You Made That Outta What? A Semi-Comprehensive Guide to Fabric – Part 2 Toile

  Welcome back! Thanks for following the series. To be honest, I’ve learned a lot just in my research. I really thought I had a handle on fabric weave, type and design. Apparently I was mistaken! Last time, we (including me) learned about Dupioni Silk, a beautiful high end silk from India often used in formal wear such as wedding attire. We’re going to switch gears and go the opposite direction and dive into the world of Toile. And no, it’s not pronounced like foil or even close to that. Although, please don’t feel ignorant if you did. Potato/Patahtoe I…

You Made That Outta What?! A Semi-Comprehensive Guide to Fabric – Part 1 Dupioni Silk

I work in the fabric industry and am an upholsterer by trade. Yet I still need a refresher, even a crash course on fabric nomenclature (That’s your big word for the week meaning the science of naming things. You know, what Adam’s job was in the Garden?). You’ll notice that we use proper names for each of our fabrics. But you might not know a chintz from a chenille, or the slight difference between a jacquard and a brocade. And that’s okay! We’re here to educate you. By knowing the specific features of a given fabric, you can make an…

Matchy-Schmatchy…How to Match Patterns Without Being Wacky-Tacky!

You know what they say, everything old is new again. But let’s be honest, some things are better off kept in the past. Remember the 60’s and early 70’s (maybe you can’t “remember” it), pattern on pattern was groovin’ baby. Bold colors, overstated lines and shapes, psychedelic, groovy, Peter Max to the max! The effect was over the top. We embraced the look, but today’s approach to interior design takes a more refined thinking regarding how color, pattern, even texture work together to create an appealing, not mind blowing room vista. I’m fascinated by blending patterns and textures. My look…

Tickety-Tocks This Table Runner Rocks!

  I love this project! I also admit I borrowed the idea!  Thank you Driven By Design for the inspiration. So ticking, most commonly known for its use in bedding material, has gained quite a bit of popularity and momentum in the design circles. Check out Hillary Duff sporting a ticking and lace pinafore for the Zimmerman show recently. Even Chip and Joanna at the Magnolia have several ticking home decor pieces. Yep, ticking has made its way out from under the covers and into the light of day! So what are you waiting for? How about a totally today project…

Velcro Is Your Friend… Using Velcro to Clean Up Loose Threads

If there were such a thing as the Griswold Family Sewing Room, I’m certain this monstrosity would be there. Yes, it’s a Velcro knot. And no, this will NOT be a tutorial on how to unknot it. I have no magic solution. There is none. You’ll have to fight this Leviathan on your own pardner. So cowgirl up. No. This was an inspiration because once I conquered the beast, I was rewarded with all the loose threads on the floor embedded in the hook side. And it got me thinking…

Sew in Love With This Valentine Apron!

Valentine’s Day French Baker’s Apron Skill Level: Beginner (basic sewing skills required) Approximate Cost: Under $30 depending on fabric selection My family will concur that I am a messy cook, and a messy eater. When I sit down to enjoy a meal at the table, al fresco, dashboard diner, TV Takeout, or on the run, I know better than to go sans napkin. I’ve also been known to don a cooking apron or an old shirt replete with stains.  No shame. No apologies. Most times it’s just a tea towel. I even keep one on hand across the arm of…

Amazing Outdoor Cushion Makeover (Part 1 of 2)

Project: Outdoor Cushion Makeover Part 1 of 2 Difficulty Level: Moderate (Some basic sewing experience necessary) You’ve seen them on the curb. You’ve probably got a set in your garage covered in bugs, grime, the lawn furniture. They’re serving no purpose and you’d trash them were it not for the pile on top and the spiders underneath. I hear you. Toss them! Spend a couple hundred on a new set, right? Frankly, they’d be better used for the dog’s bed (of course, that’s not such a bad idea).  Don’t ditch those cushions! I know, DIY can be a lot of work.…