CHECKERBOARD A FLOOR

HOW DIFFICULT IS IT?

Easy

EQUIPMENT NEEDED:

cardboard or wood for template masking tape floor paint brush

When creative consultant Matilda Goad moved into her new home, the corridors were covered in a tired carpet. “We pulled up the carpet and the floorboards were in good condition but had that distinctive orange tone pine often does. Rather than painting them a solid colour I wanted to create something more exciting,” she says. Goad is pleased with the finished look (pictured, right). “The corridor joins two rooms that have seagrass carpets, so the contrast in textures works well, while helping to trick the eye into enlarging the space.”

HOW TO DO IT:

“Before you start, the boards need to be sanded back to remove any residue and then wiped clean,” says Goad. “If you want a two-tone effect, paint the base coat first; or you can leave the floorboards bare.”

To determine the pattern, draw a diamond on a piece of paper and cut a few of them to lay on the floor. The size of it is up to you – but a smaller shape will appear more busy. Use this to create a permanent template out of cardboard or, ideally, wood. Make sure that your angles are precise and the sides match up.

Then, starting in the middle of the floor, work outwards, marking around the template in masking tape. It is a good idea to then mark on the side of the tape which areas should be left, and which will be painted. Carefully paint the diamonds you want coloured in with a brush. Apply another coat when it is dry. When you’re happy, wait until it is dry and peel off the masking tape.”

matildagoad.com