Whether you've recently purchased a new tent, or want to protect your vehicle's canvas fabric, of course you'll want to make the fabric water resistant to prolong its shine and life. This article describes how to make fabric waterproof using wax, commercial spray products, and other materials.
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Method 1 of 6: Using a Waterproof Spray and Seam Sealer
Step 1. Perform this process on a dry and windless day
You will be working with a moisture sensitive spray sealer. In addition, when you handle the fabric outdoors when the weather is windy, dust and dirt can stick to the fabric.
Step 2. Clean the cloth if it is still dirty
If the cloth cannot be washed, only has dust on it, or is slightly dirty, you can clean it with a vacuum cleaner or brush. If the cloth is very dirty, use a cleaner specifically designed for cloth.
Step 3. Make sure the cloth is dry
You will be dealing with water-repellent sprays and sealers. If the fabric is wet or damp, the spray and sealer will not adhere.
Step 4. Place the cloth in a well-ventilated area
If possible, do this outdoors. If you can't, open all windows. If you have sensitive skin or suffer from severe allergies, also wear gloves and protective eyewear. The sprays and sealers to be used can be very harsh.
Step 5. Purchase a waterproof spray and a seam sealer
You can get it at a hardware store or nature lover's shop. If the fabric is going to be used outdoors and is exposed to a lot of sun, try buying a spray that can also protect the fabric from ultraviolet rays. This keeps the fabric from fading.
Waterproof sprays and sealers are perfect for canvas, nylon, and leather fabrics
Step 6. Position the can 15-20 cm from the surface of the cloth and spray the cloth with a thin and even layer
Make sure to spray it on top of the previous layer.
Step 7. Wait for the spray to dry before you apply a second coat
Allow the spray to dry completely before using the cloth. Most waterproof sprays will dry in about 4 hours. However, make sure of this by checking the directions given on the can as each product is not the same.
Step 8. Apply seam sealer all over the seams of the fabric
Seam sealers are generally sold in small bottles equipped with a greasing tool at the top. Apply sealer to the hem while pressing gently on the bottle. This makes the seam seam more durable and impermeable to water.
Method 2 of 6: Using Detergent and Alum
Step 1. Start with a clean cloth
If the cloth is dirty, you will have to wash it. If the cloth cannot be washed and is just dusty or slightly soiled, clean it with a vacuum cleaner or brush. If the fabric cannot be washed and it is very dirty, use a special cleaner designed for fabrics.
Step 2. Mix 450 grams of detergent with 7.5 liters of hot water in a large bowl
Use a container that can hold all the fabrics and detergent mixes.
Step 3. Dip the cloth into the mixture until it is completely submerged
If any part of the fabric is still floating, you can place a jar or glass bottle on top to allow it to set.
Step 4. Hang the cloth to dry in the sun
Don't fold it on the hanger as this can make the fabric stick together. Instead, clip the top of the fabric to the hanger. If the fabric is too large for the hanger, clip it to the clothesline. The fabric should hang freely in one layer.
Step 5. Mix 250 grams of alum with 7.5 liters of hot water in another container
Stir the mixture until the alum powder is dissolved. Alum powder can be purchased at the grocery store.
Step 6. Soak the cloth in the alum mixture for at least 2 hours
Make sure the cloth is completely submerged. If it's still floating, place a bottle or glass jar on top to submerge it.
Step 7. Hang the fabric in the sun until it is completely dry
Again, make sure the fabric hangs freely. You can clip it on a hanger or clothesline.
Method 3 of 6: Using Turpentine and Soybean Oil
Step 1. Understand that this action can darken the fabric
You should use diluted turpentine oil to wet the cloth. In general, oils tend to darken fabrics by 1 or 2 shades. This you should consider.
Step 2. Start with a clean cloth
Wash the cloth if it is still dirty. If the fabric is unwashable, just dusty, or a bit dirty, you can clean it with a vacuum cleaner or brush. If the fabric cannot be washed and it is very dirty, use a cleaner specifically designed for fabrics.
Step 3. Let the cloth dry completely after cleaning
You'll be using oils, waxes, and other water-repellent solutions. If the cloth is still wet or damp, the solution to be used will not stick.
Step 4. Handle the fabric in a well-ventilated area
If possible, do the process outdoors. If you can't, open all windows. Turpentine is a fairly hard material.
Step 5. Mix 250 ml of soybean oil with 120 ml of turpentine
Pour all ingredients into a sturdy plastic container and mix with a wooden stick. You should apply this mixture to the cloth using a large brush.
If you're only handling small pieces of fabric, pour the mixture into a plastic spray bottle to spray onto the fabric. Close the bottle and shake to mix all the ingredients
Step 6. Spread the cloth on a flat surface
Oil and turpentine can stain porous surfaces such as concrete and wood. If you are concerned about this, protect the work surface with a plastic sheet first. Do not use newsprint. The ink in the newsprint may transfer to the fabric.
Step 7. Apply the mixture with a wide brush
Dip a brush into the mixture and drain any excess mixture over the edges of the container. Apply the mixture to the fabric in long, straight, even strokes. Continue to apply the mixture until all parts of the fabric are covered. Always apply the mixture in the same direction. Also, try to overlap previous strokes so that there are no gaps between the strokes.
- A suitable tool for this purpose is a wide, flat-bristled brush. Do not use soft fur, such as camel hair.
- If using a spray, spray the mixture directly onto the fabric. Try to spray them overlap so that there are no gaps.
Step 8. Let the cloth spread evenly until it is completely dry
Drying time can take anywhere from a few hours to several days. Again, soybean oil and turpentine can cause stains. It's a good idea to cover the work surface with a plastic sheet first.
Method 4 of 6: Using a Vinyl Iron
Step 1. Purchase ironed vinyl at a fabric store
This vinyl won't change the look of the fabric, and is perfect for waterproofing baby bibs and lunch bags.
Step 2. Prepare the fabric, but don't cut it first if you're using a pattern
Once the fabric has become waterproof, you can use it as a tablecloth, or cut and sew it into a lunch bag.
Step 3. Make sure the cloth is clean and dry
If it's still dirty, wash and dry the cloth first.
If the fabric cannot be washed, clean it with a vacuum cleaner or brush. If the cloth is very dirty, you can also use a cleaner specifically designed for cloth
Step 4. Spread the cloth on a flat surface
This is to make it easier for you to handle it. Any creases and creases will remain bent when the fabric is finished handling. If necessary, iron the fabric first so that the texture is smooth and even.
Step 5. Cut the vinyl to a size that fits the fabric
If the vinyl is too small for the fabric, cut the vinyl to the length of the fabric. You'll need to cut several pieces of vinyl and join them together later.
Step 6. Peel off the paper backing
The paper has two sides, namely the glossy side and the dull side. Vinyl also has 2 sides, namely the smooth side and the sticky side.
Step 7. Place the vinyl with the sticky side down, to the right side of the fabric
If the vinyl is not wide enough, place two sheets of vinyl in a row. Lay down the edge of the vinyl sheet about 0.5 cm long.
Step 8. Cover the vinyl with sticker paper
Make sure the glossy part of the paper is at the bottom. The paper should also cover the entire vinyl. The vinyl will be ironed and the paper will protect it from melting.
Step 9. Iron the paper
Turn on the iron and set it to medium heat. Do not use high heat as this can cause the vinyl to melt. Run the iron on the paper carefully. Don't stay in one place for a long time, and don't use steam.
Step 10. Peel off the paper
The heat of the iron will melt the glue on the vinyl, allowing it to adhere to the fabric.
Method 5 of 6: Rubbing the Wax on the Cloth
Step 1. Start with a clean cloth
If the cloth is still dirty, wash it and let the cloth dry completely. This method is very suitable to be applied to bags and canvas shoes.
Step 2. Buy natural beeswax
You should use pure beeswax without any additives. Other types of candles can contain harmful chemicals.
Step 3. Heat the wax and cloth moderately
You can do this by blowing a hairdryer or placing it in the sun for a few minutes. This makes it easier for you to apply the wax. Don't let the cloth get too hot, and the wax will melt.
Step 4. Rub the beeswax all over the fabric in all directions
Rub the wax from side to side and from top to bottom. This makes it easier for the wax to seep into the fibers of the fabric. If you're handling bags or clothes, use the corners of the wax to scrub the seams and small crevices.
Step 5. Use your fingers to spread the wax evenly
Gently rub the wax into small, tight areas, such as corners, seams, and pockets. If there are buttons on the scrubbing cloth, don't forget to remove any wax on the buttons.
Step 6. Reheat the cloth for about 5 minutes using a hairdryer
This will melt the wax and allow it to soak into the fabric. The fabric will turn a little dark.
Step 7. Smooth the fabric again with your fingers, if necessary
If the wax collects in one spot, use your fingers in circular motions to smooth the area. This will give a beautiful finish.
Step 8. Place the cloth in a dry and warm location
Let the cloth sit there for 24 hours. After that, your fabric is ready to use. Maybe the fabric will be a little stiffer and darker than before, which is normal. The fabric will turn limp over time, but it won't lighten again.
Method 6 of 6: Using Hemp Seed Oil
Step 1. Start with a clean cloth
If it's still dirty, wash and dry the cloth first.
Step 2. Try doing the process outdoors or in a well-ventilated area
Flaxseed oil can be very harsh so you need good ventilation to avoid dizziness. If you are handling it outdoors, make sure the area is dust-free and wind-free. Otherwise, your cloth will get dirty with dust. If you can't do it outdoors, open all the windows.
Step 3. Stretch the fabric on the frame and secure it with clips
You can use cheap photo frames that have removed the glass and cardboard. Make sure the fabric covers the entire frame. If the fabric is too large for the frame, you will need to work on it piece by piece.
Step 4. Purchase linseed oil
You can also use jojoba oil. This oil is slightly lighter than flaxseed oil so it is easier to use.
Step 5. Begin the process by applying linseed oil to the cloth in a thick layer
The cloth should be drenched in oil. Don't worry if you use too much oil as you can wipe it off later. You can apply the oil using a brush with wide bristles or a washcloth.
- Do not use a brush made of camel hair. The soft bristles are not strong enough to spread the oil.
- If you bought the oil in a small bottle, try pouring it into a larger container.
Step 6. Wait for 30 minutes before you wipe off any remaining oil with a clean cloth
This is to give the oil a chance to seep into the fibers of the fabric and make it drenched. After that, there may be some residue on the surface of the fabric. Wipe the residue with a clean cloth.
Step 7. Allow the fabric to dry within 24 hours, and repeat the process
When the cloth is dry, reapply the linseed oil on the cloth. Wait 30 minutes, then wipe off excess oil with a clean cloth. You can add 1 or 2 more layers of oil.
Step 8. Try painting the fabric with oil paint between each layer of linseed oil
Apply oil paint using a paint brush. These brushes are generally made of stiff bristles, such as pig bristles or Taklon (synthetic bristles). Use a brush to apply the linseed oil, not a washcloth, to prevent the design on the fabric from blurring.
Tips
- You can apply lard to the shoes to make them waterproof. However, you'll need to reapply the shoe if it rains or snows. Rub the pork fat to infuse it.
- Candles can wear off over time. If this happens, apply a new wax to the fabric.
- If you're using wax and can't stand the smell, wait for the wax to dry. After that, put the cloth in the freezer for one night.
- Fabric that has been waxed and bent can keep its shape. You can restore the shape of the fabric by flattening it by hand.
Warning
- Dispose of turpentine according to local regulations. Do not throw turpentine into sewers or roadside ditches.
- Waxed fabrics should not be washed in warm water. Always use cold water to clean it.
- Turpentine and sealer sprays can be very harsh. If you start to feel dizzy while using it, stop working and get some fresh air. Try to handle the fabric in a well-ventilated location.
- Do not place waxed fabrics in direct sunlight or near heat sources. Wax can soften and become sticky.
