15 May 2022

New Life for an Old Doormat

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We have a throw-away culture. It's easy and it's convenient. I'm training myself to be thoughtful about my purchases so that they can be reused a million times. And if these items are teetering on the end of its purpose, maybe there's a way to give it new life? This is what I call "blah to TADA!"

painting an old doormat, floor mat handprinted rug, painter's tape, fabric paint, paint brush, crafts, handmade, recycle, upcycle, blah to TADA, crafty recycling

Take this doormat for example. I got it on clearance and I use it on the balcony doorstep. We only really use the balcony in warmer months so this doesn't get a lot of foot traffic. It's a washable doormat so the color (vibrant green stripes) has faded over time. 

painting an old doormat, floor mat handprinted rug, painter's tape, fabric paint, paint brush, crafts, handmade, recycle, upcycle, blah to TADA, crafty recycling

Here are the materials I used: paint brush, fabric paint, tape (I used packing tape because I didn't have painter's tape), and newspaper.

painting an old doormat, floor mat handprinted rug, painter's tape, fabric paint, paint brush, crafts, handmade, recycle, upcycle, blah to TADA, crafty recycling

I wanted to re-do the stripes, this time in black and the existing white. Here I am taping some sections. Apply the tape from top to bottom and rub it on the fabric. That way the paint won't seep in.

painting an old doormat, floor mat handprinted rug, painter's tape, fabric paint, paint brush, crafts, handmade, recycle, upcycle, blah to TADA, crafty recycling

I painted the stripes using about three to four coats of paint. This really depends on how dark you want the shade to be. 

painting an old doormat, floor mat handprinted rug, painter's tape, fabric paint, paint brush, crafts, handmade, recycle, upcycle, blah to TADA, crafty recycling

Let it dry for a few days.

painting an old doormat, floor mat handprinted rug, painter's tape, fabric paint, paint brush, crafts, handmade, recycle, upcycle, blah to TADA, crafty recycling

Then peel off the tape. There are some flaws, I know, but I'm pretty pleased that my tired doormat has been given a face lift.

painting an old doormat, floor mat handprinted rug, painter's tape, fabric paint, paint brush, crafts, handmade, recycle, upcycle, blah to TADA, crafty recycling

It remains utilitarian for the years to come. 

That's how I turned an old doormat from blah to TADA! 

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3 comments:

  1. It turned out great! I think this would be a good technique if someone saw a rug or doormat at a second-hand store; no need to buy new.

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    Replies
    1. So true, Priscilla! Let's reuse and reduce if we're able...then we have a crafty project to be proud about!

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