Alternative uses for oilcloth

One reason oilcloth is so fantastic to work with is because it’s so versatile! Here are a few suggestions to inspire you to get creative with yours.

Drawer Liners

If your furniture is looking a bit dull and boring, you can spice up old fixtures by fitting them with pretty oilcloth liners! Transform the floor of your wardrobe with a splash of Sophia Sage, or line those drab drawers with a cutting of Victorian Latte. Not only will this add eye-catching and fresh detail to your fixtures, it’ll protect your surfaces from getting damaged by stains and scratches – if you’re the sort to haphazardly fling your perfume in the back of a drawer (which I am).

Tepees

If your kids are on their sixth screaming circuit around your living room, create a make-shift tepee using sticks of tied wood and a sheet of oilcloth. For a sturdy design you can follow this handy online tutorial which is perfect for a playtime prop to keep your little ones busy! Great tot-tailored oilcloth patterns include Two by Two and Vinny Multi. Oilcloth, unlike your conventional fabrics, is waterproof so you can relocate this into the garden without having to worry about the possibility of rain ruining your creation. And if one of your kids happens to run at it sloshing a cup of juice; well, you needn’t worry about that either!

Bags

For a fabulous waterproof weekend bag or cosmetics case; you can’t go far wrong using an oilcloth base for a pretty and practical design. Bird Trail and Victoria Lace make gorgeous patterns for sweet and simple bag designs (of which you can find loads on the internet). The easiest design I’ve found so far is an oblong of material folded in half and sewn up on two sides with a drawstring fastening on the one side left open.  Bring on those girly sleepovers and weekends away!

Aprons

A common use for the humble oilcloth is a waterproof apron. A great DIY pattern for a simple kitchen skirt-shield can be found here, and we particularly favour Tea Time Pink or Kew Soft in the creation of these fancy accessories.  Feel free to add extra practical touches such as pockets and frills where desired – although not too many ribbons and bows for fear of becoming a fire-hazard!

Coasters

This is such a simple and beautiful addition to your kitchen design that I’m surprised it isn’t used more often! You’ll need some sheets of cork or cardboard (which can be found at craft stores) and your favourite oilcloth designs. Place your card or cork bases on the fabric side of your oilcloth after spraying with a strong spray adhesive, and then carefully cut around the edge using a craft knife. Leave them to dry, and then display them in pride of place for visitors to admire.

Do you have any great alternative ways to use oilcloth? Comment and let us know how creative you can be!

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