Home made oilcloth. Slight disaster, advice appreciated
I've made my first attempt at oilcloth. Used linseed oil (boiled I think but I no longer have the container), turpentine in equal parts, and iron oxide (quarter part). Looks beautiful, but...
First problem is it just won't dry. Been hanging under cover in a well-ventilated area for a few weeks and it's still very tacky. I'm guessing I just need to leave it longer.
More of an issue though is the iron oxide leaves residue whenever it's touched. Any ideas on how to get rid of the excess? Google does not appear to be my friend today.
Any help greatly appreciated!
11 replies
Not sure how to help in the current situation, but I do remember seeing someone use paraffin wax to make a similarly water resistant fabric.
Infinitely safer at least.
Yep I've read some horror stories about spontaneous combustion of linseed soaked rags. Took great pains to dry it safely by hanging it out properly such that any heat buildup would dissipate.
Might have to try that next. Not sure what it would be like to use in terms of comfort and durability. Want to sleep in/on it swag style.
Here's the video for what it's worth: https://youtu.be/HedRbIsM75M?si=a8rIi5mGkxOJsnFg
It looks like he uses sheets so i assume it wouldn't be too uncomfortable to sleep on/in
Was going to suggest this vid too!
Ok that process looks incredible! I'm definitely going to have a crack at that. Considering using it on the original sheet (if it ever dries) as well as experimenting on some hessian sacks. I imagine the weave will be too loose, but nothing to lose trying it out.
Various recipes say it both dyes and adds to waterproofing by filling in the gaps in the weave.
Now that I think about it, I'm wondering if the weave was too loose to hold the particles. I wanted something lighter than a full weight canvas so I used a seemingly tightly woven linen tablecloth. I hot washed it to shrink/tighten it further before applying the treatment, but I've noticed I can still see light through the fabric.
We live and learn I guess. Bit of an expensive experiment, but it's an excuse to try again. I prefer the natural linseed colour to the red of the iron oxide anyway.
So I hung out out in the weather and sure enough most of it is more dry now (even after a few bits of rain) and the boys that are dry don't shed powder. There are still bits of oil damp spots, and they still release powder. Patience I guess.
Try wiping it down with a lint-free cloth soaked in mineral spirits to remove excess oil, then let it dry in direct sunlight for a few hours (UV accelarates the curing process) - this should help with both the tackiness and the iron oxide residue issue.
Thanks! I ended up having the time to just let it sit in the sun for a few more days and that did the trick. Next time I'll try your method.