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I was reading an old book repair manual from the 1920s and it mentioned using fish glue for leather bindings
I picked up a copy of 'Bookbinding for Libraries' from a used book sale last month. On page 47, it says they used a specific glue made from sturgeon bladders for high-end work. I always thought animal glue just meant hide glue, so that was a new one for me. Has anyone here ever tried working with a traditional fish glue, or know a modern source?
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mianelson1mo ago
@murray.cora I used to think all animal glues were basically the same, just different strengths. Then I tried working with a modern isinglass for a restoration project and wow, total game changer. It stays flexible like you said, and it doesn't get brittle over time the way hide glue can. The old manuals aren't kidding about the sturgeon bladder thing either, that stuff is incredibly clear and strong when it's made right.
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murray.cora1mo ago
That bit about sturgeon bladders is wild. I knew about hide glue and rabbit skin glue. But fish? Makes you wonder about the whole process. Did they have to prepare it fresh, or could you buy it ready-made back then? The manual must have had specific instructions for working with it. Was it considered better for leather because it stayed more flexible?
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