Isinglass Powder

Isinglass is made from the fresh air/swim bladder of sturgeon fish and has been used by conservators for consolidation and as glue for many years. Isinglass glue has a higher adhesion and lower viscosity than comparable animal products, such as gelatine or rabbit skin glue.

Use Guide

Put isinglass powder into a glass or enamel container, cover with water and leave to soften (may take several hours). Dispose of excess water and stir glue to a uniform consistency. Pour into a double boiler and cover with fresh, distilled water. Slowly heat to 60°C, stirring constantly, until glue has dissolved. Do not overheat the glue! Remove from heat, and if necessary, strain through fine cotton cloth. A preservative may be added at this time, but it is best to prepare only the amount needed. Excess glue may be kept in the fridge for several days, cold glue may solidify to a gel, however can be melted again by heating. In case a plasticizer is required, some conservators add dark wildflower honey to the glue - normally the weight of the honey is equal to the weight of the dry isinglass/sturgeon glue.

50g Glass Jar