Replies

1. 
   Sgian_Dubh | Nov 23, 2000 03:08am | #1

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   At a guess the chair you are repairing is about 80 years old, and if this is the first major repair I'd say it has held up pretty well. If you don't have access to a glue pot, I'd go with the cold liquid hide glue. It's not quite as strong as hot hide glue, but is pretty good all the same. As it is your intention to make it as easy as possible for a future restorer, then the use of hide glue will be appreciated by that person some time hence. I'd spend a little time making sure the joinery is as good as it can be before you re-glue. Think of it this way if you like. Would you prefer now to be cleaning out epoxy, or PVA, or hide glue? Personally, I'll take the hide glue every time from the point of view of cleaning it off joints. Sliante.

1. 
   Drew_Nyman | Nov 23, 2000 10:21am | #2

   *Alex; It's very refreshing to hear someone ask this question BEFORE they mess up a potentially valuable piece of furniture. You'd be amazed at the number of times I've had to spend extra time on an antique because some "refinisher" used epoxy or some other modern glue for repair work. Hot hide glue is the way to go in my opinion. I heat it up in the microwave(don't let Sgian read this) if I don't need much.( make sure you let it soak in water before you heat it to about 140 degrees. Make sure you use pads on the clamps! Have the neighbors over so they too can enjoy the smell of the stuff. Drew

1. 
   Sgian_Dubh | Nov 23, 2000 11:15am | #3

   *Drew, i "I heat it up in the microwave(don't let Sgian read this)"Why? I've been known to do the same, particularly if I just need a wee jolt of the stuff, perhaps not enough to warrant getting the glue pot out. ;-) Sliante.

1. 
   Drew_Nyman | Nov 24, 2000 10:21am | #4

   *Sgian; I'm just kidding. Actually I've been scolded by some of my British friends for doing this. They have wondered how I can criticise the use of a portable belt sander on fine woods, then turn around and heat hide glue in a microwave!

1. 
   mike_pelletier | Nov 28, 2000 01:35pm | #5

   *definitely use hot hide glue. A simple and effective glue pot can be made by making a double boiler out of two appropriately sized cans. Used with an inexpensive electric burner( I payed $7) you will be set.dissolving small amounts of urea into the glue can help extend working time. For those of us weaned on PVA you will be suprised by how fast it can gel in a cool shop.Do not expect the same early high strenth you are accustomed to with PVA, over night clamp time is important. When cured however, it is very strong.Good luck