Wheat paste is a time-honored form of adhesive that is still often used in craft projects and other simple household applications. One of the great things about the paste is that anyone can make the product using simple ingredients found in just about any kitchen. Here’s a simple wheat paste recipe that can be prepared in very little time and will remain usable for up to a week.
Gathering the basic ingredients is the first step in learning how to make wheat paste. The main ingredient is some type of flour. While wheat flour is the best option, it is also possible to use bleached products or even some other type of whole grain flour product, such as chickpea flour.
Granulated sugar is the second component in home made wheat paste. Make sure you are using sugar and not some form of substitute. Artificial sweeteners usually don’t provide the texture to the recipe that granulated sugar will add, which is essential in producing the correct effect. While there are recipes that allow for the use of brown sugar, keep in mind that if you want a relatively translucent paste, white granulated sugar is the only way to go.
Water is the third and final ingredient required when making wheat paste. You will need a small amount of hot water as well as a little cold water for use at different stages as you make wheat paste. Make sure you have a small boiler and a heat source handy, as well as a wooden spoon or other device to stir the mixture during the preparation.
To begin to make wheat paste, combine three level teaspoons (45 ml) each of the flour and cold water. The idea is to create a mixture that is slightly thickened but can be poured with ease. While mixing the cold water and flour, heat a cup (2.4 dl) of water to just before the boiling point.
Once the flour is dissolved in the cold water, pour the mixture slowly into the boiler, taking care to stir as the combination makes contact with the hot water. Continue to stir as the contents of the pot begin to reach the boiling point. This is important as you want the flour to begin thickening the contents of the boiler, but avoid the possibility of having the mixture stick to the sides and scald the paste.
As the paste is coming to a boil, slowly add roughly one tablespoon (15 ml) of the granulated sugar to the mixture. Continue to stir vigorously as the liquid begins to thicken. Once the wheat paste has reached a consistency that is roughly the same as commercial glue products, remove the product from the heat and allow it to cool.
Once the wheat paste has cooled to room temperature, it can be applied with the use of a small brush. When working with paper products, the brush will be preferable to a roller, since the paper will be less likely to curl during the application. If there is any wheat paste remaining, seal the product in an air proof container and place in the refrigerator. The product will last for roughly a week. Remember to heat up the paste before using for any application, including papier mache or as a backing on wall covering.
