Last week I posted some thoughts in response to a public lecture given by Rabbi Reuvain Mendlowitz regarding Ksav Chabad (the Alter Rebbe's ksav). I felt he did not represent the issue fairly, and since I had received questions about it from a number of people I felt it made sense to write a general response. After I posted my response on this forum, Rabbi Mendlowitz reached out to me by email and we ended up having a respectful and productive email exchange regarding the relevant issues surrounding Ksav Chabad. His position is a lot clearer to me now, and I think he also took certain things on board that I clarified with him. The purpose of the Stam Forum (at least back in it's heyday before all the whats app groups took over) was to connect sofrim from around the world, to promote achdus and build bridges, as well as to offer support and advice. In that spirit, I felt I should write a follow up post, to clarify some of the issues and misconception...
It is lacquer based and highly toxic but to the best of my knowledge is the only option.
ReplyDeleteUse in a well ventilated area, wear gloves and preferably a face mask too.
Acetone
ReplyDeleteThe base is thinner 21 and that's what everyone uses in Israel. It's not available in the US. Acetone is the only thinner that I've had success with in the US. It evaporates quickly and is not as good as thinner 21 but it suffices. They both have a strong odor and a well ventilated room, preferably with a good exhaust system is needed. If you work with super glue be sure to have Acetone close at hand as it loosens the glue, for example, if you get your fingers stuck together.
ReplyDelete