Rawhide Glue

Origins of Rawhide Glue

Curious thing, glue. Witches use glue all the time for crafts, magic, and art, but where did glue come from, how was it made, and what was it used for? I know I use it for binding spells and other rituals on crafted items, but earlier populations made their own uses because of their discovery; which has blessed me in my lifetime.

Diving in, so far the earliest evidence of glue is on cave paintings over 5,000 years old. Archeologists think these ancient artists mixed glue with paint to help make their paint stick, while protecting their designs from moisture damage and age. It worked so well, cave paintings can still be viewed today.

In the East, Ancient Chinese cultures would bind hide glue with ink additives for writing and drawing. They would dry the concoction in a square tile, only using warm water to activate the ink when needed. Even Indian Tribes were known to use it on pelts while the English used it to seal boats, to make them waterproof.

Fun thing glue is. Glue can be found in every culture around the world. The origins of glue is forever a mystery but one of the most beneficial materials for mankind.

In this blog I wanted to make a breakdown of the Rawhide recipe, for anyone who would like to attempt glue making.

Rawhide Glue Receipe

Ingredients:

One 4"×6" Thick dried rawhide of any animal

(You can use the ones you give your dog as long as they are not chemically bleached and is organically processed.)

Directions:

In a well ventilated area, cut the dried Rawhide into small pieces and place them in a pot of water. Rawhide to water ratio is 1:1

Bring water to a Boil.

Once to a boil, place it on simmer while stirring occasionally (This can take 4-5 hours).

As time es, the collagen coming from the hide will leave the water cloudy, not sticky (yet).

When the water gets cloudy, remove and strain the rawhide out of the pot.

Place the rawhide liquid solution in a tin can and simmer the solution for a few more hours.

The more the water evaporates, the stickier it gets. You are finished once you hit the consistency that you want.

You can store the liquid solution in a darkened medicine bottle. (I use old yeast bottles)

Sterilize the bottle before storing and wax seal if needed. Thanks for reading. 🧡 :heart: :yellow_heart:

Author: Florence :copyright: 2020