Traditional and Custom Floorcloths
At Black Dog Gallery we create traditional floorcloths
that will stand the test of time. Our process is based on the way floorcloths
were developed
in the 18th century, when the canvas 
coverings were often designed and
painted by ship and house painters. These craftsmen painted both sides
of heavy canvas multiple times before starting the design. The designs
were often geometric shapes that varied in complexity. Once the painting
was completed the surface was often covered with wax to help preserve
the finish.
The end result was a heavy canvas "rug" that could be placed over wooden floors that served as both decoration and as a functional floor covering. Our modern-day floorcloth creations are built to exacting standards and are historically accurate. We start with the heaviest grade of pure cotton duck canvas available. We then stretch the canvas completely on a wooden frame to ensure the edges will not roll up, and the cloth will retain its shape and design. We then apply multiple coats of high quality Benjamin Moore exterior paint both sides of the canvas before beginning the design.
Once the design is complete we apply three coats of a high quality, non-yellowing acrylic polyurethane. The final step is application of "bowling alley" wax and cloth buffing to a satin lustre. This results in a functional floorcloth that provides a unique and beautiful custom look for years to come. Venues such as the Francis Land House have thousands of guests walk across our floorcloths each year.
We
are able to offer traditional floorcloth
patterns, Delft
Tile creations,
Carwitham designs and even custom creations
based on photographs, artwork or simply conversations and sketches.
We can match paint, wallpaper or
fabric samples if needed. See our image gallery
for more examples. You can also see some of our fine floorcloths in
the rooms and halls of:
- Stratford Hall, Westmoreland County, VA
- Rock Hall House Museum, Lawrence, NY
- Newark Museum, Newark, NJ
- Iredell House, Edenton, NC
Please contact us if you have any questions, would like pricing and ordering information, or to discuss floorcloth options for your home or museum exhibit. We strive for excellence with every piece and truly enjoy recreating a piece of history.
