Question about old school core box repair

I was fixing a busted wooden core box from a 1920s pattern and found out they used hide glue mixed with fine sand as a filler. Read it in a 1953 trade journal my boss keeps in the office. Anyone know if that's still a valid fix for vintage patterns or is modern epoxy the only way now?

3 comments

3 Comments

the_taylor24d ago

Totally agree with Nora, hide glue is the way to go for something that old. Used it on a 1920s tool chest and it just WORKS, the joint has a little give so the wood doesn't crack. Modern glue is too rigid and can actually cause more damage over time. That sand trick is genius for filling gaps, makes it super strong. Feels right keeping the repair period correct too.

the_nora25d ago

Oh wow, that's a cool find! My buddy who restores old furniture swears by hide glue for period repairs, says it lets the wood move like it's supposed to. I'd stick with the original method if you want to keep it real.

williams.drew25d ago

Disagree completely. Hide glue is a pain to work with and smells awful. Modern wood glues are stronger and way more reliable for a repair that needs to last. The whole "let it move" thing is overrated for most pieces people actually use.