I have never done this myself, but you could try thinning some transparent silicone with a synthetic solvent and brush that onto the fabric. The silicone is highly hydrophobic so fabric soaked in it becomes somewhat water proof. This technique is sometimes used for DIY tarps and tents.
this post was submitted on 04 Mar 2025
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That's a really cool idea! Tbh when I asked the question I'd been thinking of the old 'oilskins' used by sailors in fantasy books (and history) which I think were sailcloth or canvas coated in tar, so this would actually be pretty close to what I had in mind.
One of my favourite YouTube DIYer NightHawkInLight has a detailed video on it. I'm not sure if it will work for your exact case, but I think I would have gone the same way if I was in your shoes. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HedRbIsM75M