replacing back catch leathers.

[Newton Hunt]

> and #3 is using hot hide glue. 

Using hot hide glue is no more complex than scrambling eggs.  Even _I_
can do that.

1.  Break eggs ...  Opps, wrong recipe.

2.  Get a small jar, baby food jars are great.
2.  Pour about 3/8" of glue into the jar (take lid off first).
3.  Slowly dribble water into the jar until the glue is just covered.
4.  Set aside overnight.
5.  Next morning put water, about 1", into your pot and plug it in.
6.  When it is hot take the glue to the microwave and knucke it for
      15 seconds.
7.  Stir it and put it in the pot.  Leave for about two minutes or so.
8.  Stir again.  When it is all dissolved add water or more glue to
      get the consistency you want.
9.  Stick a hammer shank in the glue and lift out.  Two or three 
      drops should fall off the stick.  That is about right until you
      get a real feel for the stuff.
10. Use it.

Dry fit everything then spread thin and work immediately but not
necessarily fast.  When the glue jells it is a little late.  It will
jell, based upon thickness, in about five to ten seconds.  You have time
to work with it but not time to doddle or be indecisive.

Maple syrup, the real stuff, is too thin, honey is too thick.  Thin
spread is better, clamps, wedges, cauls, or hand pressure immediately. 
It jells, then sets within a few seconds but takes 24 hours to cure. 
Leave it clamped tjhe 24 hours, as you would with Titebond or other
glues.

Keep wet paper towels or a wet rag at your side to clean your fingers or
tools when you get some on those items.

This is not rocket science, after all, this stuff has been in use for
centuries and centuries.

Now, who has a video camera...?

		Newton