Wheat paste

Wheat paste (also known as paste-up) is a gel or liquid adhesive made from wheat flour or starch mixed with water. It has been used since ancient times for various arts and crafts such as papier-mâché, collage, and decoupage. More recently, it has become a popular adhesive for street art and postering, due to its ease of use, low cost, and eco-friendly nature.

Composition and Preparation

Wheat paste is made by mixing wheat flour or starch with water until it reaches a thick, glue-like consistency. Some recipes may add a small amount of sugar, vinegar, or preservatives to increase the paste's sticking power and longevity. The mixture is cooked over heat until it thickens, then allowed to cool before use.

Uses

Wheat paste has a wide range of applications in various crafts and hobbies. In the arts, it is commonly used for making papier-mâché sculptures, collage artwork, and in the application of decoupage. Its ability to adhere to a variety of surfaces and its easy removal with water makes it an ideal adhesive for temporary posters and street art. Wheat paste is also used in bookbinding and as a wallpaper adhesive.

Street Art

In the realm of street art, wheat paste is favored for its ease of application and removal. Artists often use it to adhere paper posters and artworks to walls and other surfaces in public spaces. The temporary nature of wheat paste allows for the creation of ephemeral art pieces that can be easily removed or washed away, aligning with the often transient and guerrilla ethos of street art culture.

Environmental Impact

Wheat paste is considered an environmentally friendly adhesive option. It is biodegradable, non-toxic, and made from renewable resources, making it a preferred choice for artists and crafters concerned with minimizing their ecological footprint.

Precautions

While wheat paste is non-toxic and safe for most uses, it can attract pests like insects and rodents if used outdoors. Additionally, because it is made from wheat, it may not be suitable for use in environments where individuals with gluten intolerance or celiac disease may come into contact with it.

See Also

• Papier-mâché
• Collage
• Decoupage
• Street art
• Ephemeral art