[stephentmcm]

We have one, invented thousands of years ago it involves cleverly inserting a string like solid binding agent repeatedly through the two pieces creating a flexible and strong bind.

But seriously, how many glues can you think of that are as flexible and durable as thread?

[Animats]

Some years ago, I actually had to learn about this. There are adhesives that are flexible, strong, hypoallergenic, and can survive laundering. They're used for disposable diapers, automotive applications, gloves, purses, luggage, and such. In a production environment they're applied as hot sprays, which requires compressed air and heated hoses and tanks.

Sewing isn't expensive, though. It costs more to get the fabric lined up properly for sewing (because that's manual) than to sew the seam.

(Former member, American Laundry and Dry-Cleaning Association.)

[toomuchtodo]

> But seriously, how many glues can you think of that are as flexible and durable as thread?

Would be a lucrative product for Dupont or 3M to manufacture, and they make some incredible adhesives.

[stephentmcm]

It would indeed be lucrative and I'm sure they have at least a group or two researching exactly that.

Thinking of it now my comment missed the availability of iron on seam tape which is used for water proofing but as I understand it isn't strong enough to bond pieces together without stitching.