As an avid DIY-er and craft enthusiast, one of my ongoing frustrations has always been trying to get magnets to stick properly to aluminum surfaces for various projects. Whether you’ve tried attaching a nameplate or car emblem, or simply want to hang something decorative on filing cabinets or toolboxes made of aluminum, you know how magnets just don’t seem to want to grab hold of that silvery metal like they do with steel.

Over the years I’ve experimented with quite a few supposed “solutions” advertised online only to be disappointed with the results. That was until I stumbled on an unusual but surprisingly effective method during a recent project.

While it may seem improbable, I discovered that with just a few common household items you likely already have, you can get magnets to stick solidly to aluminum – and it’s actually far simpler than you might think! In this post on how to get a magnet to stick to aluminum I’m going to share my unexpected revelation on how to finally achieve sticky aluminum magnets through a clever and inexpensive trick.

Necessary Materials

• A Magnet
• Aluminum Foil
• Super Glue
• Scissors

11 Step-by-step Guides on How to Get a Magnet to Stick to Aluminum

Step 1: Cut the Aluminum Foil

Take a piece of aluminum foil and cut it into small, thin strips. You’ll need enough to cover the entire surface of your magnet. It’s better to have more strips than you think you’ll need, as it’s always easier to trim off excess later. But if your magnet is relatively small, a single strip may suffice. You can also use pre-cut aluminum foil strips for convenience.

Step 2: Prepare the Surface

Make sure the surface of your aluminum object is clean and free of any oils, dirt, or debris. You can use a cloth with rubbing alcohol to wipe down the area where you want your magnet to stick. This will ensure a strong bond. But if the surface is already clean, you can skip this step. It’s always best to work with a clean surface for any project.

Step 3: Apply Super Glue

Take your magnet and apply a small amount of super glue on one side. You can use any type of super glue, but I prefer the gel form for easier application. It’s important to only use a small amount so it doesn’t seep out and create a mess. You can also use a toothpick or cotton swab to apply the glue for more precision. But if you don’t have any tools handy, just be careful not to use them too much.

Step 4: Cover with Aluminum Strips

Take your aluminum foil strips and lay them over the super glue on your magnet. Make sure they are evenly spread out and cover the entire surface. You may need to trim some of the strips to fit perfectly – remember, it’s always better to have extra. The aluminum strips will act as a bridge between the magnet and the aluminum surface, creating a stronger magnetic bond.

Step 5: Press Down

Take another clean cloth or paper towel and press down firmly over the aluminum foil strips on top of your super glue. This will help ensure that the strips are fully adhered to both the magnet and surface. If you have any excess glue seeping out, wipe it off with a cloth. This step is important to achieve a solid bond.

Step 6: Leave to Dry

After pressing down, leave your magnet to dry completely. The drying time will vary depending on the super glue you used, so refer to the instructions on the label. On average, it should take around 10-20 minutes for the glue to fully set. Once it’s dry, you can move on to the next step. It’s crucial not to rush this process, as it will affect the strength of your bond.

Step 7: Test the Bond

Once the glue is fully dry, test the bond by trying to remove the magnet from the aluminum surface. You should find that it’s now securely attached. If it doesn’t hold, you may need to repeat the steps with a bit more super glue and aluminum strips. But in most cases, this method will work on the first try. The aluminum strips will provide a solid foundation for the magnet to stick onto.

Step 8: Trim Excess Foil

If you have any excess foil sticking out from the edges of your magnet, use scissors to trim them off. This step is optional but can help make your final result look neater and more professional. It’s also important to remove any sharp edges that may cause injury. It’s better to be safe than sorry. But if you use pre-cut aluminum foil strips, you can skip this step.

Step 9: Add a Second Magnet

If you want to create a double-sided magnet, simply repeat the process on the other side of your first magnet. This will allow you to attach it to both aluminum and steel surfaces. Just remember to leave enough space between the two magnets so they don’t interfere with each other’s magnetic field.

Step 10: Let it Dry Again

If you added a second magnet, make sure to let it dry completely before testing the bond. If your first magnet was already attached to an aluminum surface, you can move on to the final step. This will ensure that your magnets are fully set and won’t fall off during use. However, if you add too much glue or don’t give it enough time to dry, it may not adhere correctly.

Step 11: Enjoy Your Strong Magnets!

Congratulations, you now know how to get a magnet to stick to aluminum! With this clever and inexpensive trick, you’ll be able to attach magnets to aluminum surfaces with ease for all your future projects. And the best part is, you likely already have all the necessary materials at home. So the next time you need to stick a magnet to aluminum, remember this simple solution – it’s definitely worth giving a try.

Following these step-by-step guides on how to get a magnet to stick to aluminum will give you strong magnets that can withstand normal use. However, if you need an even stronger bond, you can repeat the process with additional layers of aluminum foil and super glue.

This method is also great for creating custom magnetic surfaces by attaching magnets to larger aluminum objects such as boards or sheets. The possibilities are endless and all thanks to this simple yet effective technique. Now go and get creative with your newfound knowledge!

Additional Tips and Tricks

• For Better Results, Use a Strong Super Glue Specifically Made for Metal Bonding.
• You Can Also Try Sanding the Surface of Your Magnet Slightly Before Applying the Super Glue to Create a Stronger Bond.
• If You Don’t Have Aluminum Foil Strips, You Can Also Use Any Other Thin and Malleable Metal Such as Copper or Brass.
• This Method is Also Great for Attaching Magnets to Other Non-magnetic Metals, Such as Stainless Steel or Copper.
• Be Careful Not to Get Super Glue on Your Fingers as It Can Be Difficult to Remove. Wear Gloves if Needed.
• If You Are Attaching the Magnet to a Curved or Uneven Surface, Use Smaller Strips of Aluminum Foil for Better Adherence.
• Always Test the Strength of Your Bond Before Using the Magnet for Any Heavy-duty Applications.
• Avoid Using This Method on Surfaces That Will Be Exposed to High Heat, as It May Cause the Superglue to Weaken. 
• Remember to Store Your Magnets in a Safe Place Away From Children and Electronics, as They May Cause Interference or Damage.
• Lastly, Have Fun Experimenting With Different Sizes and Shapes of Magnets to Create Unique Magnetic Objects or Displays. The Possibilities Are Endless!

Conclusion

In conclusion on how to get a magnet to stick to aluminum, understanding the science behind magnetism and aluminum can lead to successful results in getting a magnet to stick to aluminum. By following the steps mentioned above, you can experiment with different types of magnets and aluminum surfaces to find the perfect combination.

Whether you are trying to hang a photo on your refrigerator or build a magnetic tool holder in your workshop, the possibilities are endless once you have mastered this concept. So go ahead and try it out for yourself! Be patient and persistent, as sometimes it may take some trial and error before finding the right method for your specific materials.

And don’t forget that safety is always a priority when working with strong magnets, so be sure to handle them with caution. With this newfound knowledge, you can impress your friends and family with your impressive magnetic abilities. So let’s put our newfound knowledge into practice and get those magnets sticking like never before! Now go forth, fellow learners, and embrace the power of magnetism!