Making a Civil War Ground Cloth

Ground cloths are a useful bit of Civil War kit. Learn some tips and techniques to make your own or adapt to your own research. For more information about Berdan Sharpshooters or Civil War reenacting, check us out at www.2ndUSSS.com
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Ground Cloth Instructions: www.2ndusss.com/uniforms-and-...

[@bukio8432]

thank you for the consistent and informative videos! there’s not many other ACW reenacting channels, this is such a great resource :)

[@ericwilliams1659]

He gets a thumbs up and a subscribe just for having the "Swanson Pyramid of Greatness" in the back ground.

[@cblodg1]

I love my vulcanized ground cloth. I wish some maker would put together a run for sale. Painted is just as great, and these look wonderful.

[@TheHighlandOryx]

Absolutely loving these videos. This is becoming one of my favourite channels on here

[@HunterCihal]

Ahh I've missed reenacting videos from you guys. Really hope to see you guys memorial weekend!

[@CXSMIC13]

Thank you for the great video 1st Sgt! I've been binge-watching all of the 2nd USSS videos back to back and they are just so interesting and informative. I'm only 16 but I am looking to join the 8th Illinois Cavalry, and I cannot wait to make a kit after being inspired by your videos!!

[@stag_unknown]

Great informative video as always!

[@docaro1770]

I Recently purchased Ground cloth from claudesinclair Because of your video on ground Cloth you made and its great thank you for the Information.

[@jamesrichardson3322]

If you don't want your ground clothes and Ponchos from sticking together!! I tell what to do!! If you buy a black spray paint can from Walmart or hardware store. Hang up and do a light spray a cross the entire ground clothes and Ponchos, and let it dry. You will EVER have deal with sticky ground clothes or Ponchos again. Instead of going through the trouble making your own, and hoping you didn't mess up your measurements lol 😂🤣, Like I would terribly. You can go to Blockade Runner Sutler website, and order a ground clothes and Ponchos, with the Good Year stamps on it. They are great quality and authentic, this my opinion.

[@austinfaircloth1831]

What ounce of canvas did you use?

[@stokesjack]

Why exactly are there 2 different sized hems on the sides and why is it made of 2 pieces instead of 1? Great video by the way! I printed the instructions as soon as I finished watching and I intend to start making one this weekend.

[@cheryliverson6327]

how many ounce cloth? 100percent cotton?

[@canadianpatriot5577]

how does this compare to a vulcanized canvas? is it as water proof/resistant? obviously a cheaper option. I assume you used an oil based paint. how does it fair in durability in real world rugged use?

[@robadams234]

What weight canvas would be best for this project? Big Duck Canvas has a lot of options.

[@CompanyD2ndUSSS]

8 (lighter) or 10 oz (heavier) should work fine.

[@robadams234]

@@CompanyD2ndUSSS great, thank you very much!!

[@Aondish]

Question: what is a good sewing machine for this type of work? I am looking to start doing some of my own work myself

[@CompanyD2ndUSSS]

With enough practice, you could probably use any sewing machine. I like newer ones with the option of getting a top walking foot to help with feeding such an awkward project. I have even tried using our old treadle sewing machine with some success, though I prefer my Janome for things like this. I would image the bargain basement sewing machines may cause a lot of trouble.

[@cheryliverson6327]

did some use mineral spirits and boiled linseed oil before painting?

[@thomashopkins9327]

It's linseed oil, Japan dryer , and lamp oil black , the issue with using standard paint is it flakes off , the same thing that keeps it from bleeding actually will be the same thing that ruins the waterproof, I use the period recipie besides the letharg(lead=bad) size the cloth and paint with my mixture and it could be used for a boat bottom , at wauhatchie I was the only one with dry food because my C.S. haversack was made from a period recipie and not modern paint

[@tylerstark2021]

Would there be any difference in construction when making a poncho?

[@CompanyD2ndUSSS]

I image general process would be the same. Grommet placement might vary and you'd have a little more sewing around the neck whole. I'll see what I can find the QM manual.

[@stevenjohnson2273]

The 1865 quartermasters manual is worth the money. If you can afford it get it.

[@scotthalladay2210]

I think I could make me stuff just don’t have a shop

[@jenniferwhite6089]

would paint sprayer work better paint the cloth

[@CompanyD2ndUSSS]

Good question. I haven't tried it but it should work fine. If you try it, let us know your thoughts.

[@scotthalladay2210]

Don’t have a sewing machine either