Is there any decorating material more versatile than the humble drop cloth? Whether colored, cut, sewn, or stapled, the drop cloth can be used in countless ways. DIY [1] aficionados have used the material for projects in all corners of their homes. A standard drop cloth can retail for less than $20, but after being transformed, the results look much more valuable. We've combed the Internet to find 30 of the most inspiring transformations around — and the best part is, anyone can do these at home.
A Zebra Rug
High style can be obtained for a low price when drop cloths are used to create Decor Fix's zebra rug [2].
A Hanging Valance
A drop-cloth valance [3] adds a pop to this kitchen window.
A Play Area
Your kids will thank you for creating a play area like Julie Blanner [4]'s.
Bespoke Shower Curtain
With a little paint, a drop cloth can become a custom shower curtain.
Canvas Wall Art
Prominently display your favorite saying with Love Grows Wild's wall art DIY [5].
Desk Chair Covering
One DIYer created a perfectly neutral chair for her home office.
Embroidery
Drop cloths make a perfect backing for embroidery projects.
A Photo Board
Create a photo board using crisscrossed drop-cloth pieces stapled to a frame.
Chic Cushion Covers
Add personality to any chair with Miss Mustard Seed's custom cover DIY [6].
A Striped Tablecloth
Paint stripes on a drop cloth to make a nautical tablecloth.
A Reading Nook
One inspired mom decided to hang a drop cloth to create a reading nook for her child.
Custom Pillow Covers
Create rustic and chic custom pillow covers with Love Grows Wild's DIY instructions [7].
Porch Curtains
Outdoor drop-cloth curtains add an inviting touch to one DIYer's porch!
An Apron
A drop-cloth apron will come in handy when working on other DIY [8] projects.
Cabinet Curtains
Say bye-bye to cabinet doors with the simple addition of drop-cloth curtains.
Christmas Stockings
A few minutes with the sewing machine, and voilà — drop-cloth stockings!
A Bench Cover
Paint a drop cloth to create a custom bench cover similar to the version featured on Little Green Notebook [9].
Mixed-Material Curtains
With the addition of a patterned fabric and some trim, one DIYer created lovely contrasting curtains.
Headboard
One crafty woman customized her headboard with a drop cloth.
A Frilly Ottoman Cover
A skilled DIY [10] maven covered an ottoman with a drop-cloth slipcover, complete with ruffled details.
Hanging Art
A drop cloth doubled as a canvas for a special piece of art.
Pleated Curtains
With some patience, drop cloths can be transformed into pleated curtains.
Sectional Slipcover
Numerous drop cloths were used to create a special slipcover for a large sectional sofa.
An Ornate Custom Slipclover
Combining a drop cloth and playful patterned fabric made this slipcover beautiful.
A Custom Table Runner
Think outside the box when it comes to painting a strip of drop cloth for a table runner!
A Ruffled Wreath
Get festive by following the DIY [11] instructions for My Fabuless Life's ruffled drop-cloth wreath [12].
A Runner
One skilled DIYer added color to her hallway with a painted drop-cloth runner.
Dining Room Chairs
A drop cloth and some paint can add new life to an old set of chairs.
A Scalloped Table Cloth
Add drama to your indoor or outdoor table with Sugar and Cloth's scalloped table cloth DIY [13].
Painted Curtains
Can't find the perfect curtains for a certain room? Grab a drop cloth, and paint your own!