Brown Paper + Walnut Stain = Mocha Love March 22, 2011 DIY, Eco Friendly Projects, Home Decor, Tutorials 104 Comments 56648 ********If you are new to my paper floors, please read this first********** You’re probably tired of hearing about my basement staircase makeover. I’m sorry. This project has been taking over my life. Therefore, as faithful readers, it will take over your lives as well (seriously, thank you for your patience). I want to share with you the upstairs version with Minwax Dark Walnut stain. The only difference from the process used in the basement is that I rubbed the stain onto the paper after the glue dried with a rag before poly-ing. The resulting flooring is nothing short of stunning. Even people who are not related to me have loved it! In case you forgot what it used to look like, here’s the before shot with the carpet (and the old paint). And now, the fresh and sophisticated after: Another angle: In order to make the risers clean, smooth, and white, I had Mike cut out pieces of 1/8″ hardboard (near the pegboard at HD or Lowes, comes in 2×4 sheets). I painted them with Glidden Semi-Gloss off the shelf white and attached them to the plywood risers with liquid nails. I still have to caulk the seams, but for now I’m done. I have to move on to the upstairs floor or I feel I’ll lose motivation to rip up the rest of the carpet! What do you all think? It doesn’t look like anything I’ve ever seen at a floor store, but I’ve seen some leather floors online that resemble it. Some people have said it looks a little like cork. I’ll take either comparison! For the full tutorial, click here. *****Linked Up***** 104 Responses TishSch March 22, 2011 I like your stair redo…but I’m sooo LOVING that darker color! Really adds a “classy”-ness to it! (I know, that’s probably not even a real word, but you probably know what I mean anyway! LOL!) And that’s a great idea on the risers, too. You almost make me want to try this technique! So, you add the stain after you put the paper down but before you poly it? Do you have any problems with paper edges curling up after the poly is applied or is it all pretty smooth? Thanks for sharing your pictures. You do a FABULOUS job! Reply Lovely Crafty Home March 22, 2011 Tish- After 6 coats it is smooth…I mean there is texture from the paper but no edges peeling 🙂 Reply Jennifer Juniper March 22, 2011 Paper, for real?!? I didn’t even know you could do this! Can’t wait to see how it wears! Reply Lovely Crafty Home March 22, 2011 Isn’t it crazy?? All reports I’ve heard say that it wears really well, but I’m not that worried about it because it’s easy to fix if I need to! Can’t wait to rip up the carpet on the whole upper level! Reply Tina August 27, 2014 I have brown bags that friends/shopping have provided me with. Okay, I torn and crinkled and it took a long time. No problem, I have time. However, as it dried, I have bags that are flat without any depth and then I have bags that look like they have “veins.” I really like the second….how on earth am I going to make these match. I can’t tell what bag will produce what. Some look like they will have the “vein” look, but whe they dry, they’re flat. Any suggestions? I have spent 19 hours on this already (not including the tearing and crinkling)…?help. MojoMama March 22, 2011 Every time you post about this floor redo, I almost get butterflies in my stomach! I LOVE the whole idea of it, and someday, when we own a home, I fully plan to rip up some flooring to do this with it, I love it so much! And I LOVE it with the stain! Your whole house is simply gorgeous, and getting more and more so every day! Reply Lovely Crafty Home March 22, 2011 Thank you so much!! I feel like I’m beating a dead horse, but I really am loving it and want to get the word out there about this type of treatment as an affordable flooring option! Reply Kayla March 22, 2011 I love this! It looks so rich in color and texture…you did a fabulous job! Reply Pam March 22, 2011 Very cool look! Ingenious to use paper. Sort of looks like cork flooring. Reply Andrea Surrey March 23, 2011 This is simply amazing! I am your newest follower. Reply Cindy March 23, 2011 I love this! I have been looking for something to do to my basement floors and this is it! I’m glad you keep posting about it, so I’m continually reminded of what we’re going to do this summer. It is gorgeous!! Reply Dennise March 23, 2011 I am in AWE of your floor/stairs makeovers! I had seen this technique years ago and was intrigued then! You have done a terrific job and obviously inspired many to attempt this in their own homes. This technique can also be used as wallpaper and it actually resembles leather on the walls. Too kewl! Reply Heather R. March 23, 2011 This is absolutely stunning! Makes me wish I HAD stairs just so I could do it too! Reply Meg March 23, 2011 That’s beautiful! I might have to check out previous posts to see what this “paper” method is all about! Great job. Reply Terri K March 24, 2011 Have you thought about trying this out with different types of paper? I have heard of people using the gray BOGUS paper, red rosin paper, and various colored craft paper in doing floors, walls, furniture etc …. Reply Lovely Crafty Home March 24, 2011 I have thought about using different paper, but ultimately the only look I really loved was the brown paper. The red paper was WAY too red looking for me, and things like newspaper, bookpages, or other paper just didn’t really scream “floor” to me. I wanted something that was interesting, but that didn’t make people immediately think my floors were paper. But other papers might be cool for a kids room, walls, or furniture! Reply Susie March 24, 2011 I’ve been lurking for a few weeks now and wanted to let you know that I am in totally awe at both the look and the guts you have to tackle so many kewl things! As soon as it warms up, I’m going to do this to my nasty looking staircase as well. My only concern is the possible slipperyness (is that a word?) Is there much traction with all those poly coats? thanks! Reply Lovely Crafty Home March 24, 2011 Susie- the best comparison I have is that it feels the same as a hardwood tread. I’m pretty klutzy, and I haven’t fallen yet haha. Reply Jami @ An Oregon Cottage March 25, 2011 Rachael, this is fabulous with the stain! We’re going to do our master to match the kids rooms this summer, but I’m thinking I might want to stain it after looking at this! Great job. 😉 Reply Lovely Crafty Home March 25, 2011 Thanks Jami!! I think the stain would look awesome in a bathroom. Can’t wait to see it! (I’m still trying to find the time to start the upstairs LOL) Reply Meghan March 25, 2011 Absolutely stunning! Reply Lisa March 26, 2011 Fabulous and wildly creative! Looks a hundred times better. Great job. Reply Sommer March 27, 2011 Okay I just saw someone else recently who did this and I am still in awe that stairs can look this good with brown paper! I mean who knew? I love the stain you choose, it’s so rich and elegant looking. Beautiful work! I would love to have you share this at my VIP party today =) http://designergarden.blogspot.com/2011/03/vip-party-8.html Reply Lovely Crafty Home March 27, 2011 Thanks for stopping by! I’ll pop over to your party for sure 🙂 Reply sommer March 27, 2011 Thanks so much for linking up! Hope to see you again next Friday =) Reply Kassi @ Truly Lovely March 28, 2011 It’s so hard to believe those were made with paper!!! They look just stunning!!! Thanks for sharing these at our Fancy This party!! Reply Diane@InMyOwnStyle March 29, 2011 I love working with brown paper and love what you did with it to your stairs. WOW – it goes to show you that the unconventional way works just as well or in this case better. I shared this on Fb . Love it. My best- Diane Reply gfandco-interiors March 29, 2011 I can’t believe you did this with paper! it is just stunning and a fab idea!!! Reply Randi Thomason March 30, 2011 OK, this is my new favoritest (yes I made it up lol) thing EVAH!!!! My hubby just hasn’t a clue what awaits him this weekend!! I live in a rental, and I’m fortunate that they don’t care what I do to the place (mostly cause they are CHEAP, but that’s another story) but I’m not investing a lot of money in a house that isn’t going to be mine, not to mention, if I mess it up or hate it (not too likely, the hating part anyways) I don’t have to worry about it, I can just move!! LOL I love your blog btw!!! Reply Alison's Rugs March 31, 2011 Any way to do this elsewhere as I have no stairs but love the look. Is it possible to do on the walls, bottom third? Then maybe a wood trim with solid paint above? You’re the expert, let me know. Reply Lovely Crafty Home April 1, 2011 You could totally try it as a sort of “wainscot,” that would be neat! I know people who have done this treatment on furniture as well. Reply Sandy April 1, 2011 Hi I just found you and would never have thought of using paperbags. How many did you use, and did you cut them into strips aor just tear them? I would love to try this since my basement stairs have carpet on them that is older then I am. Reply Lovely Crafty Home April 1, 2011 Sandy- I actually used brown craft paper which is found near the drop cloth at home improvement stores. It was $10 for a giant roll (I did two sets of stairs and a hallway with one roll). I tore everything, it’s more organic that way. You could definitely use grocery bags if you have them though! Reply Kim April 1, 2011 I found your blog thru Addicted 2 Decorating and I fell IN LOVE with your steps!!! Im so wishing I would have found this prior to priming mine to be painted. I had my house renovated and new hardwoods put in. While my steps are new, I was completely undecided on whether to carpet them or stain. Decided to paint my bare/naked/blah steps with some funky pattern until…I SAW HEAVEN IN THE FORM OF YOUR AMAZING IDEA!!! So now I have lovely white primed steps and want to finish it up using your idea. Will the primer make this process difficult or am I ok to get a move on this this weekend? Reply Lovely Crafty Home April 1, 2011 Aww thanks so much for the compliment, Kim! The primer should be fine, since it’s designed to be grabby. But if you want you could rough it up with a little sandpaper first. Also- I have found that it helps to brush the surface with glue in the area you’re working before you lay the paper down-keeps the bubbles away. Good luck! I hope you share when you are done 🙂 Reply heymudda April 1, 2011 It’s a good thing you took pictures – otherwise I would have to say you were fibbing! Your floor made my heart flutter…but in a good way. I am sending your blog to EVERYONE I know and I’m following you from now on. SIMPLY AMAZING! Reply Laura April 2, 2011 I love this project. I have been dying to find something to do to my basement stairs because I really don’t want to carpet them. I’ve made up my mind and this is totally what I’m going to do! Thanks so much for the idea 🙂 Laura Reply Rachel Sue April 4, 2011 Such an awesome project! I would love to feature this on my blog, Reduce, Reuse, Upcycle. Feel free to stop by and grab a featured button. Thanks! http://reuseandupcycle.blogspot.com Reply Lovely Crafty Home April 5, 2011 Wow thanks!! I’ll look out for it! Reply An AMAZING (and Budget-Friendly) Flooring Makeover | The Art of Placement April 15, 2011 […] stunning. For more on this project, head over to Lovely Crafty Home, or you can see her tutorial here. It sounds like this may have been a pretty labor-intensive […] Reply Nueyer April 22, 2011 OMG!! That is so cool!! Reply Lina April 22, 2011 Hi, Ok so OMG OMG OMG !!!! I love the stairs, especially the darker ones…what a awesome affordable idea! I just tore up the nasty carpet in our basement and am in the process of moving the nasty old paint and old glue from tiles fromt he previous owners..and could not think of what we could do besides paint it that was affordable…Do you think it would work on concrete? and also can it be painted a color or color stain(like light green etc) before the poly? THANK YOU SOOOOO MUCH FOR THE IDEA!! Lina Reply Lovely Crafty Home April 22, 2011 Lina- I think it would work on concrete, just make sure you brush glue on the floor in addition to dipping the paper into it. I would imagine you could paint it…what I did was get a small piece of mdf (like 2×3 ft) and do the treatment on there with the stain to make sure I liked it. I bet you could do the same type of “test swatch” and try different colors and stains to choose one. Just keep in mind since the paper is brown that might affect how other non-brown colors look on top. If you end up going with paint, I’d love to see it! Be sure to come by and share! Reply Lina April 23, 2011 I will let you know if I do it…still scraping off the stupid paint and old glue…even with stripper it is never ending..lol…thank you for ansering so many bloggers dont respond..have a happy easter.. =), Lina Vicky April 22, 2011 I would love to do this to the stairs leading to our basement. I worry that this treatment will leave them slick and if the kids have wet shoes on and hurry too fast down the stairs they might fall. Since you have them, what do you think, are they slick? lol Reply Lovely Crafty Home April 22, 2011 Vicky- We don’t have children so I can’t speak to that aspect, but none of us have slipped. I could imagine it’s possible. It’s like having hardwood treads. You could always put a runner down them! Reply Lina April 26, 2011 HI, Ok so i did the first step on mdf today to see how it comes out…but my question(s) is am I supposed to over lap the papers or just connect them with minor overlapping? Also when i test the stain colors tomorrow , how many coats of stain did you use? Thank you in advance.. Lina Reply Lovely Crafty Home April 26, 2011 I overlapped mine quite a bit in some areas, but not as a general rule. Mainly I just looked at the next torn piece and decided where it’d fill the space best. That probably doesn’t help too much, but I really didn’t think about it. There are thicker and thinner areas, for sure. With the dark walnut, it only took 1 coat-the paper absorbs stain MUCH better than wood. Good luck! Reply Lina April 27, 2011 thanks,,,, i tested the colors green(not dark) and a light blue stain …way way way to HELLO LOOK AT ME..so i am going to copy your floor lol…I have never used stain though, and am sure it is different when being used this way. But do I put it on the paper until there is no paper showing , like thickly? Or thinly? Sorry to keep bugging you… Lina Lovely Crafty Home April 27, 2011 No worries, I’m happy to help! You will be surprised how much color you get from one coat of stain. The main thing is to make sure your stain is stirred well but do not shake it or have it shaken. Stir it thoroughly with a stick, but slowly. Dip your rag in and just wipe all over, you have a little bit of time to blend everything, but it would be hard to go lighter than what I’ve done with that color. You’ll probably have to cut it around the edges/baseboard with a brush and then go in with your rag to blend everything together. I’d try it on your test board right over whatever you’ve already done to see how it feels. The whole paper will basically be saturated. Wear disposable gloves! Lina May 4, 2011 so i am not sure if its the mdf or what…but i tested the brown craft paper and the walnut stain out on a scrap piece of mdf…im not sure about it..yours is so beautiful on the website? mine looks kinda oily and more ..just little darker version of the craft paper itself? i bought the minwax dark walnut stain? this is without poly-ing it of course…so i am afraid to do it to the floor? your pictures came out like a dark mocha color, am i doing something wrong? helpppp please.. Lina Jenny May 5, 2011 I am considering doing this treatment on a concrete floor. I watched the video from “anoregoncottage.com” at http://www.anoregoncottage.com/2010/08/video-diy-alternative-to-wood-floors.html — I am worried about the bubbles or actually wrinkles that appear due to the glue. To me, it looks like your floor must not have had very many if any wrinkles from the glue. Is that true? On a scale of 1-3 what glue amount did you use? I noticed above you stated it was key to roll the glue on the floor first. After rolling the glue on the floor did you add extra to the back of paper and top like an oregon cottage did? Reply Lovely Crafty Home May 5, 2011 Jenny I didn’t really get many wrinkles. It may look like it at first, but when the floor dries I didn’t see any that were an issue. My technique I think is a bit different than hers. I actually brush the floor with the glue mixture in addition to crumpling my paper and putting it in the glue. I’m not sure if the glue in both areas is what helps or not, or if it’s just that I really soak the paper. I dunked the balls of paper and sort of squeezed them into tighter balls while in the glue, then opened them up and did it again. You don’t want any dry spots. But there is a fine line between wet and almost too wet to work with. Once you start, you will quickly realize where the line is. Too wet and it tears easily. I guess it’s probably between a 2 and a 3. Hope that helps! Reply Megan July 16, 2011 Hi Rachael, I recently used this technique in our recently renovated attic which is being used as my husband’s design studio. LOVE how it turned out. I used a gray stain over the brown paper. Anywho, we are fixing the stairs next, and I was wondering how you feel this technique is holding up to stair traffic. It seems to be fine on the floors, but I wondered if you were noticing it wearing differently on the treads. Thanks! Love your site, btw. Reply Lovely Crafty Home July 17, 2011 Megan- I bet the gray stain looks awesome! I have found the stairs have held up really well actually. I have 12 coats of poly on them and have had no problems! Reply Kaylyn November 4, 2012 Hey Rachael or Megan! I am looking to maybe do this to my upstairs bedrooms which are currently carpet. Under the carpet is thick plywood. I was wondering if (Megan) your attic floors were made similar to this and how it turned out with the paper bag flooring or if (Rachael) you would think it would work well in this situation? I know that stairs are usually made of wood but I still want to double check. Thanks! Kaylyn Reply Brittany July 28, 2011 I am wondering how it is holding up. I am looking into doing this on my stairs, landing and hallway upstairs. And Maybe in the bedrooms. How is it holding up with traffic? I have a 6 year old and a almost 3 year old. I also have 2 dogs. Does it wear well or is it holding up? I am just so curious. I an also going to do it in the basement. I love this. I found you on Pinterest! Reply Lovely Crafty Home July 28, 2011 Brittany- So far it is looking great, especially the stairs for some reason. We have had some scratches from our dog during a few crazy running bursts, but her normal activity doesn’t cause any problems. It is similar to hardwood in that way. I can mop it like my hardwoods though so that’s great. The only other thing I would suggest is to really let it cure for at least 24 hours before you move furniture on it. I did my brother’s room most recently and there is a HUGE quality difference between his room and the guest room because it was a rush job- like 48 hours for the whole process. I would NOT recommend that. The longer you can let each layer of poly dry before applying the next, the better. The guest room floor is perfect because I was able to take my time. The last room left is our master which I’m dreading because it’s the size of the other two combined plus we obviously live in it and would be displaced UGH. How’s this, if you start yours, I’ll start mine? Reply Kim July 30, 2011 Amazing job and amazing site! So…. I’ve done the downstairs bathroom floor this way, have glued down my pieces and it’s dry and looks GREAT! Next step: the stain. Problem is that I think I’m ruining it!!! What kind of stain did you use exactly? I got the waterbased Miniwax stain in superdark Bombay Mahogany and it is looking WAaaaaaaaayyyy sucky. The paper is sucking it in, and it’s drying and showing the wipe marks, not letting me blend and when I rub or blot a little harder to blend, the paper looks like it’s threatening to tear. Did you use an oil based stain or water based….or the poly/stain combo? And what kind of rag? Did you saturate your rag? I’m going to have to re-paper the area that I’ve tried it out on as it looks beyond horrible. 🙁 Help! Reply Lovely Crafty Home July 30, 2011 Oh no Kim! The paper does really suck up stain, but I used oil-based (not with poly) so I’m not sure if there is a difference. To do the large floor areas, I used a long handled lambswool mop- like the kind used for staining a deck. It is basically a rectangular pad on a stick. It helps it go on smoother and faster without you having to rub everything really quickly. I took a paint brush and cut in around the baseboards in the area I was working (i.e., not the whole room at once) then used the mop in the rest of the room.The staining is the trickiest part, but I think if you get the lambswool setup you’ll have better results. I used a paint tray and dipped the mop end in the “pool” of stain then sort of pressed it out on the ridged part of the tray. Let me know how it goes! Reply Kim July 30, 2011 Thank you so much for the super duper fast response! I am re-papering/glue-ing the messed up area as we speak….er…um…type. Once it’s fully dry I’ll try the oil based stain WITH the pad. I bet that was the problem. When I used the rag to apply it, the edges seemed to be pretty testy with me and were sometimes lifting up and I bet the water based situation just made it sink into the paper too fast to blend. Questions: When you initially apply the stain, how heavy do you apply it… do you leave the stain opaque or are you able to see the paper edges and wrinkles through it right away? Wondering how much stain you’re pressing off when you press against the ridges. YOU ARE APPRECIATED! Have a fantastico day! Lovely Crafty Home July 31, 2011 Kim- I press out the pad enough for it to not be drippy. But the lambswool is more absorbent then a rag so that already takes care of a lot of the over-application problem for you if that makes sense. I liked the look of it really dark, you can see the edges and wrinkles, but not the original color of the paper at all. Hope that helps! Kim August 16, 2011 Hooray! Good news! I went with the Minwax Jacobean oil based stain and it looks amazing! Applied with the lambskin applicator and wiped off with a bit of old bath towel… But a problem…..it’s been 24 hours and the stain is still tacky and sticky to the touch. Temps are over 70’s inside with low humidity. How long did it take for your floors to be un-sticky? Lovely Crafty Home August 16, 2011 I’m so glad the oil based worked better for you!! In my case, the stain never really did dry to be non-tacky, If you can tiptoe in some socks and apply the first coat of poly (I also did it with the mop thing, but you use a sponge pad), it won’t be sticky for subsequent coats. If you have time to try letting it dry for another day, that might help. Kim August 23, 2011 OH MY GOSH I LOVE MY FLOOR! I’m curious, did you guys use satin or semi-gloss poly? I used Varathane Floor Poly in High Gloss and am really liking the super shiny finish in the bathroom. I put a good 6 coats on and it is amazing. I was hemming and hawing about what finish to put, and after researching, found out that a “piano finish” with the high gloss is a high end finish for hardwood floors and if I ever tire of it, I can add a coat of semi-gloss or satin over the top later to tone it down. I also read that going the other way, from satin to gloss won’t work because it will just look cloudy. You blog inspired me to start my own and I’ve posted my faux granite countertop and faux coved ceiling treatment, but haven’t got my floors on there yet because I want to finish painting my trim white first. Thanks again for all of your help with my floors!!! <3 Lovely Crafty Home August 24, 2011 Kim I’m so glad!! I used satin because I did my whole upstairs and didn’t want it to look overwhelming. Plus we have hardwood downstairs that’s not glossy and I wanted it to blend. It sounds like yours looks amazing though! Can’t wait to see! Kim August 30, 2011 Here it is! The final product. I really like the high gloss finish. Now I’m thinking I have to use it in the entire house. After researching I hear they call it “piano finish” and is a “high end” trend in hardwoods these days. PLUS if I ever tire of it, I can just add a coat of satin over the top. See the pics here: http://mossisawesome.wordpress.com/2011/08/29/stained-paper-floor-awesomeness-under-30-diy-hardwoodlaminate-floor-alternative/ Stained Paper Floor Awesomeness!~ Under $30 DIY Hardwood/Laminate Floor Alternative | mossisawesome August 29, 2011 […] paper color. I really wanted a dark floor, so finding this site was a total game changer for me: Lovely Crafty Home. Finally, I had issue with the “satin” or muted finish of all the paper flooring sites […] Reply Nina September 28, 2011 Oh my GRACIOUS holy monkeys!! I LOVE this!!!! Okay…tell me this…how long does it take for the floor sealer to dry in between coats? I would love to do, like, my whole house (LOL) but my hubs might not love that idea. I have 2 small kiddos, and a one level house…I don’t want to be grounded to one room. =) Any suggestions? Reply Lovely Crafty Home September 29, 2011 Nina- I used a fast dry sealer, but they still really want you to wait 4-6 hours between coats. You could try it on a weekend and send the kids to a friend’s house 🙂 Reply debra October 4, 2011 sweet buddhe on a bicylce! i am completely in love with your floors! i have spent ages agonizing over what type of flooring, how to save for it, what room to start in and BAM! there it is… everything i want for my living room at a price i can afford and i can do it myself on my single day off. i <3 stumbleupon and i <3 this! thanks! Reply Lovely Crafty Home October 4, 2011 Thanks Debra!!! Good luck!! Reply Guest Room Paper Floor…DONE! October 14, 2011 […] the how to, check out this post and this post. The updated hallway view…ignore the awkward hallway furniture and jagged carpet edge for […] Reply Thankful Thursday 2 « Measured by the Heart October 25, 2011 […] Rachael is the kind of friend everyone wants to have. And come on, I mean anyone that can make Brown Paper bags look amazing as flooring is a craft genius!! {brown paper bags, I’m not kidding go check it out} […] Reply Blog Swapping with Rachael from Lovely Crafty Home - Measured by the Heart » Measured by the Heart November 6, 2011 […] Probably the coolest thing I’ve been working on is the removal of the upstairs carpet (including the stairs) and replacing it with a brown paper flooring technique. […] Reply Heather November 16, 2011 I have fallen absolutely in love with this idea. I am trying to convince my dad to let me do this to his very large basement – and while he hasn’t agrees yet he is letting me try his stairs out first. His biggest concern is the wear of it – will it scratch easily, what about high traffic areas, etc. Also, I see you said you sand it after each coat of poly. What kind of sand paper do you use? Is this to get rid of the texture? How do I know when I’ve sanded just the right amount? Thank you! Reply rachaelevans November 16, 2011 Heather- All of our stairs are done this way and it looks as good as the day I put it in. Anytime you sand between coats, you use fine sandpaper, 200grit or higher. It doesn’t take much to get a smooth result. Reply Hallway Makeover November 16, 2011 […] believe that I’m still continuing my quest to rid the house of carpet. After completing the stairs, I moved into the hallway. I knew it’d be difficult to get this done since it’s a high […] Reply Michelle December 12, 2011 Thank you sooo much for this wonderful idea! My husband was really skeptical about the paper floor but he was willing to let me do it. I just finished our living and dining room and we LOVE it! I was a little nervous about the paper glueing to the concrete but the Elmer’s glue worked great. I had no problems and it was due to your thorough instructions. Thanks! Reply Donna January 9, 2012 OMG, this is the most beautiful flooring I ever seen (that’s not wood)! I love the finish. Reply Kathryn Martini February 11, 2012 Hi there! My wife and I have been stalking all of your paper bag floor posts and we are partway through the project. We have removed the carpet, tack strips, etc., we’ve sanded and filled all of the seams and holes. Our dilemma is that in our newer construction home, there is a large gap between the skirt board and the staircase and I’m not sure how to fix it. Did you have any large gaps when you pulled up the carpet? If so, how did you remedy it? I’m sure you get a million questions about this, I hope you don’t mind answering one more! Reply rachaelevans February 12, 2012 Kathryn- We do have a gap on our floors (not the stairs fortunately, the skirt board was installed before the carpet I guess), and are slowly adding quarter round to the bottom to cover it. You can also get creative with some wood filler, caulk, and this product If you look at the picture of whole staircase from the top, at the very bottom where the landing is, I actually filled that gap with paper towels (before I found that foam tube product), wood filler, and caulk. It was the only place I had a gap on the first floor, and I thought quarter round would look silly just right there. Reply jeanette February 22, 2012 i stained my floor a golden oak then put the poly on 3 layers but it was not the water base. i now have dark spots where the paper didnt glue all the way to floor. Is there any way to put new brown paper over dark patchs stain and poly. would that fix my dark spots. thanks jeanette Reply David March 15, 2012 I just got done doing our Bathroom walls and it looks great.. we have an ugly purplish colored countertop so i decided to try to cover it also. it worked lol.. now waiting for stain to dry so i can poly … thanks for sharing! as soon as we get better weather I am moving in to the kitchen to cover our old nasty kitchen floor. Reply ellen November 3, 2012 hey there…absolutely lovely floor that I want to copy lol! 🙂 But one question, I’m looking to do a lighter color — do you think that I can stain with a white or a gray or even a color like yellow or red? I know, crazy…. Reply Rachael Evans November 3, 2012 Ellen- I’m not sure honestly…the best way to find out would be to lay some paper on a piece of scrap plywood and try different stains/paints until you find a look you like. I know some people have experimented with white paper. Reply ellen November 3, 2012 or do this with colored paper bags instead of the brown Kraft paper???…. Reply gloria November 29, 2012 I love your floors and all of the great tips for making this project work! We are going to do this with our basement rec room. We had carpeting and tore it out, now it is concrete with kilz on it from before the carpet was installed. What technique for putting over our floors would you reccommend? Brushing glue on, glue soaked paper, stain, then the poly? Love the color of your stairs. Any suggestion about the concrete floors would be appreciated. Starting this project soon – all I want for Christmas is my brown paper bag floors! Thanks Gloria1 Reply Rachael Evans November 30, 2012 You could try the glue, but just check for adhesion early on. You may have to switch to poly, but hopefully the kilz will allow the glue to work. Good luck! Reply Deb January 25, 2013 OMG I saw the hallway job before the stairs redo. I’m in love with that stairway. I think I may have to do my stairwell. I think the stairs would be I much easier to clean with a duster than trying to clean carpeted stairs. Genius Reply Rachael Evans January 26, 2013 Yes they are SO much easier to clean! I was so disgusted when I ripped up the carpet… Reply Beatriz June 27, 2013 This looks awesome! We have painted staircases too and becomes beautiful, less cleaning than carpet, best looking. Thanks for the share. Reply Jasmin August 5, 2013 We are having a problem with the filler on the floor showing through. Our plywood is in rather rough shape, so we need a lot of filer. Could you be specific as to what filer you used, and whether it showed through at all? Reply Michelle Plumlee October 28, 2013 Can this be done with pressed wood/particle board? We are in a renovation right now and we were going to do laminate flooring. Don’t want to now! Not sure if we would need to put a thin sheet of plywood down before trying this….Any suggestions? Reply Chassity Hawkins July 14, 2014 This looks absolutely fabtabulous! I redid my countertops, island and back splash using the paper method. I get so many compliments and I’m so very proud of the work I did all myself! Thank you for sharing yours! Reply Wax On, Wax Off: A Dining Room Buffet Makeover August 25, 2014 […] I applied a glaze using Minwax Dark Walnut (the same color I used on my paper bag floors). Using a foam brush, I brushed on the stain then quickly wiped it off with a rag. On a paint color […] Reply Tina August 27, 2014 What brown paper did you use and does it have a specific name and color? Reply Heidi November 13, 2014 I love how this looks. We just got put an offer on a house and I can’t wait to do this to the stairs and floor! I was wondering if the stairs are slippery? I think that might be a problem because I have small children and I don’t want any accidents on the stairs. Also, what does it look like now? Can you show an updated photo? Thanks so much. Reply Lori March 21, 2017 You single-handedly solved my floor delima! Thank you SO MUCH for posting this!!! We found heart pine floors under the living and bedroom carpets of our rather old farmhouse. I had them done professionally in a dark mahogany color. I absolutely LOVE them. When I pulled up the carpet in the tiny extra room just off the living room, imagine the nausea I felt when I found the same heart pine floors that had been painted with dark caramel PORCH PAINT. What crazy person paints over original, antique heart pine floors???? I know I can never get that same beautiful mahogany look in the adjacent room, which will be a playroom for my 3 yr old’s toys. So I went looking for a solution that would not leave my floors looking like an indoor porch. Then I found this site and almost jumped for joy! I plan to put a very thin layer of that Lauan plywood over the horrid brown boards and use your ideas to make a nice, dark awesome floor to blend with the living room hardwoods. I’ll just need a different color. But your floors are amazing and I am shamelessly stealing your idea and making it my own. You are a GENIUS!!!! Reply Rachael Evans April 10, 2017 So glad you found a solution!! Reply Leave a Reply Cancel ReplyYour email address will not be published.CommentName* Email* Website Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. CAPTCHA Code * Notify me of follow-up comments by email. Notify me of new posts by email. Check here to Subscribe to notifications for new posts
TishSch March 22, 2011 I like your stair redo…but I’m sooo LOVING that darker color! Really adds a “classy”-ness to it! (I know, that’s probably not even a real word, but you probably know what I mean anyway! LOL!) And that’s a great idea on the risers, too. You almost make me want to try this technique! So, you add the stain after you put the paper down but before you poly it? Do you have any problems with paper edges curling up after the poly is applied or is it all pretty smooth? Thanks for sharing your pictures. You do a FABULOUS job! Reply
Lovely Crafty Home March 22, 2011 Tish- After 6 coats it is smooth…I mean there is texture from the paper but no edges peeling 🙂 Reply
Jennifer Juniper March 22, 2011 Paper, for real?!? I didn’t even know you could do this! Can’t wait to see how it wears! Reply
Lovely Crafty Home March 22, 2011 Isn’t it crazy?? All reports I’ve heard say that it wears really well, but I’m not that worried about it because it’s easy to fix if I need to! Can’t wait to rip up the carpet on the whole upper level! Reply
Tina August 27, 2014 I have brown bags that friends/shopping have provided me with. Okay, I torn and crinkled and it took a long time. No problem, I have time. However, as it dried, I have bags that are flat without any depth and then I have bags that look like they have “veins.” I really like the second….how on earth am I going to make these match. I can’t tell what bag will produce what. Some look like they will have the “vein” look, but whe they dry, they’re flat. Any suggestions? I have spent 19 hours on this already (not including the tearing and crinkling)…?help.
MojoMama March 22, 2011 Every time you post about this floor redo, I almost get butterflies in my stomach! I LOVE the whole idea of it, and someday, when we own a home, I fully plan to rip up some flooring to do this with it, I love it so much! And I LOVE it with the stain! Your whole house is simply gorgeous, and getting more and more so every day! Reply
Lovely Crafty Home March 22, 2011 Thank you so much!! I feel like I’m beating a dead horse, but I really am loving it and want to get the word out there about this type of treatment as an affordable flooring option! Reply
Kayla March 22, 2011 I love this! It looks so rich in color and texture…you did a fabulous job! Reply
Cindy March 23, 2011 I love this! I have been looking for something to do to my basement floors and this is it! I’m glad you keep posting about it, so I’m continually reminded of what we’re going to do this summer. It is gorgeous!! Reply
Dennise March 23, 2011 I am in AWE of your floor/stairs makeovers! I had seen this technique years ago and was intrigued then! You have done a terrific job and obviously inspired many to attempt this in their own homes. This technique can also be used as wallpaper and it actually resembles leather on the walls. Too kewl! Reply
Heather R. March 23, 2011 This is absolutely stunning! Makes me wish I HAD stairs just so I could do it too! Reply
Meg March 23, 2011 That’s beautiful! I might have to check out previous posts to see what this “paper” method is all about! Great job. Reply
Terri K March 24, 2011 Have you thought about trying this out with different types of paper? I have heard of people using the gray BOGUS paper, red rosin paper, and various colored craft paper in doing floors, walls, furniture etc …. Reply
Lovely Crafty Home March 24, 2011 I have thought about using different paper, but ultimately the only look I really loved was the brown paper. The red paper was WAY too red looking for me, and things like newspaper, bookpages, or other paper just didn’t really scream “floor” to me. I wanted something that was interesting, but that didn’t make people immediately think my floors were paper. But other papers might be cool for a kids room, walls, or furniture! Reply
Susie March 24, 2011 I’ve been lurking for a few weeks now and wanted to let you know that I am in totally awe at both the look and the guts you have to tackle so many kewl things! As soon as it warms up, I’m going to do this to my nasty looking staircase as well. My only concern is the possible slipperyness (is that a word?) Is there much traction with all those poly coats? thanks! Reply
Lovely Crafty Home March 24, 2011 Susie- the best comparison I have is that it feels the same as a hardwood tread. I’m pretty klutzy, and I haven’t fallen yet haha. Reply
Jami @ An Oregon Cottage March 25, 2011 Rachael, this is fabulous with the stain! We’re going to do our master to match the kids rooms this summer, but I’m thinking I might want to stain it after looking at this! Great job. 😉 Reply
Lovely Crafty Home March 25, 2011 Thanks Jami!! I think the stain would look awesome in a bathroom. Can’t wait to see it! (I’m still trying to find the time to start the upstairs LOL) Reply
Sommer March 27, 2011 Okay I just saw someone else recently who did this and I am still in awe that stairs can look this good with brown paper! I mean who knew? I love the stain you choose, it’s so rich and elegant looking. Beautiful work! I would love to have you share this at my VIP party today =) http://designergarden.blogspot.com/2011/03/vip-party-8.html Reply
Lovely Crafty Home March 27, 2011 Thanks for stopping by! I’ll pop over to your party for sure 🙂 Reply
Kassi @ Truly Lovely March 28, 2011 It’s so hard to believe those were made with paper!!! They look just stunning!!! Thanks for sharing these at our Fancy This party!! Reply
Diane@InMyOwnStyle March 29, 2011 I love working with brown paper and love what you did with it to your stairs. WOW – it goes to show you that the unconventional way works just as well or in this case better. I shared this on Fb . Love it. My best- Diane Reply
gfandco-interiors March 29, 2011 I can’t believe you did this with paper! it is just stunning and a fab idea!!! Reply
Randi Thomason March 30, 2011 OK, this is my new favoritest (yes I made it up lol) thing EVAH!!!! My hubby just hasn’t a clue what awaits him this weekend!! I live in a rental, and I’m fortunate that they don’t care what I do to the place (mostly cause they are CHEAP, but that’s another story) but I’m not investing a lot of money in a house that isn’t going to be mine, not to mention, if I mess it up or hate it (not too likely, the hating part anyways) I don’t have to worry about it, I can just move!! LOL I love your blog btw!!! Reply
Alison's Rugs March 31, 2011 Any way to do this elsewhere as I have no stairs but love the look. Is it possible to do on the walls, bottom third? Then maybe a wood trim with solid paint above? You’re the expert, let me know. Reply
Lovely Crafty Home April 1, 2011 You could totally try it as a sort of “wainscot,” that would be neat! I know people who have done this treatment on furniture as well. Reply
Sandy April 1, 2011 Hi I just found you and would never have thought of using paperbags. How many did you use, and did you cut them into strips aor just tear them? I would love to try this since my basement stairs have carpet on them that is older then I am. Reply
Lovely Crafty Home April 1, 2011 Sandy- I actually used brown craft paper which is found near the drop cloth at home improvement stores. It was $10 for a giant roll (I did two sets of stairs and a hallway with one roll). I tore everything, it’s more organic that way. You could definitely use grocery bags if you have them though! Reply
Kim April 1, 2011 I found your blog thru Addicted 2 Decorating and I fell IN LOVE with your steps!!! Im so wishing I would have found this prior to priming mine to be painted. I had my house renovated and new hardwoods put in. While my steps are new, I was completely undecided on whether to carpet them or stain. Decided to paint my bare/naked/blah steps with some funky pattern until…I SAW HEAVEN IN THE FORM OF YOUR AMAZING IDEA!!! So now I have lovely white primed steps and want to finish it up using your idea. Will the primer make this process difficult or am I ok to get a move on this this weekend? Reply
Lovely Crafty Home April 1, 2011 Aww thanks so much for the compliment, Kim! The primer should be fine, since it’s designed to be grabby. But if you want you could rough it up with a little sandpaper first. Also- I have found that it helps to brush the surface with glue in the area you’re working before you lay the paper down-keeps the bubbles away. Good luck! I hope you share when you are done 🙂 Reply
heymudda April 1, 2011 It’s a good thing you took pictures – otherwise I would have to say you were fibbing! Your floor made my heart flutter…but in a good way. I am sending your blog to EVERYONE I know and I’m following you from now on. SIMPLY AMAZING! Reply
Laura April 2, 2011 I love this project. I have been dying to find something to do to my basement stairs because I really don’t want to carpet them. I’ve made up my mind and this is totally what I’m going to do! Thanks so much for the idea 🙂 Laura Reply
Rachel Sue April 4, 2011 Such an awesome project! I would love to feature this on my blog, Reduce, Reuse, Upcycle. Feel free to stop by and grab a featured button. Thanks! http://reuseandupcycle.blogspot.com Reply
An AMAZING (and Budget-Friendly) Flooring Makeover | The Art of Placement April 15, 2011 […] stunning. For more on this project, head over to Lovely Crafty Home, or you can see her tutorial here. It sounds like this may have been a pretty labor-intensive […] Reply
Lina April 22, 2011 Hi, Ok so OMG OMG OMG !!!! I love the stairs, especially the darker ones…what a awesome affordable idea! I just tore up the nasty carpet in our basement and am in the process of moving the nasty old paint and old glue from tiles fromt he previous owners..and could not think of what we could do besides paint it that was affordable…Do you think it would work on concrete? and also can it be painted a color or color stain(like light green etc) before the poly? THANK YOU SOOOOO MUCH FOR THE IDEA!! Lina Reply
Lovely Crafty Home April 22, 2011 Lina- I think it would work on concrete, just make sure you brush glue on the floor in addition to dipping the paper into it. I would imagine you could paint it…what I did was get a small piece of mdf (like 2×3 ft) and do the treatment on there with the stain to make sure I liked it. I bet you could do the same type of “test swatch” and try different colors and stains to choose one. Just keep in mind since the paper is brown that might affect how other non-brown colors look on top. If you end up going with paint, I’d love to see it! Be sure to come by and share! Reply
Lina April 23, 2011 I will let you know if I do it…still scraping off the stupid paint and old glue…even with stripper it is never ending..lol…thank you for ansering so many bloggers dont respond..have a happy easter.. =), Lina
Vicky April 22, 2011 I would love to do this to the stairs leading to our basement. I worry that this treatment will leave them slick and if the kids have wet shoes on and hurry too fast down the stairs they might fall. Since you have them, what do you think, are they slick? lol Reply
Lovely Crafty Home April 22, 2011 Vicky- We don’t have children so I can’t speak to that aspect, but none of us have slipped. I could imagine it’s possible. It’s like having hardwood treads. You could always put a runner down them! Reply
Lina April 26, 2011 HI, Ok so i did the first step on mdf today to see how it comes out…but my question(s) is am I supposed to over lap the papers or just connect them with minor overlapping? Also when i test the stain colors tomorrow , how many coats of stain did you use? Thank you in advance.. Lina Reply
Lovely Crafty Home April 26, 2011 I overlapped mine quite a bit in some areas, but not as a general rule. Mainly I just looked at the next torn piece and decided where it’d fill the space best. That probably doesn’t help too much, but I really didn’t think about it. There are thicker and thinner areas, for sure. With the dark walnut, it only took 1 coat-the paper absorbs stain MUCH better than wood. Good luck! Reply
Lina April 27, 2011 thanks,,,, i tested the colors green(not dark) and a light blue stain …way way way to HELLO LOOK AT ME..so i am going to copy your floor lol…I have never used stain though, and am sure it is different when being used this way. But do I put it on the paper until there is no paper showing , like thickly? Or thinly? Sorry to keep bugging you… Lina
Lovely Crafty Home April 27, 2011 No worries, I’m happy to help! You will be surprised how much color you get from one coat of stain. The main thing is to make sure your stain is stirred well but do not shake it or have it shaken. Stir it thoroughly with a stick, but slowly. Dip your rag in and just wipe all over, you have a little bit of time to blend everything, but it would be hard to go lighter than what I’ve done with that color. You’ll probably have to cut it around the edges/baseboard with a brush and then go in with your rag to blend everything together. I’d try it on your test board right over whatever you’ve already done to see how it feels. The whole paper will basically be saturated. Wear disposable gloves!
Lina May 4, 2011 so i am not sure if its the mdf or what…but i tested the brown craft paper and the walnut stain out on a scrap piece of mdf…im not sure about it..yours is so beautiful on the website? mine looks kinda oily and more ..just little darker version of the craft paper itself? i bought the minwax dark walnut stain? this is without poly-ing it of course…so i am afraid to do it to the floor? your pictures came out like a dark mocha color, am i doing something wrong? helpppp please.. Lina
Jenny May 5, 2011 I am considering doing this treatment on a concrete floor. I watched the video from “anoregoncottage.com” at http://www.anoregoncottage.com/2010/08/video-diy-alternative-to-wood-floors.html — I am worried about the bubbles or actually wrinkles that appear due to the glue. To me, it looks like your floor must not have had very many if any wrinkles from the glue. Is that true? On a scale of 1-3 what glue amount did you use? I noticed above you stated it was key to roll the glue on the floor first. After rolling the glue on the floor did you add extra to the back of paper and top like an oregon cottage did? Reply
Lovely Crafty Home May 5, 2011 Jenny I didn’t really get many wrinkles. It may look like it at first, but when the floor dries I didn’t see any that were an issue. My technique I think is a bit different than hers. I actually brush the floor with the glue mixture in addition to crumpling my paper and putting it in the glue. I’m not sure if the glue in both areas is what helps or not, or if it’s just that I really soak the paper. I dunked the balls of paper and sort of squeezed them into tighter balls while in the glue, then opened them up and did it again. You don’t want any dry spots. But there is a fine line between wet and almost too wet to work with. Once you start, you will quickly realize where the line is. Too wet and it tears easily. I guess it’s probably between a 2 and a 3. Hope that helps! Reply
Megan July 16, 2011 Hi Rachael, I recently used this technique in our recently renovated attic which is being used as my husband’s design studio. LOVE how it turned out. I used a gray stain over the brown paper. Anywho, we are fixing the stairs next, and I was wondering how you feel this technique is holding up to stair traffic. It seems to be fine on the floors, but I wondered if you were noticing it wearing differently on the treads. Thanks! Love your site, btw. Reply
Lovely Crafty Home July 17, 2011 Megan- I bet the gray stain looks awesome! I have found the stairs have held up really well actually. I have 12 coats of poly on them and have had no problems! Reply
Kaylyn November 4, 2012 Hey Rachael or Megan! I am looking to maybe do this to my upstairs bedrooms which are currently carpet. Under the carpet is thick plywood. I was wondering if (Megan) your attic floors were made similar to this and how it turned out with the paper bag flooring or if (Rachael) you would think it would work well in this situation? I know that stairs are usually made of wood but I still want to double check. Thanks! Kaylyn Reply
Brittany July 28, 2011 I am wondering how it is holding up. I am looking into doing this on my stairs, landing and hallway upstairs. And Maybe in the bedrooms. How is it holding up with traffic? I have a 6 year old and a almost 3 year old. I also have 2 dogs. Does it wear well or is it holding up? I am just so curious. I an also going to do it in the basement. I love this. I found you on Pinterest! Reply
Lovely Crafty Home July 28, 2011 Brittany- So far it is looking great, especially the stairs for some reason. We have had some scratches from our dog during a few crazy running bursts, but her normal activity doesn’t cause any problems. It is similar to hardwood in that way. I can mop it like my hardwoods though so that’s great. The only other thing I would suggest is to really let it cure for at least 24 hours before you move furniture on it. I did my brother’s room most recently and there is a HUGE quality difference between his room and the guest room because it was a rush job- like 48 hours for the whole process. I would NOT recommend that. The longer you can let each layer of poly dry before applying the next, the better. The guest room floor is perfect because I was able to take my time. The last room left is our master which I’m dreading because it’s the size of the other two combined plus we obviously live in it and would be displaced UGH. How’s this, if you start yours, I’ll start mine? Reply
Kim July 30, 2011 Amazing job and amazing site! So…. I’ve done the downstairs bathroom floor this way, have glued down my pieces and it’s dry and looks GREAT! Next step: the stain. Problem is that I think I’m ruining it!!! What kind of stain did you use exactly? I got the waterbased Miniwax stain in superdark Bombay Mahogany and it is looking WAaaaaaaaayyyy sucky. The paper is sucking it in, and it’s drying and showing the wipe marks, not letting me blend and when I rub or blot a little harder to blend, the paper looks like it’s threatening to tear. Did you use an oil based stain or water based….or the poly/stain combo? And what kind of rag? Did you saturate your rag? I’m going to have to re-paper the area that I’ve tried it out on as it looks beyond horrible. 🙁 Help! Reply
Lovely Crafty Home July 30, 2011 Oh no Kim! The paper does really suck up stain, but I used oil-based (not with poly) so I’m not sure if there is a difference. To do the large floor areas, I used a long handled lambswool mop- like the kind used for staining a deck. It is basically a rectangular pad on a stick. It helps it go on smoother and faster without you having to rub everything really quickly. I took a paint brush and cut in around the baseboards in the area I was working (i.e., not the whole room at once) then used the mop in the rest of the room.The staining is the trickiest part, but I think if you get the lambswool setup you’ll have better results. I used a paint tray and dipped the mop end in the “pool” of stain then sort of pressed it out on the ridged part of the tray. Let me know how it goes! Reply
Kim July 30, 2011 Thank you so much for the super duper fast response! I am re-papering/glue-ing the messed up area as we speak….er…um…type. Once it’s fully dry I’ll try the oil based stain WITH the pad. I bet that was the problem. When I used the rag to apply it, the edges seemed to be pretty testy with me and were sometimes lifting up and I bet the water based situation just made it sink into the paper too fast to blend. Questions: When you initially apply the stain, how heavy do you apply it… do you leave the stain opaque or are you able to see the paper edges and wrinkles through it right away? Wondering how much stain you’re pressing off when you press against the ridges. YOU ARE APPRECIATED! Have a fantastico day!
Lovely Crafty Home July 31, 2011 Kim- I press out the pad enough for it to not be drippy. But the lambswool is more absorbent then a rag so that already takes care of a lot of the over-application problem for you if that makes sense. I liked the look of it really dark, you can see the edges and wrinkles, but not the original color of the paper at all. Hope that helps!
Kim August 16, 2011 Hooray! Good news! I went with the Minwax Jacobean oil based stain and it looks amazing! Applied with the lambskin applicator and wiped off with a bit of old bath towel… But a problem…..it’s been 24 hours and the stain is still tacky and sticky to the touch. Temps are over 70’s inside with low humidity. How long did it take for your floors to be un-sticky?
Lovely Crafty Home August 16, 2011 I’m so glad the oil based worked better for you!! In my case, the stain never really did dry to be non-tacky, If you can tiptoe in some socks and apply the first coat of poly (I also did it with the mop thing, but you use a sponge pad), it won’t be sticky for subsequent coats. If you have time to try letting it dry for another day, that might help.
Kim August 23, 2011 OH MY GOSH I LOVE MY FLOOR! I’m curious, did you guys use satin or semi-gloss poly? I used Varathane Floor Poly in High Gloss and am really liking the super shiny finish in the bathroom. I put a good 6 coats on and it is amazing. I was hemming and hawing about what finish to put, and after researching, found out that a “piano finish” with the high gloss is a high end finish for hardwood floors and if I ever tire of it, I can add a coat of semi-gloss or satin over the top later to tone it down. I also read that going the other way, from satin to gloss won’t work because it will just look cloudy. You blog inspired me to start my own and I’ve posted my faux granite countertop and faux coved ceiling treatment, but haven’t got my floors on there yet because I want to finish painting my trim white first. Thanks again for all of your help with my floors!!! <3
Lovely Crafty Home August 24, 2011 Kim I’m so glad!! I used satin because I did my whole upstairs and didn’t want it to look overwhelming. Plus we have hardwood downstairs that’s not glossy and I wanted it to blend. It sounds like yours looks amazing though! Can’t wait to see!
Kim August 30, 2011 Here it is! The final product. I really like the high gloss finish. Now I’m thinking I have to use it in the entire house. After researching I hear they call it “piano finish” and is a “high end” trend in hardwoods these days. PLUS if I ever tire of it, I can just add a coat of satin over the top. See the pics here: http://mossisawesome.wordpress.com/2011/08/29/stained-paper-floor-awesomeness-under-30-diy-hardwoodlaminate-floor-alternative/
Stained Paper Floor Awesomeness!~ Under $30 DIY Hardwood/Laminate Floor Alternative | mossisawesome August 29, 2011 […] paper color. I really wanted a dark floor, so finding this site was a total game changer for me: Lovely Crafty Home. Finally, I had issue with the “satin” or muted finish of all the paper flooring sites […] Reply
Nina September 28, 2011 Oh my GRACIOUS holy monkeys!! I LOVE this!!!! Okay…tell me this…how long does it take for the floor sealer to dry in between coats? I would love to do, like, my whole house (LOL) but my hubs might not love that idea. I have 2 small kiddos, and a one level house…I don’t want to be grounded to one room. =) Any suggestions? Reply
Lovely Crafty Home September 29, 2011 Nina- I used a fast dry sealer, but they still really want you to wait 4-6 hours between coats. You could try it on a weekend and send the kids to a friend’s house 🙂 Reply
debra October 4, 2011 sweet buddhe on a bicylce! i am completely in love with your floors! i have spent ages agonizing over what type of flooring, how to save for it, what room to start in and BAM! there it is… everything i want for my living room at a price i can afford and i can do it myself on my single day off. i <3 stumbleupon and i <3 this! thanks! Reply
Guest Room Paper Floor…DONE! October 14, 2011 […] the how to, check out this post and this post. The updated hallway view…ignore the awkward hallway furniture and jagged carpet edge for […] Reply
Thankful Thursday 2 « Measured by the Heart October 25, 2011 […] Rachael is the kind of friend everyone wants to have. And come on, I mean anyone that can make Brown Paper bags look amazing as flooring is a craft genius!! {brown paper bags, I’m not kidding go check it out} […] Reply
Blog Swapping with Rachael from Lovely Crafty Home - Measured by the Heart » Measured by the Heart November 6, 2011 […] Probably the coolest thing I’ve been working on is the removal of the upstairs carpet (including the stairs) and replacing it with a brown paper flooring technique. […] Reply
Heather November 16, 2011 I have fallen absolutely in love with this idea. I am trying to convince my dad to let me do this to his very large basement – and while he hasn’t agrees yet he is letting me try his stairs out first. His biggest concern is the wear of it – will it scratch easily, what about high traffic areas, etc. Also, I see you said you sand it after each coat of poly. What kind of sand paper do you use? Is this to get rid of the texture? How do I know when I’ve sanded just the right amount? Thank you! Reply
rachaelevans November 16, 2011 Heather- All of our stairs are done this way and it looks as good as the day I put it in. Anytime you sand between coats, you use fine sandpaper, 200grit or higher. It doesn’t take much to get a smooth result. Reply
Hallway Makeover November 16, 2011 […] believe that I’m still continuing my quest to rid the house of carpet. After completing the stairs, I moved into the hallway. I knew it’d be difficult to get this done since it’s a high […] Reply
Michelle December 12, 2011 Thank you sooo much for this wonderful idea! My husband was really skeptical about the paper floor but he was willing to let me do it. I just finished our living and dining room and we LOVE it! I was a little nervous about the paper glueing to the concrete but the Elmer’s glue worked great. I had no problems and it was due to your thorough instructions. Thanks! Reply
Donna January 9, 2012 OMG, this is the most beautiful flooring I ever seen (that’s not wood)! I love the finish. Reply
Kathryn Martini February 11, 2012 Hi there! My wife and I have been stalking all of your paper bag floor posts and we are partway through the project. We have removed the carpet, tack strips, etc., we’ve sanded and filled all of the seams and holes. Our dilemma is that in our newer construction home, there is a large gap between the skirt board and the staircase and I’m not sure how to fix it. Did you have any large gaps when you pulled up the carpet? If so, how did you remedy it? I’m sure you get a million questions about this, I hope you don’t mind answering one more! Reply
rachaelevans February 12, 2012 Kathryn- We do have a gap on our floors (not the stairs fortunately, the skirt board was installed before the carpet I guess), and are slowly adding quarter round to the bottom to cover it. You can also get creative with some wood filler, caulk, and this product If you look at the picture of whole staircase from the top, at the very bottom where the landing is, I actually filled that gap with paper towels (before I found that foam tube product), wood filler, and caulk. It was the only place I had a gap on the first floor, and I thought quarter round would look silly just right there. Reply
jeanette February 22, 2012 i stained my floor a golden oak then put the poly on 3 layers but it was not the water base. i now have dark spots where the paper didnt glue all the way to floor. Is there any way to put new brown paper over dark patchs stain and poly. would that fix my dark spots. thanks jeanette Reply
David March 15, 2012 I just got done doing our Bathroom walls and it looks great.. we have an ugly purplish colored countertop so i decided to try to cover it also. it worked lol.. now waiting for stain to dry so i can poly … thanks for sharing! as soon as we get better weather I am moving in to the kitchen to cover our old nasty kitchen floor. Reply
ellen November 3, 2012 hey there…absolutely lovely floor that I want to copy lol! 🙂 But one question, I’m looking to do a lighter color — do you think that I can stain with a white or a gray or even a color like yellow or red? I know, crazy…. Reply
Rachael Evans November 3, 2012 Ellen- I’m not sure honestly…the best way to find out would be to lay some paper on a piece of scrap plywood and try different stains/paints until you find a look you like. I know some people have experimented with white paper. Reply
ellen November 3, 2012 or do this with colored paper bags instead of the brown Kraft paper???…. Reply
gloria November 29, 2012 I love your floors and all of the great tips for making this project work! We are going to do this with our basement rec room. We had carpeting and tore it out, now it is concrete with kilz on it from before the carpet was installed. What technique for putting over our floors would you reccommend? Brushing glue on, glue soaked paper, stain, then the poly? Love the color of your stairs. Any suggestion about the concrete floors would be appreciated. Starting this project soon – all I want for Christmas is my brown paper bag floors! Thanks Gloria1 Reply
Rachael Evans November 30, 2012 You could try the glue, but just check for adhesion early on. You may have to switch to poly, but hopefully the kilz will allow the glue to work. Good luck! Reply
Deb January 25, 2013 OMG I saw the hallway job before the stairs redo. I’m in love with that stairway. I think I may have to do my stairwell. I think the stairs would be I much easier to clean with a duster than trying to clean carpeted stairs. Genius Reply
Rachael Evans January 26, 2013 Yes they are SO much easier to clean! I was so disgusted when I ripped up the carpet… Reply
Beatriz June 27, 2013 This looks awesome! We have painted staircases too and becomes beautiful, less cleaning than carpet, best looking. Thanks for the share. Reply
Jasmin August 5, 2013 We are having a problem with the filler on the floor showing through. Our plywood is in rather rough shape, so we need a lot of filer. Could you be specific as to what filer you used, and whether it showed through at all? Reply
Michelle Plumlee October 28, 2013 Can this be done with pressed wood/particle board? We are in a renovation right now and we were going to do laminate flooring. Don’t want to now! Not sure if we would need to put a thin sheet of plywood down before trying this….Any suggestions? Reply
Chassity Hawkins July 14, 2014 This looks absolutely fabtabulous! I redid my countertops, island and back splash using the paper method. I get so many compliments and I’m so very proud of the work I did all myself! Thank you for sharing yours! Reply
Wax On, Wax Off: A Dining Room Buffet Makeover August 25, 2014 […] I applied a glaze using Minwax Dark Walnut (the same color I used on my paper bag floors). Using a foam brush, I brushed on the stain then quickly wiped it off with a rag. On a paint color […] Reply
Heidi November 13, 2014 I love how this looks. We just got put an offer on a house and I can’t wait to do this to the stairs and floor! I was wondering if the stairs are slippery? I think that might be a problem because I have small children and I don’t want any accidents on the stairs. Also, what does it look like now? Can you show an updated photo? Thanks so much. Reply
Lori March 21, 2017 You single-handedly solved my floor delima! Thank you SO MUCH for posting this!!! We found heart pine floors under the living and bedroom carpets of our rather old farmhouse. I had them done professionally in a dark mahogany color. I absolutely LOVE them. When I pulled up the carpet in the tiny extra room just off the living room, imagine the nausea I felt when I found the same heart pine floors that had been painted with dark caramel PORCH PAINT. What crazy person paints over original, antique heart pine floors???? I know I can never get that same beautiful mahogany look in the adjacent room, which will be a playroom for my 3 yr old’s toys. So I went looking for a solution that would not leave my floors looking like an indoor porch. Then I found this site and almost jumped for joy! I plan to put a very thin layer of that Lauan plywood over the horrid brown boards and use your ideas to make a nice, dark awesome floor to blend with the living room hardwoods. I’ll just need a different color. But your floors are amazing and I am shamelessly stealing your idea and making it my own. You are a GENIUS!!!! Reply
