Sisal,
mountain grass and seagrass rugs are extremely popular, especially
on porches and in sunrooms. Their hard, natural fibers perform in
most environments. Most people choose them because of their antistatic,
flame retardant, and sound absorbing properties. Rather than attracting
dirt, the weave of the fibers allows it to filter through. The fibers
are typically resistant to bacteria and molds and only need regular
vacuuming to maintain.
If
you've been interested in purchasing a sisal, mountain grass or
seagrass rug but have hesitated because you want something more
colorful, hesitate no longer. All three of these rugs can easily
be painted. All you need is some newspaper, a sisal rug, freezer
paper, masking tape, spray paint in the desired color, and clear
acrylic spray sealer. For best results, choose an outdoor or durable
paint with a matte finish.
First,
protect your work area by covering it with the newspaper. Next,
determine what pattern you want on your rug. You will want to cover
up the areas of the rug that will not be painted. Use the freezer
paper to protect wide areas of the rug, and the masking tape to
secure narrower areas.
If
you want to create a border design on the rug, use one-inch wide
tape to cover a strip adjacent to the binding. Then use two-inch
wide tape to secure the freezer paper approximately one inch from
the tape. If you want to create a checked design, use pieces of
one-inch wide tape to cover areas between two inch-wide strips,
leaving tiny squares between each piece.
Once
you have covered all the areas of the rug you wish to leave natural,
it's time to paint. Make sure the tape is secure before painting.
When ready, spray paint all uncovered areas of the rug, including
the binding. Don't be skimpy with the paint. Let the rug dry for
several hours.
Once
it is dry, carefully remove the tape and any freezer paper. Finish
the rug by spraying it with the acrylic sealer. Spray the sealer
over the painted and non-painted areas of the rug. Let the rug dry
overnight and it's ready to use.
