Paint for Buckskin and Leather

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Three different mediums can be recommended for painting on Buckskin and Leather. Hide Glue paint as found in the recipe for rawhide is suitable but should be made with the optional Glycerin in order to prevent cracking on flexible buckskin or leather. Another choice would be to use Gum Arabic which is a plant based glue rather than animal based. It is easier to prepare and can also be mixed with Glycerin to promote flexibility. The mixture for any paint should not be too watery as buckskins or sueded leathers will soak up the paint making it difficult to control color bleeding. For a more opaque look, fabric paint in Titanium White can be used as the medium, following the manufacturer's instructions.

Gum Arabic Preparation

Ratios are 1 part gum to 2 parts water. Boil water and pour over the powdered gum, stirring to make sure there are no lumps. Add drops of Clove Oil to retard spoilage. Allow the mixture to soak 24-48 hours for full absorption.

Mix all the ingredients to obtain a paste with a thick, creamy consistency. You may wish to strain this mixture through cheesecloth. Transfer your paints to saucers for painting and mixing with dry pigments. Our Clamshell Dishes are perfect for this purpose. When creating your initial gum, you may wish to add glycerin as a plasticizer to prevent cracking and brittleness. The ratio would be 1 part glycerin or less by volume to 5 parts of your prepared gum solution. Add the glycerin after gum has been completely dissolved but while still warm.

Painting on Rawhide, Bone and Wood : Paint for Buckskin and Leather
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