Faber-Castell is best known for its art supplies, but the company also makes a range of adhesive products, including this reusable tacky putty. The product is sold as a pack of 120 small pieces, each roughly the size of a pea, in a white color. The putty is designed to stick lightweight items to walls without nails, screws, or permanent damage. It’s a familiar concept: a malleable, sticky substance that can be kneaded and reused. But how does this specific offering perform in everyday situations?
In real-world use, this putty is typically employed for hanging posters, photos, cards, and other lightweight decorations. It’s a common choice for renters who can’t put holes in walls, or for temporary displays in offices and classrooms. The 120-piece pack is generous—each piece can be divided further, depending on the weight of the item. For a standard poster, one or two pieces are usually sufficient. The putty is white, which blends well with most light-colored walls, though it can become soiled over time and may leave a faint residue if used on porous surfaces.
Functionally, the putty works by being kneaded until soft, then pressed onto both the object and the wall. It adheres through a combination of tackiness and friction. It’s not a permanent adhesive; it’s meant to be removable and repositionable. The reusable claim holds up to a point—after several uses, the putty tends to pick up dust and lint, which reduces its stickiness. Eventually, it becomes less effective and needs to be replaced. The 120-piece pack mitigates this by providing plenty of fresh pieces, but it’s not an infinite solution.
One notable limitation is weight capacity. This putty is not suitable for heavy items. A framed picture or a mirror will likely fall. Even lightweight items can fail if the surface is dusty, textured, or painted with certain finishes. On glossy or painted walls, it generally holds well, but on wallpaper or rough surfaces, adhesion is inconsistent. Additionally, in warm environments, the putty can soften and lose its grip, causing items to slide or drop. In cold conditions, it may become stiff and difficult to mold. These are common trade-offs for this type of product, but worth noting.
Compared to alternative methods, such as double-sided tape or adhesive strips, tacky putty offers distinct advantages and disadvantages. Double-sided tape can be stronger and more discreet, but it’s often not reusable and can leave residue. Adhesive strips, like those from 3M, are more secure for heavier items but are more expensive and not repositionable. Putty sits in the middle: it’s inexpensive, reusable, and forgiving, but it’s limited in holding power and longevity. For light-duty tasks, it’s a convenient option.
Who is this for? It’s ideal for students, renters, teachers, and anyone who needs to hang lightweight items temporarily without damaging walls. It’s also useful for crafting and DIY projects where a removable adhesive is needed. However, it’s not for those who need to hang heavy or valuable items, nor for use on delicate surfaces like fresh paint or wallpaper. If you’re looking for a permanent or heavy-duty solution, this isn’t it.
In terms of value, the 120-piece pack offers a good quantity for the price. Each piece is small, but you can combine multiple pieces for larger items. The putty is also relatively clean to use—it doesn’t drip or require tools. However, it can leave a greasy mark on some surfaces if left for extended periods, especially in warm conditions. Testing on a small area first is advisable.
Overall, the Faber-Castell Reusable Removable Adhesive Tacky Putty is a practical, no-frills solution for light hanging needs. It performs as expected, with the usual caveats of putty adhesives. It’s not a miracle product, but it doesn’t claim to be. For its intended use, it’s a reliable choice.
