How to Use Flaxseed Oil to Waterproof Fabric

Certain fabric items, such as tablecloths, cloth lunch containers and pillow covers, benefit from being resistant to moisture. Waterproofing requires you to soak the fabric in flaxseed oil, which is also known as linseed oil. It is a natural preservative used to make water-resistant oilcloth. While flaxseed oil won't make fabric waterproof, it will protect it for several years. Perform the process slowly, when the weather is warm and clear. It is possible to dry the fabric inside, using the same steps. Just make sure that the fabric is out of the way, and that you give it plenty of space to dry.

Things You'll Need

• Dry fabric
• Clothesline
• Clothespins
• Boiled flaxseed or linseed oil
• Paintbrush
• Bowl

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Instructions

1. • 1

     Hang the fabric on the clothesline using the clothespins. Spread the fabric taut so that none of it overlaps.

   • 2

     Pour some of the the flaxseed oil into a bowl. Dip the paintbrush in the oil and apply it to one side of the fabric. Continue applying the oil until there is thin coat covering one side of the fabric.

   • 3

     Apply the oil to the other side of the fabric, if desired.

   • 4

     Allow the oil to dry completely. This may take a number of days.

   • 5

     Apply a second coat of oil to the fabric. Allow the second coat to dry completely.

   • 6

     Repeat the process at least once more. If the fabric is not water-resistant enough, add more coats, as desired.