This paste was used at last year's Nomadic Museum on pier 54. It adhered the tea paper to the giant walls at the entry. The paste, called Beva, is more commonly used by conservators because of its properties as a reversible adhesive.
It is heat activated. Material is covered with Beva and ironed to a surface to create adhesion and is ironed again to reverse adhesion. We've used it in small applications but wonder if it could be used to temporarily paper walls or other surfaces around the home. Does anyone have any experience with this?? -regina
Ok,
I work as a fine art conservator and have been using BEVA (both gel, 371, and film)for the past 6 years. It was developed by Gustav Berger for use by art conservators as it it a completely reversible (both by heat and solvent)adhesive with maximum adhesion even when diluted heavily. While this adhesive is a conservator's dream it is however NOT for use by folk without SIGNIFICANT experience handling volitale chemicals.
BEVA 371 is soluable with several solvents, the most commonly used are VM&P Naptha, Xylenes, or Toulene (Toluol) though Benzene (not Benzine) can be used. ALL of these solvents are EXTREMELY hazzardous and downright dangerous with the worst long-term exposure side effects listed as "neurological and cell reprodution damage". BEVA 371 is a thick Napalm-like jelly that emits a viscious vapor. When we use it we have a full ventilation system running and I wear a full-face respirator as the fumes are that powerful. In addition the fumes linger and as such we limit usage to evenings and Friday afternoons to limit exposure.
BEVA 371 is NOT a reccomended adhesive.
BEVA film (a thin film version of 371) is much less dangerous. In fact when used with heat there are almost no fumes and it acts much like the adhesive film used by quilters. We use it when lining paintings.
An alternative to 371 is BEVA Gel- a ph-neutral natural adhesive made of kelp and seaweed (if I recall correctly) it does not shrink when it dries, dries clear, can be removed (somewhat) with acetone and retains excelent adhesive properties even when diluted (with water). It is much like PVA (polvinyl-acetate)of bookbinder's glue yet phenomenally better.
BEVA gel can be used around the house and is non-toxic and a great replacement for Elmer's or Yes Paste etc...
All that being said... wallpaper paste is best for wallpapering...
I know that must raise a whole slew of questions...I'll happily answer any of them...
wow
THX Julian (v1.0) !
One more thing... it's VERY expensive and goes quickly:
1 gallon of BEVA 371: $75
1 gallon of BEVA gel: $75
BEVA 371 Film 2.5 mil 27" x 20': $99.00
BEVA 371 Film 1.0 mil 27" x 20': $99.00
This might be the single most important answer I've read on AT. Safety, safety, safety. Thank you Julian, because many people think they know things but obviously you actually do. All I recognized in there was Toluene and I know how seriously dangerous that is.
What an interesting occupation you have.
Hi, I know this post is very old, but I have a question about BEVA 371 for a project and Julian (v1.0) seems to know a lot about it and wanted some questions answered!!! Let me know if your still around! Thanks.
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