How to Make Hide Glue and Prepare Stock
Hide glue is a natural, non-toxic glue that's very strong. It has been used for hundreds of years and remains an important part of woodworking, musical instrument making and icon painting. Hide glue is an excellent choice for any artist who wants to avoid the delamination problems which come with acrylic gesso. Stock prepared with hide glue can be used with egg tempera, oil painting, distemper (glue painting), casein and many other media.
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Things You'll Need
- Granulated or sheet rabbitskin, sturgeon or hide glue
- Distilled water
- Double boiler
- Heat source
- Masonite or well cured hardwood stock
- Sandpaper
- Priming brush
Instructions
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1
Combine one part glue with approximately 16 parts water in a double boiler. Allow the glue to soak for at least a few hours, ideally overnight.
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2
Heat the glue mixture until it is liquid and steaming, but do not allow it to boil. Stir the glue until it is smooth, with no lumps or chunks. Turn down the heat to the warm setting or to a very low flame. Heating the glue keeps it in its liquid state.
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3
Sand your stock carefully. If you are using masonite, sand off the shiny surface to produce a smooth, even texture. If using hardwood, sand the stock until it feels satiny under your hand. Any uneven areas may affect your finished piece.
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4
Dip the tip of the priming brush into the hot glue. Wipe off excess glue using the rim of the double boiler, then brush warm glue onto the panel. Apply enough glue to thoroughly wet the panel, but don't allow it to puddle. Coat one side of the panel at a time and allow it to dry fully, then coat the next.
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Tips & Warnings
Store hide glue in the refrigerator and rewarm when needed.
Warm the glue slowly. High heat may scorch it.
Always size both sides of the panel to prevent cupping or warping.
Do not keep hide glue more than a few days once mixed or it may go bad.
References
Resources
- Photo Credit pinceaux image by Philf from Fotolia.com
