Host Kathi Cardinalli shows how to paint a plain sisal rug
(see photo at right) . These natural rugs can be found in most home-supply stores for a fairly inexpensive price. Coordinate this rug with a design that matches your home decor or personality.
Materials:
self-adhesive shelf paper
black marker
metal ruler
craft knife
craft paper
metallic spray paint
stamp
textile paint
artist's brush
sponge brush
Steps:
- Create a stencil with shelf paper (which has helpful markings on the back). Cut the piece to size, according to how large you want the pattern to be.
- Mark off the pattern with a black marker and metal ruler (figure A). Feel free to personalize the design.
- Once this is done, use a craft knife and metal ruler to cut away the pattern, leaving the stencil. What is left after the pattern is cut away is important because this is used to create the pattern on the rug.
- Peel the backing off the stencil and place the sticky side down on the rug (figure B). Use the stickiness to secure craft paper to cover the exposed rug. This will protect the rug from stray spray paint.
- Shake up the spray paint can and paint in the pattern (figure C). Remember, lots of thin coats are better than one thick coat. Approach the rug from a variety of angles with the can to ensure full coverage--there are lots of nooks and crannies that will be missed if the spray comes directly from the top.
- Use a distinctive stamp and textile paint for a design on the center of the pattern (figure D). Be generous with the paint and press down firmly. If the paint doesn't show up well, use an artist's brush to fill in the design.
- Frame the rug with a checkered pattern, using a sponge brush as well as the same paint used for the center design (figure E). The natural cotton cording will soak up the paint, so don't be afraid to use an ample amount.
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