Method 1 Method 1 of 6: Alum formula

1. 1 In a large pan, mix 1 lb of alum with 1 US-pint (470 ml) hot water from a faucet. A preserving pan is a good size for this, to allow room for the fabric.
2. 2 Select the fabric that you wish to treat. Dip it into the pan and wet it completely.
3. 3 Pull out the completely wet fabric. Put into a non-drip plastic basket to take outside. Hang on a line, over the basket, or over a clothes rack.
4. 4 Use once dried. Expect some stiffness compared to the original fabric but it should mold to the shape needed with bending.

Method 2 Method 2 of 6: Ammonium chloride and ammonium phosphate formula

1. 1 In a large pan, mix 1 cup ammonium chloride with 2 pints of water.
2. 2 Add 1/2 cup ammonium phosphate and mix together.
3. 3 Dip the fabric into the pan and completely cover as above. Dry as above.

Method 3 Method 3 of 6: Borax formula

This method is recommended for "theater scenery fabric, and recommended for rayon and natural fabrics".

1. 1 Mix 6 parts/lbs borax, 5 parts/lbs boric acid, 100 parts/12 gallons (45.4 L) water in a large container.
2. 2 Dip the fabric in until completely soaked. Repeat if needed. Allow to dry.

Method 4 Method 4 of 6: Another borax variant

This version is softer, more flexible, and prevents microorganism growth.

1. 1 Mix 7 parts/7lbs borax, 3 parts/3 lbs boric acid, 100 parts/12 gallons (45.4 L) water in a large container.
2. 2 Follow above steps. For rayon and sheer fabrics, 17 gallons (64.4 L) of water are recommended.

Method 5 Method 5 of 6: Sodium silicate formula

This version should only be made wearing gloves, as water glass is caustic on skin and toxic if ingested.

1. 1 Mix 1 oz water glass (sodium silicate) with 9 oz water.
2. 2 Wash fabric well and rinse completely before dipping in the silicate formula.
3. 3 Leave to soak and hang to dry.

Method 6 Method 6 of 6: National Fire Protection Association formula

Another variant on the borax methods.

1. 1 Mix 9 oz borax powder, 4 oz boric acid, with 1 gallon (3.8 L) water.
2. 2 Mix thoroughly in large container.
3. 3 Dip fabric or spray on. Drip dry.