Switched from PVA to wheat paste for my last three books and the difference is huge

I've been using PVA glue for a couple years now because it's fast and easy. But my last three projects were historical recreations and wheat paste just felt right for the period. The biggest thing I noticed was how much easier wheat paste is to reverse if you mess up a hinge or a spine piece. With PVA you pretty much have to commit and hope it dries straight. I'm not saying wheat paste is for everything, but if you do any restoration or period work you should at least try it once. Has anyone else done a side by side comparison of how both hold up after a few months on the shelf?

3 comments

3 Comments

thomas_martinez28d ago

Oh yeah because NOTHING beats the thrill of waiting for wheat paste to cook and then hoping it doesn't mold before you even use it. Real talk though you're right about reversibility, PVA is basically a marriage contract for your book.

henderson.vera28d ago

The last time I made wheat paste I ended up with a sticky mess that went bad in three days. I feel your pain @thomas_martinez, it's a real gamble sometimes. I tried using a tiny bit of vinegar to slow the mold but it still got funky by the end of the week. PVA really is a commitment, like you said, no taking it back once it dries. I still keep a small jar of wheat paste around for really old paperbacks, but I always hold my breath when I open the lid. Solidarity on that mold anxiety for sure.

ryan_gibson8426d ago

Wheat paste is like that friend who's fun but flakes out on you constantly. PVA is the reliable one who'll show up and never leave haha.