My Design Secrets

Use Room Creator to change the fabric and wallpaper in this cute little room. Cat included!

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I am not much for video games.  My niece and nephew cream me every time.  But when I found an online game where I could mix and match beautiful fabrics in a mini room, I knew I had found something up my alley.  Mod Green Pod is where I found this fun and addictive tool!

The company was created by three brilliant women who combined their  passion for textile design and the environment with some modern day business sense.  The company is based in the creative mecca known as Austin, Texas which keeps the design juices flowing.

Mod Green Pod creates modern organic fabrics for every room your home.  They are fun, bright and at $39.75 a yard it’s tempting to choose more than one.  Cover it all…pillows, sofas, draperies and dog beds.  The patterns are printed on sturdy 100% organic cotton that is made in the good ‘ol USA.  Plus the pigments are free of dangerous chemicals that can off-gas in your home.

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A wonderful selection of wallpapers at $75 per roll.

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They also have a wonderful selection of coordinating vinyl-free wallpapers that are created with water-based inks and can tolerate light wiping (paying attention, parents?).  That might be just the ticket for the powder room that gets frequent visits from the neighborhood kids.

So hop on and use the Room Creator to plan your next decorating project.  But wait until your kids go to bed so you won’t be interrupted!

Mod Green Pod is an example of one of the wonderful companies featured in My Secret Database.

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You have a favorite sofa that you’ve snuggled into comfortably for the past 8 years.  The style is perfect and the size is just right.  But the fabric leaves a bit to be desired.   All the good things in life….kids, dogs, eating, drinking and being merry are reflected on your sofa.  Many clients ask me whether it’s worth it to reupholster their sofa or chairs.   It really depends on a few factors.  So let me step you through it and perhaps the decision will become clear…

Condition

How is the sofa or chair holding up?  Does it creak each time you sit down?  Is it sagging in the middle?  Or is it just the cushions that are shot?  If the frame is weak, then it’s time to move on.  If you just need new cushions, that’s an easy fix.

Style

How attached are you to the style of your piece?  Because if you really like the certain small details, it may be very difficult to find them again.  Styles change over the years and if you are looking for a duplicate piece, you may be searching for a needle in the haystack.

When the fabric is fastened directly to the frame, you need to apply welt to cover the staples. Click on the photo and you will see it's a much more involved process.

Budget

Reuphostering  a sofa or club chair is probably not going to save you money. The truth is that except for higher end furnishings, most furniture frames are not very well made.  Instead of kiln-dried hardwood and 8-way hand-tied seats, they are made with sofa woods and inexpensive metal coils.  So even when a company makes a brand new sofa, most of the money goes into the fabric and labor.

While you might be able to get a great deal on fabric, the labor costs to reupholster is significant.   If you’d like to get a quote from a local vendor, some may give you an estimate based on the sofa measurements, but they will have to come and determine the exact fabric yardage needed and take a look to give you a firm quote.  Don’t forget to ask about new cushions if yours are deflated!

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DIY

I do not recommend tackling a sofa or club chair unless you have expert guidance or an enormous amount of patience.  Most homemade jobs I have seen are very sad looking.  There is an exception to this rule.  Dining Room chairs that have slip seats are a snap to redo.  Check out the great video below for some helpful guidance.

If you are saving for a new sofa but cannot stand the look of what you have right now, then be sure to consider a slipcover for the time being.  When the time comes to purchase a new sofa, you certainly don’t want the old one to wind up in a landfill.  So if you are ready to move on from your old sofa, please explore your options to donate it to a worthy cause.

If you have any other questions, don’t hesitate to ask me below!

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This Crewel Bench would make a beautiful accent in a foyer or hallway. I love the natural colors and nailhead trim.

Crewelwork is a very odd name for a particularly beautiful fabric.  This method of embroidery dates back at least 1,000 years; where it was used on tapestries.  Ususally crafted in wool, the embroidery stitches follow a pattern or outline that has been applied to the fabric with chalk, water soluble ink or iron-on designs.  Where does the word crewel come from?  Well, the exact origin is unknown but is thought to have come from an ancient word describing the curl in the wool used.

The crisp crewel accent pillow on top pairs nicely with other cotton prints.

An example of an intricate crewelwork pattern from the 1940's. You can really see the detail in the stitching.

Linen Source always manages to give you super affordable fashion. This tropically inspired King duvet cover is on sale for $34!

This traditional style of fabric was most often seen in interiors that featured more of a Jacobean motif (think castles, kings and ladies in waiting).  Over the years, it has resurfaced in more modern applications.  Lately, I have seen a lot of crewel work in light, bright patterns that are open and airy.  The detailed nature of crewelwork makes it interesting and adds nice texture to bedding, pillows and draperies.  Because it’s wool and raised off the surface of the fabric, it can be a little scratchy and not something you’d want touching your skin.  It’s best used on benches, chairs, throw pillows and bedspreads.  But not the ones you pull up to cuddle with.    

This tone-on-tone look from Williams Sonoma is a subtle and classic way to use crewel.

Layla Grace carries these crisp and refreshing drapery panels from Pine Cone Hill. A heavy fabric always looks lighter in bright tones.

I love this graphic print from Pottery Barn. A modern take on crewel.

Helpful Hint! Color can make all the difference in a room; here in combination with grays, the color warms the large open spaces of this dining room.

Living Room - Before

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Living Room - After

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Now, notice that the draperies were changed to a much lighter linen fabric, with glass tassels.  The chairs in front of the window were reupholstered, as was the ottoman.  The sofa has a beautiful English linen slipcover and tons of new toss pillows.  New art and fabulous trims gave this room a totally new look at a fraction of what it would have been to totally renovate the entire room. 

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I would like to point out something from this article that I think is VERY IMPORTANT to take into consideration!!  With an initial investment in high-quality pieces 10 years earlier, Michael’s client had the option to recreate this room without having to purchase new, expensive furniture.  By investing more on the front end, you will save money in the long run!! 

Thank you Michael!

~ Lorrie

Candace Olson fabrics for Kravet

Are you frustrated because you see beautiful ads in magazines for designer fabrics from Kravet and DuraLee that say “Available exclusively through architects and interior designers?”  Well, you should be!  As a designer, I have access to all these companies but what are YOU supposed to do?  Here’s the answer…

I started My Design Secrets to help people who are decorating their own homes and want to do it well!  My Secret Database helps you shop and My Articles help you execute.  I add new vendors to the Database when I find a company that will be super useful for you.  If you are looking for fabric there are a number of companies that are now offering designer fabrics to the public and they break down into three categories:

1. Discontinued Fabrics- These companies are purchasing discontinued fabrics from high-end fabric houses and you may get a great deal.  There is nothing wrong with discontinued fabric; the company may just be introducing some new patterns or their relationship with that mill may have changed.  The fabric is usually in stock and ready to ship.  This is your chance to get fabrics like Brunschwig and Fils, Thibaut and Kravet at a deep discount, sometimes even below wholesale.

Decorative Fabrics Direct

Glamorous Fabrics

Mood Fabrics

2. Special Order- This is a little controversial among designers but this is where a company will order a fabric for you using their trade account.  Some feel that designers should not sell these exclusive fabrics to the public if they are not officially a “client.”  I think it’s fine because the lines have blurred with the advent of the Internet.  After all, the fabric companies are giving everyone access to their website!  These fabrics may or may not be in stock.  If they are not, you will be expected to pay a non-refundable deposit to order. You can expect to pay a markup from about 25% above wholesale all the way up to retail.

Discount Designer Fabrics Online Etc.

Source 4 Interiors

Fabrics and Home.com

You need to know the item name/number of the fabric you want.  Here are some manufacturers’ websites  that allow you to browse without pricing.

Thibaut

Kravet

Robert Allen

Duralee

Thibaut Fabric

3. Smaller, Independent Companies – This is where you are going to see a lot of imagination and sometimes get an excellent deal.  Independent textile designers are getting out there and starting their own lines that they sell themselves or through a retailer.  The Internet has opened the playing field because in the old days a fabric line did not have prayer if it was not represented in a designer showroom.  I love what these companies have to offer and some even have wonderful custom options. 

Layla Grace

twenty2

Maine Cottage 

And here’s a cool website where you can design your own fabric using Photoshop!

Spoonflower

Custom fabrics from Spoonflower

Before ordering your fabric, a few words to the wise:

• Do not order anything without asking for a sample of the fabric.  It is the only way to get a true feel for color and texture.  Also, ask if the cutting (small piece of fabric) is from the same dye lot from which you will be purchasing.
• Make sure you are clear on the shipping costs, return policy and lead time.
• Do not order fabric until you have decided on all the fabrics for the room.  You don’t want to be stuck with 40 yards of sofa fabric when you find out you cannot get the pillow fabric that coordinated perfectly.
• When you receive the fabric, immediately inspect it yourself or have your upholsterer do it (they have a machine to roll it out).  Report any problems to the vendor immediately.

So whether you are making some pillows yourself, or sending fabric to the upholsterer, give some of these companies a try.  With a little research you will achieve a customized look that’s all your own!

~Lorrie

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Selecting several complementary end tables for your living room can be a huge challenge.  You don’t want them to match but coordinating table legs, sizes and finishes can be daunting.  A simple and often overlooked solution is a skirted table.  They are a great way to provide additional table-top space while adding some softness to your room.  And the great thing is that you can change out the table skirt seasonally to give the room a fresh look. 

A sturdy table is a very important place to start.  Cock-eyed, wobbly tables are often what scares people away from skirted tables.  A good one is worth the extra money because you don’t have to worry about what you put on it and some designs also double as hidden storage.  This is where I bunk all my magazine piles when I am having company.    Here are a few models to consider.

This nice, sturdy table also features great storage.

Tables that are 24-30″ in diameter are appropriate as end tables or night tables.  Generally, you want the table to be a couple of inches higher than arm of your sofa or your mattress.  36″ Diameter tables can stand by themselves in a foyer or in the corner of your room.  They can also be used for dining tables in tight quarters.  Of course, you can use any table you already own but it may be more challenging to find a table skirt. 

Standard tables and skirt sizes:

24″ High and 24″ Diameter Table with a 72″ Tablecloth

30″ High and 30″ Diameter Table with a 90″ Tablecloth

30″ High and 36″ Diameter Table with a 90″ Tablecloth

I recently saw that Ballard Designs had a nice selection of tablecloths.  They are also featuring the Terrific Trio which includes a table, tablecloth and glass topper.  The glass gives the table a really polished look and keeps the tablecloth safe from stains and wear.  If you purchase your own glass, go with 3/8″ with a beveled edge.

I don't care for this style which tends to wobble on carpet and uneven tile floors.

This Mission Style table is solid and could be used with or without a table cloth.

Ballard’s tablecloths come in a variety of styles and patterns.  They have a great selection of fabrics that ranges from florals to solids and stripes. (Make sure to take advantage of their swatch program where you can order 10 free swatches and only pay $5.95 for shipping)  You can also send them your own fabric and they will create a custom item in 8-10 weeks.  I feel you can go two ways when selecting your fabric:

• Choose an accent fabric that you don’t use for much else in your room.  Something eye catching like a velvet, floral or animal print.
• Choose something neutral that will provide a great backdrop for anything you put on the table and will work with future fabric selections.

I prefer for the tablecloth to just graze the floor.  Go a little longer with extra fabric puddling the floor if that’s your style but never ever use a skirt that’s too short.  It looks skimpy and totally ruins the luxurious effect.

This table has ample storage and can be ordered from 24-32" high.

With style, color and storage, a skirted table may be just the thing you need to finish off your room!

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The box-pleating on this slip-cover from Pottery Barn gives it a very customized look.

A good sofa is one of your best investments and while your frame is holding up, the fabric may be a little dull.  While you decide if you are going reupholster or purchase a new sofa, a ready-made slipcover may be just the solution you are looking for.  Don’t depend on them to make your sofa a showpiece in the room.  Instead, they help the sofa become a neat and updated backdrop.  Decorating is a balance of drawing attention toward the most interesting items and away from the less impressive ones.

My professional advice:

• Stick to a fabric that is solid or striped for large pieces - The floral patterns that most companies carry are not outstanding and are going to draw too much attention.  Patterns are good for smaller accent pieces like ottomans.
• Measure carefully – You will get a much better fit.
• Consider style – The styles that come with a separate seat cushion look less like a slipcover and the more form-fitting ones will have a more contemporary feel.
• Pillows! – Pillows are going to be the critical finishing touch.  Spend a bit more on them and get something really colorful or patterned.  That way the slipcover is just the backdrop.

This ottoman cover is a nice accent.

Pottery Barn sells slipcovers of two varieties.  First, you have the custom fit slipcovers that are purchased with the furniture and fit perfectly.  Then you have the loose-fit slipcovers, which is what we are talking about here.  Their loose-fit sofa covers have some stand-out details like box-pleating yet their prices are competitive with other manufacturers.

These stretch pique covers from Surefit complete an easy modern transformation.

SureFit also carries a wide selection of ready-made slipcovers.  They carry covers for sofas, chairs, recliners, dining chairs, ottomans and folding chairs and their Easy Fit Center has short videos and measuring guides.  They also have a swatch service (which I always recommend taking advantage of) to make sure you get the color selection right.  Right now you can enter the 12th Annual Ugly Couch Contest.  All you have to do is email them a photo of your ugly couch and you could win a $5,000 room makeover with Kim Myles from Myles of Style.  Give it a whirl!  What do you have to lose?

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Sherwin Williams Honeydew (SW6428) - To achieve an analogous color scheme I chose a pastel shade of green. It gives the room a light, airy feeling. This would be a nice look for a breakfast room or child’s room.

Painting is the #1 way to change a room quickly and economically.  The problem is that many people do not take their time in choosing a color and they paint themselves into a corner (I know, corny).  Above all, do not go the paint store until you have given your project some clear consideration.  Choosing colors from a paint chip is not a good idea and rarely results in the look you desire.  Plus, the guy with the orange smock will probably not be much help.

Benjamin Moore Blue Lagoon (2054-40) - This monochromatic look is relaxing but the darker tone adds drama.This combination would work well in a living room or home office.

Before you can start sampling paint on your walls you need to choose a clear direction for your project.  Designers have many methods of choosing paint colors but a great way to start is with your main fabric.  It can be a fantastic jumping off point to get you rolling.  Some questions to ask yourself:

1. Do you want to play it safe with a neutral you can “live with” for a while or do you want to make a bolder choice that expresses your taste and personality?
2. If you change your fabric selections in a couple of years, are you comfortable with re-painting or will the color still work for you?
3. What is the overall feel you are aiming for?  Consider what drew you to that particular fabric.

Relaxed – Consider similar colors that are a shade lighter or darker then the main color in your fabric.

Light-hearted – Look for colors in pastel tones.

Dramatic - Darker colors with more pigment make a bold statement.

Taking your time to thoughtfully consider your desired look will significantly pare down the number of choices and start you on your way.

Sherwin Williams Anjou Pear (SW6381) - To give the room an uplifted feel I chose a yellow-orange color that contrasts well with the green and picks up the tones in the flowers. This is a comfortable combination for a guest room or family room.

To demonstrate I have featured the James Chair from Maine Cottage with Tweet Sweet Porch fabric and three distinct directions you can go with the paint.  As you can see, each color significantly changes the feel of the room.  So get your swatches out and start exploring the possibilities.

~Lorrie

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Has the fabric on your outdoor furniture cushions seen better days?  I bet most of you wind up looking at that worn-out floral pattern a little longer than you’d like; and it’s no surprise why.  Outdoor fabrics endure the elements and are indeed durable, but they can also be costly to replace.  Often you keep the same cushions until the day you replace the furniture, but that’s really not necessary.  Change it up with fabulous new fabrics from OutsideFabric.com.

I receive loads of emails each day introducing new companies that carry a multitude of products.  As I review them, I find some that not only cater to interior designers but also to the general public.  These are the “finds” that I share with you on My Design Secrets.  Today I found OutsideFabric.com, and now you too can have the luxury of choosing from a vast array of outdoor fabrics just like designers do.  These fabrics can be used for cushions, draperies, umbrellas, awnings, marine use or any other water or stain prone area of your home.  They carry the very popular and durable Sunbrella line as well as outdoor fabrics from Robert Allen (which usually only sells to designers).  So whether you are going for a Beach House, Modern or Mountain Retreat, with so many different styles selecting your favorite might be a challenge!

They stock over 300 fabrics that are mold and fade resistant and no matter the size of your order, shipping is only $8.00.  You can request a custom quote if you would like them to make the cushions.  Or if you would like to make your own, they even direct you to an article on About.com that gives you step-by-step instructions.  So whether you do it yourself, bring it to your local upholsterer or order cushions from the site, you will be sitting pretty (on your lovely outdoor cushions) in no time.

Visit OutsideFabric.com on My Design Secrets!

Searching for decadent designer fabric for your Pillows or Ottoman?  Sometimes it seems like Interior Designers are the only ones who have access to the goods.  But as a My Design Secrets Devotee, you know I will give you the scoop!

Whether you can sew like a pro or you hand the fabric over to the upholsterer, Mood Fabrics will surely get you in the….Mood.  The name might sound familiar from the show Project Runway.  This is the same amazing Mecca of fabric where the contestants race around looking for terrific textiles for their fabulous frocks.  Now you can do the same online and avoid dealing with those delicate wanna-be fashion designers.

Mood makes it easy by giving you the option of searching by fabric type, application or color.  They have a Design Assistant Section that helps you estimate yardage and find the appropriate fabrics for your project. They also carry marvelous trims and notions for finishing touches.  I can tell you from my professional experience that I recognize some of the patterns to be exclusive designer lines.  So you are getting the inside track!

Mood encourages you to order samples to ensure color accuracy, which all good designers should do.  Their shipping rates are reasonable and they try to ship your order to you in 24-48 hours.  You will be ensconced in velvet before you know it!

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