Sew Much More (Ceil DiGuglielmo)
Explore every episode of Sew Much More
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| 22 Aug 2016 | Podcast #5 With Sandra VanSickle | 01:02:36 | |
| 09 Mar 2025 | 455 - Listener Favorite - Michelle Moldowan | 01:06:28 | |
Michelle Moldowan of C'est Jolie Designs styles inspiring spaces, makes houses feel like homes, and owns and operates a custom drapery workroom in Castle Rock, CO. She delights in walking alongside homeowners as they plan and execute home projects from minor changes to whole house remodeling, as well as designing and fabricating bespoke window treatments across the country. Using a design process carefully cultivated over 10 years in the industry, Michelle prides herself on listening carefully to homeowners to truly understand their lifestyle and design a space that not only meets theirs needs but tells their unique story. Michelle promises to have something on her Instagram account! Links and Resources; Elki's Roman Shade class Ann Johnson ripple fold Profit First by Mike Michalowicz Bible Footprints of a Pilgrim: The Life and Loves of Ruth Bell Graham (Some of the links I provide, specifically to Amazon and a few others, require me to let you know that if you use those links and make a purchase, I will make some money. I won't make a million dollars, but I might be able to get a cup of coffee, so thank you!) Quickbooks and Minutes Matter Ghant charts for estimating Speed Pleating from Workroom Marketplace Döfix Quickbooks Merrill Y Landis | |||
| 02 Feb 2020 | 190 - Julie Murphy - It Just Clicked In My Heart | 01:10:43 | |
Julie Murphy is the owner of Designer Draperies of Boston, a full-service workroom serving the design community in Boston MA. Julie started her home-based workroom, JM Custom Design in 2006, after a career as an Occupational Therapist. In 2014, with the desire to expand, she purchased her current business which had been in operation for 28 years. She is the mother of 4 children ranging from 14-20 and lives in Boston where she was born and raised. Links and Resources; The Sew Much More Podcast is sponsored by; | |||
| 10 Nov 2024 | 438 - Listener Favorite with Elki Comacho | 01:12:57 | |
Elki Camacho is a Business Consultant specializing in Strategic Growth and Operational Excellence. By focusing on people, process, and technology, Elki aids businesses in transforming their business models, scaling intentionally, and transforming cultures to create more profitable businesses. As a consultant, Elki operates in various capacities to strengthen business acumen, hone operational execution, deliver training and development, act as an extended part of your business, and provide ongoing coaching to meet your business needs. As a champion of Women in Business and Diversity and Inclusion, Elki is an avid community mentor and provides coaching and professional development to women rising in their careers. She sits on the Leadership team of BNI Chapter 25, is on the Board of Women Entrepreneurs of Hudson County as well as Hudson County Chamber of Commerce, and is the founder of WeMentors. She is the Principal and CEO of Elki Consulting Group.
Links and Resources; (I sometimes use affiliate links and I am grateful if you choose to use them.) Now What by Laura Berman Fortgang You Just Don't Understand by Deborah Tannen Multipliers: How the Best Leaders Make Everyone Smarter by Liz Wiseman The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People by Steven Covey (Some of the links I provide, specifically to Amazon and a few others, require me to let you know that if you use those links and make a purchase, I will make some money. I won't make a million dollars, but I might be able to get a cup of coffee, so thank you!)
The Sew Much More Podcast is sponsored by;
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| 03 Sep 2017 | #59 - Robin Matthews - I Didn't Know I Was A Workroom | 00:50:01 | |
Robin Matthews transformed her passion to create into her business "Seams Sew Right" in 2000. She offers high-end custom window treatments, bedding and slip covers to designers and retail clients. Robin is a member of the WCAA, WCAA Virtual Chapter and WCAA NJ Chapter where she served as secretary from 2011 to 2015. She has participated on the planning committee for Windows to Success the WCAA NJ Chapter's vendor show, volunteered her time to sew window treatments and install for Lin's Linens, and sewn for "Little Dresses for Africa" and "Heal the Children". Robin lives in Kinnelon, NJ with her husband Paul and their dog Debbie. She has two grown sons and three beautiful grandchildren. You can find Robin on Facebook. | |||
| 06 Nov 2022 | 334 - Listener Favorite - Heather McGrew | 01:06:24 | |
Heather McGrew is the owner of Drapery Décor. She started her business in 2010 after working and gaining knowledge/experience of this industry in a workroom in Chicago. Heather is a workroom dedicated to providing custom window treatments. Links and Resources; Books; (I do use some affiliate links here, so if you choose to use them, I appreciate it!) The Sew Much More Podcast is sponsored by; | |||
| 03 Nov 2024 | 437 - Organization Advice from Stacey Harmon, Evernote Certified Consultant | 01:09:33 | |
Founder of Harmon Enterprises, Stacey is a productivity coach and top Evernote Certified Consultant who specializes in helping disorganized and unproductive people get their lives in order with Evernote. Through her membership, guides and training programs, she shows busy people how to take back control of their digital lives to give them the freedom, space, and time they crave. Thanks to her Evernote-based GTD® practice she enjoys a paperless laptop-lifestyle which often takes her far beyond her home base of Austin, Texas. | |||
| 30 Mar 2025 | 458 - Christina Nies - I Love the Community of This Business | 00:42:38 | |
Christina Nies is a former night shift labor and delivery nurse with 25 years of experience who has decided to embark on a new career path. She has launched a drapery and soft furnishing workroom called Night Shift Window Décor. Christina is a self-taught sewer with a long-standing passion for decorating and textiles. Her business caters to both retail and to-the-trade customers, providing a range of window treatment and soft furnishing services. Christina operates her workroom from a small space in the basement of her family home in Richmond, VA. She resides there with her husband, Nick, and their four children, whose ages range from 9 to 16.
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| 20 Aug 2023 | 375 - Judi Turner - I Am Always Looking for Information | 01:24:47 | |
Judi Andersen Turner has been the owner/designer/fabricator for Domicil Design since 1992. She holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts, the University of Michigan, and explores many other art mediums including oil paints, 3D sculptures and other fiber art crafts. Throughout her time in business, she has organized networking groups, including Professional Sewing Association-Home Décor Workrooms (Cincinnati) and WCAA, holding President positions in chapters. Professional accomplishments include being a published contributor to Drapery & Design Professional trade magazine for several years, 2019 Artisan Project winner for WFCP Window Fashion, as well as networking and sharing knowledge with other professionals. Judi has some videos on YouTube that you can find here. Judi is on Instagram Links and Resources; The Sew Much More Podcast is sponsored by; | |||
| 07 Oct 2018 | 120 - The Tables Get Turned and Susan Woodcock Interviews Ceil DiGuglielmo! | 01:17:26 | |
Ceil DiGuglielmo is the owner of Sew Much More Custom Sewing. As a to the trade window treatment and soft furnishings workroom, Ceil loves collaborating with designers to bring their vision to completion for their clients. Passionate about education and technology in her industry, Ceil regularly attends conferences, seminars, and classes to keep up with industry standards and hone her skills. She is a Window Fashion Certified Professional Workroom.
As a member of the WCAA, she has served as President of her local Pennsylvania chapter and currently serves as Secretary on the National Board.
Ceil produces and hosts The Sew Much More Podcast, an interview style podcast with members of the window treatment and soft home furnishings industry.
Ceil is a Certified Evernote Consultant, teaching workrooms and designers how to effectively use Evernote to organize and access all of the information necessary to run their businesses. | |||
| 13 Aug 2017 | #56 - Anniversary Podcast Part 2 with Donna Cash | 00:49:42 | |
Welcome to Part 2 of the Anniversary Podcast! Today I ask Donna Cash the questions I didn't ask the first time I interviewed her! Donna Cash owns Designs by Donna, a custom home goods design and fabrication studio, opened in 1989. The studio is located in Flowery Branch, Ga., and serves the Atlanta metro and surrounding area.In addition to working with wholesale and retail clients, Donna conducts private training on workroom fabrication techniques in her workroom or yours. She also presents group workshops on many workroom, design, and business topics for the home décor industry.Donna has contributed step-by-step articles for Drapery & Design Professional magazine and conducts webinars for WCAA, D&D Pro, and Rowley Company. She was a pillow and bedding instructor for Custom Home Furnishings Academy. Donna is also teaching on-demand courses through TheWorkroomChannel.com.She is a member of the Designers Workroom Council and the Window Coverings Association of America (WCAA). Donna is currently the past president of the WCAA Atlanta Chapter. Donna keeps her schedule and life balanced through a regular yoga practice and enjoys spending time away from work with her husband and two grown sons and daughters-in-law. | |||
| 07 Feb 2021 | 243 - Susan Gee - There Really Aren't That Many Things In Life That You Need to Stress Out About | 00:54:21 | |
The Sew Much More Podcast is sponsored by; Susan Gee is the owner of Susan Gee Interiors in Oswego, Oregon. Susan has a degree in textiles from the University of Oregon and has been making beautiful window treatments since 1996. A few breaks in her home-based business to take care of some family needs has not stopped her from keeping her connections and relationships in the Interior Design Industry. Susan loves a challenge and her tagline is, "Helping you Love where you Live!" Links and Resources; | |||
| 02 Oct 2016 | Episode #11 with Minda Fernish | 00:59:44 | |
I had the absolute pleasure of interviewing Minda Fernish for this week's podcast! Minda is so passionate about sharing what she does that it was a joy to be in her classes earlier this year. Minda is so cheerful and positive. Minda opened her workroom in 1980. What started as a part time endeavor quickly grew into a full time business. Catering to the discerning designer, Minda's Draperies specializes in custom draperies, valances, pillows, and shades. Through the years, Minda has picked up many tips and techniques on Efficiency in the Workroom, Types of Valance Fullness, Swag Pattern Drafting, and Pleating Draperies, which she's shared at several conferences, including as host of a Working Workroom for Cheryl Strickland. Minda has been published in Sew What? Magazine, Window Coverings News, and is a contributing member of several online forums. You can contact Minda at mfernish@gmail.com.
I am so grateful to share my sponsors with you, as they are helping to make it possible to continue brining the podcast to you. Contact Michele Williams at 678-576-0814
The Window Covering Association of America
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| 07 Nov 2021 | 282 - Terry Sandlin Re-Release | 01:05:51 | |
The Sew Much More Podcast is sponsored by; Terry Sandlin has been a part of the soft furnishing industry since 1992. Starting in a 1 person workroom, 1 day a week, making cording & ruffles. In 2007 she and her husband relocated to Birmingham, Ala, where she opened Terry’s Designing Windows. Terry was a member of the WCAA Birmingham Chapter and served as Secretary for 2 years before they disbanded. Terry was a winner of the 2018 Artisan Project, Demonstrator in the Construction Zone of the 2019 IWCE Conference, and was slotted to demonstrate in the 2020 IWCE -newly named- Workroom Central before it was rescheduled. She was also selected to be an Instructor for the 2021 Custom Workroom Conference. Here is the link to Terry's article in the Drapery & Design Digital Digest Links and Resources; | |||
| 30 Jun 2019 | 158 - Rachel Fletcher and Audrey Lonsway talk about the new National Upholstery Association | 01:02:48 | |
There is a new group in town! The National Upholstery Association is looking to gather the professionals in the Upholstery Industry and support and encourage them. Rachel Fletcher and Audrey Lonsway are the new President and Vice President of the NUA. Rachel Fletcher owns Knox Upholstery in Knoxville, Tennessee. With a bachelor's degree in communications from Millikin University, her career before upholstery included marketing, advertising and promotional events. Rachel learned how to upholster while working as a theatrical Props Assistant at the University of Tennessee - Knoxville. After falling in love with the trade she began her upholstery business out of her home in 2010. Rachel is a very active participant in the upholstery world. She is the President of the National Upholstery Association and a co-moderator of the Professional Upholsterer's Network on Facebook, which boasts over 2,100 upholsterers globally. Audrey Lonsway owns Sewing Den LLC in Ashburn, Virginia. Providing both upholstery and workroom services, she enjoys the variety in her shop. Audrey has a degree in Music Education from Shepherd College and spent ten years as a National Park Ranger (complete with the Smokey the Bear hat!) at Wolf Trap National Park for the Performing Arts as well as two other DC area National Parks. She’s a mother of two young and wife to a tall Ranger husband.
Resources; Cynthia Bleskachek of The Funky Little Chair Susan Woodcock's Workroom Tech Window Covering Association of America (WCAA)
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| 07 Jul 2024 | 420 - Adam Hoover - Somehow Furniture Found Me | 01:27:43 | |
Adam Hoover began his journey in the furniture industry while in college, buying and selling vintage pieces from his dorm room. In 2011 he founded Main Street Modern, how one of the country’s largest mid-century modern furniture showrooms, located in Canton, Ohio. Two years ago, Adam acquired Laubacher Upholstery (now Ohio Workroom), a thriving 10-person workroom. With a degree in financial service management and minors in entrepreneurship, real estate, international business, and communication, Adam is currently creating an all-in-one design and restoration showroom in a 100-year-old building in downtown Canton, putting both businesses under one roof.
Ohio Workoom is on Facebook Laubacher Upholstery is on Instagram Links and Resources; (Some of the links I provide, specifically to Amazon and a few others, require me to let you know that if you use those links and make a purchase, I will make some money. I won't make a million dollars, but I might be able to get a cup of coffee, so thank you!)
The Sew Much More Podcast is sponsored by;
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| 13 Apr 2025 | 460 - Kate Greenawalt and John Greenawalt from Stout Textiles | 01:05:51 | |
Kate Greenawalt is Stout Textile’s Vice President and part of the fourth generation of family leadership at the brand. She started her career overseeing all of Stout’s showrooms and traveling with the sales team. Kate enjoys the travel and the opportunities to meet new people and cultivate not only a business relationship but friendships as well. When she is not immersed in work, Kate enjoys spending time with her husband and three children.
John Greenawalt is Stout Textile’s President and part of the fourth generation of family leadership at the brand. John began his career on the road servicing customers in eastern Pennsylvania and later in the design department, but he found his true passion when he was tasked with creating Stout’s website and growing our e-commerce. John continues to oversee the website along with daily operations. Johns four children and wife keep him busy when not in the office with sports and enjoying down time as a family. Stout is on Facebook and Instagram Links and Resources; | |||
| 08 Oct 2023 | 382 - Opportunity Thinking Series with Taylor Angel | 00:50:47 | |
Taylor Angel is the Vice President of Angel's Distributing, LLC. Today we are talking about customer service and some new products that Angel's has developed and the how and why behind their new products. | |||
| 14 Aug 2022 | 322 - Claudia Couto - I Don't Have A Choice, I Have To Be Happy! | 00:52:31 | |
Claudia Couto, owner and founder of Claudia Couture Homes LLC, has been in the design business for over 17 years. Born and raised in Brazil, Claudia’s passion for unique luxury design began at a young age, when she learned to sew at just 8 years old. With great grandparents who were Italian designers, the industry has been in her family for decades. After studying Chemical Engineering in Brazil, Claudia came to America to pursue her dreams of design. She graduated from New York Institute of Art with a degree in Interior Design and went on to begin her career in Connecticut, specializing in luxury textiles, high-end custom window treatments, upholstery, bespoke furniture design and beyond. Over the years, Claudia’s work has been installed in hundreds of homes curated by top interior designers. She has worked in Connecticut, the Hamptons, Westchester, New York City, Newport, Watch Hill and abroad in Dubai and areas of Japan. Her expert craftsmanship, along with her creativity, reliability and unmatched quality of work make her creations exceptional, unique and highly sought after. Along with her skilled team of craftsmen, Claudia consistently aims to exceed the expectations of her clients. She describes her style as clean, refined and elevated, with the insight and experience to work in homes with a range of aesthetics from modern and contemporary to traditional. Claudia lives in Fairfield with her two children, who are her biggest inspiration of all. Claudia is on Instagram. Links and Resources; Claudia's Digital Tape measure A Well Designed Business by LuAnn Nigara
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| 19 Jan 2025 | 448 - Happy New Year 2025! | 00:14:20 | |
| 24 Jan 2021 | 241 - Heather McGrew - I Have Challenges But It Doesn't Deter Me! | 01:05:45 | |
The Sew Much More Podcast is sponsored by; Heather McGrew is the owner of Drapery Décor. She started her business in 2010 after working and gaining knowledge/experience of this industry in a workroom in Chicago. Heather is a workroom dedicated to providing custom window treatments. Links and Resources; Books; (I do use some affiliate links here, so if you choose to use them, I appreciate it!) | |||
| 24 Sep 2023 | 380 - Kimberly Lista - I Found My Peace in the Workroom | 00:54:34 | |
Kim has a very unique way of tapping into what her clients want for their homes, and creating that atmosphere by mixing both high and low-end furniture items in her designs. Every design is different, and her specialty is to bring out the personality and style of her clients, into the design of the space.
She redesigned her life and her brand by launching Kim Lista Interiors, LLC. a full-service consulting and design company.
Links and Resources;
Sewing Custom Curtains, Shades and Top Treatments by Susan Woodcock | |||
| 14 Oct 2016 | Episode # Lucky 13 Where do you find your creativity | 00:03:30 | |
After spending a wonderful weekend with so many creative women, I am wondering about how we find time to be creative and where we find our creativity. I would love to hear how you find time to be creative. I'll post the question on my Facebook Page. Please share how you find time to be creative and where you find creative inspiration.
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| 22 Oct 2023 | 384 - What Three Items in Your Workroom Can You Not Live Without? | 00:21:22 | |
Links for podcast
Terko thread - https://workroommarketplace.com/collections/sewing-supplies
Jewel’s tape Home Sewing Depot - https://homesewingdepot.com/collections/sealah-tape-glue/products/3-16-jewels-tape-double-sided-adhesive
Workroom Channel Marketplace - https://workroommarketplace.com/collections/sewing-supplies/jewels-tapes
Dondar Designs - https://www.donnaskufis.com/shop/
JSH Designs Rulers- https://jsh-designs.squarespace.com/shop
Grids and Templates on The Workroom Marketplace - https://workroommarketplace.com/collections/grids-templates
Creative Hands Debbie DiFrancesco - https://www.creativehandsinfo.com/
Sloan Machinery - https://www.sloanmachinery.com/
Workroom Table Construction 30 Minutes with Workroom Tech Podcast 18 Using Your Fabric Rack to Inspect Fabric by Denise Canney
Workroom Stands - https://pub.marq.com/2023-0506DigDigest/#8KA8_kTwmZZZ The Workroom Market Place - Sewing Custom Curtains, Shades, and Top Treatments by Susan Woodcock Price Ultra Pro seam ripper Workroom Marketplace https://workroommarketplace.com/collections/small-tools?page=1
30 Minutes with Workroom Tech, 74 - Learning About Thread
Sloan Machinery
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| 23 Feb 2025 | 453 - Deb Barrett - I've Been Appointment Driven My Whole Life | 01:21:02 | |
Deb Barrett is an accomplished, prolific and highly regarded authority in the design industry with a varied background and experience. A fascination with what's around the corner and the constant search for inspiration has led to her current roles in the design industry. • As an award-winning designer and Principal in Window Dressings, Deb Barrett has built a reputation for cutting edge couture treatments and soft furnishings • As an educator, Deb is a recognized design authority and thought leader. She is a frequent speaker for a variety of industry events. She has championed design education and innovation throughout her career; developing and producing CEU accredited educational events under her brand. • As a consultant, Deb provides insights, intelligence and lateral inspiration across a broad range of products and services within the design. • As a design guide, Deb has been hosting Décor Tours to international trade shows for design professionals for over a decade. Speaker, Consultant and Coach | Deb Barrett Window Fashion Expert | Designer Design Guide to the World's Markets| Decor Tours Links and Resources; WRT 96 - Paris Decor Tours Podcast with Susan Woodcock (Some of the links I provide, specifically to Amazon and a few others, require me to let you know that if you use those links and make a purchase, I will make some money. I won't make a million dollars, but I might be able to get a cup of coffee, so thank you!) | |||
| 08 Apr 2018 | 90 - Melissa Hamman - Plan Your Work and Work Your Plan | 00:56:20 | |
The Sew Much More Podcast is sponsored by;
Melissa Hammann is the owner of Riviera Décor a high-end retail and wholesale custom workroom that also specializes in outdoor décor. She resides in Corpus Christi, Texas a resort coastal town located off the gulf coast of south Texas where she lives with her husband and four children Melissa is the recent recipient of the 2018 IWCA/Visions Award for first place in Curtains and Draperies Workroom competition. Her work has been published numerous times in local media and trade magazines. She holds a Master of Science degree and Bachelor of Business Degree, from Texas A&M along with design training at the New York Institute of Art and Design and twelve certificates from the Custom Home Furnishings Academy located in Charlotte, North Carolina. You can find Riviera Decor on Facebook and Instagram. On the Podcast we mentioned; | |||
| 23 May 2021 | 258 - Jennifer Holaday - The More I Know The More Confidence I Have | 01:11:29 | |
Jen Holaday is the owner of Brave Maggie Designs, a custom drapery workroom in Franklin, TN. She fabricates pillows, bedding, cushions, and shades but nothing makes her heart skip a beat more so than beautiful custom drapery. From the fabrics and hardware to the pleating and draping, custom drapery will elevate an entire space. It’s the difference between a pretty room and a simply stunning one. Jennifer has close to 10 years of experience throughout the Nashville area working with professional workrooms, interior designers, and directly with homeowners. She loves living in music city, where she's had the opportunity to work with some very creative people. In addition to fabrication, Jennifer offers the following services: fabric consult, fabric sourcing and purchasing, measuring, drapery hardware, roller, and woven shades, and professional installation. Where you can find Jennifer: bravemaggiedesigns@gmail.com Links and Resources; Hours Tracker App | |||
| 27 Oct 2024 | 436 - Opportunity Thinking Series with Ralph Angel | 01:03:13 | |
The Sew Much More Podcast is sponsored by; It's always a pleasure for me to talk with Ralph Angel! He's one of the first people I met in this industry and he was so helpful. Today you'll hear about what and who! is new at Angel's!
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| 12 Jul 2020 | 213 - Sara Trail - The Social Justice Sewing Academy | 00:58:09 | |
Sara Trail learned to sew at the young age of 4, and is now a successful author, sewing teacher, and pattern and fabric designer. At age 13, she wrote a nationally published book, “Sew with Sara” that teaches teens and tweens how to sew cute clothes and accessories for fun and profit. At 15, she starred in a nationally published DVD, “Cool stuff to Sew With Sara.” She then designed two fabric collections, Folkheart and Biology 101 a pattern collection with Simplicity, “Designed with Love by Sara.” Her pattern collection features prom dresses, backpack patterns, hoodies, and jackets as well as aprons and tote bags. While attending UC Berkeley, Sara created a quilt in memory of Trayvon Martin and her love for sewing and passion for social justice intertwined. After graduating from the Harvard University Graduate School of Education, she founded the Social Justice Sewing Academy (SJSA) to be a platform where youth create art that engages and educates communities. Links and Resources; Social Justice Sewing Academy on Facebook How To Be An Anti Racist by Ibram X. Kendi Why I'm No Longer Talking to White People About Race by Reni Eddo-Lodge Why Are All The Black Kids Sitting Together In The Cafeteria by Beverly Daniel Tatum
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| 17 Sep 2017 | #61 Tammy Paradoski - I Believe Everyone Has A Purpose | 01:20:27 | |
Tammy Paradoski is the owner of Daisy Chain, a full-service retail drapery and slipcover studio created in 2000. She specializes in the high-quality craftsmanship of window treatments, bedding, and slipcovers with attention to detail. She is also the owner of Bespoke Soft Furnishings Magazine, the only multimedia publication in the industry. Her passions include teaching others and sharing the knowledge she has gained over the years. Tammy is a member of the WFCP Advisory Board and WCAA. You can also find Tammy on Facebook for Daisy Chain, LLC and Bespoke Soft Furnishings Magazine. | |||
| 18 Oct 2020 | 227 - Darla DeMorrow - Organizing Gives You Power | 01:02:24 | |
The Sew Much More Podcast is sponsored by; Darla DeMorrow, owner of Heartwork Organizing joins us today. Darla is always a breath of fresh air to me, she gives us some great ideas for organizing our office/workspace with such kindness and she encourages us to celebrate our successes!!!! Darla DeMorrow is a Certified Professional Organizer ®, owner of HeartWork Organizing based near Philadelphia, PA, mom of 2, and author of the best-selling book series SORT and Succeed, which outlines five simple steps to help you organize stuff, time, information, money, and photos. Her newest book, The Upbeat, Organized Home Office, is now available.
You can now watch the podcast recording on YouTube! Links and Resources; You can see Darla's Books here. To Contact Darla - darla@heartworkorg.com Darla's article - Paper Isn't Proof - You Are Enough Darla's Free Facebook Group - HeartWork Organizing: Peaceful, Clutter-Free Living | |||
| 13 Sep 2020 | 222 - Denise Canney - I Figure Things Out! | 01:09:48 | |
The Sew Much More Podcast is sponsored by; Denise Canney Custom Sewing was established in 1998 as a one-person workroom operated out of her home in Livingston, NJ then later moving to Doylestown, PA in 2006. Denise serves both designers and retail clients fabricating various types of window treatments as well as other soft home furnishings. She is also proud to offer various fabric and trim lines from Stout, Schumacher, Samuel and Sons, and Fabricut. Denise has recently expanded her product line to also sell shades and shutters by Comfortex, Norman, and Walden Select. Denise prides herself in providing her clients with excellent customer service and quality custom products. Denise says; I can honestly say that it doesn't feel like work if you love what you are doing…...and I DO love what I do! Links and Resources; | |||
| 09 Aug 2020 | 217 - Jamie Facciola - Furniturecyle | 01:09:07 | |
The Sew Much More Podcast is sponsored by; Jamie Facciola is an award-winning social entrepreneur whose work on developing local solutions to circular economy challenges has been covered in BBC News, Fast Company, and GreenBiz. Her professional background is in environmental science and corporate environmental management. Jamie is on the Board of the National Upholstery Association and holds a Master of Environmental Science and Management from the Bren School at the University of California, Santa Barbara. Her current project is Furniturecycle, a Solutions Lab dedicated to exploring furniture waste from the bottom up. Links and Resources; Loved Furniture Lasts Instagram - @furniture.cycle | |||
| 25 Aug 2024 | 427 - Phillips Workroom with Mary and Callye Phillips | 01:28:27 | |
Mary Phillips is the owner of Phillips Window Workroom, a custom drapery and soft home furnishings workroom in Chadds Ford, Pennsylvania. Mary has been in the industry for over 40 years, first starting with upholstery with her Sister-In-Law, creating relationships with clients and vendors and then going off on her own out of the house. In 2003, Mary found a location in Chadds Ford and moved out of the house and the rest has been history! Mary has three children with her husband, Mike, a sweet dog Ruby and a huge loving family that loves spending time together and going on vacations to the beach or hanging by the pool. Callye is 26 years old and is Mary’s daughter. She grew up in and out of the workroom. When Callye was 6, Mary moved out of the house. Through the years, Callye always appreciated that her Mom was able to come to all her sporting events, and could be there when she needed her since her Mom was her own boss. After going to West Chester University, and finishing right in the pandemic in May 2020, Callye didn’t quite have a game plan. She spent a year and a half nannying before deciding to join the PWW team, and just celebrated three years with them. Callye enjoys the creative process, working with customers and designers and seeing their beautiful custom work come to life. Outside of the workroom, Callye coaches volleyball and still plays, (has a boyfriend), and loves spending time with family & friends and her three beautiful nephews! (Soon to be 4). Links and Resources; | |||
| 04 Dec 2016 | #21 Susan Gillen - Soul Searching and Knowing yourself! | 01:18:22 | |
This week I have the honor of interviewing Sue Gillen, owner of Window Fashion Designs & More. Sue is a dear friend of mine and is a Certified Window Treatment Consultant and Fabricator who works with homeowners and designers to create beautiful and functional window treatments that are truly works of art. She also offers shades, shutters, custom upholstery and accessories to finish the look. An expert craftsperson who keeps up with current trends, Susan has a strong background in traditional design.This wide scope of experience ensures that her clients get the best of both worlds... a treatment that perfectly fits their tastes now and one that will continue to “work” well into the future. I often ask my guests if they ever thought about quitting, and my answer would have to be YES!!! But Sue talked me out of it. More than once!
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| 25 Mar 2018 | 88 - Opportunity Thinking Series Episode 3 - Meet Kitty Stein - Author of Price Your Work With Confidence | 01:57:54 | |
Episode 3 of the Opportunity Thinking Series is an interview with Kitty Stein, author of Price Your Work With Confidence. Ann K. Johnson is now the publisher of the book and she joins us in an entertaining conversation with Kitty. It is a little bit difficult for me to comprehend not thinking about window treatments or our industry on a daily basis, but that is what retirement looks like for Kitty now! Encompassing a career of 30 years in the Window Covering Industry, Kitty became a highly respected personality who wore many hats as an entrepreneur: Soft covering designer and fabricator, some of which appeared in national magazines and local designer show houses; sole proprietor workroom to the trade; partnership owning a retail decorating business and wholesale workroom; employer of decorators and workroom fabricators; monthly columnist for two prominent magazines to the trade, wrote well over 200 articles spanning 13 years; seminar presenter; teacher and development assistant to the original window coverings school, eventually called the Custom Home Furnishings Academy (CHF School); business consultant to the trade; and author and publisher of five business books to the trade, of which PRICE YOUR WORK WITH CONFIDENCE, published in 2000, is still selling. Kitty was also a board member of the Window Covering Association of America (WCAA) as a liaison with the workroom industry. During her tenure, she saw the development of the Certified Workroom Professional (CWP) program from conception to fruition, for which she received a special award from the WCAA. She also received a Life Time Educator award from the CHF School for her contributions to the industry.
Ann K. Johnson owns Sew Easy Windows LLC, a wholesale workroom in Ohio, established in 1992. She is the author of The Professional Workroom Handbook of Swags I & II, and publisher for Kitty Stein's Price Your Work With Confidence! Ann offers private workroom training, seminars, and hands-on classes in workroom fabrication, pattern drafting, efficiency, and pricing. Her topics are always packed with time-saving tips and techniques. Contact Ann at ajohnson@seweasywindows to put together a training package for you. Ann is an instructor for The Workroom Channel and Workroom Tech, a webinar instructor for WCAA, and a speaker for The Custom Workroom Conference. She is a member of the Greater Cleveland Drapery Professionals and WCAA. Ann also is an educator for Dream Draper. During the podcast we talked about; A Course In Miracles by Dr. Helen Schucman These are Amazon Affiliate links, and I'm grateful if you choose to use them.
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| 11 Oct 2020 | 226 - Celeste Breen - They Would Be Grinning From Ear to Ear! | 00:45:36 | |
The Sew Much More Podcast is sponsored by;
Celeste Breen is the owner of Sew Much Fun and Creations by Celeste. She started teaching sewing 20 years ago after working as a nurse for 20 years. To date, she has had over 200 different students. About 10 years she started Creations by Celeste and formalized the sewing of custom home décor. She lives with her husband, John in Grayslake, a suburb of Chicago. They have been married for almost 44 years and have three children, all married, and four of the most adorable grandchildren. Celeste is on Facebook for both her teaching business as well as her workroom business. Twitter @celestesews
Links and Resources; | |||
| 19 Sep 2021 | OT Series - 275 - Lea Tran - I Did Not Miss the Boat | 00:55:25 | |
The Sew Much More Podcast is sponsored by; The Curtains and Soft Furnishings Resource Library National Upholstery Association Lea Tran is an ethnic Chinese, former "Boat People" refugee from Vietnam. A Villanova University graduate with a Bachelor's degree in Chemistry, a female scientist turned successful entrepreneur and business owner in the Greater Philadelphia Region, where she called home for thirty-five years.
Links and Resources; The Glass Castle: A Memoir Jeannette Walls Atomic Habits: An Easy & Proven Way to Build Good Habits & Break Bad Ones James Clear Educated: A Memoir by Tara Westover Attitude Is Everything: Change Your Attitude... Change Your Life! by Jeff Keller Canva Evernote Podcast app
Lea is on Facebook, Instagram and Linkedin Lea will be speaking at the Custom Workroom Conference in October of 2022 | |||
| 23 Aug 2020 | 219 - Rachel Fletcher - I Was All In and I Had To Make This Work | 00:53:57 | |
The Sew Much More Podcast is sponsored by; Rachel Fletcher, Owner of Knox Upholstery in Knoxville, Tennessee, is globally respected in the upholstery trade. She is an instructor at the Custom Workroom Conference and administrator of the Professional Upholsterer’s Network, a global group of over 2,700 professional upholsterers. In January 2019, she joined a mini-think tank to help build what is now known as the National Upholstery Association (NUA). In May 2019 Rachel was elected President of the NUA, unanimously, by her peers. Under her leadership, the NUA has grown to 200+ members and provides robust educational offerings. Links and Resources; The Workroom Channel's Channel Back Chair Class will release in September see a preview of the class here. The Professional | |||
| 24 Apr 2022 | 306 - Listener Favorites - Antoinette van Speyk re-release | 01:02:57 | |
Antoinette was born and raised in Cape Town South Africa. She studied at the University of Stellenbosch where she obtained an Honours Degree in Drama and Theatre Arts as well as a Teaching Diploma. Her 20+ year career in the Film and Television Industry gave her the opportunity to live and work in Africa, Europe, China, the USA and finally Canada where she settled with her family in 2000. Sewing has always been her hobby. Antoinette remembers sewing her first apron under her mother’s watchful eye at age three. Sewing clothes for fellow students helped Antoinette pay her way through university. She began sewing home furnishings as soon as she moved into her first apartment. Blinds, Drapes & Bedding began in 2001, it is an exclusive Window Treatment consulting service and design/production studio supplying primarily, but not exclusively, to the trade. Each and every item is sewn and constructed by Antoinette personally or under her supervision. With a reputation for doing precise and neat work paying special attention to detail, she takes pride in continually upgrading her knowledge of new developments in the Window Treatment industry and doing industry-directed Webinars throughout the year. She is a WFCP Specialist (Window Fashion Certified Professionals). Antoinette is on Instagram Links and Resources; HGTV Renovation Island or in Canada: Island of Bryan Princess Margaret Home Lottery Grand Prize Home (Spring 2021. Designed by Sarah Baeumler) Princess Margaret Home Lottery Grand Prize Home (Spring 2020. Designed by Sarah Baeumler) Caerula Mar Club (Resort in the Bahamas) | |||
| 10 Jul 2022 | 317 - Listener Favorite - Claire Herne | 01:06:50 | |
Claire Herne is the owner of Louie Custom Drapery, located in Darien Connecticut. Claire's background is in investment banking, but she has sewn throughout her life, just for fun! Moving from the UK to the US in 2009 meant decorating a big new house and she struggled to find a local workroom so she pulled out her sewing machine and started making drapes and pillows and found that she really loved it. Soon, Claire, had friends asking her to start making soft furnishings for them and she decided that she should do this professionally. Louie Custom Drapery (named after Claire's mom and daughter) has been in business for just over 4 years - she serves the local trade community. Claire loves to interact with other workroom professionals and most of her learning has been through this wonderful group and at Workroom Tech. Claire lives with her 15-year-old daughter, 2 dogs, a cat, and 2 rabbits (aka Darien Petting Zoo!), her workroom has recently been located in her garage and things are really taking off now. Links and Resources; The Sew Much More Podcast is sponsored by; | |||
| 09 Oct 2022 | 330 - Listener Favorite - Lisa O'Brien | 01:01:25 | |
Lisa O'Brien is the owner of All Things Material. Raised in Northern Kentucky, as a child Lisa O’Brien was always creating something. No wonder she became an artist! Custom window treatments add an artistic element to every home. Creativity, education, and detail are necessary to provide customers with the right look to fit their home design goals. Hiring a professional is how this is done. In 2004, after attending a Custom Home Furnishings Conference with Donna Skufis, Lisa returned and gave a one-month notice to her corporate office and opened All Things Material! With the education provided by this unique school and continuous ongoing education to remain current on fabrication methods, trends, fabrics, and safety, All Things Material has become a well-known and respected business. Lisa is the President of the Kentucky Workroom Association, meeting quarterly to learn from others in the industry and share experiences. During her free time, she enjoys catching up with family. Walking her 2-year-old Lab Summer as well as being outdoors and golfing. Lisa is on Instagram.
Links and Resources; Michele Williams - Scarlet Thread Consulting Podcasts Lisa listens to; LuAnn Nigara Inside Design Dateline The Vanished Up and Vanished What They Don't Want you to Know The Sew Much More Podcast is sponsored by; | |||
| 10 Jan 2021 | 239 - Jennifer Csanyi - I Took It Seriously and Started Making Goals for Myself | 00:57:18 | |
The Sew Much More Podcast is sponsored by; Jennifer Csanyi is the owner of Jennifer’s Sewing Studio located in Cocoa, Fl. Jennifer has been sewing most of her life and learned from her grandmother, a wonderful and patient teacher. Jennifer started her business as a single mother, needing to create more income for her family. She is focused on educating herself to increase her skills and confidence. Jennifer is a member of Susan Woodcock’s and Ceil DiGuglielmo’s WAM group, which stands for Workroom Accountability and Mentoring group. There are 12 business owners in this group and it's part of the Curtains and Soft Furnishings Library. Everyone is in business 5 years or less and in it, she has found a wonderful group of ladies who are very supportive of learning and gaining an enormous amount of confidence in the past year. Jennifer attended the Custom Workroom Conference the last year it was held for the first time.It was a life-changing event for her and her business and she had the pleasure of meeting Ceil and Susan while there as well as many other wonderful workroom owners and workers. Jennifer has also been taking virtual classes with Susan this year due to Covid preventing in person classes. The classes have been fantastic and she has learned so much from them! She is also a new member of the WCAA virtual group. She is looking forward to getting to know the other members of this group and has greatly enjoyed their webinars. Links and Resources; Workroom Tech- check the WRT Website for upcoming slipcover classes (and lot's of others!) with Emily Petit Emily Pettit's class | |||
| 10 Apr 2022 | 304 - Listener Favorites - Jennifer Holaday | 01:12:14 | |
Jen Holaday is the owner of Brave Maggie Designs, a custom drapery workroom in Franklin, TN. She fabricates pillows, bedding, cushions, and shades but nothing makes her heart skip a beat more so than beautiful custom drapery. From the fabrics and hardware to the pleating and draping, custom drapery will elevate an entire space. It’s the difference between a pretty room and a simply stunning one. Jennifer has close to 10 years of experience throughout the Nashville area working with professional workrooms, interior designers, and directly with homeowners. She loves living in Music City, where she's had the opportunity to work with some very creative people. In addition to fabrication, Jennifer offers the following services: fabric consult, fabric sourcing and purchasing, measuring, drapery hardware, roller, and woven shades, and professional installation. Where you can find Jennifer: bravemaggiedesigns@gmail.com Links and Resources; Hours Tracker App | |||
| 22 Nov 2020 | 232 - Donna Hovis - I Don't Think You Can Be Successful Without Being Joyful | 00:57:10 | |
The Sew Much More Podcast is sponsored by; Donna Hovis owns Donna Hovis Interiors, a one-woman drapery workroom serving Middle Tennessee for the past 18 years. Donna has an Associate's Degree in Interior Design and loves being involved in every aspect of her projects: from measuring to designing to fabrication to installation. Donna is on Facebook and Instagram. You can see Donna's published window treatments here in the Drapery & Design Digital Digest Links and Resources; (I do use some affiliate links) Charles Randall's book is available for purchase from The Workroom Marketplace Sew What? Magazine issues are to PRO Plus Members in the Curtains & Soft Furnishings Resource Library | |||
| 26 Dec 2016 | #24 Marylan Borchardt and Jeanelle Dech - A legacy continues! | 00:42:50 | |
For many of us, our first M'Fay Pattern was our introduction to professional drapery making. It's amazing that such an extensive collection of instructional manuals and patterns all started because of one woman's thought that someone ought to be making them! In this podcast, Marylan Borchardt and family talk about her initial interest in sewing, the early days working within her sister's business, the development of her first pattern (The Empire) and the growth of the M'Fay Pattern Company. They are joined by Jeanelle Dech of Adaptive Textiles who recently acquired the patterns, and shares with us her vision of the future. I hope all of you have a Merry Christmas, a Happy Hanukah and a Happy and Prosperous New Year! I look forward to hosting more podcasts in 2017! The Sew Much More Podcast is sponsored by | |||
| 13 Oct 2024 | 434 - Listener Favorite - Suzy Daruwala | 01:19:33 | |
Suzy Daruwala is the owner of Sew Bella Home, a full-service drapery and fabrication studio servicing homeowners, builders, and designers alike. Clients say they enjoy working with Suzy because she has the ability to really listen and interpret their needs and desires and helps to translate their vision into a well-executed design and fabrication plan. She delivers exceptional quality and is very detail-oriented. She founded her company in November of 2007 in Branchburg, NJ, relocated to Lexington, MA in 2010, and finally landed in Del Mar, CA in 2015. In 2001 she started taking sewing classes, first in clothing construction, then upholstery and finally Window treatments, slipcovers, and bedding. After attending a CHF conference in 2007 she decided to open her own business. Suzy started her career as a nurse and holds a bachelor's degree in Nursing from the University of KY and a master's degree in Child and Adolescent Psychiatric nursing from the University of Cincinnati. Links; | |||
| 29 Jul 2018 | 107 - JoAnne Lenart-Weary - I Said Yes Over and Over and Over Again! | 01:07:11 | |
The Sew Much More Podcast is sponsored by; If you were to describe JoAnne Lenart-Weary in a few words, they would be authentic, informative, and funny. Born with a passion for creating beautiful spaces, in 1975, a wallpapering and painting business segued into an interior decorating business. JoAnne was driven by her love for the process and a desire to be the best she could be. She also realized it takes more than talent to grow a business so began to offer DIY seminars in her area to gain visibility. The visibility increased her following for multiple years and she continues to offer residential decorating and real estate staging services.
Residential workshops gave way to professional workshops in 1999 when JoAnne founded The Decorating and Staging Academy. She continues to receive requests to speak at industry events, has appeared HGTV, and for 5 years on the local ABC affiliate. She has taught in 29 states, 3 countries, and continues to offer classes and workshops around the country and online in color, decorating, design, real estate staging, marketing and more. If you want to learn the how and whys of growing a successful decorating or staging related business, JoAnne is the go-to. She is available for speaking, training, and coaching.
JoAnne Lenart-Weary We talked about; Apps; Roomstyler PowerPoint Sherwin Williams Virtual Color Selector | |||
| 03 Mar 2024 | 402 - Rachel Crowe -If You Don't Have your Own Wisdom, You Borrow it From Others | 01:13:16 | |
Rachel began her business in 2004 on the dining table of her mother’s living room after a fluke encounter with a family friend at the local bakery. Who knew that croissants would be the catalyst to begin a soft furnishings business? The seed had been planted several years after visiting a stranger's home and noticing custom bedding, draperies, and floor-length round tablecloths. “I remember thinking …’hey I wonder if I could do that!’ after a sneaky examination of the undersides and backsides of those items.” Sewing had begun for Rachel at the age of 11 and 4-H sewing programs, but it was not until 17 years later that the entrepreneurial bug bit hard and spawned a new vocational life trajectory! Rachel is on Instagram Links and Resources; | |||
| 09 Feb 2025 | 451 - Molly Burke and Tracy Jenkins of Chairloom | 01:11:58 | |
Now is Found On today's podcast I have the pleasure of interviewing Molly Burke and Tracy Jenkins of Chairloom.
The Sew Much More Podcast is sponsored by;
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| 12 Feb 2023 | 348 - Kelli Vitari - Money Will Come Back to You, Time Will Not | 01:18:43 | |
Kelli Vitari is an award-winning owner of the window treatment store and drapery and upholstery workroom, Wild Fern Window Furnishings, in Olympia, WA. She has been fabricating for the industry for the past 18 years in various workrooms across the country and has been sewing since the age of 8. Her educational background ranges from architectural engineering and interior and commercial design to biology and medicine. She lives in Olympia, WA with her husband and business partner, Willie, 3 yr old daughter, Tezra, 2 dogs, and a snake. The Sew Much More Podcast is sponsored by; | |||
| 20 Feb 2022 | 297 - OT Series - Two Sisters Ecotextiles | 01:00:24 | |
Almost 20 years ago Leigh Anne was looking for fabric to reupholster her sofa. She found fabrics that were sophisticated, but not environmentally friendly; or “green” (mostly recycled polyester – actually a poor green choice), but not stylish. Even the fabrics claiming to be “organic” were processed with chemicals that were harmful to people and the planet - and many of those chemicals remain in the fabric. Since Leigh couldn’t find a company that was creating entirely safe but gorgeous fabrics using organic or sustainable methods and using zero plastic (polyester, nylon, etc), she enlisted her sister, Patty, and together they formed Two Sisters Ecotextiles, to “change the way textiles are being made.” You can find Two Sisters Ecotextiles on Instagram and Facebook.
Links and Resources; | |||
| 30 Sep 2018 | 119 - Kathy Hamilton - I Light Up When I See The Possibilities | 01:18:45 | |
Kathy Hamilton Window Alternatives Business Profile
Kathy is the owner of WINDOW ALTERNATIVES LLC. Her entrepreneurial spirit drove her to open Window Alternatives 30 years ago specializing in window coverings and offering full interior design services.
Kathy graduated from the Fashion Institute of Technology in New York with a degree in fashion design. She worked as an apparel designer after her graduation for six years, traveling to key fashion and manufacturing facilities in Asia, India, and Europe.
Kathy returned to school to gain additional education in drapery, fabrics and manufacturing. She became a WFCP (Window Fashion Certified Professional) drapery specialist. She has continued her education at every opportunity, consistently using new technology and trends in her business. Kathy has become a specialist in working with architects in developing window treatments for commercial applications, with a focus on Senior Living facilities.
Kathy has been published in Design New Jersey magazine, the Asbury Park Press, and the cover of Senior Living magazine.
The Window Alternatives website is a great source of pride for the company as well as a source of information and ideas for clients looking for inspiration. WindowAlternatives.net Kathy’s work is also available at HOUZZ.com Kathy is also on Facebook.
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| 17 Nov 2019 | 178 - Roger Magalhaes - It Was Too Late, I Had Quit My Job!!! | 01:02:47 | |
Roger Magalhaes started in the window coverings industry in 2006 as a part-time installer for a national chain. After only two months, he was asked to leave for “standing out.” Clients continuously requested him over the other installers, and this didn’t sit well with his colleagues. He knew he was on to something! Following this experience, Roger traveled to many parts of the country acquiring formal training and receiving certifications from respected vendors such as Somfy, Hunter Douglas, Norman Shutters, and Lutron. He also attended the Custom Home Furnishings Academy for formal installation training focusing on drapery and other soft treatments. Roger is the owner of Shades In Place, Inc, located in the Boston area. He has done installations in seven states as well as Cape Cod and the Islands of Martha’s Vineyard and Nantucket. He is the founder of the Facebook group Free Speech Window Covering Pros, a regular columnist for Window Fashion Vision magazine, a presenter at the International Window Coverings Expo and the Installation Instructor for the Window Fashion Certified Professional FastTrack program Free Speach Window Covering Pros Window Fashion Vision Magazine International Window Coverings Expo Window Fashions Professional Fast Track Program The Pumpkin Plan by Mike Mickalowicz
The Sew Much More Podcast is sponsored by; | |||
| 16 Jun 2024 | 417 - Listener Favorite - Carly Melancon | 01:35:50 | |
Carly Melcancon redesigns and revives once forgotten upholstered furniture into one-of-a-kind western statement pieces using vintage Mexican textiles, rugs, and hair-on hides. Links and Resources; (I do use some affiliate links and appreciate it if you use them, no worries if you choose not to!) | |||
| 08 Aug 2016 | 2 - Susan Woodcock | 01:05:14 | |
Susan Woodcock, also known as Home Dec Gal, joins us to tell us about learning about window treatments from her Mother, her passion for education and exciting upcoming events. | |||
| 02 Sep 2018 | 114 - Linda Principe and Rosemarie Garner- The Designer Workroom Relationship | 01:26:09 | |
Rosemarie Garner and Linda Principe have been working together since 2012. Today we discuss the designer/workroom relationship and the importance of it. Linda Principe is the owner of Linda Principe Interiors in Monroe Township, NJ. Linda provides full-service residential interior design services with a specialty in window treatments in the central New Jersey area. Linda is active in the Window Coverings Association of America and is a past President of the National Board. She is also past President of the Central New Jersey Chapter and is currently an active member of the Central NJ chapter and the Virtual chapter. Recently, Linda was an instructor for the “Window Treatments” class in the Interior Design program at Mercer County Community College for five years.
Linda’s work has been included in Window Fashions trade magazine and she is a past Editorial Board member and featured writer. She has also been published numerous times in Design New Jersey magazine as well as local NJ newspapers.
This year is Linda’s 29th year in business.
Rosemarie Garner is the owner of R Garner Custom Designs, LLC – a To The Trade Custom Window Treatment design and fabrication firm serving the Northern New Jersey, Montclair NJ, and NYC areas. R Garner Custom Designs works closely with designer clients in a collaborative way to ensure their vision is executed perfectly. R Garner Custom Designs keeps up with current trends in window treatment design through our membership in the WCAA, Design and Drapery Pro Network, and industry educational conferences. Rosemarie is an instructor at Workroom Tech in Tryon, NC and for the Custom Workroom Conference. Rosemarie’s work can be viewed on Houzz and Facebook. Her website is currently under construction. http://www.houzz.com/pro/rgarnercustomdesigns https://www.facebook.com/rgarnercustomdesigns/
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| 23 Jul 2017 | #53 Nancy Letts - You Have To Be A Self Starter | 01:06:29 | |
Nancy Letts started Pine House Drapery, an award-winning full-service workroom serving interior designers in the lakeside resort communities of northwestern lower Michigan, in 2001, with her husband Rob joining the business as an upholsterer in 2008. Nancy is a CHFA Career Professional in Slipcovers, a CHFA Alumni Showcase winner in 2012, has written how-to articles for Drapery & Design Professional magazine, is a member of Drapery & Design Pro Network and has taught at the Custom Workroom Conference in 2016 & 2017. You can connect with them on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.
Nancy will be teaching at Workroom Tech. You can go to their website to sign up for classes now.
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| 31 Dec 2017 | #76 - Pamela Ptak - Part 2 - The Layering of Details | 01:15:00 | |
Pamela Ptak is a couture fashion designer, owner of Ptak Couture and co-founder of the Arts and Fashion Institute in Riegelsville PA & a designer on Lifetime TV’s Project Runway season 7. During Pamela’s casting, Tim Gunn called her work “...among the most beautifully constructed clothes I’ve ever seen” and said, “I think you are on the cusp of something big.” Pamela can be found on Facebook and Instagram. The podcast is sponsored by;
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| 20 Oct 2024 | 435 - Setting Boundaries | 00:27:24 | |
Links and Resources; Circle Time Webinare with Michele Williams for PRO Plus members of the Curtains & Soft Furnishings Resource Library.
The Mel Robbins Podcast with Dr. Pooja Lakshmin
The Sew Much More Podcast is sponsored by;
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| 23 Mar 2025 | 457 - Karen Swerling - There are Always Five Solutions to Every Problem | 01:23:35 | |
Karen Keech Swerling worked in Hollywood as a costume designer for three decades. She and her husband were looking for a change of pace in retirement, so eight years ago they traded their house in Malibu for an early 1900s Victorian in Richmond’s museum district. Keech Swerling converted the basement into a studio for her nonprofit, Richmond Really Sews!, and she offers free classes to anyone with a desire and a passion to sew. You can find Karen on IMDb Richmond Really Sews on FB and Instagram
Links and Resources; Claire Schaffer Coture Sewing Techniques Shirtmaking - Developing Skills for Fine Sewing by David Page Coffin (Some of the links I provide, specifically to Amazon and a few others, require me to let you know that if you use those links and make a purchase, I will make some money. I won't make a million dollars, but I might be able to get a cup of coffee, so thank you!)
The Sew Much More Podcast is sponsored by;
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| 09 Jun 2024 | 416 - Amy Petersen - It Was Love at First Staple! | 01:03:31 | |
Amy Petersen is the owner of Gray Duck Upholstery, located in Parker, Colorado. She began upholstering in 2011 after taking classes at a local trade school. Prior to making upholstery her profession, Amy had a long career in public accounting. She has master’s degrees in Business, Accounting and Taxation. Amy sold her CPA practice and made Gray Duck Upholstery official in 2019. She strives to help clients make their homes custom, beautiful and comfortable through upholstery. Amy is proud to be the Treasurer for the National Upholstery Association. When not upholstering, Amy and her husband love to spend time at their lake cabin in Minnesota. Microsoft To Do Clockify Mile IQ | |||
| 24 Jun 2018 | 102 - Episode 6 of the Opportunity Thinking Series | 01:36:59 | |
The Opportunity Thinking Series is brought to you by; Jennifer Assetto, owner of In The Fringe in Haverford, Pa and Christina Price, owner of Main Line Window Decor and Jeanelle Dech, owner of Adaptive Textiles, The Workroom Channel and The Curtains and Soft Furnishings Resource Library get together with me to talk about growth. This seems to be a subject that we could talk about many, many more times and still not hit all of the questions. Or answers. It appears they are not the same for all of us or the same for ourselves at different stages of our own lives. We also took this opportunity to have Jeanelle's son, Casey talk with Christina and Jen's girls about what it's like to have an entrepreneur mom. Stay tuned for that bonus episode!!
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| 19 Nov 2017 | #70 - Stacie Kennedy - I Took The Leap | 01:12:45 | |
In 2008, Stacie Kennedy created her home-based, full-service custom window treatment design and fabrication business serving the Metro Atlanta area and beyond. She is a former Commercial Real Estate Paralegal, who has always had a passion for design. Having learned how to sew from her mother as a teenager, Stacie took her sewing skills to the next level by opening her own creative design business. She has worked with or for several other design operations, including Atlanta Custom Interiors, to help maximize her industry knowledge, all while serving as President of the Atlanta chapter of the Window Covering Association of America. Stacie also attended the Custom Home Furnishings Academy (CHF) in Charlotte, NC, where she received her certification as a Career Professional in Custom Window Treatments and Workroom Techniques (CPC). In 2010, Stacie received awards at IWCE – Vision for First Place in Curtains & Draperies Workroom and also CHF Alumni Showcase and has been published in both Vision Magazine and Drapery & Design Professional Magazine. More recently, in May 2017, Stacie was also published in Vinings Lifestyle magazine, highlighting women entrepreneurs in Smyrna-Vinings, GA. Relying on a creative vision enhanced by her specialized industry skills, Stacie can take your ideas and plans and create a customized reality for your home, office or restaurant/retail business. She is currently a WFCP Member, Window Coverings Association of America (WCAA) National Member, WCAA Atlanta Chapter Member and serves as Co-Chair of Publicity for WCAA Atlanta Chapter and has served in various board positions of the WCAA Atlanta Chapter, such as Secretary, Vice President and President.
Stacie is on Instagram and Facebook.
Here is a link to the Workroom Channel tour of Stacie's Workroom. | |||
| 21 May 2023 | 362 -Justin Dazey - Hire Professionals and Expect Them to Act Professionally | 01:28:41 | |
Justin began his journey into the world of furniture and soft goods working in and managing antique showrooms. After receiving a degree in Interior Design, he began working in a full-service Design and built-to-order luxury home furnishings showroom. He designed residential interiors, attended market as a showroom buyer, and eventually opened a satellite location as Design Director and Showroom Manager before leaving the Design profession in search of a new challenge. Now nine years into his career in Upholstery, Justin draws heavily on his past experience in the antique and design fields to inform his work as a prior Studio Director and Current lead upholsterer working for Castillo's Custom Upholstery in Seattle Washington. When not in the workroom or the studio, you can find him contributing as a co-administrator of the Professional Upholsterers Network, or at the helm of his latest personal side project, "Foxglove Artisan LLC" created to explore upholstery and adjacent craft, education, research, and training opportunities. Justin is on Instagram Links and Resources; Professional Upholsterers Network of Facebook The Sew Much More Podcast is sponsored by; | |||
| 15 Jul 2018 | 105 - Doshie Witcher - I Made The Decision To Do What I Loved To Do And Let The Rest Go | 00:50:05 | |
The Sew Much More Podcast is sponsored by;
Having a sewing business had been Doshie Witcher's dream since her mother taught her to hold a needle and thread. While in elementary school, she was sewing clothing for herself and others. In 1990 she opened Doshie's Custom Sewing and began specializing in alterations, custom work, and bridal designs. After making her first window valance, she decided that making window treatments were her passion and she spent the next 15 years working with interior designers to create custom window treatments. This led her to want to create her own line of valances so she designed Hidden Pocket Rod valances, which allow intricate curtain designs to be hung using a basic continental curtain rod. With these designs, Doshie expanded into Etsy in 2012, and now sells her Hidden Pocket Rod valances on her Etsy shop nationwide and internationally under the business name Black Belt Home Decor. Doshie is a second-degree black belt in Shorin Ryu Karate and spends her spare time training others in karate, singing in her local church choir, and spending time with her family. Doshie is on Facebook and Pinterest.
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| 05 May 2024 | 411 - Olga Kott - Creating A Family Business | 00:51:12 | |
We are a family from Ukraine who have been living and working in the UK for over 17 years. Our backgrounds were unrelated to the interior design business. But we always love craft , had ambitions, and lots of ideas. Our shared passion and belief in each other led us to start Kott Soft Furnishings. Our busy working studio is nestled in the beautiful countryside of Hampshire, UK. I’ve worked as a curtain maker for over 10 years and it's my absolute love and passion. After being overwhelmed with orders, my husband joined me, leaving his previous job. He does upholstery and fitting and has become an integral part of our family business. We are happy and united more than ever. Together, we provide a comprehensive service, from initial measurements and fabric selection to the final fitting. Our children also enjoy helping out, and perhaps one day, they will carry on our family business. Social media : Instagram - kott.soft.furnishings Facebook - kott.soft.furnishing YouTube - Olga Kott | |||
| 04 Jun 2017 | #47 - Jana Platina Phipps - Find Your Niche | 01:20:00 | |
Jana Platina Phipps is an embellishment expert known for her refined vision in the use of trimmings in home furnishings and fashion. She is a designer and an agent for Classical Elements, which supplies trimmings and drapery hardware to the home furnishings industry, customizes private label programs for interior design distributors, and sells to retail stores nationally. She develops custom trimmings for NYC-based fashion companies, and also designs bespoke home and fashion accessories herself, using trimmings and vintage jewelry. She teaches others her technique of Trim Alchemy, the concept of turning something ordinary into extraordinary using trimmings, to express their personal creativity. Affectionately called “Trim Queen” by her clients, she started her blog in 2013 and uses her social media channels to chronicle how the design community uses trimmings creatively. With her knowledge of the history of passementerie and hands-on experience with fabrication, she lectures at The New York School of Interior Design and Continuing Education Seminars and Webinars to the interior design community. She is a regular contributor to WF Vision and Designers Today Magazines, and Universal Furniture’s Smartstuff Social Station blog. She conducts DIY workshops and stages a Trim Alchemy Show at Country Living Fairs across the country. Jana is planning a Trim Queen Maker Tour of Venice, Italy for Spring 2018. Other involvement:
Jana resides in the Hudson River Valley, north of Manhattan, with her husband, writer Lang Phipps, and two children, Wilton and Giovanna, in an old Bavarian-style home called The Gingerbread House that is in need of TLC and more trimmings. During the podcast we mentioned; | |||
| 27 Jan 2019 | 136 - OPPORTUNITY THINKING SERIES - Dean Fountain's Workroom Racks | 00:30:13 | |
Dean Fountain is the owner of a wholesale workroom providing Dean Fountain tells us about the design and manufacturing of his new Workroom Rack. It was introduced at the Custom Workroom Conference in 2018. You can contact Dean by calling him at (904) 334-3694.
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| 01 Sep 2016 | 1 - Intro to the Sew Much More Podcast Episode 1 | 00:06:17 | |
Thanks for downloading the Sew Much More Podcast! If you have any suggestions for people to interview or questions to ask, please email me at ceilwdi@gmail.com. I would love to hear from you. | |||
| 14 Oct 2018 | 121 - Kathy Healey - There's No HR Department! | 01:08:59 | |
Kathy Healey is a sewist who lives with her family in Rochester, New York. In her home-based business, called, Healey Wear, Kathy creates custom window treatments, garments and home dec items. She also alters garments to provide her clients with a perfect fit for their ready-to-wear clothing. Kathy earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Consumer and Family Studies from Buffalo State College and a Master of Science degree in Health Education from SUNY Brockport. You can find Kathy on Facebook. | |||
| 09 Feb 2020 | 191 - Jan Britt - It's Not About Me! | 01:16:49 | |
Jan Britt, owner of Jan Britt Interiors has been helping her clients decorate their homes in the Atlanta area for over 25 years. Jan is an Interior Designer, Window Treatment Specialist, Home Stager, Educator, and Author. She has appeared multiple times on HGTV. She has been awarded “Adult Teacher of
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| 15 Oct 2017 | #65 Christina Price - The Pride In My Craft Made Me Feel Successful | 01:22:35 | |
Christina Price, owner of Main Line Window Décor, has been fabricating window treatments since 2002 after earning a degree in mathematics from Penn State University. She learned the trade from her mother, Maggie. With 11 years of experience in manufacturing, measuring and consulting, Christina started and expanded her own business. Now Main Line Window Decor has an expert team working together to provide the very best to the Philadelphia and Delaware regions. In addition to creating beautiful, functional window treatments, their unmatched craftsmanship lends itself to exquisite pillows, bedding, and table covers. They enjoy the client/designer/fabricator partnership, and their clients commend them for their collaborative and personal approach to the design process. You can find Christina on Facebook and Instagram. Christina collaborates with Studio 882. | |||
| 04 Jun 2023 | 364 - Loretta McGranaghan - When It Turns Out Right, You Hear the Angels Sing! | 00:57:12 | |
Loretta McGranaghan is the owner and President of Loretta’s Designs, LLC. She has been in the business for more than 30 years as a workroom, servicing retail & wholesale clients. They offer many services including soft treatments (panels, shades, cushions, cornices/valances, etc.), hard treatments (shutters, wood blinds, woven wood shades, etc.), fabrics, hardware & faux painting. Loretta's Designs also offers a full interior design service. Loretta received her Interior design degree from the Art Institute of Philadelphia & studied Fine Arts at Rosemont College. Loretta is proud to say that although she graduated from a prestigious institute of education she is a self-taught sewer. Instagram: lorettasdesigns LinkedIn: loretta-mcgranaghan
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| 24 May 2020 | 206 - Ragne K. Smith - The Little Learning Lessons Made Me Better | 01:15:19 | |
The Sew Much More Podcast is sponsored by; Ragne Smith is the owner and operator of Felix Hart, Custom Furniture and Upholstery. She designs, builds and upholsters new custom built furniture and turns neglected antiques into one of a kind pieces of furniture art. She is a mother of few, wife of one, small business owner, located in Dallas-Fort Worth area, in the great state of Texas. One of the administrators of Professional Upholsterer’s Network, she started her upholstery business in 2012. Being self-taught, she is not limiting her skills and creativity to what’s in the books but approaches new and innovative methods, with enthusiasm. Felix Hart can be found online at: Links and Resources; | |||
| 27 Nov 2022 | 337 - Setting Boundaries | 00:11:07 | |
The Sew Much More Podcast is sponsored by; | |||
| 03 Jan 2017 | #25 Deborah Cronin - Never be afraid to ask for help. | 01:06:31 | |
Leatherwood Design Co is a custom window treatment fabrication studio, located in Ossining, New York, in the breathtaking Hudson River Valley. We work to the trade and delight in fine fabrics and workmanship. It's an understatement to say we love what we do! | |||
| 13 Jun 2021 | 261 - The Sewing Loft of Avon - Rachel and Bryan Short | 01:59:03 | |
The Sew Much More Podcast is sponsored by; The Curtains & Soft Furnishings Resource Library The National Upholstery Association
Rachel and Bryan Short own and operate The Sewing Loft of Avon, a custom soft furnishings workroom located in Connecticut. It is a full-service workroom serving both interiors designers and homeowners. Rachel has had a passion for sewing her entire life and made her first item in her sixth grade HomeEc class, a small football-shaped pillow. She turned her passion into a business when she started The Sewing Loft in their home in July 2010 after spending most of her professional life as a paralegal at a major law firm and at a wind energy company. Bryan came on board in 2013 after a career as a litigation attorney and both he and Rachel started working on growing The Sewing Loft full-time. Through the many ups and downs, joys and struggles, they always encouraged each other and remained focused on making their dream a reality. Today, The Sewing Loft is a thriving business with employees and has expanded to a commercial space. Most important, they are excited for what the future will bring!
Links and Resources; Donald Miller - Business Made Simple Podcast | |||
| 11 Jun 2017 | #49 - Beuancha Jeffries - You Should Add Value to the Community | 00:49:36 | |
For Beuancha Jeffries, it was a natural progression from many years of hand crafts, knitting, needlepoint and cross-stitch to creating her business, Soft Furnishings and Home Décor. A combined 30-year career in the Corporate manufacturing process using assembly equipment, and working in an office environment interpreting blue prints, schematics, following government standards prepared Beuancha for her passion, creating beautiful Home Decor for the home furnishings industry following professional standards and specifications and also managing a workroom.
Sew Cozy Interiors (SCI) opened its doors in June 2003 as a part time home based workroom offering pillows, bedding and draperies. Beuancha worked in her workroom at night after working her day job. In 2009, she received a retirement package from my company and she began working in her drapery workroom, Sew Cozy Interiors full time, and has never looked back.
Beuancha is a Certified Career Professional in Window Treatments, Advanced Window Treatments, Pillows and Bedding and Window Treatment Installation and Advanced Installations through the Custom Home Furnishings Academy (CHFA). A member of Drapery and Design Network, WCAA National and WCAA Atlanta. She is on the Program Committee of the Designer Workroom Council (DWC) in Atlanta. She attends many semi-annual and annual conferences, learning the newest time saving custom methods for achieving durable fabrication, correct measurement and professional standards and results.
Sew Cozy Interior on Pinterest
houzz.com/pro/Beuancha/sew-cozy-interiors Things we talked about on the podcast;
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| 26 Aug 2018 | 113 - Opportunity Thinking Series - Jeanelle Dech and Ceil Talk About Feedback, Failure, Bankruptcy and Girl Scout Cookies! | 01:43:43 | |
This series is sponsored by The Curtains and Soft Furnishings Resource Library In this episode of the Opportunity Thinking Series, Jeanelle Dech and I talk about feedback, comparison, failure, Girl Scout cookies and bankruptcy. I think we have covered some interesting subjects, but today's is up there in my top 5!!!! The feedback has to do with Episode 102 when I spoke with Christina Price and Jennifer Assetto. The rest, well you will just have to listen!!! The Endgame Webinar is on the WCAA Website for members it was recorded in September 2016. If you are not a WCAA member, you can purchase this webinar by contacting Renee@wcaa.org. Jeanelle mentioned The Art of Happiness by the Dalai Lama
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| 09 May 2021 | 256 - Claire Herne - I 'm Like The Energizer Bunny, I Just Keep Going | 01:06:33 | |
The Sew Much More Podcast is sponsored by; Claire Herne is the owner of Louie Custom Drapery, located in Darien Connecticut. Claire's background is in investment banking, but she has sewn throughout her life, just for fun! Moving from the UK to the US in 2009 meant decorating a big new house and she struggled to find a local workroom so she pulled out my sewing machine and started making drapes and pillows and found that she really loved it. Soon Claire had friends asking her to start making soft furnishings for them and she decided that she should do this professionally. Louie Custom Drapery (named after Claire's mom and daughter) has been in business for just over 3 years - she serves the local trade community. Claire loves to interact with other workroom professionals and most of her learning has been through this wonderful group and at Workroom Tech. Claire lives with her 14-year-old daughter, 2 dogs, a cat, and 2 rabbits (aka Darien Petting Zoo!), her workroom has recently been located to her garage and things are really taking off now. Links and Resources; | |||
| 27 Mar 2022 | 302 - Marie Mouradian Re-Release | 00:45:33 | |
Marie Mouradian has celebrated over 38 years of owning her own business. What began as a childhood sewing hobby has become a lifelong passion for creating comfortable, functional, and beautiful environments. Window Designs Etc. by Marie Mouradian has evolved over the years to include custom window treatments, Hunter Douglas blinds & shades, soft home furnishings, and interior decorating consulting services for both residential and commercial properties in the Worcester, MA area. Experienced is how she refers to herself with several Window Fashion Vision awards and positions on the local Chamber and BBB board of directors. Marie is on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and Pinterest
The Sew Much More Podcast is sponsored by; | |||
| 10 Dec 2017 | #73 - Tammy Granger-Do You Have Joy In Your Heart At The End Of The Day? | 01:04:15 | |
Tammy Granger is the owner of BG Custom Windows located in Cary, NC. She began her career in window coverings in 1989 after graduating from NC State University. Tammy is passionate about choosing the perfect fabric and meticulously creating one of a kind window coverings. She was voted Best of Houzz 2017 in the customer service category. After joining the Triangle chapter of the WCAA she served as Vice President and is currently serving as Past President. | |||
| 12 Nov 2023 | 386 - Cade Smith - From Employee to Owner in No Time! | 00:58:44 | |
Cade Smith was born at a very early age in Pensacola, Florida. Upon moving to Tennessee in 1999 at the age of 5, he began to explore many art and craft activities and finally found his way to The Appalachian Center for Art, Craft and Design at Tennessee Technological University, where he studied Fiber Arts and graduated in May 2020, virtually... Cade wandered into an interesting looking store in an industrial strip mall in August 2022, and in May 2023 he purchased that company and has continued to grow The Curtain Call into one of the premier drapery workrooms in Nashville, TN. When Cade is not making drapery, installing drapery or doing paperwork related to drapery, he spends his time in the country with his horses and dogs. Cade wishes to impart to you his daily affirmation: May your hems be right, and your seams be tight, namaste. You can find The Curtain Call on Facebook and Instagram. Links and Resources;
The Sew Much More Podcast is sponsored by;
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| 10 Oct 2021 | 278 - Cathy and Mark Schulz of Silk Mountain Creations | 01:13:23 | |
The Sew Much More Podcast is sponsored by; The Curtains and Soft Furnishings Resource Library National Upholstery Association Cathy and Mark Schulz own Silk Mountain Creations of Carmel, Indiana. Cathy started the business in 2001 and Mark joined her a little later. They have built the business from there and have built an award-winning business.
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| 14 Jan 2024 | 395 - Listener Favorite - Julia Hash | 00:30:23 | |
Today's episode of the Podcast is a re-release of my interview with Julia Hash of JSH Designs. Julia needed to solve a problem in her workroom and realized, she probably wasn't the only one who needed this solution. I think you will find her ruler is really amazing!
Links and Resources; Profit is a Choice Podcast episode with Julia Hash You can find Julia's Ruler here. | |||
| 26 Feb 2017 | #33 Teal Major - I Need To Trust My Knowledge | 01:09:41 | |
Teal Major is the owner of Slips, an interior sewing/design studio in Berkeley, California. After spending years as a pattern maker in the garment industry, she transitioned to home furnishings. Using her knowledge of patterns, fabric and design, Teal fabricates custom slipcovers, curtains, shades, cushions/pillows and bedding. With a focus on customer service and high-quality work, she helps people create a living space they want to come home to. | |||
| 06 May 2018 | 94 - Kristin Nicholas - There Are No Rules When You Are Working On Your Own | 01:27:25 | |
The podcast is sponsored by;
Kristin Nicholas is an all-around creative artist who works with paint, yarn thread, fabric, clay and more. Throughout her work, her love of color and pattern is the cohesive element that gives the definitive style to her interior decoration, paintings, ceramics and needlework. Kristin is an avid gardner and her love of flowers and nature inspires much of her work. She lives on Leyden Glen Farm, a working sheep farm in Western Massachusetts with her husband Mark and daughter Julia. Kristin was the creative director of a yarn company for sixteen years. She has appeared on PBS's Knit and Crochet Now! for many seasons and has appeared on Martha Stewart TV and many DIY television shows. She teaches various subjects online on the Creativebug and Craftsy platforms. She is the author of numerous books. Links
Kristin Nicholas Designs Facebook Paint Magic by Jacosta Innes Apartment Therapy's photo tour of Kristin's home. Kristin's Spoonflower fabrics. Matte Ipad Pro screen protector | |||
| 02 Apr 2023 | 355 - Excellence vs Perfection | 00:10:07 | |
I wonder if any of you were as impressed with the idea of Excellence rather than Perfectionism as I was. Please let me know what you thought about Jeanne Swartz's conversation on her podcast.
Links and Resources; Growth Mindset: The New Psychology of Success by Carole Dweck | |||
| 16 Mar 2025 | 456 - Happy Women's History Month | 00:19:05 | |
| 15 Nov 2020 | 231 - Freddie Graves Re-release - If You Respect Yourself People Respect You More | 00:59:01 | |
The Sew Much More Podcast is sponsored by; To this day, Freddie Graves has given me the best answer to the question, "What is your favorite thing to make in the workroom?" Freddie Graves is the owner of The Recovery Room in Vermont. She started the business in 1989 in her basement and has moved into a barn on her rural property. I love Freddie's sense of humor and her outlook.
Resources; The Sew Much More Podcast is sponsored by; | |||
| 16 Jul 2023 | 370 - Listener Favorite - Rodger Walker | 01:12:21 | |
Rodger Walker retired from the City of Richmond, Virginia Fire Department in 2012, after a busy and exciting career. He moved to North Carolina that same year to marry the Love of His Life, Susan Woodcock. In 2013 they started Home Dec Gal, a workroom and educational resource. With years of experience planning events for non-profit organizations, Rodger was ready to help Susan produce the first Custom Workroom Conference in 2016. In 2017, Rodger and Susan opened Workroom Tech, a trade school for sewing professionals, in the charming town of Tryon in the mountains of Western North Carolina. Rodger is on Instagram Links and Resources; The Custom Workroom Conference
The Sew Much More Podcast is sponsored by;
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| 19 Feb 2023 | 349 - OT Series with Harmony Maraldo and the National Upholstery Association | 01:11:44 | |
Harmony Maraldo is an upholsterer, a pricing strategist, and the current president of the National Upholstery Association. By day, she works as the Head of Pricing & Packaging for a tech company in Boston. On nights and weekends, she runs a small traditional upholstery business, Tack & Tuft while also juggling the demanding needs of directing a non-profit. Harmony believes that demand for reupholstery services will continue to rise as consumers increasingly choose sustainability over convenience. She seeks to build awareness of the craft and to develop training and career paths for those interested in entering the trade. Links and Resources; Some of the links I provide, specifically to Amazon and a few others, require me to let you know that if you use those links and make a purchase, I will make some money. I won't make a million dollars, but I might be able to get a cup of coffee, so thank you! National Upholstery Association - the NUA is on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn | |||
| 04 Aug 2019 | 163 - Sue Sifakis - I'm Always Able To Get Back Up On My Feet | 01:06:35 | |
Sue Sifakis started SUESEWN in 1995. She attended Cheryl Stricklands's week-long class on how to run a drapery business in 1994. She also attended CHF classes and was on an advisory committee for the CHF magazine a few years. She was part of the Alumni showcase in 2010. She has also attended Slipcover Networking Workshops as well as numerous conferences to learn more. Sue has been a member of the Eastern Massachusetts WCAA Chapter since 2006 and she has held officer positions such as Secretary, Vice President, and President.
Links and Resources; Qigong | |||
| 26 Jan 2020 | 189 - Sheri Corey - You've Got to Figure Out A Way To Evolve | 00:41:53 | |
Sheri Corey is my guest today. She is the owner of Style and Stitch/Sew Sheri Designs * Her professional beginning Pediatric Oncology Nurse Sheri is on Facebook Links and Resources; Michele Williams - Scarlet Thread Consulting Gridded Table at the Workroom Channel
The Sew Much More Podcast is sponsored by; Custom Workroom Conference
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| 05 May 2019 | 150 - Diana Hershey - I Tried To Absorb As Much As I Could | 00:47:52 | |
Diana Hershey, the owner of DBH Designs, provides custom furnishings for the home, office, or business. The services offered to clients include draperies, valances, cornice boards, bedding, pillows, roman shades, blinds, slipcovers, and re-upholstery, just to name a few! Diana takes the time to thoroughly guide her clients through the process of uncovering their style and selecting the optimal fine decorator fabrics and hardware for the space to pull their room together and showcase their exceptional style to all those who enter the room! Diana is on Facebook and Instagram. Resources;
The Sew Much More Podcast is sponsored by; | |||
| 30 Dec 2018 | 132 - Michele Williams and Ceil Review the Year and Look Forward | 01:36:21 | |
Michele Williams and I talk about how we like to finish up our year and what we do to start the new year. I love my conversations with Michele! With our personalities being so different, I really enjoy talking with her about how we do things. Resources; Gretchen Rubin's 4 Tendencies Quiz Brene Brown's Dare To Lead
The Sew Much More Podcast is sponsored by; | |||
| 21 May 2017 | #45 - Cynthia Bleskachek - A Rising Tide Lifts All Ships | 01:28:10 | |
Cynthia Bleskachek has been working as a professional upholsterer since 2001 and teaching since 2010. In 2008 she won a first place craftsmanship award through The Upholstery Journal for a tufted chair. She was a featured presenter at the 2015 Minneapolis Junk Bonanza, with appearances on Kare 11 and Fox 9. She's also presented at numerous events for the PUAM (Professional Upholstery Association of Minnesota) in 2014, she was contacted by Craftsy to help create their first online upholstery class, Getting Started with Upholstery, a class which now has a 5 star rating and over 6,000 enrolled students from all over the world. Cynthia currently works and teaches at her shop, "The Funky Little Chair" in St. Paul, Minnesota. She continues to look for new ways to share her love of upholstery with clients and students. Here is a link to Cynthia's class on Craftsy that includes 50% off! | |||
| 17 Jul 2022 | 318 - Kristine Clarke - There's That One Little Nugget! | 01:09:57 | |
Kristine Clarke owns and operates August Day Designs, a custom soft furnishings workroom. She fabricates window treatments, Roman shades, and pillows for interior designers. Kristine has been in business for 16 years and operates her business part-time from her home. She lives in Murfreesboro, TN, having recently moved from West Des Moines, IA. Kristine and her husband Scott have one son who is a junior in college in Nashville, TN. She grew up learning to sew in 4-H and from her mom and grandma. When her son was a toddler, Kristine looked for an option to work from home. She took online classes from the CHFS to get started in this business. Kristine has made great friends by being involved in this industry and enjoys taking classes and meeting other workroom owners. Resources and Links; The Sew Much More Podcast is sponsored by; | |||
| 02 Jun 2024 | 415 - Greer Woollcott - I Wanted to Get Training In This World | 01:13:42 | |
Greer Woollcott lives in Toronto, Ontario, Canada with her partner Tobin. She comes from a family of creative and skilled women where she learned she could make anything if she set her mind to it. She studied fine arts and art history for 2 years at Concordia University and then changed programs and attended the Ontario College of Art and Design and pursued a degree in Environmental Design. She started her career as a kitchen designer, went into commercial interior design then material sales for the design industry as a rep for architectural panels. After reuniting with her love for sewing she took a leave from work in 2021 and went to the UK to pursue a diploma in curtain making and soft furnishings as well as some upholstery training. Since then she has been building her workroom business part time as she goes on the adventure of building a business from scratch, fabricating, and continuing to learn the craft. Links and Resources; (Some of the links I provide, specifically to Amazon and a few others, require me to let you know that if you use those links and make a purchase, I will make some money. I won't make a million dollars, but I might be able to get a cup of coffee, so thank you!) Big Magic by Elizabeth GilbertThe Sew Much More Podcast is sponsored by; | |||
