How to Paint Your Own Floorcloth

A painted floorcloth is a unique and versatile way to express your own personal style. When done right, floorcloths are durable enough to withstand high traffic. In addition, they are affordable and easy-to-do artistic pieces that can rejuvenate any room. All you need to create your own are a few basic materials and some inspiration.

The first thing you need to decide is what type of floorcloth you would like to paint. The three easiest types of material to paint are canvas, vinyl, and natural fiber (such as jute, sisal, mountain grass, and seagrass rugs). Consider where you are going to be placing them. Canvas and vinyl do better on flat surfaces while natural fiber will do fine over any type of surface. However, all of them are very durable once they are finished.

It is a good idea to start small your first time when deciding on a size for the cloth. Once that has been done, it is time to purchase and prepare the material. How this is done varies depending on the type of material you need.

Canvas
Many art supply stores sell canvas that is precut with finished edges. You can also get canvas that has been cut to your specifications. Choose a medium weight to heavyweight canvas. When calculating the size, you will need to add two inches to each side to allow for the hem. Canvas comes in preprimed and unprimed. Floorcloth canvas is cloth that has been primed on both sides. It is the easiest and quickest material to use because it does not require any preparation. If you have chosen unprimed canvas, you will need to prepare it by painting both sides with an acrylic primer. You should also make sure the cloth has been pre-shrunk. Otherwise, you will have to dip it with hot water and let it dry before you can prime it.

Hemming the canvas is suggested even if it has finished edges because this prevents the corners from curling and fraying. In addition, it gives the cloth an even and flat appearance. To hem the canvas, lay it out with the side you intend to paint facing up. Measure two inches from the edge of the canvas, fold the edges under, and miter the corners. Mitered corners are angled so they fit together smoothly, like with picture frames and molding. Secure the edges down with contact cement or carpet glue. The canvas is now ready to paint.

Vinyl
Vinyl flooring remnants can also be used to create floorcloths and can be purchased cheaply from any home improvement store. They also have an advantage to the other types because they can be cut into different shapes. Simply trace your outline on the underside of the flooring and use a utility knife to cut your pattern. Choose vinyl that does not have any adhesive or a paper backing on it that would prevent the vinyl from absorbing the paint. The underside should be primed and allowed to dry before the top side is painted.

Natural Fiber
Natural fiber rugs are available in a variety of sizes and require no preparation. They are static free, flame retardant, sound absorbing, and do not attract dirt and dust particles. The fibers are typically resistant to bacteria and molds and only need regular vacuuming to maintain.
The four most popular types of natural fiber rugs are jute, sisal, mountain grass, and seagrass. For better durability, look for those with a tight, flat weave that will accept paint and show texture better. Jute rugs are not generally recommended for high-traffic areas because they are not as durable as other the other types.

Painting the Design
Probably the hardest part of painting a floorcloth is deciding on a design. You might want to look at magazines, catalogs, and books to get a few ideas. Faux finishes are very popular choices; but designs can be also stenciled, stamped, or painted freehand. If you are a beginner, choose a simple pattern without a lot of color changes.

When choosing paint, choose one that is durable, water-based, and suitable for indoor and outdoor projects--even if the rug will be inside. Choosing a paint that is also self-sealing and scuff-resistant will help your floorcloth last longer. Spray paint can also be used.

Before painting, cover your work area with newspaper. If you are using spray paint, cover the areas you do not want painted with masking tape and freezer paper. When painting, do not be skimpy with the paint. Make sure you use enough so that it absorbs into the material.

Finishing Your Floorcloth
After your design is complete and the paint has dried thoroughly, it is time to seal your floorcloth. First, carefully remove any the tape or freezer paper from the floorcloth. Then, brush or spray the entire cloth with a polyurethane sealer. This will protect your design and extend the life of the floorcloth. For best results on natural fiber rugs, choose a spray sealer that will ensure that the total surface is covered. If you are planning to use the floorcloth on a patio or in an entranceway, use an outdoor acrylic spray sealer.

Consider adding a nonskid backing to any floor coverings that will be used in kitchens, bathrooms, and foyers where floors tend to be slippery. Art suppliers stock rubber-based products that can be sprayed or painted on the back. Special non-slip pads can also be found at any home improvement or hardware store.

Once the rug has dried overnight, it is ready to use. Vinyl and canvas floorcloths can be cleaned with mild soap and water. Do not use general-purpose cleaners because they will dull the sealer and degrade the surface. Natural fiber rugs will usually only require vacuuming, but can be cleaned the same way.

Painting your floorcloth is an expensive way to protect your floors while adding your own sense of style to a room. You do not even have to be an artist to do it. Of course, most people will probably think that you are once they see the finished results.