Chloe's Corner: Zebra Rug

I might just be crazy... would you believe that this rug was originally a yoga mat?!?  While finishing up Chloe's Corner, my adorable daughter decided that she likes to move furniture around the house as much as mommy does.  So I found myself in need of a rubber mat to land her table on.  After looking around, I really didn't want to spend $20 on a package of rubber tiles that I would only use six out of twenty.  Not really a good investment in my book.  So as I was on the hunt for another project, I saw my old WiiFit yoga mat (you know, the one that comes with the Wii).  Since I already have my "good" yoga mat, this one was always just shoved in a closet.  Don't ask me why but my my first thought was... Zebra Skin Rug!!!

What you need: 

• Yoga Mat
• Scissors
• Duct Tape
• Sharpie
• Primer
• Acrylic Craft Paint
• Spray Polyurethane

How to do it: 

Once you get your assistant off the mat :)

I cut my mat in half at the narrowest point & duct taped the two pieces together on the back to achieve a wider mat.

I drew out a simplified hide shape & cut it out.  *** Cut on the inside of your marker line.  The primer does not like to cover permanent marker.***

Use your favorite primer, mine happens to be Kilz No Odor.  And start painting.  You will have to do at least two coats.  I had to do three.  Pesky Wii Green!  Once all your coats have dried start painting on your stripes.  I free handed, but you could sketch it out first.

Your final step is to spray your rug with two coats of clear polyurethane to protect your work.  To clean, just simply wipe with a damp cloth.

This same technique could be used for rugs in the kitchen, a mudroom or even outdoors.  You don't have to do a zebra either.  The possibilities are endless.  Stencils would be great for this application.

Cheers- K