Jennifer Frantz is an artist who believes art should be seen as well as used - visually apparent and appealing on a daily basis. Art historically documents our past, particularly during the seventeenth and eighteenth centuries. Her love of art ??? particularly folk art that is functional by design, lead to the design and creation of Americana Floorcloths.

Floorcloths or ???oyl??? cloths were first created by the Masons in 15th century Ireland, spreading throughout Europe and brought over to colonial America in the early 1700???s. Made from worn sails, the canvas was painted then "oyled" from whales slaughted on whailing ships. These were the carpets of the average man. Carpeting was not readily available or affordable and the floorcloths kept drafts at bay in winter and floors cooler in the summer months.

Following traditional methods, heavyweight 22 oz. cotton canvas is painted with corners mitered and edges folded and creased then cemented into place. You see, this canvas is too heavy to be sewn. The design is inspired from research and imagination then painted from the mind???s eye in traditional colors of that period. Jennifer refers to the National Trust of Historic Preservation for period color authenticity. Ten coats of paint are applied to ensure longevity. Finally, 4 coats of poly-acrylic finish and stain producie an antiqued, water-proof, and stain-resistant finish. As a result, these rugs are virtually indestructible ??? they feel like leather instead of painted canvas ??? durable, yet flexible. The end result is a beautiful, one of a kind piece, a family heirloom that can be handed down from generation to generation.