Domaci Design Studio Spotlight on Vintage Vinyl Floorcloths

From the moment Derrick and I first discovered Vintage Vinyl Floorcloths nearly 8 years ago now during one of our buying trips to the world-famous High Point Furniture Market, we knew that we had to have them for Domaci (and our own home). We introduced them to our eclectic product mix within just a few months of opening our brick and mortar store, and they were an immediate hit with our customers both in store and online. Our guests loved the fact that they are made semi-locally (in Carlisle, PA) and were captivated with the nostalgic designs, especially the star-patterned styles which became instant best-sellers.

Over 300 Unique Patterns

Nearly a decade later sales of the retro-inspired vinyl floorcloths remain very strong, thanks to a combination of practical good looks, durability, versatility, and low-maintenance. They are ideal for homes with kids and pets! The selection of patterns and styles continues to grow each year with looks ranging from aged tile to hardwood parquetry, classic Persian carpets, vintage linoleum, and more! With well over 300 unique patterns and over a dozen standard size options, there is truly a design for everyone. Many patterns are even available in custom sizes! 

Timeless & Durable

Vinyl floorcloths are a modern take on one of the earliest forms of floor coverings. Handmade floor cloths, a popular craft during the 18th and 19th centuries, were heavily oiled and decorated pieces of canvas, wool, linen, or cotton. Though decorative, floor cloths were quite durable. They were placed over stone or plank floors and could withstand the coming and going of shoes throughout the seasons. Floor cloths were considered water-resistant and could be easily cleaned compared to a rug or carpet. Primarily heavy oil-based paints were used to color them. These paints added a considerable amount of weight and durability once the fabric dried. To make a floor cloth, designers would begin with a heavy fabric such as canvas. They would cut it and seal it to protect the material from being damaged by the oil they would use next. The oil-based paint they used is what gave its colorful design, which could be used to make intricate patterns. A varnish would then be applied between coats, making a heavy-duty flooring that somewhat resembled leather. Early floor cloths were simple and usually lacked decoration. As the craft improved, checkered print and other geometric designs emerged. Hand-painted designs, floral patterns, and faux marble prints later became popular styles.Vinyl floor cloths continued to be popular until the introduction of linoleum. Since it was more affordable and could easily be mass-produced, many people made the switch.  

Home decor trends eventually created a renewed demand for this area rug alternative, and Pennsylvania-based Spicher & Company became the industry leaders when it developed a two-ply vinyl with a latex padded backing that was strong, flexible, and held onto its vibrant colors. Enter the Vintage Vinyl® floor cloth, evoking the styles of centuries past on a modern non-slip, lay-flat, easy-to-clean surface. 

Discover Vinyl Floorcloths at Domaci

Today, Domaci offers Spicher's made-to-order Vintage Vinyl Floorcloths to our customers both locally and nationwide in several key collections and categories: 

• Classic (from basic and simple to ornate Victorian and retro linoleum)
• Williamsburg (updates of more traditional floor cloth patterns)
• Persian Bazaar (intricate patterns that call to mind grand palaces and faraway places)
• Mosaics (classic and edgy tiled patterns one might see in a New York City subway station)
• Artisanry and Norwegian Wood (designs that look like real wood, complete with grain and knots)
• American Folk Art Museum (Americana quilt-inspired patterns) 

Vinyl floorcloths can quickly and easily bring new life to nearly any room of your home—whether you need to conceal old or unsightly flooring or just want a fresh look. While intended as an alternative to area rugs, they can also be used to cover a room from wall-to-wall. For a more permanent application, they can be installed using a commercial-flooring adhesive. Because floor cloths don’t require rug pads—which can stick to the floor and leave adhesive behind—there’s no risk of damage to the flooring underneath (making them perfect for those renting their homes). They are even outdoor-safe, as long as they’re protected from the elements and moisture isn't allowed to collect beneath them.

The low-profile design makes them an excellent choice in entryways and rooms where too-thick rugs make it hard to open and close doors. And they’re a boon to family members with allergies because unlike rugs and carpets, they don’t harbor dust. And unlike many mass-produced vinyl materials, Vintage Vinyl Floorcloths are certified low VOC and do not contain harmful phthalates.

Want to learn more about our collection of Vintage Vinyl Floorcloths? Contact us.  

Shop floorcloths at domacihome.com
Based in Bethlehem, PA and Delivering Nationwide
Call us (484) 212-5610
Email us hello@domacihome.com

Get more information about Vinyl Floorcloths in Domaci's Guest Services Product Knowledge section at domacihome.com