Technology has improved since the Rev-War days. Now, one could use Gorilla-Glue at room temp instead of heated tar/pitch. From experience, if you get gorilla-glue anywhere on you, within just a minute or two it will not wash off. It just has to wear off over time...
That’s a sensible and affordable substitute.
How about a substitute for the feathers? I’m thinking a modern malcontent might use those sprinkles from doughnuts or perhaps confetti in lieu of feathers.
Gorilla glue "sets" by absorbing moisture!
Regards,
GtG
Gorilla glue and packing foam peanuts.