International E-Zine Features ME!!
I am just thrilled. Minutes Matter has featured me in the designer spotlight for this issue of their E-Zine. Minutes Matter is a software company that supplies the international interior design trade with the most advanced software available. Click on the link below to see the feature http://archive.constantcontact.com/fs041/1101122218818/archive/1102392749092.html
How to deal with a corner fireplace.
One of the frequent design questions I am asked is ‘How do I place the furniture around a corner fireplace?’ This is a bit of a problem. The guideline in design that covers this is that the main piece of furniture in a living room (the sofa) should be oriented toward the focal point. In English this means that the sofa should be placed in front of the fireplace, on the same angle as the front of the fireplace: parallel. Doing this creates a rectangle or square area around which the rest of the furniture will be placed. That sounds easy and simple but the variables that enter in here make all the difference. For example: is there enough room to put the sofa where it should be? What do we do if the room is not big enough and the sofa must go against a wall? Well first of READ MORE
Pre-Made Drapery Panels
Well – a good thing or not? They are everywhere, they vary in price from quite inexpensive to very costly. We can find a good assortment of styles – grommet tops, tab tops and even fake pinch pleats. We now have access to longer length panels and an astounding assortment of fabrics. They offer a very quick, relatively inexpensive solution – you can buy the panels and a rod and install them yourself . If what you want is a quick fix they are great. No doubt about it. But they do have limitations and because I work on these panels more and more often, I thought you might like to know what my experience with them has been so you can make an informed choice. Please please please be aware of lining. You are simply throwing your money away if you buy a natural fiber panel with no lining; READ MORE
Brown and Yellow Bedroom Done
This is the finished bedroom. The client will be selling her home in the spring so has opted not to paint the walls. If we were going to paint, we would use a really soft mocha. The little chair has several incarnations including as a 60’s Chair, one in black with 60-s abstract flowers. I also used this mocha-based fabric to slipcover a wing backed chair. All the fabric came from the local Fabricland. The florals are both by Raymond Waites. Total fabric cost was about $250.00 The sheer was a steal at $2.99/meter, the throw was a remnant; $10.00, the floral was $6.00/meter and the bedspread is Rococco, color Maize. The bedspread is actually a duvet cover with a 36″ extension at the top that allows for the pillow foldback. Not shown is the bedskirt that is the same design as the valance, and the contrast pleated edging READ MORE
Brown and Yellow Bedroom Rendering
This is the design on a photograph rendering for the window treatment. We wanted a classic design, something without ruffles but one that suggested a country feel. The rendering uses the actual fabric we chose.
Off-center window
This is the before. The window is off-center on the wall by 2 feet, so the sheers – a really cool eye-lash fabric- have been offset so the window treatment is centered on the wall.
The log home
Once again Rococco is the star fabric, the color is a bit off in the photo – it is actually a rich gold that compliments the log home beautifully. Dim-out lining provides great sun and cold protection on this south-facing window.
Judy’s slipcover
Thrift store chair, beautiful chenille fabric from Fabricland.
Magnetic Blind and Valance Headrail
Muslin for the blind, a jacquard for the valance. This decorative valance and functioning Roman Blind are attached to the metal door with my latest goodie: magnetic headrails. What makes this one different is that a valance or shade can be attached to it with velcro or staples. I’ve been thinking about this and trying different things for quite awhile. I’ve got it now – the blind functions and the rod is secure. And no holes in the metal door. If you would like more information or would like to order a rod, e-mail me at linda@designsewlutions.ca
How do I decide if I should slipcover or re-upholster?
Most of us became aware of slipcovers in the early 90’s when the ‘Shabby Chic’ style of covering became well known. They were loose fitting covers, skirts puddling on the floor, often using several different fabrics. Custom slipcovers have changed and now are usually very fitted. ‘Fit like a Glove’ – that is the school of construction I follow. Slipcovers are everywhere. Spotlighted on Cityline recently and featured in Style at Home in a summer issue they are experiencing a huge resurgence. Slipcovering is a great way to add style and detail to furniture without spending a lot of money. Consider the following: Slipcovers are now less expensive than upholstery. I learned a new way of doing covers last year and now, instead of several days to cover a piece, I can do it in less than half the time and I don’t need to have the piece in READ MORE