kleister

Kleister is a paste or adhesive most commonly associated with the German term for paste, glue, or sizing used in crafts and construction. In English-language contexts, it is often rendered as starch paste or wallpaper paste and refers to a viscous mixture used to bond papers, wallpaper, or textiles.

Historically, Kleister was made from starch or flour mixed with water and subjected to heating to create a reversible, water-soluble adhesive. Modern formulations may rely on synthetic polymers, such as methylcellulose or polyvinyl acetate (PVA), which provide stronger bonding and different handling properties while retaining reversibility in some applications.

Typical uses include installing wallpaper, where a ready-to-use paste is applied to the wallpaper or wall; in bookbinding and paper crafts, where the paste acts as a sizing medium or adhesive; and in amateur restoration, where gentle, reversible adhesion is preferred. The properties of Kleister—water solubility, reversibility with moisture, and varying viscosity—make it suitable for delicate materials, but binder choice and pH can affect aging and acidity.

Preparation generally involves dispersing starch or a ready-made paste in hot water, stirring until smooth, and allowing to cool to the desired consistency; modern mixes may be prepared according to manufacturer instructions. Safety is typically high, though some individuals may experience skin irritation from certain formulations; avoid inhalation of dust when stirring dry starch.

See also: wallpaper paste, starch paste, bookbinding, adhesives.