This DIY Tile Mat Is Fulfilling All My Arts & Crafts Dreams

I love a good excuse to delve into an arts-and-crafts project, especially since these days, adulting (unfortunately) means I have less time for hobbies. Without my beloved beading and paint-by-number kits, I’m always looking for ways to sneak some creativity into my home style. So when I spotted a DIY-esque decor solution on Pattern Brands — my go-to site for tasteful kitchen and home essentials from brands like editor-loved GIR and fan-favorite Open Spaces — I had to give it a try. Meet the newest, coolest addition to my apartment: the Tile Mat from Letterfolk.

Letterfolk specializes in fun and functional home decor for everyone from families with little kids to grownups like me who are still eager to express an artistic side. The Tile Mat is a 2′ x 3′ flexible vinyl mat that can occupy any space, from the bathroom to the doorway to the kitchen (where I keep mine). While this mat includes lots of helpful practical features, like a slight cushion and a naturally non-slip surface that keeps it from inching its way across the floor, its true genius lies in its endless design possibilities. After starting with a black or white mat, you can choose from a variety of colored tiles to click into place in whatever pattern you’d like.

The mat’s hexagonal tiles serve as a base upon which you can create the design of your choice (don’t worry they also have templates if you aren’t comfortable completely DIY-ing it). Each bag of 75 tiles costs just $12, and you can choose from dozens of eye-catching colors. The first time I put mine together, I made a whole evening out of it! With a glass of wine (or a few… ) in hand, I sat on my apartment floor and went for it. Honestly, it was one of the better Friday nights I’ve had in a while, and the result looks absolutely fantastic.

As a renter with a strict landlord, my ability to bring my style (or even just some color) into my kitchen is limited. The Tile Mat not only provides a bit of cushion beneath my feet on those nights when I’ve got a whole sink full of dishes, it truly brings life into my kitchen. And instead of having to buy a new mat whenever I want to change up my style, this versatile Letterfolk find ensures I’ll never tire of my decor. I can’t wait to get cracking on my next design!