When working on intricate wood carvings, selecting the right adhesive is crucial for ensuring strong, durable, and seamless joins. Here are the most common types of wood carving adhesives used by craftsmen:

1. PVA (Polyvinyl Acetate) Glue: A popular choice for woodworkers, PVA glue offers a strong bond, dries clear, and is easy to clean up. It’s ideal for porous woods and intricate joints where flexibility is needed.

2. Hide Glue: A traditional adhesive made from animal collagen, hide glue is reversible with heat and moisture, making it perfect for restoration work. It provides a strong bond but requires careful temperature control.

3. Epoxy Resin: For heavy-duty or gap-filling applications, epoxy resin is unmatched. It bonds non-porous surfaces and cures into a rigid, waterproof finish, though it can be messy to work with.

4. Cyanoacrylate (CA) Glue: Also known as super glue, CA glue is excellent for small, precise joints. It sets quickly but can become brittle over time, so it’s best for temporary or light-duty fixes.

5. Polyurethane Glue: This adhesive expands as it cures, filling gaps and creating a waterproof bond. It’s great for outdoor projects but requires clamping during drying.

Each adhesive has unique properties, so choosing the right one depends on the project’s requirements, wood type, and desired finish. Test on scrap wood first to ensure compatibility and strength.