Floorcloth construction is a relatively easy project requiring only a few tools and materials; in fact, the hardest part about this endevor is deciding on the design you wish to paint. There are a number of approaches: hand-painting, stenciling, air-brushing, sponging or rag-rolling, just to name a few.

Begin with a canvas that has been primed. That way, the material has already shrunk, and pre-primed canvas has a wonderfully smooth surface. If you choose to tackle the job yourself, you will have a slightly rougher surface that may require sanding between coats. It is best if the canvas can be stretched onto a frame if you are priming it yourself, otherwise it will wrinkle and buckle. This may be a necessity if you are using sailcloth or some other fabric, or want to work with a size that is larger than most retail stores carry. Pre-primed canvas can also be tacked down, but it is usually stiff enough to simply paint on.