When I became a proud homeowner, the first duty on my renovating list was to rip out the bland-looking carpet and replace it with beautiful Saltillo tile.
However, I sadly discovered that there were other projects that took precedence. You know, little things -- such as furniture, cookware and bedroom sets. But I wasn't about to let that carpet get the best of me. Being a devout DIY-er, I conquered my disappointment with a shabby chic favorite: a hand-painted floor cloth. The key is the primed canvas. Craft stores sell a project kit for less than $10 that is perfect for novices. An alternative is a bulk roll (approximately $60) that leaves material for more projects. Tips: Make sure the canvas is primed; otherwise you will have to apply gesso, which translates into unnecessary costs and time. Sketch a draft of your design before beginning. Work in a shaded outdoor area for extra room and ventilation. The result will liven up any room and hide less-than-perfect carpet. Chances are it will even look great on Saltillo tile!

Supplies:
1 piece of primed canvas measuring 50 by 74 inches (alter size if necessary)
Chalk
Ruler
Scissors
Iron
Rubber cement
Spray adhesive
1 piece of rubber rug backing to fit
Acrylic paints
Paintbrushes and/or stencil brush
Decorative rubber stamps and/or stencil templates
Large sponge brush
32-ounce can of polyurethane gloss varnish
Fabric cutouts (optional)
Heat N' Bond (optional)
Directions
With the cloth right side up, use chalk to outline a 1-inch border all the way around. Snip off the tip of each corner where the chalk lines meet. Flip the cloth over and fold over at the border lines, then iron flaps to create a sharp crease.
Use rubber cement to glue the flaps in place. Spray a layer of adhesive and attach rubber backing.
Turn your cloth right side up and dust off the chalk lines. Apply base coat with desired primary color. Let dry, then use chalk to lightly outline the general layout of your pattern. Use rubber stamps and/or stencil brush and templates to complete your design. You can also apply fabric cutouts with an iron and Heat N' Bond. After Heat N' Bond is cool, use the sponge brush to add the first coat of varnish. Apply a thin, even layer until the floor cloth is covered. Let dry, then repeat six times. The varnish layers will ensure a long life. You will eventually see it wear down. Repeat the varnish process.

* For more artsy goodness, check out http://www.CraftyChica.com *

Labels: home decor, inside, outdoor