Which type of adhesive is most commonly used in woodworking?

Polyvinyl acetate (PVA) glue is the most commonly used adhesive in woodworking due to its excellent characteristics that suit a variety of applications. PVA is a water-based adhesive that dries clear and is easy to clean up, making it ideal for indoor applications. It provides a strong bond that is well-suited for joining wood surfaces, resulting in good strength for the majority of wood-to-wood applications like furniture assembly, cabinetry, and other woodworking projects.

Additionally, PVA glue exhibits good flexibility, which allows it to accommodate slight movements in the wood without compromising the bond. It is also relatively inexpensive and readily available, making it a popular choice among both professional cabinetmakers and hobbyists. The ease of use and effective performance under normal woodworking conditions solidifies its position as the preferred adhesive in this field.