Natural Sturgeon Bladder Glue (Isinglass) — 100g
Sturgeon bladder glue (Isinglass, Hausenblasenleim) is a premium, traditional natural adhesive of the highest quality, made from the dried swim bladders of sturgeon fish. It is universally recognized as the finest glue in lutherie for building and repairing stringed instruments, as well as in professional antique restoration and gilding.
This glue provides exceptional bond strength while maintaining high elasticity. It does not creep over time and is acoustically transparent, ensuring it never dampens the wood's natural resonance. The most critical feature of sturgeon glue is its 100% reversibility: a glued joint can be easily dismantled using localized heat and moisture without damaging the precious wood.
Product Specifications:
- Material: 100% natural sturgeon swim bladders.
- Form: Dried translucent flakes/pieces.
- Weight: 100 grams.
- State: Raw material (requires soaking and heating before use).
Preparation and Usage Guide:
- Soaking: Place the desired amount of dried glue into a glass container, cover with cold distilled water, and let it soak for 12–24 hours until the pieces become completely soft and jelly-like.
- Draining: Pour off any excess water (the glue will have absorbed the right amount of moisture).
- Heating: Melt the swollen glue gently in a double boiler (bain-marie) at a temperature of around 60°C (140°F), stirring continuously until it forms a smooth, liquid consistency. WARNING: Never allow the glue to boil! Heating it above 70°C (158°F) will destroy the protein chains, causing the glue to permanently lose its bonding strength.
- Straining: If necessary, strain the warm liquid glue through a cheesecloth or fine mesh sieve to remove any undissolved tissue residue.
- Application: Apply the glue while warm. Unused prepared glue can be cooled (it will form a gel) and stored in the refrigerator for a few days; simply reheat the portion you need in a water bath.