Thread: dressing for linen side of strop question

Originally Posted by dgstr8

I researched this a bit and am now certain that the chalk that they are referring to in the old texts as "magnesia" is carbonate of magnesia, currently still available as chalk for rope climbers, gymnasts, and weightlifters. Apparently blackboard chalk is a different chemical (based on gypsum). I bought a cloth bag the size of a softall full of it for $5. If you can't find any locally where the wall climbing guys and gals buy their stuff I know you can order it from www.mec.ca. I just rub the cloth ball of chalk against the linen strop and then use the palm of my hand to rub the chalk dust into the waeve of the fabric. Semms to stick ok.

Thank you for the research.

Blackboard chalk is all over the place in terms of composition.

I think climbing chalk will do the job. I know some climbers and
I am sure I can beg a bit..... for a couple of pints... Hang on....
a couple of pints in that group could cost me $50.... by the
end of the night... so not a bargain but might be worth it
if I take chalk out of the mix.

Availalbe for a few bucks on amazon: Amazon.com: Metolius Super Chalk: Sports & Outdoors

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