dagoose's Profile

I have always been interested in small spaces having spent much of my life in sheep wagons, tiny camper trailers, vans and boats. When I go to organize a small space I always think how space is used to the max in rvs, sailboats and space stations. All small spaces are only temporary, there's always the great outdoors.

I once read that large English country houses in the 1800's were spread with tatami-like mats in the summer as a cool alternative to wool carpets. I don't remember if they were placed over the carpets or if the carpets were removed for cleaning. Perhaps the matting was really the sisal that is so commonly used these days in England. Does anyone know anything about this practice and what might have been used?

I would like to know how you dealt with the possible formaldehyde which was a concern in the woodwork and cabinetry of older trailers. Did covering with it paint seal it?