Double Bass Make it stickier?

[Waltjie]

Is it possible to make hard rosin softer? Or stickier?

 

[iiipopes]

In a word, no. Once it's "cooked" into its formula, that's it. It's not like, say brass instrument valve oil, that you can add a drop of mineral oil to make it more viscous. Most commercial rosins are so inexpensive, just purchase a variety.

 

[Dr Rod]

if the cake is kept warm it will be softer, in the winter time I keep mine in my pocket

 

[iiipopes]

if the cake is kept warm it will be softer, in the winter time I keep mine in my pocket.

Yes, of course. If this is what the OP meant, then I agree totally. I guess I read the initial post as any way to change the fundamental character of the rosin instead.

 

[fdeck]

Is it soft rosin that has hardened over time? In that case, slicing off part of the hardened surface might reveal softer stuff inside.

 

[Waltjie]

Hi guys,
I meant a hard rosin, which isn't sticky enough to give good grip.
Not one that has gone old and dry. I thought maybe one could melt
it down and somehow add something to make it softer, or something
like that.

Cheers!

 

[Matt Medlock]

I've added a drop or two of rubbing alcohol to an old cake of Pops and left it in it's closed container for a couple days and it softened up. It wasn't the same as when it was new but it did soften.

 

[Waltjie]

Hmmm, maybe I will try that! Any danger in doing this? As far as
bow hair is concerned? I suspect alcohol could be damaging.

Thanks!

 

[Plays_For_Dog]

if the cake is kept warm it will be softer, in the winter time I keep mine in my pocket

+1 on this. Many years ago when I started playing bass, it was on a DB. I did the same trick. Just be sure to have it in a case before you put it in your pocket