Susan Wiley Artist, Turtle Creek Collections. Floorcloths

Floorcloths

In colonial times, only the wealthy could afford beautiful rugs or carpets. To imitate these, colonists would hire itinerant artists to paint on their old, discarded sailing cloths, which were made of linen or canvas. The cloths were cut to the appropriate size, painted or stenciled, then coated with 8-10 coats of oil-based varnish. The floorcloths, also called sailcloths, were occasionally tacked to the floor. To further give the appearance and more luxurious feel of a rug, some colonists would place straw between the canvas and the floor. Even later, when the industrial revolution began, discarded cork pieces were plentiful and replaced the straw. Eventually, the cork was glued onto the painted canvas. This was the precursor to linoleum, as we know it today. Lino was from the linen or canvas used and oleum was from the many coats of oil-based varnish used to protect the sailcloth.

The floorcloths I make are on a heavy-gauge canvas, and are cut to whatever size or shape is needed and the edges are folded under. Two coats of primer are applied, then a basecoat of latex. A painting is then created in acrylics and/or latex. The colors and theme used are, of course, suited to your décor. Once the painting is completed, I apply 5- 6 coats of water-based polyurethane.

The floorcloths are especially great for those who have allergies and cannot have rugs in their home, yet would like a color, pattern, or painting on their floor. The floorcloths are fabulous in kitchens, bathrooms, sunrooms and Jacuzzi rooms – as long as they are placed on a hard surface.

Care of the floorcloth is very simple – soap and water with a soft cloth will take away most soiled areas. If there are tougher stains, a soft scrub brush may be used; but this is seldom needed. If more protection is desired, butcher’s wax may be applied over the finish, then buffed with a soft cloth. If changing the floorcloth for the season, it should be rolled up for storage rather than folded, as this would tend to crack the finish.