October 2001's
Glue of the Month

Gelatin and Glycerin Glue

October's Glue of the Month is something you can make at home, and it is useful for all sorts of gooey things. This recipe of 5 parts gelatin and water to 4 parts glycerin, creates a gooey mixture that is non toxic and great for sticking things to skin. We learned about this recipe from our friends in special effects make-up. It works well as an adhesive and a special effect on skin to look like burns, wounds, blisters or even monster skin! Once dry, make-up can be applied over top of it. You can also add cotton to the mixture to make it thicker and easier to build up. This glue works like any animal protein glue (on account of the gelatin). It is water resistant but not water proof. It dries as it cools, with about a one to two minute working time. Be sure to let it cool some before applying it to the skin. Once cooled it can be reused simply by placing it back in the pot and reheating. This glue is easy to work with, sticks most anything to skin, and should not irritate the skin. The possibilities for this glue are only limited by your imagination! Have fun and happy gluing. Here's our recipe:

In a pot dissolve gelatin (available at the grocery store) with the recommended amount of water. Add to this 4 parts of glycerin (available at the drug store) Heat until thoroughly dissolved, stirring constantly. The amount of glycerin can be altered; more makes the glue softer and runnier, less makes it stiffer and stickier.

Thanks to Colin Penman and CMU College of Makeup Art & Design

Past Glues of the Month

If you've discovered a glue that you've grown attached to, please let us know. Maybe we can honor your glue in a future month.

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