DIY Guide: Crafting Your Own Oilcloth Tarp for Camping

Are you looking for a fun and easy way to create your own oilcloth camping tarp? In this DIY guide, we'll show you how to make your own oilcloth tarp using traditional methods.
This tarp is easy to make and will provide you with plenty of shade while you're camping. We'll also show you how to make a custom carrying bag to keep your tarp safe and protected. If you're looking for a fun and creative way to camp, then this tarp is the perfect solution!
Oil cloth can be very expensive, but you can make a traditional oil cloth tarp within the next hour by following along with Bob Yeager in this video.

[@douglasyoung927]

Mixing equal parts of linseed oil, terpantine and bees wax is an excellent period sealer/treatment that was used on everything from cedar chests and furnature, tents and packs, horse saddles and boots, to leather and cloth armor. It was even used in rope and sail making. I've never understood why manufacturers insist on using only heavy fabrics for oil cloth. Excellent video. Thank you.

[@WoodcraftLeagueOfAmerica]

Agreed, I use beeswax on my cold weather gear...just not my summer time set up (get's a little sticky) But yeah, no need for heavier fabrics unless I'm looking to REALLY insulate. thanks

[@bjellison905]

How do you add beeswax to it? Wont it just solidify if i pour it in the liquid or once the liquid cools?

[@douglasyoung927]

@@bjellison905 Sort of. It will be more liquid than solid at 80 degrees fahrenheit and it will be more solid than liquid at 40 degrees fahrenheit. This type of surface treatment was typically used by warming it up to around 110 degrees fahrenheit and pouring it onto the wood and then burnishing it with a cloth until it's kind of gone away. Could take anywhere from 5 to 25 minutes depending on the conditions.

[@groundfloorguthrie]

What's impressive to me is that you seem to be answering comments two years on! Interesting work, thank you.

[@WoodcraftLeagueOfAmerica]

Lol, Thanks. I figure if folks take the time to watch and comment on my videos, the least I can to is be courteous enough to respond.

[@christophershipman2843]

Very commendable for you to stick the course on your video and not abandon it. Much respect.

[@WoodcraftLeagueOfAmerica]

I figure if everyone is still watching I’ll keep answering as long as I can

[@Borealwalkabouts]

Probably the best video I've seen in this subject. Thank you

[@WoodcraftLeagueOfAmerica]

Glad it was helpful!

[@kokopelauwebb5731]

My dad and I used to make those when I was a kid back in the fifties. We used them to cover up the farm tools and go camping with.

[@ladelcolectivo]

Hi! What formula did you and your dad used back then?

[@joshuakelley8601]

Thr point of using powdered "dye" lile ocre or charcoal is to add solids to the mixture that will help fill the gaps between threads. The coloring property is secondary.

[@sherryledbetter1856]

My son asked for an oilcloth tarp for Christmas. Oh my goodness! at the cost! 😳 I think making one, or several, will be a great project for our Scout troop! Thank you for sharing this!

[@WoodcraftLeagueOfAmerica]

my pleasure. If you're going to make one for him for Christmas, use Egyptian cotton with at least a 800 thread count. Also, look up Jay Hercules and Opossum Pouch Soft goods, he may be able to make you an affordable canvas tarp.

[@loralou-djflowerdove]

Your wife is a very lucky woman, indeed. Great content, great presentation. TYSM!!

[@WoodcraftLeagueOfAmerica]

So nice of you. Glad you enjoyed the video.

[@pamelawherey4583]

Very resourceful and saving money super idea!! Thanks for teaching!!

[@WoodcraftLeagueOfAmerica]

thanks. Glad you liked it. I would suggest a better quality sheet. It worked, but would've been better with a tighter weave on the sheet.

[@bronwynrussell7763]

I wont throw out those sheets after all.. thanks for posting this.. 🇳🇿

[@kimboss8721]

I think I'm going to start looking for an old wringer washer to ring this out. Otherwise I'm too old for this. But it sounds perfect to make and use in the backyard, the grandkids will love it too! make afew and send them home with them ad presants from Gramma.

[@globyois]

If you want a paint thinner or linseed oil can to pour without dribbling down the threaded spout and onto the flat of the can, turn it 180 degrees, with the spout at the top and pour it, with the bulk of the lengthwise rectangle of the can underneath. It will pour very nicely then with no running over the spout rim. If the contents are very full or at the brim, you may have to start the pour with the receiving container tucked under the mouth of the spout, but still, it will be much less messy if you use this positioning of the can, and anything less than completely full will be entirely mess-free.

[@claeslillieskold2398]

Thanks for this nice video! I bought some old cotton military rucksack from Romania, put vasceljne on and put it in the oven for (don't remember) two hours 70 degrees Celsius. It worked pretty well, but I will try linseed oil and white spirits whatever that is in Europe on a new bag that I sew.

[@rngriff1]

Great video! Thank you so much!

[@WoodcraftLeagueOfAmerica]

My pleasure

[@PreparedCamping]

Great video, thanks for sharing not tried this yet so was very educational for me All the best Roo

[@WoodcraftLeagueOfAmerica]

Prepared Camping thanks. Glad it was helpful.

[@morpheon_xyz]

Well, I'm glad I've found this tutorial haha. Very informative, and looking into making my own one as I saw how expensive these can be. I'm definitely going to check out your other videos relating to the setup and things like that as I'm very interested in the process and how to be able to do it. Thank you for the time and effort you put into teaching us awesome things like this ✌️

[@WoodcraftLeagueOfAmerica]

Thanks, it can be pricey but, most of this stuff you can do on whatever budget suits your lifestyle.

[@morpheon_xyz]

@@WoodcraftLeagueOfAmerica for sure. Don't have a budget to work from at the moment, but definitely gives me an idea as to what my options are, and how I can do things myself without breaking the bank, especially when it comes to being new to all of these outdoor/survival type of gear for camping and hiking trips where you can't carry your whole house with you 😅

[@rickquackenbush3260]

Very interesting, thank you

[@WoodcraftLeagueOfAmerica]

Glad you enjoyed it

[@davidhandyman7571]

If you have white sheets that you want to color, try using black tea to make a strong mix and soak the sheet in it. I make about two gallons of tea with two packets of tea leaves.

[@WoodcraftLeagueOfAmerica]

Awesome

[@tomritter493]

Nice Nanook knows his stuff

[@lovethemanyway8175]

Using gloves shows wisdom and that you care about your health. Thanks for this informative video. Interesting project to try.

[@WoodcraftLeagueOfAmerica]

my pleasure, thanks

[@Bushmanschool]

Thank you bro for this interesting vid

[@WoodcraftLeagueOfAmerica]

Bushman school my pleasure! Thanks for watching and feel free to "like" and share! :)

[@terryqueen3233]

Excellent tutorial! I have a 10 by 12 painters cloth that I'm going to try this with, it's going to be a lot a lot I work and as of yet I haven't figured out how I'm going to hang it up but I will. Of course I'm going to wait until summer I'm not going to do it now in the winter. I'm also going to soak it in Walnut hull water. So I'm a let you know how it turns out. I do have a little tip for you though if you hold that gallon container on its side it will not Splash is bad. Have a great day and stay safe and keep your powder dry!

[@WoodcraftLeagueOfAmerica]

It's a fun project and a great learning experience. Do it during the warmer weather and find a place where you can hang a high clothes line and you should be good to go. Thanks!

[@terryqueen3233]

@@WoodcraftLeagueOfAmerica I'm certainly going to give it a try but I don't know how to send you a picture of my progress and like I said I'm going to do it when it warms up

[@dick_richards]

Thank you Sir. God bless

[@WoodcraftLeagueOfAmerica]

My pleasure

[@dick_richards]

@@WoodcraftLeagueOfAmerica I'm way up In Canada, and it would appear to me that enormous changes are coming to society, especially here. So things like being able to produce these items is going to be vital to thriving in the near future. I hope I'm wrong.

[@WoodcraftLeagueOfAmerica]

It’s been heading that way for a few decades. Hopefully people are realizing how self-reliance is critical. And if we’re wrong, no harm in owning these skills.

[@dick_richards]

@@WoodcraftLeagueOfAmerica I pray we are wrong, i truely do, but like you say, these skills will do nothing but benefit you, and no skill is a bad skill. All things are in God's hand's and if nothing else, it sure has been and should only continue to be increasingly interesting!

[@Cozy_Camp_Fire]

I've tested the flammability of some of mine scraps. It actually pretty hard to catch it on fire once it cures. Probably safer near fire than nylon tarps. Good straight forward vid.

[@WoodcraftLeagueOfAmerica]

oh yeah, nylon will melt real quick. At least the oil cloth you can repair if it gets a burn hole in it lol. Thanks

[@DarrowofRhea]

When u pour from a can like the linseed oil can they are made to be poured from the wide side of the can. I painted for 10 years before a guy told me I was pouting wrong lol. Give it a try alot less mess to clean.

[@WoodcraftLeagueOfAmerica]

funny enough, I knew that when I recorded this video... mind went blank lol Thanks :)

[@DarrowofRhea]

Lol a guy told me that at work while I was pouring and I remember thinking, man why didn't I ever think of that. Ten years of painting and never once crossed my mind. Love youre videos sir thank you

[@WoodcraftLeagueOfAmerica]

lol, thanks!

[@jimmiddleton5093]

I was looking on the big W store site and they have 1500-thread count king-size sheets for under $13. I haven’t seen one in person but I bet those threads are tight. But it does say 1% polyester. Great video

[@WoodcraftLeagueOfAmerica]

sounds like a good deal

[@natedwards7019]

Great video, thanks for sharing, Sub'd from the UK

[@WoodcraftLeagueOfAmerica]

thanks, glad you liked it. Appreciate the sub

[@richm-3803]

Great ground sheet

[@WoodcraftLeagueOfAmerica]

Glad you like it

[@anthonyjacobs6790]

Great video, you have a new subscriber.

[@WoodcraftLeagueOfAmerica]

Thanks. I’ll uploading new content soon. I’ve been building a porch and a chicken coop. Back to the woods soon!

[@bodo9387]

Great explaining, thanks. Good to understand some of the logic behind things rather than just the basic how to. Did get me wondering a couple of things though, like does the linseed oxidize and make the cloth turn yellow over time, and does the smell of the turps completely disappear once it's cured?

[@WoodcraftLeagueOfAmerica]

the smell of turpentine goes away after you let it breathe outside for a while. I've never noticed any discoloration, probably would if you were using a light colored cloth.

[@silentwarrior2385]

5 yrs late. But i made my own tarp out of a bed sheet andbits been out side close to a year andbis still water proof. The only problem is it has some weight to it

[@WoodcraftLeagueOfAmerica]

Never too late! They can be heavy lol.

[@askys5546]

Interesting, i was actually just thinking about this, looking up ideas on how to make some water resistant fabrics for a project, and i wondered, how much weight would traditional Oil-clothing add? (Linseed-oil some pigment and turpentine) My other option was something similar i saw but someone used Silicone instead, all tho i think i prefer the more Traditional way. Nice to see you are still responding to comments 5 years later! :D@@WoodcraftLeagueOfAmerica

[@neilmarshall5087]

Got any roof guttering. Put the bottom of the hanging cloth into a piece of that set on a slope. Then the excess can drain away rather than wicking back into the fabric. Use a flat dish / car oil pan to catch the run off. Disclaimer: Have not done this myself - but it seemed like it would help the drying to go quicker. Looking forward to trying this. Been thinking about making my own pack & wondering how to waterproof it. Thanks for the info. ATB.

[@WoodcraftLeagueOfAmerica]

if you want to do it for a pack, I'd rub it down with beeswax after treating, makes it more water proof.

[@adksherm]

Hey man new subscriber here. You ever make the entire series on oil cloth?

[@WoodcraftLeagueOfAmerica]

no

[@dalejuhl8591]

The oil is acidic so half half? Have you had good durability? Longevity? Great informative video. Thank you.

[@ogrebloodchief]

Hey man, nice video. It was super informative, well spoken, and I'm hoping to give this a try in the near future. Sub'd.

[@WoodcraftLeagueOfAmerica]

it's a good project. Looking back, I'd likely use a tighter weave, although it did work. Give it a shot! Happy New Year man.

[@ogrebloodchief]

@@WoodcraftLeagueOfAmerica you mentikn a tighter weave. What kind of material do you recommend to use? I've been considering paintera drop cloth, but can imagine it may get pretty heavy. Let me know what your thoughts are on material to use. Thanks man ill be checking out your other videos too. Happy new year

[@WoodcraftLeagueOfAmerica]

I would consider Egyptian cotton bed sheet with a really high thread count, or adding the traditional iron oxide to the solution to fill in the threads.

[@robertward553]

Call me lazy, but I used to treat the bed of my utility trailer with Thompson water sealer with a paint brush and/or roller. Took forever, idea, put the Thompson in a paint sprayer. Worked fantastic. Why not hang your sheet and spray it on?

[@VanishingNomad]

Last time I tried this, the Thompsons never fully dried. It works by soaking deep into the wood and keeping it moist. So I dont think its good for a tarp.

[@CRJines]

Townsends did a video on this and mentioned how today's linseed oil is acidic and oftentimes deteriorates the cloth

[@WoodcraftLeagueOfAmerica]

It definitely can.

[@bushlifeaholick790]

Man I’m not so shur I’m a juryman painter&id be worried about internally combustion What do u think of clear silicone&mineral spirits mixture

[@WoodcraftLeagueOfAmerica]

once oil is dry (turpentine aids in drying) it's fine. Been done that way for centuries.

[@badangitydingdang]

Japan drier is also nasty but is a great drier for linseed oil. Also oil artists colors are linseed based if you wanted to do some camouflage look. Do like your idea of using colored sheets to start with. How do they roll up when done. How does oil cloth compare to plastic tarps when it comes to condensation?

[@WoodcraftLeagueOfAmerica]

nylon tarps will beat using oil cloth hands down. I just did this as an experiment and because a couple of my buddies asked me too. I will say, you won't get condensation build up on oil cloth, but then it won't last as long as nylon. As far as rolling it up, pretty simple, like rolling up a tshirt

[@badangitydingdang]

Duraseal stain is a linseed oil based stain that contains driers and if you like pigments. I wonder if that would do it??? Any thoughts

[@WoodcraftLeagueOfAmerica]

I think it's worth testing

[@Iamchoochoo89]

Can you add wax to this and would it make a waterproof more even though it would make it heavy?

[@WoodcraftLeagueOfAmerica]

You can, not necessary. This is oil cloth, not waxed canvas. This is for three season camping ( spring, summer, fall) waxed materials get very sticky in warmer weather and, as you said, much heavier.

[@TaxPayer-ln5lx]

for easy non spill pouring just turn the can on its side

[@ktoutdoors8430]

I like the video but, heard you talking about fold it when wet, I have heard and seen linens oil combust when wet and folded or waded up in trash can, It needs to be kept open and with good ventilation at all times tell dry. other than that I have done it with very good results. Thanks

[@WoodcraftLeagueOfAmerica]

I believe I said you could, but I don't recommend it.

[@ktoutdoors8430]

You did but, it needs to be stated not to. I had a few pieces out drying for 3 days and rain came in so i fold it up and put in barn. That night came out and was smoking glad I cought it before burned down barn. You recommended not to but, think people need to know the combustion of it if it can't breath. The video was great I just wish I was told about not folding it while wet do to could catch fire. genital man down the road took a rag covered in boiled linsen oil from sealing furniture and threw it in trash can and it catch fire and burned down his garage. Im no pro at all just passing on what I have learned of it in life.

[@WoodcraftLeagueOfAmerica]

I hear ya. A friend of mine put one that wasn't quite dry, folded on the front seat of his truck. Next day, truck seat was nearly gone and smoking. Thanks

[@jludtxs]

I'm looking for a way to protect the top of a pop up canopy from sun damage. Any ideas?

[@WoodcraftLeagueOfAmerica]

there are plenty of products out there. I've used SunGuard Uv Protectant on most of my outdoor furniture, awnings and such. Or 303 UV Protectant

[@30CalCoreLokt]

id love to see a demo with it!

[@WoodcraftLeagueOfAmerica]

showed one in another video, take a look at my channel

[@30CalCoreLokt]

@@WoodcraftLeagueOfAmerica thanks!

[@shawnscotchman3761]

Question: How long does it last before you have to retreat it again?

[@WoodcraftLeagueOfAmerica]

it really depends on how often you use it. A cheap bed sheet like this will likely wear out before you get the opportunity to retreat lol. However, after a few months of good use, if you notice some spots that need retreated, you simply retreat those spots, not necessarily the whole thing.

[@shawnscotchman3761]

@@WoodcraftLeagueOfAmerica Thank you for the swift response. I have watched a few vids on this and no one really talks about that or do a one nighter in the woods using it among the other do it your self items? I really appreciate this. I subscribed and liked some of you videos...so cool. I was a Scouter for about two years.

[@CarrieGerenScogginsOfficial]

How does oil cloths like these hold up in the hot Sun? I wanted one to cover a car in the hot summer months in high heat... It's not going to combust is it? I also wanted a good one across the top of my camper, which would also get hot during the summer months.

[@WoodcraftLeagueOfAmerica]

I wouldn’t use oil cloth for that. It would deteriorate in the direct sun left out too long. I’d buy a car cover and Mylar window panels for the car and some sort of camper cover for the camper... it’s what they were made for.

[@CarrieGerenScogginsOfficial]

@@WoodcraftLeagueOfAmerica Sounds like that is what I need to do. Thanks.

[@alpinealpine2793]

Just had your video thrown up by KZbin, very good. I was wondering if you have tried bamboo sheets, I've noticed that Aldi here in Australia are selling bamboo fabric products.

[@WoodcraftLeagueOfAmerica]

I have not. Never even knew there was such a thing...sounds like an experiment to be had :) thanks. I'd just make sure thread count is at least 400 and maybe test an area to see how well the solution soaks in.

[@mayamachine]

Boiled linseed oil has lead and other toxic material in it. I only use raw linseed oil, it takes 3 times longer to dry, it's not toxic... especially if your making canvas water buckets

[@WoodcraftLeagueOfAmerica]

Thanks, we're not concerned with toxicity as we are making oil cloth tarps (most commercial coated tarps you purchase have toxic chemicals protecting them as well.) I would never use this treatment for water and food containers, but this treatment does keep bugs and moths from eating your tarp when it's stored. Thanks for the comment, great thing to point out!

[@letitsnow4822]

@@WoodcraftLeagueOfAmerica how would you create a treatment for food and water containers, for all seasons?

[@donhammer186]

One Foot In The Wild; You really should add bee's wax to your mix. it act's to help fill the void's in the weave. I'm getting ready to do a rain poncho and I'm going to use an old electric skillet as my heat source. These can easily be sourced at the local second hand store and eliminates the concern of flash over associated with open flame. I will fill the skillet with a few inches of water and melt and mix components in a separate tin used double boiler style. Just a thought. From sub# 290! P.S. If you keep the pour spout of your can to the high side you will have better control of the pour (no glug glug) while dispensing "ANY" fluid. ( b d )

[@WoodcraftLeagueOfAmerica]

no wax on traditional oil cloth. I wax my winter tarps, but my summer tarps get sticky when they have wax. Surprisingly, it repels water just fine without it. I've used electric burners too. Also, great tip on the pour spout, thanks

[@donhammer186]

My bad...! Sorry Teach, should have finished the vid before commenting! Haha

[@WoodcraftLeagueOfAmerica]

lol, it's all good bro

[@petepeterson4540]

small sticks one inch will work in the same way

[@carlschmiedeke151]

I have ordered a 10 x 16 all canvas Bell tent, and was wondering what your thoughts are on making a big huge batch of this stuff, and just completely submerging the entire tent , and then taking it out, and setting up the tent in the hot hot heat or sun that we get in Pueblo Colorado, I figured it would soak all the way through by submerging the whole tent, & leaving it for an hour soaking in it, before setting it up in the heat/sun

[@WoodcraftLeagueOfAmerica]

Try Canvak - Water Resistant Canvas Preservative. For the amount of oil and paint thinner you'd need to treat something as large as a Bell tent, I'd go with Canvak, it'll be cheaper and you can just spray it on. one gallon will cover 100 sq ft and you can get it on Amazon.

[@carlschmiedeke151]

@@WoodcraftLeagueOfAmerica than you for your quick reply, & information, now, how often will it need to be treated, with what you suggested or is it a 1 time deal for the life of the tent

[@carlschmiedeke151]

@@WoodcraftLeagueOfAmerica i just googled canvak & it said it's not a water proofing product & its $55.00 a gallon

[@carlschmiedeke151]

Approximately how much linseed oil & turpentine do you think it would take to do a 10×16 bell tent

[@WoodcraftLeagueOfAmerica]

I wouldn’t even know. Likely 10 times the amount I use in the video

[@browpetj]

Great vid, most comprehensive on YT! Thanks! :0)

[@WoodcraftLeagueOfAmerica]

Glad it was helpful!

[@mfish7]

Hello, Would the wax be added to the mix or applied after the oil is applied and dried? Thanks!

[@WoodcraftLeagueOfAmerica]

You would add the wax to the mixture

[@mfish7]

@@WoodcraftLeagueOfAmerica Thanks for the super fast reply! What kind of wax (or mixture of wax) would be good?

[@WoodcraftLeagueOfAmerica]

No problem. You would typically use beeswax

[@mackey631]

just found this video i camp on a motorbike and need some thing lightweight this is ideal i can take two as the space and weight is so little compared to the tarps you can buy online and wont sound like a dam crisp packet, also im in the UK its nice and wet here lol

[@WoodcraftLeagueOfAmerica]

I did a motorcycle trek from north eastern U.S. to Alaska, I took a mylar grabber blanket and a hammock fly tarp with me. Good combination.

[@jasonschau4218]

When pouring make sure your spout is at the top most corner, less dribble.

[@WoodcraftLeagueOfAmerica]

I know that, knew it then, and still did it wrong lol! Thanks

[@Plain-Ole-Chuck]

Been planning this for a year or so... Springs not far away ! Note.. on the microfiber.. ever consider silicone & spirits.. Not traditional I know but been watching a couple vids on using it on different fabrics. just a thought

[@WoodcraftLeagueOfAmerica]

that's an interesting take on the microfiber, I'll test it in multiple ways. thanks

[@Cozy_Camp_Fire]

I've used silicone and m.s. on small projects (bags, knees of my pants) but have been wanting to do a poncho with it. Its lighter than the oil cloth and softer/ more flexible.

[@WoodcraftLeagueOfAmerica]

do a video on it Justin, I'd love to see that process

[@Cozy_Camp_Fire]

I don't really do videos. I just mix it 50/50 or a little more mineral spirits if I want it thinner. I put it into a jar and shake it up, then just brush it on with a sponge brush. Just do a search on YT for silicone and mineral spirits.

[@WoodcraftLeagueOfAmerica]

right on man, thanks

[@earlelzy7243]

Turpentine. Is that similar to thinner for paint?

[@WoodcraftLeagueOfAmerica]

paint thinner is just a generic term for a lot of different things to thin paint, like mineral spirits. Turpentine, however, is made from live pine trees and has more resinous properties to it.

[@inannashu689]

Why are you heating it up as opposed to just doing it cold?

[@WoodcraftLeagueOfAmerica]

It makes the solution spread out better and soak into the fibers of the fabric better.

[@urflofit2010]

Did you say this was a T shirt material as in knitted? I can't imagine that working very well being stretchy. How did it work?

[@WoodcraftLeagueOfAmerica]

It worked as it should. If I were to do it again, may add iron oxide but for a mild weather solution worked fine.

[@bobbobson4607]

no he said (a lot of times) it was a bed sheet, so no it's not knitted.

[@ItsAsparageese]

@@bobbobson4607 Jersey bed sheets are knitted and are like soft t-shirt fabric, yo

[@CroatiaSurvival]

Emerald All the bed sheets I ever had or had seen were woven, not knitted.

[@WoodcraftLeagueOfAmerica]

Jersey makes some knitted sheets, much like their tshirt material

[@petepeterson4540]

but thats why the oldtimers used rust it clogs the holes so you can't see light and it stays

[@natedwards7019]

Just out of curiosity, how would they incorporate the rust into the liquid? Thank you.

[@WoodcraftLeagueOfAmerica]

you can buy a bag in powder form and stir it in or, try scraping it off metal, I'd buy the bag of iron oxide powder :)

[@Pygar2]

When I was a kid my Mom got some oilcloth from someone... I remember them saying it needed to cure in the hot sun to get the right consistency?

[@WoodcraftLeagueOfAmerica]

could be the way they used to do it. This one worked out pretty good, but I would've liked warmer weather. Not sure I would hang it directly in the sun, the boiled linseed oil can ignite. Thanks

[@JustJeff78]

I live in South Alabama, on the coast...and I've never had anything combust. I have worn treated, canvas pants...similar to cardhardt...with treated leather welding chap, and treated boots...welding, and heavy duty burning...with a 4' torch, tearing down an old I.P. plant, in the summer with no power in the building. Standing on steel grates, with people cutting and welding over my head, next to...as well under me, periodically burned a few small slag holes on ankles of the pants, but never ignited. It's all preference I guess, my grand father taught me using turpentine, our cotton cloth, and wool would sort of dry rot maybe? Kinda like when your grandmother always attempts to bleach the yellow out of your long John's, and in short order you try to pull em up, and the elastic waste band comes off in your hand...you're left there with a very white, lone wasteland around your waste, no more long John's, only you, and short John's-son, and both of you are freezing.

[@campervanbug7658]

Think it will work on wool

[@WoodcraftLeagueOfAmerica]

No, has to be 100% cotton

[@Livefreeman]

Is this waterproofing permanent, does it wash out if you clean it using a washing machine

[@WoodcraftLeagueOfAmerica]

You don’t put these in the washer, it hardens the material a bit doing this treatment treat it like a delicate tarp.

[@ericaennis3088]

Can this be made with natural products?

[@WoodcraftLeagueOfAmerica]

Boiled linseed oil is derived from flaxseed plants. Turpentine is an extract from coniferous trees. Add 100% cotton sheet and it's about as natural as you can get.

[@ericaennis3088]

@@WoodcraftLeagueOfAmerica I mean can you walk out and gather ingredients and work them into something usable on your own? I’d love to see a Turpentine recipe. How did people long ago make it?

[@mindfulmusic1029]

what is the final weight of the oilcloth?

[@WoodcraftLeagueOfAmerica]

Just a few ounces heavier than the bedsheet was originally

[@AlexMcNulty132]

Probably gonna want a double boiler, and a heat source without an open flame there coyboy

[@WoodcraftLeagueOfAmerica]

nah, as long as you're careful it's fine. I have used that method to make fixin' wax. Thanks

[@darylsarbaugh3491]

You might want to try a microfiber handkerchief first to see if you get the desired result.

[@WoodcraftLeagueOfAmerica]

this was a few years ago, but I did actually give a small microfiber cloth a try. Turned into a rock lol Thanks

[@petepeterson4540]

a rock the size of a dime place on the tarp make it like it is wrapped tie cordage around the rock and tarp bingo tie the other end to a forked branch that you will use for a tent stake fork down this is for your viewers that don't know there is no sin in lack of knowledge now you know

[@pauls466]

Use pure silicon , Way better and no heating

[@WoodcraftLeagueOfAmerica]

This video isn’t about better, it’s about making gear with a traditional method that is a transferable skill that can apply to many other things.

[@richarddomsicz670]

could i use a canvas drop cloth?

[@WoodcraftLeagueOfAmerica]

plenty of folks have, just keep in mind the weave on a drop cloth is pretty wide. Wax coating a drop cloth works a bit better.

[@carlschmiedeke151]

Is it a one-time application for that 10 x 16 tent with the turpentine and linseed oil for the life of the tent, or would I have to treat it more than just one time and if so how often

[@WoodcraftLeagueOfAmerica]

really depends on use and what sort of weather it is put through. You always have to use your best judgement on reapplying, but I typically reapply in spots not necessarily the entire thing

[@JustJeff78]

Your fabric will dissipate too using turpentine. Use mineral spirits if possible.

[@WoodcraftLeagueOfAmerica]

It’s still around

[@petepeterson4540]

townsend

[@bertsanford9156]

Well presented, well articulated presentation. The only problem I have with this is I have to question the wisdom of heating two highly volatile, highly flammable ingredients over an open flame. Go buy an induction hot plate and you should still be about half the purchase price of this product and in my opinion much safer.

[@WoodcraftLeagueOfAmerica]

You can definitely use a hot plate, but as long as you keep the flame down, don’t bring it to a boil and do it in a well ventilated are, should be fine. Thanks Bert!

[@laurentvilodeau5434]

if you just fold it wet and store it it could combust ...dont do that

[@WoodcraftLeagueOfAmerica]

yeah, I mentioned that in the video

[@keithwilson9290]

@IG: Gasunset28 YES !!!

[@albeit65]

try pouring the linseed oil backwards and go slow

[@WoodcraftLeagueOfAmerica]

thanks

[@mattleslie8001]

Yeah it would work better

[@SwampValley]

I did it with a curtain and it kinda works but wasn't totally waterproof, maybe the fabric was not tightly woven enough, I just bought a DD Tarp after dealing with my failure 🤣

[@WoodcraftLeagueOfAmerica]

DD is great, I have two of them. But, yeah the curtain was likely not a tight enough weave. thanks

[@scottmcintosh2988]

Add three tubes of clear silicone the cheap ones and mineral spirits as it makes it waterproof !

[@burning4902]

how do you get the silicon tubes to be viscous enough....will the mineral spirits dissolve it?

[@scottmcintosh2988]

Yes it will you brush it mix it place it in a bucket it will absorb it you can add more as needed paint drop cloths work well wash them in hot water let them dry . You can tie a rock or acorn on the corners the end anywhere rope twine Paracord ! This will make it waterproof not just repellant also use it on umbrellas too !

[@burning4902]

@@scottmcintosh2988 Thanks Scott my waxing efforts on canvas didn't hold up too good this weekend. Having read your suggestion I'm going to give it a try. The silicone/linseed oil mix (with the turps) seems like an interesting mix of old and new technologies.

[@campervanbug7658]

? 1 gallon of mineral spirit

[@AmandaIsAwesome]

@@burning4902 did you try it? How did it go?

[@redoak3809]

Why not use a thrift store crock pot?

[@WoodcraftLeagueOfAmerica]

you can do that, I used what I had

[@Hurricane355]

Your holding the linseed oil can wrong. Place the spout on the near side of you and pour with opening on the highest side also it will help if you pour the can holding bottom near bottom side of the can. I how this helps

[@WoodcraftLeagueOfAmerica]

Yeah, I know. Thanks

[@Hurricane355]

Sorry! One Scout Master to another. You can show the scouts with a Styrofoam cup by pouring it holding the top into a cup versus holding it by the bottom wall pour into the cup very useful good job brother I support your videos thank you for what you do cheers

[@Hurricane355]

This took me 43 years to figure it out. Hahaha. Pass it to the young ones!!!!! Hahaha.

[@luannapierce2544]

Oh my gosh, the rooster came over to find out what the hell that smell is and is it gonna harm his hens by god he will not stand for it. LOLOLOLOLOLOL loved the video. are you sure the rust powder is not a good idea? I can still see tiny holes and Townsend said the fewer holes the more waterproof. Hey, I am just learning this stuff, not trying to cause trouble but if you are in the woods and it is a heavy rain... I would rather have all the holes filled for temperature conservation if it is fall or winter and comfort alone for summer, yes?

[@WoodcraftLeagueOfAmerica]

It actually worked for quite sometime without any extra stuff added. Now, this being an experiment, I'd still stick with my nylon tarps lol. As for that rooster, a fox got him not long after the making of this video...poor guy. Thanks for watching

[@gordonbricker1670]

There is no need to use our LORD'S name in vain. Thank you (Gordon's wife)

[@ItsAsparageese]

@@gordonbricker1670 There's no need for you to order other people around lol, get a life

[@slick7209]

Sissy lol

[@WoodcraftLeagueOfAmerica]

sometimes :P

[@sjr7822]

10 min video are best, there are thousands of videos to watch

[@WoodcraftLeagueOfAmerica]

10 minutes is fine when I only have ten minutes of something to say. thanks for watching.

[@nicktant1756]

This is the most thorough oil cloth video I’ve seen. Thanks for this!

[@WoodcraftLeagueOfAmerica]

thanks, glad you enjoyed it.

[@keithwilson9290]

GREAT INSTRUCTIONAL VIDEO

[@petepeterson4540]

hang off porch though because if it does combust your house does not burn down

[@skeetersaurus6249]

First off, that coleman stove sure doesn't jive with that linseed oil or that turpentine...and one good draft in the right direction will show you why 'on the back porch' isn't a lot safer (flame-wise) than in the living room floor. GET A FLAMELESS HOTPLATE to do this, like every chemist out there uses when working with flammable chemicals! Secondly, 'Boiled Linseed Oil' is TOXIC...in a bad way! There are 3 kinds of Linseed oil: Raw, Polymerized (aka 'Stand Oil') and 'Boiled'...of the three, only Boiled is toxic (they use heavy metals to process it). Raw takes longer to dry, but Polymerized dries quicker AND is more flexible than the other two! It is also MUCH safer to work with later, being as it isn't dropping tons of toxic waste onto the ground, your hands, your other gear in your pack, or onto your food and water later...work smarter, not quicker!

[@WoodcraftLeagueOfAmerica]

it works fine, thanks for the concern.

[@chaielmaetheius7804]

Counted 40 commercials on your video from beginning to end that I didn’t see anything

[@WoodcraftLeagueOfAmerica]

that's weird, I'll see what's going on with that. Thanks for letting me know.

[@dalemaloney255]

you need ad remover! 10 bucks a month. easy viewing after that!

[@dalemaloney255]

@Fanboys KillGames yup! i laugh at all you guys that think they kno better. wake up, boy!

[@kitefan1]

I've found that the ads vary by device and time. There are some things I can only watch on this old, little tablet.

[@campervanbug7658]

Fast forward to the end and re-watch

[@David-fv7zg]

A lot of time for an oil cloth make video. If you learn ho to be more succinct would make a better product, there are simply too many creators out there and content to watch a 30 minute video on oilcloth. This could have been a 10 minute video. If you have more to say, make a follow up video. Om sure you will have something to say about this, but take it for what its worth, constructive criticism and not an insult.

[@WoodcraftLeagueOfAmerica]

Thanks for watching

[@hobowithashotgun3438]

Some people like a longer video

[@ogrebloodchief]

David, can you throw a football through a tire swing too?

[@David-fv7zg]

@@ogrebloodchief Absolutely

[@poll2dock]

This video could have been much shorter Very repetitive Plus the iron oxide or calcium carbonate that is added is not for color or a dye It's benefit is to fill the space between fibers

[@WoodcraftLeagueOfAmerica]

you're right, fills in spaces as well. As for the length of the video, it's as long as I wanted it to be. Thanks

[@turboconqueringmegaeagle9006]

We use red oxide dope on linen aircraft coverings to stop fungicidal growth, I like to put citronella in my jacket waterproofing as it does the same thing. Keep up the good work my friend, I enjoyed your video.