3 c. white vinegar
1 c. water
1/4 c. pickling salt
2 c. white sugar
2 tbsp. mixed spices

Boil the above ingredients together. Let cool while packing pickles. Put dill head, slice of onion, and 1/2 teaspoon alum in each jar. Cut cucumbers lengthwise in half or quarters, depending on size and pack in jars. Pour over brine and seal. Bathe jars in hot water for 5 minutes.