Checkerboard square

[BigDuke634]

And no, I'm not talking Ralston Purina here. I am considering painting a checkerboard on my gum blanket. Which side would be better to paint it on? I know you all have preferances, so I'll go with the majority rule.

[Stonewall_Greyfox]

And no, I'm not talking Ralston Purina here. I am considering painting a checkerboard on my gum blanket. Which side would be better to paint it on? I know you all have preferances, so I'll go with the majority rule.

Rick,

If your'e talking of a Federal Issue Gum Blanket...I would be inclined to put the checkerboard on the white-side of the blanket, as it will be less prone to wear.

If your'e talking of a Painted Cloth/Oil Cloth Federal or Confederate...I don't see that it would really matter which side the checkerboard was painted on.

Paul

[paul hadley]

Well, in museums (I think there's an example on Lookout Mountain?) I've seen a couple checkers/chess boards on the non-treated sides of gum blankets. Seems to make sense in that to play the game, you "probably" would lay your gum blanket on the ground with the vulcanized/black side down to keep off moisture from grass, &tc.

Not that I would consider this, wink, wink, but if you drew a chuck-a-luck diagram or other markings for a "game of chance" on your gum blanket, better be sure it's not frowned on by your officer or NCO or else try to hide it somewhat -- which would be on the white side so it wasn't as obvious when the bum blanket was being used to repel rain or as the end piece of a shebang. That "probably" doesn't apply for a checker board pattern, but you never know -- I'd recommend putting it on the "white" side of the blanket.

Just something to consider.
Your mileage may vary.
Paul

[Doug Cooper]

If you can figure out a way to paint something on the rubber side of a federal issue gum blanket that will last more than a day, and that you can see to play (white squares?), more power to ya!!

Seriously, use the non-rubber side. Its what the soldiers did, at least based on the few surviving examples marked with names and such.

[RJSamp]

If you can figure out a way to paint something on the rubber side of a federal issue gum blanket that will last more than a day, and that you can see to play (white squares?), more power to ya!!

Seriously, use the non-rubber side. Its what the soldiers did, at least based on the few surviving examples marked with names and such.

hmmm, how about milk paint in a white hue? wonder if it's flexible enough to not crack once dry on the vulcanized rubber......

[Stonewall_Greyfox]

hmmm, how about milk paint in a white hue? wonder if it's flexible enough to not crack once dry on the vulcanized rubber......

RJ,

Problem is since the black side of a Federal Gum Blanket is the side that goes face down in the dirt/branches/rocks, it's the side more succeptable to wearing.

Oil-based paint, will also have desired non-cracking properties (often when cracking is seen, it's the result of the sizing on the canvas).

Paul

[Spinster]

hmmm, how about milk paint in a white hue? wonder if it's flexible enough to not crack once dry on the vulcanized rubber......

Nope. You're going to have an adherence problem too.

Voice of Experience,

[jda3rd]

Back during the 125th series, I saw a magnificent, almost life size nude painted on the inside of a gum blanket. The fellows that had it claimed it was copied from a surviving original.
If your ambitions extend no further than a game board, stick with the checker board.

Frank

[REBfrmNY]

I would like to paint a chuck-a-luck board on my oilcloth the non treated side,and I'm a little unsure of what type of paint to use I want something period, durable and easy to make or find locally if that is possible. I see Paul mentioned oil based paint maybe someone could elaborate. The only things I have been able to find are recipes to waterproof material. Any advice will be appreciated
Thanks,
Daniel Harhangi

[Stonewall_Greyfox]

I would like to paint a chuck-a-luck board on my oilcloth the non treated side,and I'm a little unsure of what type of paint to use I want something period, durable and easy to make or find locally if that is possible. I see Paul mentioned oil based paint maybe someone could elaborate. The only things I have been able to find are recipes to waterproof material. Any advice will be appreciated
Thanks,
Daniel Harhangi

Daniel,

If you have a local craft store around you (Michaels, Joann Fabrics, even Walmart) try the artists section...and look for Wilton Oil Based Paints...they typically come in tubes and have a very good range in colors. Price per tube depends on size and also what's on sale (typically $6-12).

Would you mind sharing your information on Chuck-a-luck boards?

Paul B.