What Glue is Best for Rigging Ropes?

[Bill Jackson]

Hi guys,

I have a questuon about WHAT IS THE BEST GLUE TO USE ON ROPES THAT DO NOT LEAVE A RESIDUE? My last build came out OK for a 2nd timer, but I was not happy with the white spots left by glue on the ropes.  I am starting another build now, and want to get it right this time. I used super glue the last time and it left a residue and shinny spots.

Thanks in advance

Bill

[PietFriet]

Hi Bill,

I use diluted PVA (white wood glue), minimum of 50% water and a needle applicator. One drop at the time will soak in the rope and will not leave visible traces.

[Jaager]

What PietFriet said, but it should probably be bookbinders pH neutral version of PVA.  It is white, dries clear, and does not potentially degrade natural fibers that are vulnerable to acid.  

[popeye2sea]

Don't

 

Regards

[Roger Pellett]

Lacquer type clear nail polish.  Cheap, quick drying, convenient, easy to find.  Does not leave a residue.

 

CA- Ditto to popeye’s post above.

 

Roger

Edited July 11, 2021 by Roger Pellett

[allanyed]

Regarding CA on rigging, ditto on the above, don't use it.  CA is helpful and for some it is preferable in some instances of a build other than rigging, but it is not a necessity anywhere. White PVA diluted as discussed above is the ticket!

 

[dvm27]

6 hours ago, Jaager said:

What PietFriet said, but it should probably be bookbinders pH neutral version of PVA.  It is white, dries clear, and does not potentially degrade natural fibers that are vulnerable to acid.  

What Jaeger said. I've been happy with the Lineco line of archival products for philately and will use their neutral pH white glue, diluted for rigging. 

 

Edited July 11, 2021 by dvm27

[Bill Jackson]

Ok guys I wish I would have asked you before I started my last ship. I will follow your recommendations and use PVA (netural PH) and water. One thing is I may have been using too much.

Thanks again for the advice, and please stay safe.

Bill

[wefalck]

I am using either shellac or something called zapon-varnish, which is similar to nail-varnish and is used tradtionally to varnish brass and silver aginst tarnishing. It is less brittle than shellac. The great advantage of such varnish is that it can be softened with a drop of acetone, so that one kan adjust knots or the belaying. If applied somewhat diluted, it is virtually invisible.