International Styles

Gluing Wood

Many pieces of woodenware are simply glued together. Good glue, if properly used, will unite two pieces of wood so closely that the fibers will part before the glue will break.

The secret of good gluing is to have the glue in perfect contact with the surface to be united. Dirt and air must be removed. A thin layer of air, different from ordinary atmosphere, clings to the surface of all bodies. This may be observed by dipping the wood into water, when air is seen adhering in the form of tiny bubbles. A single drop of glue adheres firmly if rubbed well onto wood.

The following rules regarding gluing will not only be of value to the salesperson in observing the construction of certain articles, but will also enable her to offer advice upon repairs.

1. Use as little glue as possible. If the two pieces of wood are separated by a large quantity of glue, the strength of the joint depends on the glue itself and not on the adhesion of the two surfaces.

2. Have the surface absolutely free from dirt, grease, old glue, or paint.

3. Spread the glue evenly, and use pressure in uniting the two pieces.

4. Keep the glue sweet. Glue is an animal product, made from the hoofs, bones, and tendons of cattle, and will deteriorate unless it is kept cool.

5. White glue, that is, ordinary glue bleached, is useful with white and light-colored woods.




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