Numerous sites mentioned using porch & floor paint so I went with that. I also read about using Frogtape (a painters tape) to keep the lines crisp. A foam brush was used for the stencil and a 4 inch roller and brush was used for the larger areas.
I measured the area, did a design sketch, and then started taping.
I decided to paint the entire area with the lightest color. I figured this would give me a "blank canvas" to start with.
According to the tape package directions I needed to wait 3 days before applying the tape to newly painted surfaces. I gave it a few more days due to the humid weather. Then the fun of laying out the tape began. I had to figure out which areas to paint first in order to get the tape down correctly. I double checked the measurements and placement and ended up moving the tape a few times.
Part one painted! after this was done I waited almost a week until I could apply new tape for the next color.
now the checkerboard pattern is starting to take shape.
the tassels of the rug were handpainted with a small brush.
now the stenciling starts! I stenciled all of the cream colored squares first, then waited a week and stenciled the green squares. The stencil is called "starflower" and is made by www.thecraftersworkshop.com
Behold the completed rug! I like how it turned out.
I've read a few places NOT to apply a sealer since it may discolor the paint and make the surface slippery. Now all I need is to add some chairs, a small table, and an ice cold beverage for a relaxing retreat.
