How to Waterproof Oilskin

Canvas jackets such as this one can become waterproofed oilskin with proper treatment.

Oilskin is a type of cloth that has been treated with a mixture of oils and waxes to make it waterproof. Unfortunately, the waterproofing tends to go away after time, especially with daily or rugged use. If you begin seeing dry or fading spots on your oilcloth, this could be a sign that it is losing its ability to repel moisture. If this is the case, your oilskin will need to be waterproofed again.

Things You'll Need

• Mild liquid detergent
• Waterproofing wax such as Duckback or Kakadu
• Clean cloth
• Blow-dryer, if necessary

Instructions

1. Fill a bathtub or basin full of enough cold water so that the garment can be completely immersed. Add a capful of mild laundry detergent. The detergent should be safe for woolen garments.

2. Place the coat in the water and detergent mixture, and agitate slightly using your hands. Allow the coat to soak overnight.

3. Drain the water from the tub and remove the coat. Rinse it with fresh water to make sure any detergent is completely gone.

4. Hang the coat up and allow it to dry naturally.

5. Place the dry coat out in the highest sun on a hot day. The hotter the day, the better because the sun will help the wax treatment penetrate the oilskin even more.

6. Place the jar of wax dressing out in the sun as well until it melts. If you wish to make it melt faster, place the jar in a bowl of hot water.

7. Apply a coat of the melted wax to the jacket, using the clean cloth. Make sure to get all the folds and pockets, under the collar, etc. Apply extra dressing to all the seams of the garment. Leave out in the sun so the wax can set in. Once dry, it is ready to use.

Tips & Warnings

• If you live in an area that does not get a lot of sun or if it is winter and the sun is not very bright, use the same method indoors, but use a blow-dryer on high heat to soak the wax into the garment instead of the sun.

• Do not heat the wax directly on a stove or in the microwave. This could be dangerous because of the chemical ingredients. If it won't melt in the sun, place in a bowl of hot water and allow to melt.

References

• Kakadu Imports: Caring for Your Oilskin
• Noggin Tops: Hat FAQs