesives have come a long way and there have been huge improvements but like everything they have their pros and cons. There are many products around for the professional trade and also for the craft customer, however I would not use a lot of them in a mosaic. If you use glue you can also wipe around the edge of it with a cotton bud if it squeezes out and that also helps seal the edges, but your climate is harsh and I'm not sure if that would be a good way to go. I'm not a silicone fan due to the solvents they contain and using long term which isn't great for your health as they continue to give off solvents while curing and I find its messy but many do use it and very well, like yourself. I only seal porous substrates, I don't seal glass or the glass tess, float glass is not porous or absorbent, I have heard of a couple of people that seal their glass substrate but have never done so. Whatever you're doing, their lasting in your Canadian winters and I would keep doing it, where I live in Australia its mild. What do you use for your GOG frames to take the winters if they are outside? :)
Peter, I really enjoy your instructional videos. I commented to you on Facebook here in the States, the woman had a problem with her Grout having cracked. I had mentioned my in-laws who live in Tam O' Shanter, Tasmania, I believe you live up on the mainland. I live in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania and have just started doing mosaics. My biggest hang-up is cutting the crockery, I need to feel more confident. I have the wheely cutters and the right/left hand nippers. I think I need to buy compound nippers so I can practice making circle and shapes (while watching how you so it, really great). Anyhow, I am looking forward to gaining confidence in my mosaics through your videos. At the moment I am enjoying transforming terracotta flowerpots. Cheerio the nooo (originally from Glasgow, Scotland) now living in the States.
Thankyou very much Elizabeth, yes I remember the post and your comment. If you are using normal crockery you shouldn't really need compound nippers your double wheeled nippers should work fine as long as they are a good brand such as Leponitt. Even when using porcelain crockery which is one of my favorite's and it generally cuts beautifully double wheeled nippers will do the job. If the crockery is quite thick then you may need the compound nippers, however I only use the "normal" crockery and avoid anything that's quite thick including the base of a plate. You get to know what to look for but there are different qualities of plates which will also determine how it cuts. :)
This is a comment from the artist that designed it. It's a resin off of a special tree, found in one forest, overseas. It's acrylic and resin. Chemical name on the SDS is Acrylic Polymer Dispersion.
Btw - you don’t want to shake MAC Glue as it creates air bubbles. If you do, let it sit so the bubbles can settle before using the glue. :). Nothing settles in the bottle so no need to shake.
I know its a shame its not being made for the time being as I consider it the best adhesive especially for GOG. People are using Prep MultiUse adhesive and I will be once my MAC glue has run out. Its an Australian product and many are importing it direct from EBay or direct from Australia, especially with the AUS$ being low its very cost effective even with shipping. Thankyou for watching and for your comment. :)
I made a few projects using Weldbond, glass on mdf. Some of the glass pieces are starting to pop off. They have never been outside. I’m wondering if I didn’t use enough glue or perhaps I didn’t let it cure long enough before grouting. I want to get it right before I gift more projects.
Many people use Weldbond however its is moisture sensitive so if it comes in contact with moisture such as grout it can revert back to its original state, which means the pieces can loosen. Im not saying this is the issue but it has been known to happen. You could try more adhesive however you only need it cover the the bottom side to hold. Did you seal your MDF before applying the tess as the moisture can be sucked into the MDF from the adhesive, if you didn't you can seal it, you can with a 50/50 Weldbond and water applying it liberally all over including the back and sides. Make sure there is no flex in the MDF, I use quite thick pieces. Have a look at my videos starting in mosaics. :)
Really you dont want to move the piece around if it has Mac glue on it, you really want to place it and leave it unless there is an issue and you need to lift it up. :)
I have used a 50/50 mix for a weldbond wash and have notice that it doesn’t dry completely clear. I will use a heating pad to add heat to help with drying and put the piece in a sunny window but after 60 days I still have white residue on a few of the glass pieces! I’m at my wits end trying to figure out what went wrong 😡
Weldbond can take considerably time to cure especially if you have used large glass pieces or a lot of it, Weldbond cures by air. Some people find it turns clear within a matter of days and others many months, it depends on the environment that its in and if the substrate was cold or in a cold room when the wash was applied. If you are going to use heat make sure its a very gentle gradual heat as you don't want to give the glass thermal shock which will cause it to crack. :)
How warm does the room need to be so the MAC doesn't crystalize. It happened on my first try at using MAC so I stopped using it after I saw what happened. It was all cracked. Luckily It looked ok on the piece. Thanks for the info regarding the temperature on your video, although you didn't say how low is too low. My studio is in my basement in the PNW.
When Mac crystallizes it not only creates a crystal type look but the bond is generally compromised as well. I have no idea what the lowest temperature is my own experience shows Mac to work well around 20-22 °C (68-72 °F) if your a rea has a lot of cold temperatures I would keep it inside rather than in the basement. If Mac freezes it is ruined. You can also use Prep MutliAdhesive which is an Australian product and is not effected by the cold to the degree that Mac is of course I wouldn't keep it at 0 degrees though it just tolerates being a bit colder than Mac. Its only sold in Australia and Ireland but I think you can buy it on Ebay, some people import it from Australia to the USA direct from the distributor.
Thank you so much for getting back to me. I liked the cracking look on the one piece, but if it compromises the bond that is not good. My daughter lives in the great land of Australia so I'll get her to send me some Prep. Thanks again
@@pamelarehm7973 My pleasure, FYI, when I first used Mac and it crystallized the bond was effected, it may not be same for you but I would think it would be as it crystallized for a reason. :)
Thank you for your videos!! Very helpful!! Have you ever used Judikins glaze/adhesive for GOG? I have done one piece and it worked out fine. I also used it when making mini mosaic pendants. Any thoughts?
Thankyou very much. If you are meaning Diamond Glaze, it was originally made for the craft industry in making cards, its a good product however it can go yellow in prolonged sunlight and isn't waterproof so you would need to be careful in the project that you are using it in. If you are looking at using it for GOG I would defiantly be using Mac or if you're in Australia Prep Multiuse adhesive. :)
Weldbond does have its place and is very widely used, however moisture is definitely an issue with it, my favourite is thinset as well. There are better adhesives to use for a GOG such as Mac and Prep MultiUse Adhesive, have a another go and keep the tess smaller as it will dry quicker. Larger pieces will be slow even when using Mac so avoid using large tess and have everything at room temperature to help give it a good start at drying. :)
Thanks for this video Peter - I am based in New Zealand and managed to obtain some Mac Glue online at an eye-watering shipping cost about 3 years ago. I didn't know at the time it only had a supposed shelf-life of 18 months. I recently used it for a GOG outdoor table-top project. To my horror it has not dried clear at all! It is still milky-white, 2 weeks later, even though it's seemingly cured and the glass is firmly adhered. . I have used some transparent textured glass in my design and it looks absolutely awful now as the MAC glue is very visible. My table is now ruined as I can't get the glass tess off. Could it be that given the age of the glue it has lost its ability to dry clear?? Seems very strange that the adhesive qualities would still work, but the drying clarity is diminished? Just wondering if anyone else has experienced this, or if you could offer any further advice?
My pleasure Tracy. Technically MAC Glue has a shelf life of 18 months however I and many other people have been using it many years after that date. I am still using a bottle that is around 6 years old. Am I saying to use it after its shelf life, no, but providing its stored correctly and hasn't been compromised it can be fine. You can always do a test with a clear piece of glass around 20mm and apply that to clear glass making sure everything is at room temperature and it should go clear in 24 to 48 hours, if it does and there is no issues it should be good. If you have used large pieces of glass then the curing time takes longer to have the MAC go clear. In saying that I have used it for larger pieces of glass but I had the substrate on a lightbox that was giving out gentle warmth, everything including the tess was also at room temperature and I also had a small fan on low with a gentle heat (to avoid thermal shock to the glass) gently blowing on the mosaics as I was gluing it down. It all cured within 24 hours totally clear. With MAC or Weldbond I wouldn't use any tess larger than 20mm and have everything at room temperature before using it otherwise it can take longer to cure and go clear. Also how much MAC you apply, you only need a small amount a thin covering if you used too much this will also add to the curing time, one drop on a 20mm piece of glass is generally enough to adhere it down in a GOG. I have used Prep MultiUse adhesive (Australian product a general glue) with larger pieces of glass on a GOG I placed it in full sun in a window and it took 12 months for the tess to go totally clear. A lot also depends on the environment you have created the mosaic in as well, all these factors will contribute to the drying time. I am afraid its a time thing now and just wait for it to fully cure, dont grout it until the MAC has turned totally clear. Thanks for watching. :)
Thank you so much for taking the time to respond Peter- it’s very appreciated 😊 My tesserae are quite large on this project, so that could be an issue.. I may also have used a bit too much glue. And, a third issue, I have now grouted it as I mistakenly thought after watching this video that because it didn’t need air to dry, it would be okay to go ahead and grout it 😢 Oh dear. Lessons learned the hard way. Thank you again for all your helpful advice.
Using a lot of MAC and also large pieces will dramatically slow down the MAC going clear. Grouting before the adhesive is clear will possibly slow it down as well. I would say it will all work out but how much time for the MAC to turn clear is going to be anyone's guess. I would keep the piece in a warm position but not where it gets sudden warmth you don't want it to get thermal shock. Let me know how its travelling I am a member in Mosaics Australia Wide on Facebook. :)
@@TreasuryRoad Thank you - I will remain hopeful then that it may clear over time. I'll carry out your storage advice in the meantime. I do see you across Facebook groups and very much appreciate the time and help you are always so willing to offer others. We are all very lucky to have you 🥰
What temperature do you consider warm enough for MAC glue? I live in a very cold climate and I work in a heated studio but apparently not heated enough because my MAC glue does crystallize GOG. I keep the room at 60F. Until listening to your video I didn’t realize that this crystallization was due to cold. Please suggest a warm-enough temperature. Thank you!
I would consider the right temperature to be room temperature around 22-24 Celsius, if I know Im going to be using Mac I like to have the tess and the substrate at room temperature as well so it doesn't get that sudden cold, I dont know if that makes any difference but thats just what I do Ive had success doing it this way. Here in Australia I now use Prep MultiAdhesive, its made in Australia and can take more of the cold, I made a video on that as well. :)
I haven't used acrylic for outside or used it in mosaics however people do and I would think the information would apply but as I haven't used it I would suggest running a test to see if the same information applies, make sure the acrylic is reasonably thick so there isn't any flex in it. I know people use acrylic outside with silicone which Im not a fan of and I always suggest before buying silicone to read the manufacturers MSDS as there are many that are very bad for your health using it constantly.
Treasury Road for a Glass on Glass Mosaic I used Mac on larger pieces of glass (about 6" ht and 1 1/2" width) and I didn't get an even dry. I see blotches. :( The pieces of glass might have not been completely flat. But I was disappointed. :(
There are a few variables here that can influence the drying, the larger the pieces the slower the drying time especially at the size you mentioned also if the pieces are not flat and how much adhesive is applied. When using larger pieces of glass its best to use a gentle heat to help the adhesive to dry. The same goes for Weldbond as well but it would have been a lot slower, I think the pieces will go clear over time but I can definitely understand the disappointment you would have felt especially when you spend so much time on a piece. Thankyou for commenting as it may help others when making a GOG.
I too had this problem with Mac glue! Very disappointing to get a project all finished and see cloudy /blotchy spots! My glass was completely flat too. I only use Mac glue on solid/non-transparent glass.
It really comes down to your thoughts after watching the videos and the availability of the products in your country. Some swear by Weldbond, others swear by Mac and others swear by Prep Multiadhesive. The ones I personally use for GOG are Mac and Prep Multiadhesive. :)
This glue I have used for decades and it is very good. It used to be waterproof 30yrs ago, but not any more. Interior only. The new bottle sucks. Hard to squeeze and the cap closes all the time while you are using it. Their are better glues today. Do your research.
This video ONLY pertains to these two products no other adhesives hence the tile, I take it you are referring to Weldbond as you didn't mention the brand. Perhaps the bottle you find hard to squeeze and the the cap problem may just not suit you as I didn't have any problem with either bottle and I have been using them for years as well.
There are a few people that have an issue with it, you can buy a smaller glue bottle such as the Elmers cheap school glue or one that you like, throw the contents out, wash it and pour the Weldbond into the bottle and use it. :)
As a general rule I tend to use Laticrete thinset, however before using any adhesive check the manufacturers stat sheet to ensure its suitable for the environment its in, the tess and the substrate its going onto, Every adhesive has its good and bad points however knowing the limitations of each adhesive will ensure you choose one thats right for the job, the manufacturers stat sheets are so helpful and always check those even if someone recommends a product as it may suit their job but not yours.
It depends on the environment its in and the project for instance if its a GOG and you are using small pieces it will generally take days, however if you are using large pieces it can take a long time depending on the size of the tess, there are many variables to that.
MAC Glue is a great glue and there is no other glue like it, it was originally designed for Glass On Glass applications by an artist. Unfortunately the resin that's used in MAC Glue is no longer being sourced so MAC are working on a new formula and when that will be released we don't know. Treasury Road does have stocks here in Australia of MAC Glue treasuryroad.com.au/ but only ships within Australia. Prep MultiUse adhesive is an Australian product and a good glue and people are using it for GOG applications it can be purchased from Australian retailers or Ebay, it is also rebottled and sold overseas.
It depends on the project you are doing. I am not a silicone fan because the residue can be difficult to clean up and they continually give off solvents whilst curing which you breath in.
***IMPORTANT UPDATE*** I consider MAC Glue to be the best glass on glass adhesive however with MAC glue being out of production for the time being many are using Prep MultiUse Adhesive which is an Australian product. You can import it from Ebay or direct from Australia, even with shipping its very cost effective. :)
Thank you for this information. I've been trying to find Mac glue EVERYwhere but can't find it ANYwhere. Now I know why. LOL
Peter, thank you for yet another informative video! For my fellow mosaic artists: Maryland Mosaics sells Weldbond for about $10, and Mac for $16-$25 (4 and 8 oz bottles).
My pleasure and thankyou. :)
Hi Donna, are you in Maryland USA? I'm in Pittsburgh Pennsylvania. Hope to hear back from you.
@@GlasgowMaeven , I’m in MO. 🙂
Thank you! I have used both and I find your findings to be true.
Thankyou very much. :)
Thanks for your video. I use both, but since most of my pieces are GOG, I am beginning to use mostly MAC because Im so tired of waiting for Weldbond to dry.
My pleasure, yes you are correct, Weldbond takes a longer time to dry sometimes months on a GOG, Mac is quicker drying however Mac also slows down when adhering larger pieces of glass so its best to keep the smaller if you have a deadline. :)
I specifically watched this episode because I'm an 'Old Mosaic Crone' who uses neither. When I started GOG back in the 70's, neither existed, there was no UA-cam Community, and I was an oddity. Today there are so many products, but I'm kind of set in my ways. I have always used clear-dry Silicone. However, the info you've shared here is very informative. Where I live (the Canadian Rocky Mountains) we can hit temperatures of -30 to -40 Celsius in the winter, and 30+ Celsius in the summer, so I have always doubted glue products viability. I design the majority of my pieces for indoor/outdoor use. The great thing about silicon is that it's easily scrapped off around individual pieces if it leaches out when it dries, and I have never once had to consider a barrier wash before grouting. I will definitely consider Mac glue for indoor pieces. One question, I always, always seal my pieces befoe starting them, no matter my substrate (including glass), why isn't this common practice? I have yet to have any of my pieces fail (even after 20+ years). Love your informative videos. Thanks.
Thankyou so much. There is nothing wrong with the "old" ways especially when you consider how many thousands of years ago mosaics were made and are still around. People that think outside the box like yourself starting back in the 70's with GOG the world needs rather than following the norm. There are many products around today but many of them duplicate or imitate others, adhesives have come a long way and there have been huge improvements but like everything they have their pros and cons. There are many products around for the professional trade and also for the craft customer, however I would not use a lot of them in a mosaic. If you use glue you can also wipe around the edge of it with a cotton bud if it squeezes out and that also helps seal the edges, but your climate is harsh and I'm not sure if that would be a good way to go. I'm not a silicone fan due to the solvents they contain and using long term which isn't great for your health as they continue to give off solvents while curing and I find its messy but many do use it and very well, like yourself. I only seal porous substrates, I don't seal glass or the glass tess, float glass is not porous or absorbent, I have heard of a couple of people that seal their glass substrate but have never done so. Whatever you're doing, their lasting in your Canadian winters and I would keep doing it, where I live in Australia its mild. What do you use for your GOG frames to take the winters if they are outside? :)
@@TreasuryRoad TreasuryRoad,
Or Yellow Brick Road?
Witch do you like better🏳️🌈👍🐕K-Lee and Mo-Bro.AKA
Molly Brown
How do you seal your work ?
Peter, I really enjoy your instructional videos. I commented to you on Facebook here in the States, the woman had a problem with her Grout having cracked. I had mentioned my in-laws who live in Tam O' Shanter, Tasmania, I believe you live up on the mainland. I live in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania and have just started doing mosaics. My biggest hang-up is cutting the crockery, I need to feel more confident. I have the wheely cutters and the right/left hand nippers. I think I need to buy compound nippers so I can practice making circle and shapes (while watching how you so it, really great). Anyhow, I am looking forward to gaining confidence in my mosaics through your videos. At the moment I am enjoying transforming terracotta flowerpots. Cheerio the nooo (originally from Glasgow, Scotland) now living in the States.
Thankyou very much Elizabeth, yes I remember the post and your comment. If you are using normal crockery you shouldn't really need compound nippers your double wheeled nippers should work fine as long as they are a good brand such as Leponitt. Even when using porcelain crockery which is one of my favorite's and it generally cuts beautifully double wheeled nippers will do the job. If the crockery is quite thick then you may need the compound nippers, however I only use the "normal" crockery and avoid anything that's quite thick including the base of a plate. You get to know what to look for but there are different qualities of plates which will also determine how it cuts. :)
Hi Peter. You mentioned in this video that MAC glue is not a PVA glue. What kind of glue is it, please?
This is a comment from the artist that designed it. It's a resin off of a special tree, found in one forest, overseas. It's acrylic and resin. Chemical name on the SDS is Acrylic Polymer Dispersion.
Btw - you don’t want to shake MAC Glue as it creates air bubbles. If you do, let it sit so the bubbles can settle before using the glue. :). Nothing settles in the bottle so no need to shake.
Thanks for that I didn't know that. :)
interesting, I never knew this. Thanks for the info
Wow! Thank you for giving our product, MAC Glue a good fair shake! Great video!
Hi Erik, Thankyou and my pleasure its certainly a great product. :)
Watched your video on the wellbond vs. Mac glue . What would you use in place on Mac glue since it is not available In US . Thanks Love your videos .
I know its a shame its not being made for the time being as I consider it the best adhesive especially for GOG. People are using Prep MultiUse adhesive and I will be once my MAC glue has run out. Its an Australian product and many are importing it direct from EBay or direct from Australia, especially with the AUS$ being low its very cost effective even with shipping. Thankyou for watching and for your comment. :)
Will try both! Thanks. Great vid!
Thankyou so much and thanks for watching. :)
I made a few projects using Weldbond, glass on mdf. Some of the glass pieces are starting to pop off. They have never been outside. I’m wondering if I didn’t use enough glue or perhaps I didn’t let it cure long enough before grouting. I want to get it right before I gift more projects.
Many people use Weldbond however its is moisture sensitive so if it comes in contact with moisture such as grout it can revert back to its original state, which means the pieces can loosen. Im not saying this is the issue but it has been known to happen. You could try more adhesive however you only need it cover the the bottom side to hold. Did you seal your MDF before applying the tess as the moisture can be sucked into the MDF from the adhesive, if you didn't you can seal it, you can with a 50/50 Weldbond and water applying it liberally all over including the back and sides. Make sure there is no flex in the MDF, I use quite thick pieces. Have a look at my videos starting in mosaics. :)
@@TreasuryRoad Thank you. I’ll try that.
Thank you for this very informative tutorial
Patricia
My pleasure and thankyou for watching. :)
After I have put Mac glue on the piece and placed it, how long do I have to move pieces around before the glue is too tacky?
Really you dont want to move the piece around if it has Mac glue on it, you really want to place it and leave it unless there is an issue and you need to lift it up. :)
I have used a 50/50 mix for a weldbond wash and have notice that it doesn’t dry completely clear. I will use a heating pad to add heat to help with drying and put the piece in a sunny window but after 60 days I still have white residue on a few of the glass pieces! I’m at my wits end trying to figure out what went wrong 😡
Weldbond can take considerably time to cure especially if you have used large glass pieces or a lot of it, Weldbond cures by air. Some people find it turns clear within a matter of days and others many months, it depends on the environment that its in and if the substrate was cold or in a cold room when the wash was applied. If you are going to use heat make sure its a very gentle gradual heat as you don't want to give the glass thermal shock which will cause it to crack. :)
How warm does the room need to be so the MAC doesn't crystalize. It happened on my first try at using MAC so I stopped using it after I saw what happened. It was all cracked. Luckily It looked ok on the piece. Thanks for the info regarding the temperature on your video, although you didn't say how low is too low. My studio is in my basement in the PNW.
When Mac crystallizes it not only creates a crystal type look but the bond is generally compromised as well. I have no idea what the lowest temperature is my own experience shows Mac to work well around 20-22 °C (68-72 °F) if your a
rea has a lot of cold temperatures I would keep it inside rather than in the basement. If Mac freezes it is ruined. You can also use Prep MutliAdhesive which is an Australian product and is not effected by the cold to the degree that Mac is of course I wouldn't keep it at 0 degrees though it just tolerates being a bit colder than Mac. Its only sold in Australia and Ireland but I think you can buy it on Ebay, some people import it from Australia to the USA direct from the distributor.
Thank you so much for getting back to me. I liked the cracking look on the one piece, but if it compromises the bond that is not good. My daughter lives in the great land of Australia so I'll get her to send me some Prep. Thanks again
@@pamelarehm7973 My pleasure, FYI, when I first used Mac and it crystallized the bond was effected, it may not be same for you but I would think it would be as it crystallized for a reason. :)
Thank you for your videos!! Very helpful!! Have you ever used Judikins glaze/adhesive for GOG? I have done one piece and it worked out fine. I also used it when making mini mosaic pendants. Any thoughts?
Thankyou very much. If you are meaning Diamond Glaze, it was originally made for the craft industry in making cards, its a good product however it can go yellow in prolonged sunlight and isn't waterproof so you would need to be careful in the project that you are using it in. If you are looking at using it for GOG I would defiantly be using Mac or if you're in Australia Prep Multiuse adhesive. :)
Treasury Road thanks so much. I hear great things about Mac glue. I will have to find some. I’m in Canada 🇨🇦
Thank you for information I’m very new to this.
Thankyou and my pleasure. :)
Together Weldbond & my ignorance ruined my GOG mosaic. I think I will stick with thinset and dishes.
Weldbond does have its place and is very widely used, however moisture is definitely an issue with it, my favourite is thinset as well. There are better adhesives to use for a GOG such as Mac and Prep MultiUse Adhesive, have a another go and keep the tess smaller as it will dry quicker. Larger pieces will be slow even when using Mac so avoid using large tess and have everything at room temperature to help give it a good start at drying. :)
Thanks for this video Peter - I am based in New Zealand and managed to obtain some Mac Glue online at an eye-watering shipping cost about 3 years ago. I didn't know at the time it only had a supposed shelf-life of 18 months. I recently used it for a GOG outdoor table-top project. To my horror it has not dried clear at all! It is still milky-white, 2 weeks later, even though it's seemingly cured and the glass is firmly adhered. . I have used some transparent textured glass in my design and it looks absolutely awful now as the MAC glue is very visible. My table is now ruined as I can't get the glass tess off. Could it be that given the age of the glue it has lost its ability to dry clear?? Seems very strange that the adhesive qualities would still work, but the drying clarity is diminished? Just wondering if anyone else has experienced this, or if you could offer any further advice?
My pleasure Tracy. Technically MAC Glue has a shelf life of 18 months however I and many other people have been using it many years after that date. I am still using a bottle that is around 6 years old. Am I saying to use it after its shelf life, no, but providing its stored correctly and hasn't been compromised it can be fine. You can always do a test with a clear piece of glass around 20mm and apply that to clear glass making sure everything is at room temperature and it should go clear in 24 to 48 hours, if it does and there is no issues it should be good. If you have used large pieces of glass then the curing time takes longer to have the MAC go clear. In saying that I have used it for larger pieces of glass but I had the substrate on a lightbox that was giving out gentle warmth, everything including the tess was also at room temperature and I also had a small fan on low with a gentle heat (to avoid thermal shock to the glass) gently blowing on the mosaics as I was gluing it down. It all cured within 24 hours totally clear. With MAC or Weldbond I wouldn't use any tess larger than 20mm and have everything at room temperature before using it otherwise it can take longer to cure and go clear. Also how much MAC you apply, you only need a small amount a thin covering if you used too much this will also add to the curing time, one drop on a 20mm piece of glass is generally enough to adhere it down in a GOG. I have used Prep MultiUse adhesive (Australian product a general glue) with larger pieces of glass on a GOG I placed it in full sun in a window and it took 12 months for the tess to go totally clear. A lot also depends on the environment you have created the mosaic in as well, all these factors will contribute to the drying time. I am afraid its a time thing now and just wait for it to fully cure, dont grout it until the MAC has turned totally clear. Thanks for watching. :)
Thank you so much for taking the time to respond Peter- it’s very appreciated 😊
My tesserae are quite large on this project, so that could be an issue.. I may also have used a bit too much glue. And, a third issue, I have now grouted it as I mistakenly thought after watching this video that because it didn’t need air to dry, it would be okay to go ahead and grout it 😢
Oh dear. Lessons learned the hard way. Thank you again for all your helpful advice.
Using a lot of MAC and also large pieces will dramatically slow down the MAC going clear. Grouting before the adhesive is clear will possibly slow it down as well. I would say it will all work out but how much time for the MAC to turn clear is going to be anyone's guess. I would keep the piece in a warm position but not where it gets sudden warmth you don't want it to get thermal shock. Let me know how its travelling I am a member in Mosaics Australia Wide on Facebook. :)
@@TreasuryRoad Thank you - I will remain hopeful then that it may clear over time. I'll carry out your storage advice in the meantime. I do see you across Facebook groups and very much appreciate the time and help you are always so willing to offer others. We are all very lucky to have you 🥰
Thankyou so much that’s very kind of you to say that. l hope the MAC clears well for you, if you see me in the groups let me know how you’re going. 😊
What temperature do you consider warm enough for MAC glue? I live in a very cold climate and I work in a heated studio but apparently not heated enough because my MAC glue does crystallize GOG. I keep the room at 60F. Until listening to your video I didn’t realize that this crystallization was due to cold. Please suggest a warm-enough temperature. Thank you!
I would consider the right temperature to be room temperature around 22-24 Celsius, if I know Im going to be using Mac I like to have the tess and the substrate at room temperature as well so it doesn't get that sudden cold, I dont know if that makes any difference but thats just what I do Ive had success doing it this way. Here in Australia I now use Prep MultiAdhesive, its made in Australia and can take more of the cold, I made a video on that as well. :)
Treasury Road Thank you so much!
Peter - Do you think the same information would hold true for glass on acrylic for outdoor use???
I haven't used acrylic for outside or used it in mosaics however people do and I would think the information would apply but as I haven't used it I would suggest running a test to see if the same information applies, make sure the acrylic is reasonably thick so there isn't any flex in it. I know people use acrylic outside with silicone which Im not a fan of and I always suggest before buying silicone to read the manufacturers MSDS as there are many that are very bad for your health using it constantly.
Treasury Road for a Glass on Glass Mosaic I used Mac on larger pieces of glass (about 6" ht and 1 1/2" width) and I didn't get an even dry. I see blotches. :( The pieces of glass might have not been completely flat. But I was disappointed. :(
There are a few variables here that can influence the drying, the larger the pieces the slower the drying time especially at the size you mentioned also if the pieces are not flat and how much adhesive is applied. When using larger pieces of glass its best to use a gentle heat to help the adhesive to dry. The same goes for Weldbond as well but it would have been a lot slower, I think the pieces will go clear over time but I can definitely understand the disappointment you would have felt especially when you spend so much time on a piece. Thankyou for commenting as it may help others when making a GOG.
I too had this problem with Mac glue! Very disappointing to get a project all finished and see cloudy /blotchy spots! My glass was completely flat too. I only use Mac glue on solid/non-transparent glass.
Peter, what is best for glass on glass? Making a window. Thank you.
It really comes down to your thoughts after watching the videos and the availability of the products in your country. Some swear by Weldbond, others swear by Mac and others swear by Prep Multiadhesive. The ones I personally use for GOG are Mac and Prep Multiadhesive. :)
This glue I have used for decades and it is very good. It used to be
waterproof 30yrs ago, but not any more. Interior only. The new bottle
sucks. Hard to squeeze and the cap closes all the time while you are
using it. Their are better glues today. Do your research.
This video ONLY pertains to these two products no other adhesives hence the tile, I take it you are referring to Weldbond as you didn't mention the brand. Perhaps the bottle you find hard to squeeze and the the cap problem may just not suit you as I didn't have any problem with either bottle and I have been using them for years as well.
I was only referring to the Weldbond. The nozzle and bottle suck.
@@mrgcav Tip it into a different bottle one that you like.
@@TreasuryRoad Trouble is all glue bottles use this same crummy spout. It closes when you put the slightest pressure on it.
I just want to know how to open the Weldbond nozzle. Try as I might I just can't open it so have fully open the bottle and used a brush :-(
There are a few people that have an issue with it, you can buy a smaller glue bottle such as the Elmers cheap school glue or one that you like, throw the contents out, wash it and pour the Weldbond into the bottle and use it. :)
What adhesive do you recommend for outdoor use then?
As a general rule I tend to use Laticrete thinset, however before using any adhesive check the manufacturers stat sheet to ensure its suitable for the environment its in, the tess and the substrate its going onto, Every adhesive has its good and bad points however knowing the limitations of each adhesive will ensure you choose one thats right for the job, the manufacturers stat sheets are so helpful and always check those even if someone recommends a product as it may suit their job but not yours.
Did you mention how long Mac Glue takes to cure? Perhaps I missed it.
It depends on the environment its in and the project for instance if its a GOG and you are using small pieces it will generally take days, however if you are using large pieces it can take a long time depending on the size of the tess, there are many variables to that.
Could I ask what your substrate material is?
I used MDF and glass. :)
I can't seem to find the MAC glue anywhere. Can anyone help?!
MAC Glue is a great glue and there is no other glue like it, it was originally designed for Glass On Glass applications by an artist. Unfortunately the resin that's used in MAC Glue is no longer being sourced so MAC are working on a new formula and when that will be released we don't know. Treasury Road does have stocks here in Australia of MAC Glue treasuryroad.com.au/ but only ships within Australia. Prep MultiUse adhesive is an Australian product and a good glue and people are using it for GOG applications it can be purchased from Australian retailers or Ebay, it is also rebottled and sold overseas.
Can you give us a definition for reimulsify? Thank you!
When the product comes in contact with moisture or water it changes and goes back to its original state. :)
@@TreasuryRoad Thanks, I could not find an explanation in my dictionary on line!
@@originalart888 I am so hoping thats not a made up word I have seen it used elsewhere. :)
What about silicone!?
It depends on the project you are doing. I am not a silicone fan because the residue can be difficult to clean up and they continually give off solvents whilst curing which you breath in.
very informative!!! K
Thankyou so much Kaye and thankyou for watching. :)