- 1). Measure and mark preprimed duck canvas to the size you'd like. Add four inches to the width and length for finished hem allowance. Cut the canvas.
- 2). Prime the backside of the duck canvas by applying one or more coats of acrylic gesso across the entire surface of the canvas. This gives the floor cloth extra body (strength when finished). If the canvas is not primed, then use at least two coats of gesso on the top side and one coat of gesso on the bottom side. Allow three hours' drying time per coat.
- 3). Measure and mark the finished size on the floor cloth and tape along the outside edge of the line (the tape indicates where the hem starts on all sides). This identifies the painting area.
- 4). Paint the floor cloth using acrylic paints. If using artist paints, thin the thickness of the acrylic paint with a conditioner or matte medium to prevent applying the acrylic too thick. If the paint is too thick, it may crack later. Use any painting technique to create the design, including with stencils, faux painting, combs, sponges and stamps. Allow the finished canvas to dry completely.
- 5). Dust off the canvas to remove any surface dirt and apply satin finish acrylic varnish to protect and seal the floor cloth for heavy use. Apply three to five thin coats, allowing each coat to dry completely. (See manufacturer's directions for drying times.)
- 6). Turn the floor cloth face-down. Fold the two-inch hem on the long sides of the floor cloth toward the center. Measure and cut the double-stick carpet tape and create the hem. Fold the two-inch hem on the short sides of the floor cloth and trim the corners so that the short side hems overlap the finished long side hems. (You can either create a mitered corner look or a straight cut look.) Apply the hem tape to the short sides and trim to create a neat appearance.
- 7). Apply a clear white paste wax over the finished painted and varnished floor cloth. Rub the wax on using a rag. When the wax dries to the touch, buff the surface using circular movements. The wax will protect the surface from spills and dirt and can be reapplied when it wears down (once or twice a year).
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