Here is a simple recipe to make a waterproof binding mixture that is good on most fabrics and paper.
To make ¼ pint/115ml
6 tablespoons water
2 envelopes gelatin
2 tablespoons white vinegar
2 teaspoons glycerin
Bring the water to a boil in a small saucepan, then remove it from the heat. Stir in the gelatine until it dissolves, and then add the vinegar and glycerin; stir well. Leave the mixture to cool. Apply the glue while warm. It will keep for many months in a tightly sealed jar, but will gel after a few days. Heat the jar in hot water before reusing.