SE Asia tree resin

kai · 22nd May 2023, 08:57 PM

AFAIK, resin that is fluid tends to be utilized for surface treatment of wood (as a local alternative to shellac); I believe dipterocarp resin was mentioned in the book "Spirit of Wood".

Resin for setting a blade into the hilt is usually solid and mixed with beeswax (to make it less brittle) and a filler like brick dust (for better overall hardness). This needs to be done upon melting the resin & wax - be very careful since it is easily flammable and sticks to the skin like hell! There are volatile components in the resin and, thus, expect pungent smell or even smoke - best prepared outside (without open flames to avoid ignition) and with dedicated gear. Don't try it in a kitchen...

Exact ratios depend on the ingredients. Alan posted a traditional recipe here a good while ago which can serve as a good starting point. Some experimentation will be needed if you try other ingredients.

Regards,
Kai

A. G. Maisey · 22nd May 2023, 10:27 PM

Kai is absolutely correct, I could not have said this better myself.

What is needed is a substance that in Jawa is called "damar selo" = "rock resin", hard irregular lumps.

In Central Jawa the preparation & use of this material is regarded as a specialist job, it is not quite as easy as it sounds.

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22nd May 2023, 08:57 PM	#1
kai Member Join Date: Apr 2005 Posts: 3,255	AFAIK, resin that is fluid tends to be utilized for surface treatment of wood (as a local alternative to shellac); I believe dipterocarp resin was mentioned in the book "Spirit of Wood". Resin for setting a blade into the hilt is usually solid and mixed with beeswax (to make it less brittle) and a filler like brick dust (for better overall hardness). This needs to be done upon melting the resin & wax - be very careful since it is easily flammable and sticks to the skin like hell! There are volatile components in the resin and, thus, expect pungent smell or even smoke - best prepared outside (without open flames to avoid ignition) and with dedicated gear. Don't try it in a kitchen... Exact ratios depend on the ingredients. Alan posted a traditional recipe here a good while ago which can serve as a good starting point. Some experimentation will be needed if you try other ingredients. Regards, Kai

22nd May 2023, 10:27 PM	#2
A. G. Maisey Member Join Date: May 2006 Posts: 7,193	Kai is absolutely correct, I could not have said this better myself. What is needed is a substance that in Jawa is called "damar selo" = "rock resin", hard irregular lumps. In Central Jawa the preparation & use of this material is regarded as a specialist job, it is not quite as easy as it sounds.