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red paper lantern cutout with sourdough glue on one edge

How to Use Sourdough as Glue

Homestead Lady Tessa Zundel
Sourdough starter makes a great biodegradable option for gluing paper craft projects. It's as simple as applying and waiting for it to dry!
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Equipment

  • Paintbrush
  • Damp Towel
  • Paperclips or Binder Clips
  • Iron optional

Ingredients
  

  • 1 Tbsp. Sourdough Starter 50% - 75% Hydration
  • 1-2 Egg Whites optional

Instructions
 

  • Assemble the pices of your papercraft. In this example, we're using the paper lanterns we make for the Lunar New Year. These are made from light construction paper, but sourdough will hold cardstock together, too - even cardboard!
  • Pour off any hooch or water collected at the top of your starter. Mix the sourdough starter thoroughly and measure out 1 Tbsp. into a small cup. Add 1-2 egg whites and mix in completely, if using.
  • Using a paintbrush, apply the sourdough starter to the edge of your paper just as you would with glue. Keep the application even so that it will dry at the same rate.
  • Affix your paper edges together. In this example, bring the edges of the lantern around to meet each other. Press them firmly together with your finger.
  • Wipe away any extra sourdough starter from the edges. Clean your hands on a damp towel.
  • Using paperclips or binder clips, secure the glued area so that it will dry correctly. Set aside to dry.
  • Once the sourdough starter has dried, it will lighten in color and weight. If the paper has rumpled in the drying process, you may use a warm iron (without the steam) to straighten it a bit.*

Notes

*The iron won't create miraculous flattening, so be sure to clip the project the way you want it while it dries.
If you find a 100% hydration is too wet for your climate or your project, try a little less water in your starter next time. (100% hydration is equal parts starter mixed with equal parts water and flour.)
  • Use sourdough starter that has been mixed and allowed to ferment for at least six hours for a smoother glue.
  • For best results, keep the layers of sourdough glue EVEN and THIN. This will keep your paper craft flexible and light.
Depending on the type of craft you're doing, you may not need to clip your project. With crafts like book binding, you may need to increase the pressure as the project dries by providing something to weigh down your project. A clamp works well here.
  • If you have a larger project, you may increase the amount of sourdough used, but be aware that you'll need to allow more dry time. You will also lose some flexibility. 
To increase adheasive strength, you can add 1-2 egg whites.
Keyword compost, papercraft, sourdough discard
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