Various Adhesives used

There are four materials that are generally used as a glue are

Urushi lacquer, Cashew paint resin, Synthetic resin, and Epoxy glue.

Epoxies are widely available at DIY stores or craft shops and they are easily worked and can be wiped away if you make a mistake. However, they often aren’t tested for use with food and shouldn't be used on items you will eat or drink from.

Synthetic resins are slightly less widely available and are not very heat resistant, and they can be tricky to use with earthenware. They also are not usually food safe, so the same as epoxies, they shouldn't be used on items you will eat from.

Cashew resin works as a glue, but it is more commonly used for furniture and has a strong smell, so it isn’t the best thing to use for high quality items that may be used for food and drink.

Urushi lacquer (from Japanese varnish tree) is the hardest to use for a couple of reasons: it is poisonous in its natural state and is highly allergenic, refined urushi hardens on contact with air in a humid environment, so humidity has to be controlled and, it is harder to wipe away and start again. But the positive about using urushi lacquer compared to the others is that it is a natural substance that is totally food safe and has been used over thousands of years for traditional Japanese tableware.

Adhesive commonly used in the past

Various colors used in modern era

Gold: The classic choice and the most traditional color used in kintsugi.

Silver: Often used as an alternative to gold for a more subtle look.

Platinum: Provides a bright, silvery-white appearance.

Copper: Adds warm reddish tones to the repair lines.

Black: Can create a striking contrast against the pottery's color, making the repairs stand out.

Red: Used to give the appearance of "mending with blood," symbolizing the care and attention given to the repair.

Blue: For a calming and serene effect, especially when complementing blue or white pottery.

Green: A unique choice that can evoke a sense of nature and growth.