Ther is more to it than just the recipe. But if you are into learning new things, then just try things. If you don't want to waist tips and experimenting, then just buy the dudley tips or any from people who have them.
tips are tips. No matter the brand , how they are made, every once in a while you will get a really good one and will from time to time get a really bad one.
Everything else about the play of the tip is personal preferance.
I have tried water and mineral spirits with elkmaster tips. 1 failed on installation, the others have been fine.You need to make and try several before you know that they are any good.
I have not yet tried milk, but have not yet brought any either. I just have not got around to it yet.
I have not searched very much on the dry time for the tips or the press time. Some put the tip in a mold type deal and press several at a time. Others just squeeze them in a vice. While some will press and heat them for x amount of time at y temp.It is not new and not everyone likes them.
Maybe just new to a new generation of players who now have more choices in tips than anyone can test.
Neil