Painted cloth kepis predate the War itself. With examples worn by the Wide Awakes, they added a military air to the wearer. During the war, painted kepis were purchased by soldiers on both sides to maintain a military appearance while helping repel the weather. There are three extant red painted kepis that we know of. While one is more of a low crown forage cap and worn by a North Carolina officer, the other two are the typical three piece body/band though with unknown provenance. Ours reproduction of this style is painted with organic linseed oil paint which DOES NOT contain any heavy metals or driers. They are lined in osnaburg with your choice of brim and buttons.