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A.R.T. Modern Floorcloths
Floorcloths are what really got me started with pattern design, and they continue to be my pride and joy! Read about my process here, and click on the links below for more details.
A.R.T. Studio: Modern Floorcloths
Idea. Sketch. Art. Design. Application.
My floorcloths are my masterworks, and a true labor of love. They can take anywhere from two weeks for a 3X3 floorcloth with a simple design, to three months for a 46"X84" floorcloth and more detailed or layered designs. Every floorcloth presents a unique set of challenges and new technical discoveries.
PROCESS
- I begin with a series of sketches, until I think I have captured the mood and feel of my subject. When I finally have my motif conceptualized on paper, I pare down and refine the motif to its most minimal essence, smoothing and removing all distractions, to come up with a clean and striking element for my design. I scale the motif to fit the number of repetitions I want on my measured canvas, and design a border for the floorcloth.
- I create a transfer for the design. Sometimes, I trace my motif onto a stencil sheet and cut out my stencil. Sometimes, I transfer my motif to graphite transfer paper, and use the transfer paper to place my design on the canvas. If I have created a motif with a fair amount of detail or very fine lines that are difficult to cut or paint, I send my design off to a professional stencil cutter!
Stretching the Canvas
- I prewash and dry my canvas to shrink it, before stretching it tightly across my plywood frame. Once my canvas is stretched, I thoroughly wet the canvas once more, for a final tightening around the frame. ..
Design Transfer and Painting
Detail
- Once the canvas is completely dry, I apply two coats of heavy, flexible acrylic primer to the front of the canvas, allowing the primer to dry thoroughly after each application. Following the primer, I apply two coats of acrylic paint in the background color of my floorcloth.
- I measure and mark the borders and motif placements, beginning in the center of the floorcloth, and working to the outside.
- I transfer my design to the primed and base-coated canvas via stencil or transfer paper. The true labor of love begins -- the meticulous painting and refining of the details with acrylic paints....
Finishing
- After I have finished painting my floorcloth, details and all, I remove it from the frame. I apply two coats of heavy primer to the back of the floorcloth and fold a hem around the border edges.
- After the primed back of the floorcloth has dried, I turn it over and touch up any last minute details before sealing the floorcloth with 4-5 coats of polyacrylic in a satin or gloss finish. I allow the floorcloth to dry and cure for two to three weeks.
- I step back and marvel. The floorcloth is complete!
Process Complete!
Et Voila!
Modern Floorcloth LUBBERS: Not Just for Floors.
My floorcloth designs are not just for floors. The same beautiful symmetry and pattern that make my floorcloths so striking is perfect for signs, textiles, and logos.
A.R.T. Floorcloths in my studio.
Floorcloths: my Raison Dêtre
Working on the Armadillo and Palmetto floorcloth in A.R.T. Studio
