DIY Oil Cloth

Materials

• To make your own oil cloth, you'll need a piece of canvas, duck or denim a few inches larger than the size you want to end up with. You'll also need a stretcher frame large enough to hold your fabric, a staple gun and staples, linseed oil, fabric dye (or oil-based paint), and a small paintbrush. If you want to hem the piece, you'll need a needle or sewing machine, and heavy thread.
  
  

Directions

• Wash the fabric to remove the sizing. Stretch it onto a wooden frame, and secure it with large staples. Staple diagonally to the weave of the fabric, so it won't tear. Do this also if you use the fabric for upholstering.
  
  Paint or dye a design on the fabric if you wish. Work the design between layers of the linseed oil for effect, or leave it plain, it's up to you.
  
  Paint it with the linseed oil and let dry thoroughly. Repeat two or three times. Make sure the oil is good and dry between coats. Drying will take as much as a week, depending on temperature and humidity. The more oil used, the more waterproof the piece will be. Dipping the fabric entirely into the linseed oil will make a fully waterproof piece. A final coat of clear varnish is recommended for cloth for a floor covering.
  
  Hem the piece by folding each edge over twice, about 1/4 to 1/2 inch, and stitching up the middle of the fold.
  
  

Uses

• Common uses for oil cloth are foul-weather hats and coats, tablecloths, tarpaulins, floor covering, aprons, and furniture upholstery.
  
  

Care

• Wipe clean after use. Launder gently, do not tumble-dry. Do not bleach.