Cast adhesive or double-sided tape – what's the difference?
Whether you're just starting out with Diamond Painting or have already made quite a few paintings – sooner or later you will encounter them both: the cast adhesive layer and double-sided adhesive film.
In this article we explain:
- What is the difference between these two types of adhesive layers
- How to easily recognize them
- What advantages and disadvantages they have
- And why at Painting by Numbers Expert we always choose cast glue
What is a double-sided adhesive film?
In this method, liquid glue is not poured onto the canvas, but a large, double-sided adhesive layer machine-glued to the canvas. This is then covered with a white paper backing.
This is how you recognize it:
- White paper backing (not transparent plastic)
- Glue is often outside the motif, which meansyour workspace pastes
- Often several loose strips of foil next to each other
What is a cast adhesive layer?
A cast adhesive layer is poured liquid onto the canvas and distributed evenly. After drying, you are left with a smooth, firm and slightly sticky surface - perfect for placing your stones precisely.
This is how you recognize it:
- Transparent protective film (so no paper)
- Glue exactly to the edge of the motif
- No wrinkles or bubbles in the adhesive layer
How do you tell the difference?
1. Look at the protective layer: is it white paper? Then it is double sided. Is it clear plastic? Then you have a cast layer.
2. Look at the edges: does the glue extend beyond the motif? This usually concerns double-sided foil. Molded adhesive stays neatly within the design.
Which one is better?
At Painting by Numbers Expert we work only with cast adhesive layers. And that's no coincidence – these are the main benefits:
✅ Advantages of cast adhesive:
- No air bubbles – the adhesive adheres perfectly and evenly
- No folds or creases – the surface remains nice and smooth
- Long lasting adhesion – even if you don't continue working for a while
- Cleaner working – the glue is only where it should be
- More peace – you don't have to rush, the adhesive layer does not dry out quickly
❌ Disadvantages of double-sided tape:
- Loose film, especially in heat or cold
- More risk of folds and bubbles
- Adhesion decreases faster
- Sticky edges outside the design
- Faster work required, because the foil dries out
Our conclusion: do you like to work calmly, tightly and without frustration? Always opt for a cast adhesive layer.
Not a fan of the transparent film?
We get it – sometimes that clear film is difficult to see or inconvenient to use. Therefore you will always receive extra cover sheets from us with your order. This allows you to easily divide your work area into clear oneszones. You can also use baking paper yourself (not waxed paper!).
Our promise to you
At Painting by Numbers Expert you get always a canvas with a cast adhesive layer. This way you can be sure that you can work on a beautiful result without any worries.
Curious about our collection? Discover our Diamond Paintings here →
Have fun with creative relaxation!
Team Painting by Numbers Expert
