How to: Rain-Proof Cloth

Launder the cloth to remove any debris, starches or treatments that may inhibit the absorption of the beeswax. Rinse the cloth well to ensure no soap or cleaning product residue is left behind. Allow the cloth to dry completely before treating.

Place the cloth on top of the plastic sheeting with the right side facing down. The right side is the back of the cloth, or the side that will not be showing on the outside. The sheeting will catch any excess beeswax and prevent it from seeping into any of the surfaces below the cloth.

Put the beeswax into the microwave safe container and melt it in the microwave until it becomes a liquid. Melt it on a low temperature, approximately 50 percent power, to prevent having hot spots and hard lumps at the same time.

Paint the beeswax onto the cloth using the paintbrush. Be sure to cover all the edges of the cloth well. You will be able to see which areas have been covered and which ones you have not as the beeswax will slightly change the appearance of the cloth. Depending on how thick you are painting on the beeswax and the texture of the cloth, it may appear grayish and old.

Reheat the beeswax in the container as needed if it begins to harden in the container while you are working.

Allow the beeswax to solidify on the cloth. Test a patch of cloth by pouring water onto it to test. The water should bead up and run off of the cloth. If the cloth is still absorbent, as some thicker fabrics may be, apply a second coat of the beeswax.