Here’s a really simple way to create exactly the look you’re after at your doors - inside or out. I made mine using cute Paris-themed burlap I got at a fabric store a few years ago but any sturdy material will work.
Materials:
Flat rubber door mat. You can get the size you like or you can cut down a larger one. I decided to cut the corners of mine diagonally for a bit more individuality. (I got mine at the dollar store)
Burlap or upholstery-weight or canvas material, measuring at least 6 inches wider and longer than your mat.
Tape - I used Tuck Tape (no affiliation)
Scissors
Polyurethane spray or liquid
Foam brush if using polyurethane liquid
Yup, that and 15 minutes are all you need to create a stylish decorative mat. It’s so easy, you could make one for every season. It’s extremely long-wearing: I made the original mat at least 4 years ago and have had it at my kitchen patio doors winter and summer ever since, with the afternoon sun beating down on it daily. It’s only just worn at the edges this year, so was due for a recover. Since I love the look of the burlap I’d used originally, I used more to recover it.
Method:
Lay your material on your cutting surface, right side down. Lay your mat on top of the material, and cut the material it so there is 3-4 inches of material around the mat on all sides. You’ll be turning this under and securing it with the tape on the underside. Re-center your mat on the material, again with right sides down.
Here, I’m almost done recovering the mat. There’s a turned-under edge and tape along the bottom, from my first mat project, which I decided to just leave in place. I’ve taped down the diagonal corners and three of the four straight corners. I’ve never had to replace the tape.
I started taping the sides down at the four corners, folding each edge down and creasing them first. Tape down the four corners, pulling the material slightly at each corner so it lays smoothly on the front. Fold over and pre crease each side, taping a side then its opposite side, to keep them smooth.
Protect your mat by spraying or brushing with polyurethane and let it dry according to product instructions before using. As you can see, the older burlap is slightly darker along the bottom of the picture because I brushed some polyurethane around the outside edge of the underside as well as the top.
What do you think? We’d love to see your creations if you decide to make a lovely floor mat like this for your home, so send us pictures!
