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Why buy glue when you can just make it yourself? How to make glue will give you a recipe that uses common household ingredients. You can save money on large craft projects or provide kids with a fun and educational activity for a rainy afternoon.
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Glue Making Tips
- Heat the milk for best results.
- The milk-vinegar mixture is ready to strain when the milk appears cloudy.
- Strain the whey a second time if you don't succeed in removing all the curds.
- Adjust the amount of hot water and baking soda to achieve the desired consistency.
- Allow the glue to harden overnight.
- Store the glue in an airtight container.
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Introduction
- Running out of glue doesn't have to be a sticky situation, as long as you have a few basic items in your kitchen. This version is even safe for kids to use (though adult supervision is recommended when handling hot liquids or using the stove). Crafts are even more fun when you make your own supplies!
Ingredients
- Make sure you have everything on hand before you begin. You'll need the following ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon vinegar
- 2 tablespoons powdered milk
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/4 cup hot water
Step 1: Curdle the Milk
- First you'll need to separate the milk into curds (solids) and whey (liquid). You can do this by adding vinegar.
- Though it's not necessary, heat the milk on the stove or in the microwave for the best results.About.com: Make Non-Toxic Glue from Milk
- Stir the vinegar into the milk.
- Let the mixture sit for a couple of minutes.PBS Kids: Glue The milk will start to separate--you'll know it's ready when the milk appears cloudy.
- If the milk doesn't seem to be separating, add a little more vinegar.About.com: Make Non-Toxic Glue from Milk
Step 2: Separate the Liquid and the Solids
- Now you'll need to get rid of the whey. A coffee filter works best, but you can also use a paper towel.PBS Kids: Glue
- Place a coffee filter over a cup and pour the mixture onto the filter. The whey will start to run into the cup, leaving the curds in the filter.
- Squeeze the remaining whey through the filter, being careful not to lose any of the curds. If you do, you can strain the whey again.About.com: Make Non-Toxic Glue from Milk
- Scrape the curds into an airtight container.
Step 3: Add Water and Baking Soda
- During this step, you can control the consistency of your glue. Adding more water will thin the mixture; adding more baking soda will make it less lumpy.About.com: Make Non-Toxic Glue from Milk
- Add hot water and baking soda.
- Mix until smooth.
Step 4: Use and Store Your Glue
- The glue will be somewhat watery. If you're working with thin materials, such as paper, you'll have to be careful not to damage your project. A little bit goes a long way. Follow these tips for best results:
- Allow your project to sit overnight. At first, this glue will create a weak bond, but it will become quite strong as it dries.
- Be sure to keep your glue refrigerated in an airtight container so that it will last longer.About.com: Make Non-Toxic Glue from Milk
- Remove glue from skin and clothes with warm water.About.com: Make Non-Toxic Glue from Milk
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