1 gal. med. cucumbers
4-5 c. cider vinegar
2 tbsp. powdered alum
4 tbsp. pickling salt
3 tbsp. pickling spices
White sugar

Place whole cucumbers in a gallon glass jar. Mix remaining ingredients except sugar, stirring until alum and salt are dissolved. Pour brine over cucumbers. If jar is not full of liquid, finish filling with half vinegar and half water. Let pickles set for at least 2 months. Jar does not have to be sealed; lid just screwed on tightly.

After 2 months remove cucumbers; slice and layer, alternating with layers of sugar. The heavier the sugar, the crisper the cucumbers. Shake container and let it set until sugar melts, (about 24 hours). Store in refrigerator.