We know firsthand the transformative power of a beautiful rug. The right hand-knotted rug can completely change the feel of a room, and outdoor rugs are gaining in popularity to enhance the design of outdoor seating space.

Rugs come in all shapes, sizes and configurations of material and patterns. And while we are partial to the art of handmade high-quality rugs, we encourage everyone to experience the joy that rugs can bring to a room.

We also love a good DIY project! We recently came across the idea that with a few easy steps transforms a tablecloth into a gorgeous rug. This is a great craft if you have a beautiful and underused tablecloth taking up space in your pantry that could use a second life, or if you don’t want to spend the money on a brand new rug. Tablecloths can be found on sale at the turn of a season, even upscale ones are considerably less expensive than most rugs.

Even if crafts are not your forte, this one is simple, requires only a few components and is well worth the effort.

To turn a tablecloth into a hand-knotted rug, you will need the following:

• 1 tablecloth of your choice – look for cotton, not precoated, with a beautiful pattern or bright colours
• 1 rug pad
• 1 small can of a satin finish, water-based polyurethane
• Double-sided carpet tape
• 1 paint roller or poly squeegee spreader
• Scissors
• Tarp/ plastic drop cloth

And follow these steps:

1. Lay the tablecloth out on top of the plastic drop cloth – a garage works best because if you are exposed to the elements dirt and debris can sullying the project; if you choose to do the project indoors, you will need adequate ventilation. Smooth out as many wrinkles and creases as you can.
2. Pour a small amount of poly onto the tablecloth surface and evenly distribute using the spreader of your choice. Work quickly and in sections.
3. Let dry – depending on the thickness of the layer, this could take 30 min- 2 hours.
4. Repeat until three coats of poly are applied. Let dry overnight.
5. Lay the rug pad over top of the tablecloth and cut to size, about an inch less on all sides or all the way around.
6. Lay the tablecloth upside down and measure out the double-sided tape in a way that covers a lot of surface area. Carefully remove the protective layer on the tape.
7. Starting on one end, press the rug pad onto the tape, smoothing out as you go along and making sure there are no lumps, wrinkles or folds.
8. Flip it over and admire what a crafty, creative person you are.
9. Place in the perfect spot and enjoy the fresh new look of the room.

A tablecloth rug goes perfectly in a kid’s playroom, an unfinished basement, or outdoor space. Of course, they won’t last forever, but that’s a great reason to update the project and make a new one!

Remember that it’s all about having fun and trying something new. We hope you enjoy the project and feel free to send us pictures of your finished product!