How I Make Floorcloths
I make my floorcloths using the finest materials. I am constantly testing and experimenting with different products and techniques to offer my patrons the highest quality floorcloths. Over the past three years, I have developed a method that consistently produces a high quality floorcloth that lies flat without rippling or wrinkling upon installation.
I start with heavy weight, unprimed cotton canvas. I use #8 (weighing 17.55 oz./square yard) or #10 (weighing 14.5 oz./ square yard) double fill cotton canvas, depending on the intended use of the floorcloth. Double fill canvas is made by twisting two threads together to make a single stronger, more durable thread. I attach the canvas to a custom made wooden stretcher.
After the canvas is on the stretcher, I shrink and prime the canvas using top of the line latex primer. Next, I apply two base coats of paint. I use exterior grade latex paints for my base colors. I sketch the design on the canvas and paint it. I use Liquitex or Golden brand acrylic artists’ paints for detail work. After the artwork is complete and has had time to cure, I apply two coats of high-grade polyurethane sealer to the canvas.
Next, I cut the canvas off the frame and hem it using cobbler’s glue, which is durable, flexible and water-resistant. Once the floorcloth has been hemmed, it is sealed on both sides with 4 more coats of polyurethane. The backside is then treated with a non-skid coating. Finally, the floorcloth is coated with a non-yellowing paste wax to protect the polyurethane finish. Then it is ready for use. These techniques can be applied to making placemats, table mats, and pet mats as well.
I sign all of my floorcloths with my bicycle/signature, which is hidden in each work. I sign and date the floorcloths on the back, as well. Due to the labor intensive nature and long curing times of some paints and sealants, floorcloths usually take about 4–6 weeks to complete.
