The Complete Book of Floorclot. This item is unavailable.The Complete Book of Floorclot

In this book you will find all the information and design inspiration you need to make your own fashionable canvas floor rugs. It includes work by 65 artists in addition to eight specific projects each fully illustrated and described in step-by-step detail. The process is simple: start with a piece of canvas, brush on a quick layer of primer, paint, stencil or sponge on some water-based paint and then seal everything with an application of polyurethane. Techniques include: priming the canvas; applying background colour; adding non-skid backing; sponging; squeeze-bottle painting; photo-transfer; rubber stamping; collage

Rather a lost art these days, floorcloths originated as a cheap floor covering in the 1700s, later mimicking the more expensive floorings such as marquetry and marble. Exported to the US from England they soon became a gentle lady's pastime, enabling them to express their artistry at the same time as ending up with something pretty and practical. Dying out with the advent of linoleum and carpets in the 1920s, it was not until a few decades ago that they were resurrected by artists as a new medium with which to showcase their skills. This fascinating how-to book starts with the floorcloths' history, proceeds to styles and techniques and then explains the basics needed to emulate them. From chequerboard to florals, abstracts to bold, a huge range of different styles are shown accompanied by in-depth instructions on how to create your own heirloom piece. No longer regarded as a poor man's carpet or crumbcatcher, they are now highly regarded, easy-to-make ornamental additions with which to adorn your home. An interesting book for any hobbyist looking for something new. - Lucy Watson