Prepare 1 cup (2.4 dl) of very hot water. Make a thin mixture of 3 tablespoons (45 ml) of white flour and cold water (just enough to wet all the flour and make it liquid enough to pour). Pour the cold mixture slowly into the hot water while stirring constantly. Bring to a boil. When it thickens, allow to cool. Smear on like any other glue. For slightly better strength, add 1 tablespoon (15 ml) of sugar after the glue is thickened. After using a portion, reheat the remaining in a covered jar or container to sterilize it for storage or keep refrigerated. If wheat flour is not available, other flours will work.
Other variations
- Rice Paste (Mix one part rice flour and six parts water. Heat while mixing to a smooth consistency.)
- Acacia tree gum also works.
In 1990, the University of Washington measured the holding power of various adhesives:
| Adhesive | Peel Test |
| Rice Paste | 7.9 lbs |
| Wheat Paste | 8.1 lbs |
| White Glue (full strength) | 7.5 lbs |
| White Glue (diluted 1:1 with water) | 8.1 |