La Belle Studios

A Little About My Work

Answers To
 Frequently Asked Questions

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As an artist, I specialize in creating, recreating, and adapting designs and art from my favorite art and design periods and movements, onto beautifully hand painted canvas floorcloths, wallcloths (wall hangings), and fine table linens; including coasters, placemats, table covers and table runners.  Some of my personal favorites are adapted from the great art posters of the Belle Époque era at the turn-of-the-century, originally created by artists such as Alphonse Mucha, Toulouse-Lautrec and William Bradley .  I also enjoy creating new timeless designs, and designing custom work for clients, as well as interior designers and architects.

Quality and attention to detail:

To ensure quality worthy of being an heirloom for your family, all work is done by hand.  I start with raw, heavy, 100% cotton canvas, I then cut, measure, hand-stretch, prime and hem all of my own canvases.  I use artist quality acrylic paints and latex paint, (not craft paints).  To achieve the translucent layered effects and patinas my work is known for, it often takes many, many coats of color which is very labor and time intensive.  I finish each piece with up to six (6) coats of non-yellowing acrylic varnish for the ultimate in protection against dirt, wear and tear.  A final coat of hand-rubbed paste wax is applied (on floorcloths only) for additional protection.  Each piece is signed and dated. On work that is derived from historical posters, I have included the original artist's name on the piece.  As you can see, quality is my mainstay! 

 

 

If you have any questions that are not covered below, please feel free to e-mail me and I will be happy to answer any questions you may have!

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Q.  Can I really walk on my new floorcloth?

A.  Yes, you can walk on them, and so can the family dog!  All of my textile art starts as very heavy 100% cotton canvas.  I then paint two coats of artist's gesso, then an acrylic latex basecoat, followed by artist grade acrylic paints (with a high pigment count for rich and vibrant colors!) to execute the design, and ending with five to six coats of acrylic varnish.  They are very durable and if kept up properly can last for decades! (I would not recommend walking on it with spike-heeled shoes, though).
Q. How do I clean my floorcloth, wall cloth or table linens?

A.  Sweeping is fine for surface dirt.  For spills or marks, you can use a damp cloth or sponge and wipe the spill clean.  If  more heavy cleaning is needed, use a very mild cleanser such as ivory dish soap and warm water, using minimal force-- do not scrub. (no abrasive or oil soaps, alcohol or ammonia-based cleaners)   Rinse and wipe dry.  I suggest frequent and routine cleaning to reduce the risk of dirt becoming permanently embedded in the surface.  Vacuum under the floorcloth regularly as well.  Written cleaning instructions accompany each piece.
Q.  Where can I put my floorcloth?  Can I hang it on the wall?

A.  Yes, you can!  My floorcloths and wallcloths are for the most part interchangeable.  If you know in advance that you won't be putting it on the floor, the price will be slightly reduced as I can omit the cost of non-skid backing.  Like any piece of expensive furniture, treat your floorcloth and table linens with love, care and regard.  If you want them to last and perhaps become heirlooms, I would not suggest using it as a door mat or putting it in a mudroom!  Since floorcloths are not as thick as carpets, they will take on the appearance or texture of anything on the floor underneath, including any uneven floorboards, etc.; so care should be taken in removing any dirt or flotsam & jetsam before laying your floorcloth down on as flat a surface as possible.  If furniture will be placed on the floorcloth, make sure you use furniture coasters, plastic glides, or you can purchase thick felt pieces designed for this purpose.  Rotate your floorcloth periodically (if possible) to avoid excessive wear in one spot.
Q.  Can I use my floorcloth outdoors?

A.  You can use your floorcloth outdoors for special occasions, in fact, they can really add a spectacular touch to an outdoor party or gala!  I would not suggest leaving them out for extended periods.  Sunrooms, lanais, and decks with awnings are great candidates for outdoor use.

Contact information:

Lori Fusello
La Belle Studios
Mid Coast Area, Maine
Toll Free: (888) 889-3409 Fax: (207) 354-0864
labelle@labellestudios.com

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