Patafix is an adhesive rubber used to attach posters and other light objects to walls or other surfaces. You can buy packets of Patafix, but it's just as simple (and much cheaper) to make it yourself using ingredients you probably already have somewhere around the house. Read on to learn how to make Patafix using an old jar of glue stick or white glue and liquid starch.
Steps
Method 1 of 2: Using the Glue Stick
Step 1. Find an old tube of glue stick
Find one that has some glue left that isn't too dry that you can't spread it anymore. If you want, you can also use a new one. Just leave it for a few days without the cap so that it dries up and becomes more sticky. Do not try to do this with a new glue stick that is still usable. The sticky ball would be too sticky and would actually glue your images to the walls, instead of temporarily sticking them like sticky gum does.
To quickly dry a tube of glue stick, remove the glue from the tube and place it in an ovenproof container. Bake it in the oven at a very low temperature for about an houruntil it becomes dry enough that it is no longer sticky to the touch. Be careful when picking up the hot container and glue.
Step 2. Knead and pull the glue
Place it between your palms and knead it, flatten it, and shape it into a ball, then pull it. Doing so will dry out a little more until you get the right consistency for your sticky gum.
If it's not dry enough, sprinkle some talcum powder on the glue ball and keep working it. The powder will absorb any remaining moisture
Step 3. Paint the sticky gum
Take a highlighter (preferably blue, color of real sticky gum) and color your sticky gum. Any type of highlighter or ink is fine. Add a few drops of color and mix until you are happy with the result.
If you are afraid that your sticky gum will leave color on the posters, do not add any color. Use it as it is. It will work just as well
Step 4. Have fun with your homemade sticky gum
Take a small piece and stick it on the back of your photos, posters and other light objects, then push the objects against the wall. When you're ready to take them off, the sticky gum will come off smoothly.
Method 2 of 2: Using White Glue and Liquid Starch
Step 1. Measure your glue and starch
You will need 2 tablespoons of white glue (or vinyl glue) and 1 tablespoon of liquid starch, the one used to starch shirts. These ingredients will give you a small amount of sticky gum. If you want more, just remember to use the proportion of 2 parts of glue to 1 of starch.
Step 2. Mix glue and starch
Put them in a container and use a spoon to mix them together. The mixture will immediately begin to harden, thanks to the interaction between glue and starch. It will soon take on the consistency of sticky gum.
Step 3. Add a few drops of food coloring
Use blue or another bright color to color your sticky gum if you want. Just add a few drops of color, as a small amount is enough. Stir until the sticky rubber ball is completely colored.
Step 4. Knead it with your hands
Take the sticky gum in your hands and knead it until it is firm but flexible. If it feels too sticky, add a little starch. If it's too dry to glue, add some glue. Continue working the sticky gum until it reaches the desired consistency.
Step 5. Use or put away the sticky gum
Take a few pieces of sticky rubber to attach a poster or photo. You can put away the sticky gum you don't use in an airtight container. If it gets a little too dry before you use it again, add some glue and work it by hand to get the right consistency again.
