Abstract: The present invention is concerned with a method of shaping fiber materials. Particularly, it relates to the shaping of cellulose-containing fiber materials such as wood fibers and the like. Synthetic fiber materials such as mineral fibers are also contemplated. The method is of that type which uses water as a binder for the fibers. In order to cause the water glass to exert its binding function a substance capable of splitting off acetic acid is added thereto and the acetic acid is liberated at temperatures between 150.degree. and 200.degree. C. Vinyl acetate is preferably used as an agent for splitting off acetic acid to cause gelation and binding to take place.