History of Floor Cloths

What are floor cloths?
Floor Cloths were invented in France in the early 1400s. They were introduced to North America in the 18th century. In the early days, floor cloths were used to imitate the fine flooring found in fashionable homes. These cloths, often referred to as "crumb cloths" because of their use under dining room tables, were also used in parlors and hallways. They also made the floors warmer in the winter, and were used to cover the dirt floors of early Colonial America. Sails from ships were recycled as floor cloths and painted in bold designs. While in office, Thomas Jefferson had a green painted canvas floor cloth in the dining room in the Whitehouse.

Modern Day Floor Cloths:

Today, Floor Cloths are made of heavyweight canvas very similar to the heavy Sails used in old days. The canvas is primed on both sides, hemmed or selvedge edge, painted with non-toxic acrylic or oil paint, and top coated with several coats of acrylic urethane, or polyurethane. These floor cloths are made to be walked on, and are designed to become heirlooms to your own family. Canvas has traditionally been used for hundreds of years, and is still around as bright and beautiful today as it was when it was painted centuries ago by the Old Masters. These Floor Cloths are best used on hard, smooth surfaces over a skid resistant pad or carpet tape (for safety purposes). They are not intended to be used on carpet.

Care of Your New Floor Cloth:

Cleaning:
Because my floor cloths are made of good quality, heavyweight canvas, coated with multiple layers of paint and a protective finish, they are created to be around for years to come. Clean up is easy. Wipe down with water and your normal non-abrasive cleaner, or with a damp cloth. (Do not use bleach). Should your rug start to become dull, just apply a new coat of clear, satin finish poly-acrylic varnish. (a foam brush leaves no streaks). Let it dry and use as normal.

Storing:
If it becomes necessary to store your rug, store it flat, or roll it loosely. I recommend that you roll it around a tube, to prevent any creasing. Never fold or crease your rug, as these creases become permanent. Roll your rug so that the design faces outward. That way, when you unpack it for its next use, the edges will be turned under slightly from storage.