Alternative to Oilcloth?

[kuhlmom]

I'm interested in sewing with oilcloth, but I'm trying to avoid plastics... anyone have an alternative that might be a little more environmentally friendly?

[tommom]

This is so funny. I just was researching this. I read that you could dip or paint thick fabric like canvas or denim with RAW (not boiled) linseed oil. I guess the boiled linseed oil contains metals that speed up the drying process. I'd like to try it to make some sandwich wraps.

[kuhlmom]

Maybe I'm wrong, but I thought linseed oil was flammable and could spontaneously ignite? Perhaps that is only "boiled" linseed oil? I'll look into it... Thanks!

[tommom]

Yikes! Let's keep looking!

[Theloose]

I was just looking into oilcloth...

from wikipedia:

Rags dampened with boiled linseed oil are a fire hazard, because they provide a large surface area for oxidation of the oil. The oxidation is an exothermic reaction which accelerates as the rags get hotter.

so it might just be an issue with boiled linseed oil.

I think I may be playing with this soon...

[tommom]

Keep us posted! Be careful though and good luck!