Rabbit Skin Glue

[vintage frames]

I've been having some problems with supplies of rabbit skin glue. For years I've been using a mix ratio of 40g glue to 600ml water, but recently have found this too strong a mix with the result I get my gesso splitting, when dry, on those areas of high build.
I've tried a 10p'cent dilution and this helps, but it's all a bit uncertain because the supply of RSG varies from one supplier to another. I've tried the "technical grade" too, but that has changed it's formula as well.
Would be interested to hear from anyone with a reliable source of this glue.

[JFeig]

I was taught that the RSG formula changes with the season (relative humidity) and source. It can vary from 15g to 17g per 180 ml. I always let the glue sit overnight in a jar and decanted any excess water for STOCK SOLUTION. The water was saved for further dilution to working grades - weak, med, strong.

[vintage frames]

Thanks for your reply. I'm puzzled by where the excess water comes from. Is this before melting?

[JFeig]

Yes
My method of making a stock solution is to place the pieces - flakes - powder of the RSG in a jar and fill the balance of the container with water. The RSG can only absorb so much water as it regenerates to a gelatin overnight. There will be excess water at the top.


heat to form a single block of gelatin - the strongest - stock solution
heat with 50% added water - med strength
heat with 100% added water - weak strength
or any percent concentration you want

[vintage frames]

Yes, now I understand. But it gets back to my local (UK) problem as to a reliable supply of RSG. Another hazard is that some RSGs have a high fat content, and this can play havoc when painting out thin coats of bole.

[JFeig]

https://www.goldleafsupplies.co.uk/acat ... l#SID=2750

This is from a quick internet search from my side of the pond

[Jamesnkr]

Are you saying that this is a consistent and reliable brand?

[JFeig]

All my sources are US based. They have even had problems from time to time.

[vintage frames]

I've used a sample of that RSG and so far had good results. Good company that too.
It's important to have a reliable brand that gives certain results each and every time. After all the prep. work it's a real "palava" to have gesso faults and time consuming repairs.

[prospero]

Like timber, rabbits are organic and therefore viable to variations.

[caro]

colour, ear length and angle being crucial to overall quality, not to mention age and length of fur ?

[Benhen]

Aren't you talking about rabbits, Caro?
Never, ever, let it boil!