My roots

History

Designing and making canvas rugs and floorcloths is a lost art. My dream is to bring back this practical craft, which was popular in the 1800s. Canvas rugs began as a way for colonial homes to have their floors protected. Over time, this sensible aspect evolved into a way for people without means to have beautiful art in their homes.

Process

Step 1: Design is first!

Step 2: Hand-shrink the canvas fabric with hot water so the material can accept the paint.

Step 3: Cut the material to the design dimensions.

Step 4: Sew to make a 1-inch trim with mitered corners.

Step 5: Use eco-friendly primer to prepare the fabric: 2 coats of primer on front and back.

Step 6: Paint 3 coats of the rug’s background color using Old Village®, or different milk paint brands.

Step 7: Stencil or free-hand paint the design.

Step 8: Apply 4 coats of eco-friendly polyurethane, with a day of curing in between each coat.