Tom, If hide glue "Smells", throw it out. As for a video, showing how to use hide glue, forget it. It's not that difficult! Below is "Directions for Mixing Hide Glue", that has been posted in my shop, for my various helpers: 1. Add 1 part Glue to 1 1/2 parts water. (Distilled water is preferable.) 2. Let soak for at least 1/2 hour. (1 hour is preferable). 3. Dissolve by placing in a double jacketed glue pot or boiler, stirring occasionally. (hint: discard the initial "skin") 4. Maintain heat under 140 degrees Fahrenheit, preferably 130 degrees Fahrenheit. Do not exceed 150 degrees Fahrneheit. 5. Discard glue after 72 hours. A few tips: 1. The glue can be reheated many times, but will lose most of it's strength after the 72 hour period. 2. If it has a rancid odor, this means that bacteria has taken effect and is further destroying the strength of the glue. 3. If mold is present, toss it! 4. Glue consistancy is varialble, depending on what materials are being bonded. ie felt gluing is best done with a FAIRLY THICK glue, whereas bonding wood to wood, as in hammers to shanks, can be thinner. The test I use is to stir with a hammershank; lift and count the drops. If the glue drips faster than 1 drop per second, it is probably too thin. If the glue drips at more than 1 drop per 2 seconds, it is too thick. Hope this helps and happy gluing to all. Joe Garrett, RPT, (Oregon) P.S. To all: please be aware that CVA has a life and is a bear to remove. Please quit using it! Use of CVA, IMHO, is a sign that you are in, way too big a hurry or you are not thinking LONGIVETY OR CRAFTSMANSHIP!
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