How to Decorate With a Bamboo Mat

Bamboo grows rapidly, making it a sustainable wood.

The eco-friendly, sustainable wood of bamboo is a versatile material. When the wood is broken down into small strips, it can be woven together to create bamboo mats. These mats come in a wide range of sizes and styles. Some types of bamboo mats may also have color added in the form of paint or stain. Adding a bamboo mat to your home or outdoor space gives it a modern, natural appeal.

Instructions

1. Place small bamboo mats on your dining room or kitchen table to serve as place mats. Bamboo place mats are strong, stain-resistant and easy to clean. Use ceramic dishes with minimalist designs like simple glaze patterns or solid colors, which go well with the bamboo.

2. Add a large bamboo mat to the top of your wood floor in a living room, bedroom or hallway. The bamboo mat provides traction and protects the wood floor beneath. The light color of natural bamboo contrasts nicely with darker woods like cherry or stained oak.

3. Frame a bamboo mat that contains a decorative design or picture on the surface to preserve it. Hang the frame on the wall as an alternative to a traditional picture or painting.

4. Use a bamboo mat to add a decorative, yet practical element to your outdoor deck or patio. Place a table or chairs on top of the mat and use it to separate the different areas of your outdoor space. Bamboo acts as a natural insect repellent, according to the Home & Garden Ideas website.

5. Place a small bamboo mat at the entrance to your home to serve as an alternative to a traditional welcome mat.

6. Build a wood frame around three long, narrow bamboo mats. Finish the wood frame with paint or stain in a contrasting color to the bamboo center. Attach the three frames with hinges to create a folding screen. Use the folding screen as a decorative room divider.

Tips & Warnings

• Use your distinctive sense of style to come up with unconventional ways of decorating with a bamboo mat.

References

• Home and Garden Ideas; Creative Uses for Bamboo Mats; Hj Jung; April 2011
• Eco Village Green; The Practical, Durable Bamboo Mat Will Enhance Your Home Decor; Joe Barrios