Shows
Sew Much More470 - When in Doubt, Go to the LibraryRunning a custom workroom means wearing all the hats—fabricator, business owner, problem-solver, and sometimes… Google detective. But what if you didn’t have to figure it all out on your own? In this episode, Ceil DiGuglielmo (your friendly industry Librarian) shares the real value of having a trusted place to turn for answers. You’ll hear stories from Library members, learn what kind of support actually moves the needle in your business, and discover why community and curated resources make all the difference. Whether you’re a long-time member of the Curtains & Soft Furnishings Resource L...2025-06-2904 min
Sew Much More409 - OPPORTUNITY THINKING SERIES - Jeanelle Dech and Klimaka StudiosIn this OPPORTUNITY THINKING episode of the Sew Much More Podcast, Ceil DiGuglielmo joins Jeanelle Dech in her office at Adaptive Textiles in West Chester, PA. They talk about the origins and growth of the textile printing business and the launch of KLIMAKA STUDIOS https://klimakastudios.com/, a new collection of workroom-centric fabric and wallpaper, featuring artists collaborations and engineered designs. You can watch this episode of the Podcast on YouTube here.2024-04-2150 min
Sew Much More248 - Jeanelle Dech, Susan Woodcock and Ceil DiGuglielmo Answer - How Are You Doing Now?The Sew Much More Podcast is sponsored by; The Workroom Channel Scarlet Thread Consulting The WCAA The Curtains and Soft Furnishings Resource Library Merril Y Landis, LTD Angel's Distributing, LLC One year later!!!! How are you doing now? How has this last year been for you? How are you today? Jeanelle Dech, Susan Woodcock and I talk about how we are doing one year into the pandemic and the changes it has brought to all of our businesses. Here is the poem Susan quoted; "And the world cannot be discovered by a journey of miles, no matter how long, but only by a spi...2021-03-141h 19
Sew Much More239 - Jennifer Csanyi - I Took It Seriously and Started Making Goals for MyselfThe Sew Much More Podcast is sponsored by; The Workroom Channel Scarlet Thread Consulting The WCAA Helser Brothers, Inc The Curtains and Soft Furnishings Resource Library Merril Y Landis, LTD 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 D...2021-01-1057 min
The Nonprofit Renaissance(Healthy Church Growth) #18: Vince DiGuglielmo - Crisis Communication in the ChurchIs your church leadership team prepared to handle communication during a crisis? In this NEW episode of the Healthy Church Growth podcast, we have Vince DiGuglielmo from Vers Creative. Vince is a social media strategist responsible for curating one of the country’s most engaging Division I social media accounts. He’ll talk about three big steps vital to a crisis communication plan, and how to lead without all of the answers. On Instagram: @kiptharipper, @vers_creativeShow Notes: https://healthychurchgrowth.org/healthy-chuch-growth---episode-18---vince-diguglielmo/ The Nonprofit Renaissance is Powered by Vers Creativ...2020-08-3137 min
Sew Much More218 - Annette Faber -I Don’t Think Anyone Can Love My Clients the Way That I DoThe Sew Much More Podcast is sponsored by; The Workroom Channel Scarlet Thread Consulting The WCAA Helser Brothers, Inc The Curtains and Soft Furnishings Resource Library Merril Y Landis, LTD Annette Faber is the owner of Kaylee’s Creations, LLC which provides custom window treatments, bedding, and other soft furnishings to interior designers. Kaylee’s Creations exists to support interior designers by providing exceptionally crafted soft furnishings. They strive to be part of the design team and to make their part of the process both enjoyable and stress-free for their client. They will go above and beyond to make sure...2020-08-161h 20
Sew Much More217 - Jamie Facciola - FurniturecyleThe Sew Much More Podcast is sponsored by; The Workroom Channel Scarlet Thread Consulting The WCAA Helser Brothers, Inc The Curtains and Soft Furnishings Resource Library Merril Y Landis, LTD 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...2020-08-091h 09
Sew Much More216 - Thought on 4 Years of PodcastingThe Sew Much More Podcast is sponsored by; The Workroom Channel Scarlet Thread Consulting The WCAA Helser Brothers, Inc The Curtains and Soft Furnishings Resource Library Merril Y Landis, LTD Four years into the Podcast, I've learned so much! Thank you to everyone who has said yes to being on the podcast and thank you to everyone who has listened to the podcast and to those of you who have left me such wonderful reviews!!! 2020-08-0218 min
Sew Much More215 - Marie Mouradian - How A Business Evolves Over 38 YearsThe Sew Much More Podcast is sponsored by; The Workroom Channel Scarlet Thread Consulting The WCAA Helser Brothers, Inc The Curtains and Soft Furnishings Resource Library Merril Y Landis, LTD Marie Mouradian recently celebrated 38 years of owning her own business. What began as 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. Experie...2020-07-2645 min
Sew Much More214 - Keely Hersh - I'm The Detail SpecialistThe Sew Much More Podcast is sponsored by; The Workroom Channel Scarlet Thread Consulting The WCAA Helser Brothers, Inc The Curtains and Soft Furnishings Resource Library Merril Y Landis, LTD Keely Hersh with Right at Home Interiors just won 3 International Vision Design & Workroom Awards!! She won 1st place in Decorative Hardware & Trims, 2nd place in Curtains & Draperies, and 2nd place in Top Treatments, all in the design award category. This is her first time entering the competition and she won in all 3 categories she entered. Right at Home Interiors has proudly been in business for over 25 years. Owner a...2020-07-1949 min
Sew Much More213 - Sara Trail - The Social Justice Sewing AcademySara 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. W...2020-07-1258 minThe Nonprofit Renaissance(Healthy Church Growth) #15: Vince DiGuglielmo - Building a Community through Social MediaMike Mage and Justin Price are joined by social media guru Vince DiGuglielmo to discuss common mistakes churches make on social media, and how to build a community online.On Instagram: @kiptharipperShow Notes: https://healthychurchgrowth.org/healthy-church-growth---episode-15---vince-diguglielmo/ The Nonprofit Renaissance is Powered by Vers Creative. An award winning creative agency trusted by global brands and businesses.Follow @collinhokeFollow @heredesFollow @vers_creativeWork with Vers2020-07-0652 min
Sew Much More212 - Claudia Buchanan - Home Sewing Depot The Sew Much More Podcast is sponsored by; The Workroom Channel Scarlet Thread Consulting The WCAA Helser Brothers, Inc The Curtains and Soft Furnishings Resource Library Merril Y Landis, LTD Claudia Buchanan, owner of Home Sewing Depot. Claudia started sewing at 10 years old, and past owner of a drapery workroom. An expert on home decor, including slipcovers, bedding, window treatments, and kids decor. Whether you want to learn how to create your own custom decor at a fraction of the retail cost, or how to use the home decor skills you learn to make a six-figure income as a professional drapery...2020-07-0551 min
Sew Much More211 - Julie Higgins - I Just Push Through!The Sew Much More Podcast is sponsored by; The Workroom Channel Scarlet Thread Consulting The WCAA Helser Brothers, Inc The Curtains and Soft Furnishings Resource Library Merril Y Landis, LTD Julie Higgins, the owner of Ella Moon Designs, earned a Bachelors degree in Speech Communications from St. Josephs College in New York. Immediately after college, she began working as a communications instructor at the Helen Keller National Center for deaf-blind adults. She taught sign language and braille to her students and loved what she did BUT once she wanted to be a stay at home Mom. After a kitche...2020-06-281h 06
Sew Much More210 - The Designer/Workroom Relationship with Rosemarie Garner and Linda PrincipeThe Sew Much More Podcast is sponsored by; The Workroom Channel Scarlet Thread Consulting The WCAA Helser Brothers, Inc The Curtains and Soft Furnishings Resource Library Merril Y Landis, LTD In this re-release of my conversation with Rosemarie and Linda, we talk about the importance of the relationships in our industry. 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 formerly of Monroe Township, NJ. Linda provides full-service residential interior design services with a specialty in wind...2020-06-211h 29
Sew Much More209 - A Check In With CeilThe Sew Much More Podcast is sponsored by; The Workroom Channel Scarlet Thread Consulting The WCAA Helser Brothers, Inc The Curtains and Soft Furnishings Resource Library Merril Y Landis, LTD In this episode of the Podcast, Ceil shares some of the struggles of these past few months. Links and Resources; The Miracle Morning by Hal Elrod 2020-06-1422 min
Sew Much More208 - Chrystal Younger - Don't Be Afraid To Take That First StepThe Sew Much More Podcast is sponsored by; The Workroom Channel Scarlet Thread Consulting The WCAA Helser Brothers, Inc The Curtains and Soft Furnishings Resource Library Merril Y Landis, LTD Chrystal Younger is the owner of Windows and More by Chrystal in St. Charles, Mo. She is a wife, mother of 3 and soon to be a grandmother. She has been sewing most of her life but started the business approximately 23 years ago. She started sewing while being a stay at mom and the business slowing grew as her children did. She has been a member and officer in the WC...2020-06-071h 08
Sew Much More207 - Gretchen Tegtman - Continuing The LegacyThe Sew Much More Podcast is sponsored by; The Workroom Channel Scarlet Thread Consulting The WCAA Helser Brothers, Inc The Curtains and Soft Furnishings Resource Library Merril Y Landis, LTD Gretchen Tegtman loves to design Window Treatments! When she was little, her Mom (Nancy) would do a lot of crafts and Gretchen's job was to put the fabrics together. So I guess you could say she's been doing this nearly all her life! When they moved from Miami, FL to Fayetteville, GA, Nancy went into this business (with Dianne - hence the name!). Nancy did most of the Installa...2020-05-3146 min
Sew Much More206 - Ragne K. Smith - The Little Learning Lessons Made Me Better The Sew Much More Podcast is sponsored by; The Workroom Channel Scarlet Thread Consulting The WCAA Helser Brothers, Inc The Curtains and Soft Furnishings Resource Library Merril Y Landis, LTD 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 uphols...2020-05-241h 15
Sew Much More205 - Terry Sandlin - I Love Doing What I Do and I Think That Comes Through! The Sew Much More Podcast is sponsored by; The Workroom Channel Scarlet Thread Consulting The WCAA Helser Brothers, Inc The Curtains and Soft Furnishings Resource Library Merril Y Landis, LTD 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 IWC...2020-05-171h 04
Sew Much More204 - Joanne Moore - I Am Real, Darn It!The Sew Much More Podcast is sponsored by; The Workroom Channel Scarlet Thread Consulting The WCAA Helser Brothers, Inc The Curtains and Soft Furnishings Resource Library Merril Y Landis, LTD Jo Moore opened Jo’s Sewing Studio, a mostly to-the-trade workroom in Cincinnati, Ohio, in 2004 after a 13-year career editing monthly magazines. From 2009 to mid-2013, however, she combined both editing and sewing skill sets to be a copy editor for Drapery & Design Professional. She was listed in Cincinnati Magazine’s “Best Of” issue in 2011, and two of her drapery designs have appeared at IWCE – “He Loves Me, He Loves Me Not” (2010) and...2020-05-101h 07
Sew Much More203 - In Memory of Beth Hodges - Her Podcast Re-Released This past week has been so difficult, learning of the passing of Beth Hodges. So many people felt drawn to her and she made everyone feel special and important to her. I am re-releasing my podcast recording in her memory. Rest in peace, dear Beth. I will be nice in your honor! The Sew Much More Podcast is sponsored by; The Workroom Channel Scarlet Thread Consulting The WCAA Helser Brothers, Inc The Curtains and Soft Furnishings Resource Library Merril Y Landis, LTD 2020-05-031h 18
Sew Much More202 - Sherri Bowman - I'm Going To See What I can Make Happen The Sew Much More Podcast is sponsored by; The Workroom Channel Scarlet Thread Consulting The WCAA Helser Brothers, Inc The Curtains and Soft Furnishings Resource Library Merril Y Landis, LTD Sherri Bowman, owner of Decorating With Style has lived in Charlotte since 1987. After spending many years in corporate America, she left to stay home with her newborn twin daughters and two sons. Sherri's passion for sewing and creativity led her to open her business in 2004. Sherri serves as Vice President of the local chapter of WCAA (Window Coverings Association of America) after serving as President for two years. I am also Presid...2020-04-261h 13
Sew Much More201 Adrienne Matthews - I Am Crossing Paths With People I Never Would Have The Sew Much More Podcast is sponsored by; The Workroom Channel Scarlet Thread Consulting The WCAA Helser Brothers, Inc The Curtains and Soft Furnishings Resource Library Merril Y Landis, LTD Adrienne Matthews, sole owner and CFO (Chief Fabric Operator) of C&K Design is a born and bred Tarheel. She opened C&K Design LLC in 2012. Adrienne is a native of Jacksonville, NC, which is located on the coast. She graduated from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill in 2001 with a bachelor’s degree in business administration. Adrienne moved to Charlotte, NC in the summer of 2001 where she was employed for f...2020-04-191h 23
Sew Much More200 - Antoinette Kirwan - I Tuck and Roll!The Sew Much More Podcast is sponsored by; The Workroom Channel Scarlet Thread Consulting The WCAA Helser Brothers, Inc The Curtains and Soft Furnishings Resource Library Merril Y Landis, LTD Anntoinette Kirwan is the owner and operator of MAK Inspirations, a boutique window treatment, soft furnishings & upholstery workroom. Her dedication to her craft is evident in her desire to give each client personalized attention and to transform their designs into reality by keeping the lines of communication open, overseeing all the details and ensuring timeliness is met. Antoinette is passionate about her partnerships with Interior Designers and she appr...2020-04-1246 min
Sew Much More199 - Cynthia Bleskachek - I'm Having A Wobble!The Sew Much More Podcast is sponsored by; The Workroom Channel Scarlet Thread Consulting The WCAA Helser Brothers, Inc The Curtains and Soft Furnishings Resource Library Merril Y Landis, LTD Cynthia Bleskachek, owner of The Funky Little Chair 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. Cynthia guest teaches at Workroom Tech in North Carolina and will be a 2018 instructor at Custom Work...2020-04-051h 15
Sew Much More198 - Jeanelle Dech, Susan Woodcock and Ceil DiGuglielmo Check In - How Are We Doing?The Sew Much More Podcast is sponsored by; The Workroom Channel Scarlet Thread Consulting The WCAA Helser Brothers, Inc The Curtains and Soft Furnishings Resource Library Merril Y Landis, LTD How are you doing? No, really, how are you doing? Are you adapting? Susan Woodcock, Jeanelle Dech and I have a conversation about our current circumstances. Links and Resources; Mask America Facebook Page Gretchen Rubin's Coping With Covid 19 Suggestions Miracle Morning Team Tutor, LLC Facebook page for helpful hints Zoom Jeanelle referred to the PA Manufacture...2020-03-291h 15
Sew Much More197 - Irene Hurley - I Set My Sights On The SatisfactionIrene Hurley is, in every sense of the word, a true creative. For more than 35 years, Irene Hurley Designs has focused on the art of couture sewing techniques, incorporating artisan details such as applique, fabric manipulation and quilting into custom window attire and interior accessories. Irene’s ability to both envision and create a truly unique, custom product has become the hallmark of this boutique sewing business, located in Sea Girt, NJ. Irene also works with clients on color selection, furnishings and commissioned work through local craftsmen. The studio hosts workshops in Celtic Applique, Heirloom Sewing, and Memory Quilt Basics. Ir...2020-03-221h 17
Sew Much More196 - Kelly Nanney - You've Got To Commit To Doing It and Know It Has To Look BeautifulKelly and Lee Nanney are a dream team when it comes to fulfilling customers’ window-covering needs. Creating custom-designed draperies to compliment the look and feel of each individual home, Kelly and Lee find joy in providing clients with high-quality and timeless curtains, shades, valances and more. With each project, Kelly and Lee pay great attention to all the small details and maintain the highest standards for the outcome of every piece. Kelly’s Designer Drapes provides fabric selections, in-home consultations, measuring and installation for your convenience. Window treatments are a necessity for any home, but Kelly’s Designer Drapes turns...2020-03-1557 min
Sew Much More195 - WRT Students on The Invaluable Experience of Meeting in PersonThe Sew Much More Podcast is sponsored by; The Workroom Channel Scarlet Thread Consulting The WCAA Helser Brothers, Inc The Curtains and Soft Furnishings Resource Library Merril Y Landis, LTD In November of last year, I had the opportunity to spend a few days in Tryon, NC at Workroom Tech. Nancy Letts of Pine House Drapery was teaching a pillow and cushion class. I met four wonderful women who were kind enough to sit and answer my questions! I hope you enjoy hearing about their experience. Links and Resources; Workroom Tech The Workro...2020-03-0853 min
Sew Much More194 - Linda Tully - I Didn't Want to Waste A Day! The Sew Much More Podcast is sponsored by; The Workroom Channel Scarlet Thread Consulting The WCAA Helser Brothers, Inc The Curtains and Soft Furnishings Resource Library Merril Y Landis, LTD Custom Coverings was established in Peoria Arizona in the fall of 2000 by Linda Tully. After honing her sewing skills and drapery knowledge, Linda was able to build her own custom workroom in 2007. It was large enough to meet her growing client demand and enabled her to hire help. Custom Coverings was awarded Workroom of the Year in 2011 by Window Fashions Vision magazine. Then in 2012 the Tully family began a journey that too...2020-03-011h 10
Sew Much More193 - OPPORTUNITY THINKING Series - Welcome to the Curtains and Soft Furnishings Resource LibraryThis year, for the OPPORTUNITY THINKING Series of the Podcast we will be learning more about the services and products that the Sponsors of the Podcast offer our industry and how they can help us. I am starting out the series with the Curtains and Soft Furnishings Resource Library and Sharon Gizzi is here to help me with the questions and her feelings about how she has discovered so much content. Resources and Links; Pricing Your Work with Confidence by Kitty Stein WCAA M'Fay patterns are available at The Workroom Marketplace2020-02-2355 min
Sew Much More192 - Bianca Schmidt - The Goal is The Happy CustomerBianca Schmidt, owner of Bianca's Stitchworks grew up watching her mother sewing and her father fixing things around the house. When she was 12 she asked her mother to teach her how to sew. She was always her father's helper when it came time to fix something. Little did they know at the time that together they were preparing her for her second career as a Drapery Workroom Owner. Bianca has a degree in mathematical science from The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. Go Heels! Her first career was computer programming at IBM. She satisfied her creative side after...2020-02-1655 min
Sew Much More191 - Jan Britt - It's Not About Me!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 the Year” for the State of Georgia. Jan was awarded “Educator of the Year 2017” for Think Realty Corporation. She is an Award-Winning Staging Educator. Jan stars in her own television show “The Decorate with Jan Show” on Ambizion TV. She teaches sewing classes to children and adults. Jan writes and teach...2020-02-091h 16
Sew Much More190 - Julie Murphy - It Just Clicked In My HeartJulie 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. Julie is on Facebook and Instagram Links and Resources; Indeed Michele Williams Scarlet Thread Consulting Elki Horn The Sew Much More Podcast is sponsored by; The Workro...2020-02-021h 10
Sew Much More189 - Sheri Corey - You've Got to Figure Out A Way To EvolveSheri Corey is my guest today. She is the owner of Style and Stitch/Sew Sheri Designs * Her professional beginning Pediatric Oncology Nurse * 1994 left nursing career to begin a new business that allowed her to be at home with her children * Her business services have continued to evolve * Initially Sheri made children’s clothing – then moved into products for the home * A second business, Dorm Suite Dorm was launched in 2008 specializing in custom dorm bedding (sold in 2018) * Sheri has now added Certified Interior Decorator to her repertoire and has launched an eDesign websi...2020-01-2641 min
Sew Much More188 - Suzy Daruwala - What Do I Need to Do To Get It To Beautiful? 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 Windo...2020-01-191h 19
Sew Much More187 - Special Episode - Jean Lawes, Winner of the Jill Robson ScholarshipJean Lawes is my guest today on this special episode of the Podcast. Time is running out for you to apply for the Jill Robson Scholarship!!! The deadline is January 31, 2020. Visit WCAA's Scholarship webpage to find out more. Ann K. Johnson's Swag Books Ann K. Johnson's Workroom Skills Class The Complete Book of Curtains and Drapes Lady Carolyn Wrey Bluprint - Cynthia Blescakchek's class - Getting Started with Upholstery The Workroom Channel Curtains and Soft Furnishings Resource Library2020-01-1724 min
Sew Much More186 - Diana Nolan - By Failing, I Learned A LotDiana Nolan is the owner of a retail and wholesale workroom located in Medford, New Jersey outside of Philadelphia. She started her business after a career in Retail Management for College and University bookstores. She started Diana Nolan Custom Windows in 2001 shortly after her children were born. Diana is a member of both the NJ and Pennsylvania WCAA chapters and currently holds the position of Vice President of the Pennsylvania SEPA chapter. Diana is on Instagram and Facebook Scot Robbins Workroom Valet Gridded Table Cover at The Workroom Marketplace Draw Ma...2020-01-121h 05
Sew Much More185 - Debbie DiFrancesco - Its Been an Interesting MetamorphosisDebbie DiFrancesco, who has been sewing since the age of 7, founded Creative Hands in 1990 to supplement the family income. Initially, Debbie provided general sewing and bridal alteration services while working a second job as an assistant manager/Craft Department Manager at House of Fabrics/So-Fro Fabrics until 1991. Two years later, Creative Hands transitioned from alterations to exclusively fabricating window treatments and selling hard treatments. Soon after, in 1997, Debbie attended courses at the Professional Drapery Workroom School, later known as the Custom Home Furnishings Academy in Swannanoa, NC under Cheryl Strickland. Since then, she has participated in the Custom Home Furn...2020-01-051h 01
Sew Much More184 - Year End Review with Michele Williams of Scarlet Thread ConsultingOnce again, Michele Williams and I are wrapping up the year and sharing how we analyze the year that is ending and plan for the year ahead. Talking with Michele is always a pleasure for me, I hope you enjoy it as much as we do! Links and Resources; Who's In Your Room 212 The Extra Degree SWOT Analysis is discussed in the January 2018 Circle Time on The Curtains and Soft Furnishings Resource Library Jennifer Dawn's Best Journal Ever The Sew Much More Podcast is sponsored by; The...2019-12-291h 31
Sew Much More183 - OPPORTUNITY THINKING SERIES - Nicole Nomer and Coulisse SystemsNicole Nomer is the owner of Fabrication Studio, a drapery workroom that has been servicing the interior design industry since 1985. I interviewed Nicole in Episode 148 of the Podcast. Today we are talking about how she became a Coulisse Distributor. Links and Resources; Nicole's Youtube Channel Nicole's Facebook Page You can reach Nicole by email - fabricationstudio@gmail.com The OPPORTUNITY THINKING Series of the Podcast is sponsored by; The Curtains and Soft Furnishings Resource Library2019-12-2240 min
Sew Much More182 - Cheryl Meiklejohn - Every Bit of Education Costs Us SomethingCheryl Meiklejohn, was born in a rural community, she fell in love with sewing at the age of 8, when she began sewing with her grandmother. Always one to seize an opportunity, she set up and managed her own custom drapery business, where she became an expert in selling, sewing and installing window treatments. Five years later she went to work for a much larger specialty textile manufacturing company, Rainbow Draperies, which she owns today. Many of Western Canada’s high-end designers and architects will trust no one else with their custom textile needs. Over the last 23 years, Cheryl...2019-12-1556 min
Sew Much More181 - Jill Robson Scholarship - Why You Should Apply!I had the pleasure of talking with some of the previous winners of the Jill Robson Scholarship and why they applied and what it did for them. Apply for the Jill Robson Scholarship Custom Workroom Conference Jill's Webinars can be found on the Curtains and Soft Furnishings Resource Library for PRO Plus and PRO Access members. The Sew Much More Podcast is sponsored by; The Workroom Channel Scarlet Thread Consulting The WCAA Helser Brothers, Inc The Curtains and Soft Furnishings Resource Library2019-12-0835 min
Sew Much More180 - Betsey Reigle - I Wanted To Be Profitable Per JobBetsey Reigle has worked in the interior design field for her entire professional career. Her training includes a bachelor’s degree in interior design from Mercyhurst College. If you combine her experience in the interior design field with the skill of sewing she learned from her mother at a very young age and, always having a love of fabric, you can see why she loves her job. Betsey is the owner of Seamless Designs, a retail workroom. She enjoys creating beautiful handcrafted products for her clients’ home interiors. Betsey lives with her family near the Roch...2019-12-0158 min
Sew Much More179 - OPPORTUNITY THINKING Series - Mark and Jay Helser of Helser Brothers, Inc.In this episode of the podcast, I welcome Mark and Jay Helser of Helser Brothers, Inc. Mark Helser is the CFO and Co-Founder of Helser Brothers, Inc. His entrepreneurial spirit and interest in metal fabrication started early in his life, having a paper route at age 8 and acquiring his first welder at age 11. Mark and his brother Jay founded Helser Brothers, Inc in 1994. Mark is a strong believer in solid work ethics and going above and beyond to be the key to his accomplishments. Besides running a successful company, Mark also believes in giving back to the...2019-11-2445 min
Sew Much More178 - Roger Magalhaes - It Was Too Late, I Had Quit My Job!!! 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 oth...2019-11-171h 02
Sew Much More177 - Kathy and Michelle Patterson - Mother Daughter TeamKathy Patterson is the owner of Draperies by Kathy She started sewing for a designer 15 years ago and her daughter, Michelle has joined her in her business. Links and Resources; Michelle's Etsy Shop - This White Rabbit Co. The Custom Workroom Conference Kim Chagnon - Kim's Upholstery Ann K. Johnson's Workroom Skills Class Quiet - The Power of Introverts in a World That Can't Stop Talking Workroom Tech The Sew Much More Podcast is sponsored by; The Wo...2019-11-101h 19
Sew Much More176 - Ronica VanGelder - It's Nice to Have A Sounding BoardRonica is from a small town in Western NY and moved to Raleigh 27 years ago via San Diego. She and her husband of 28 years have 2 kids and a dog. Ronica's Custom Creations is an award-winning full-service window treatment design and fabrication studio. Ronica works with both the homeowners and design clients, using her specialized industry skills to make ideas and plans become reality to transform your house into a home. Ronica is dedicated to providing quality products with outstanding details. To reach that end, she spends time keeping up with current colors, home furnishing styles...2019-11-0340 min
Sew Much More175 - OPPORTUNITY THINKING Series - Sam Sloan and Jill Plummer Stanbro HughesWho doesn't have a few extra feet from Sloan Machinery!?? I must confess, I really didn't realize how extensive Sam Sloan's business was until I had this opportunity to talk with him and Jill. They have been collaborating for years in an effort to customize feet for our industry. I was thrilled to hear Sam's story and learn more about what he does - hint - it isn't just feet!!! Jill Plummer Stanbro Hughes was a guest on Episode 138. The OPPORTUNITY THINKING Series of the Sew Much More Podcast is sponsored by2019-10-2758 min
Sew Much More174 - Best of - Re-release of My interview with Tracie BresnahanThe Sew Much More Podcast is sponsored by; The Workroom Channel Scarlet Thread Consulting The WCAA Helser Brothers, Inc Tracie N. Bresnahan holds a Bachelor’s degree in Apparel Engineering and a Master’s degree in Quality Assurance Technology from Southern Polytechnic State University. She worked in the apparel and the consumer products industries for 12 years. Tracie opened Custom Creations in 1996, fabricating custom window treatments and accessories. With her engineering background, she has built a business specializing in one of a kind and challenging design solutions for clients; such as custom cornice boards, headboards, ottomans, draperies, valances, bedding, pillows, etc. Tracie’s w...2019-10-201h 16
Sew Much More173 - Sophia Lawrie - We Can't Do All The Work In Town!Sophia Lawrie has been the owner of a to the trade drapery workroom since 1988, servicing Metro Atlanta and designers out of state. She has a degree in Economics and worked in the corporate world in Human Resources and later at an advertising agency. When her youngest son was an infant, he developed a concerning medical condition and she knew that she could not return to the corporate world and needed to find a career that would allow her to stay home. She has sewed her entire life and was fortunate to have a mother with great tailoring skills. Going into Hom...2019-10-1352 min
Sew Much More172 - Bianca Henry - I Just Keep It Moving!Bianca Henry is the owner of Impressions Drapery Designs, Inc in Durham, NC, which opened up in 2002. She is a member of the local WCAA Chapter where currently serves as president. In her spare time, she loves to bake and spend time with her children, Caleb and Jamesa. Bianca’s passion for draperies has given her a happiness that makes her career enjoyable, even during the stressful times; she wouldn’t trade it for anything else. Bianca is on Facebook and Instagram. The Sew Much More Podcast is sponsored by; The Workroom Channel Scarlet Thread Consulting The WCAA Helser Brothers, Inc 2019-10-0650 min
Sew Much More171 - Laura Nelson - I'm Like As Good As Santa Claus! Since 1994, Laura Nelson has been the owner of Sew Nice, located in West Lafayette, Indiana, specializing in soft and hard window treatments, slipcovers and other soft home furnishings. Sew Nice is a Woman-Owned Business Entity (WBE) with the State of Indiana; Laura is a WFCP Workroom Specialist and active member of WCAA, currently the program chair for the Indiana Chapter and Secretary for the Board of Directors. A graduate of Purdue University in Restaurant Management, Laura worked in university foodservice management (Notre Dame, Valparaiso, and Purdue), mostly in catering, before changing career paths to start a workroom. ...2019-09-291h 19
Sew Much More170 - OPPORTUNITY THINKING Series - CWC 19 RecapI had such a great time at CWC this year, my first time as an exhibitor! I've been there every year so now I have been an attendee, an instructor and now an exhibitor! I wanted to share some of my thoughts and experiences with everyone. Resources and Links; Custom Workroom Conference Michele Williams - Scarlet Thread Consulting This series of the Podcast is brought to you by; The Curtains & Soft Furnishings Resource Library which hosts the industry’s largest curated collection of educational resources for Custom Home Décor profess...2019-09-2226 min
Sew Much More169 - Leisha Schutt - No One Is Hiring Me, So I'll Hire Myself!Leisha Schutt is the owner of LHS Designs, a to-the-trade workroom working with Interior Designers in the greater Richmond, VA area. Leisha’s love for textiles led her to pursue a degree in Textile Design. This degree has served her well through different phases of her life. Leisha spent several years working in the Apparel Industry before shifting her focus to the Window Treatment Industry and in 2009 when she opened LHS Designs. In addition to running the business, Leisha is a member of the WCAA Virtual Chapter and also the local Richmond Chapter of the WCAA where she has served...2019-09-1545 min
Sew Much More168 - Kristen Stevenson - The Next Generation in the Family Business Kristen Stevenson is the daughter of Joan & Dave Stevenson, owners of Stevenson Vestal, a custom drapery workroom in Burlington, NC. After graduating from UNC-Chapel Hill with a Bachelor’s Degree in Studio Art and a minor in Music, Kristen followed her passion for creative work, learning to make Roman Shades at Stevenson Vestal. Enamored by the intricacies of custom soft goods, she began promoting her workroom photography online. Since then, Kristen has rebranded the company through logo redesign, website renovation, and videography. She enjoys networking with members in the industry and meeting with designers to inspire ideas and con...2019-09-081h 17
Sew Much More167 - Cathy Stich - Everything Is Interrelated and It All Comes TogetherOriginally from Wisconsin, Cathy Stitch, owner of Cathy's Curtains and Accessories is the 3rd oldest of eight children & learned to sew at age 8. Cathy believes she has this right brain/left brain dichotomy – loving sports (especially the Packers), Math, science, art & crafts. Two years of college were focused on Art & Design & 2 were spent in business & accounting. In its 27 years, her business has been located in 5 different cities. Cathy has been married to her husband, Jim for 38 years & they have 4 children & 8 grandchildren. Her goal is to pass on her love of sewing to my grands! You can find...2019-09-0146 min
Sew Much More166 - THE OPPORTUNITY THINKING SERIES - Hope Arbery and QUIPAHope Arbery, the founder of QUIPA, is on a mission to help custom drapery workrooms work better! QUIPA is an online tool designed specifically for workrooms to save them massive amounts of time and to dramatically increase their profits. Imagine… yardage calculations, pricing, and work orders done instantly! Imagine… no more costly calculation errors or having to duplicate information. Imagine… everything organized in one place and customized for how you run YOUR workroom. This is QUIPA. As an interior designer and workroom owner, Hope is using her experience and passion to build world-class technology for workrooms.2019-08-2547 min
Sew Much More165 - Re-release of Susan Kostelecky's PodcastIn 1995 Susan Kostelecky began SK Designs, an award-winning custom window treatment design and fabricating company serving the greater Houston area. Susan has designed and fabricated hundreds of window treatments, including many featured in Houston area home tours. Susan has served as President of the Houston Area Custom Drapery Association, is a WFCP-Expert and often presents seminars to other workroom and design groups. In 2006 Susan founded The Custom Sewing Institute, which produced weekend seminars for medium to advanced level workrooms with a focus on hands-on classes, small group networking, all-inclusive registration fees (meals, lodging and class supplies) and indu...2019-08-181h 12
Sew Much More164 - Kendra Hays - I've Had To Embrace The Chaos of Our Life!Kendra Hays, the owner of Cloudberry Drapery Studio is the wife of her video game loving husband Marcus and mother to four amazing kids, and her passion for sewing came from her mother. In her early 20's her love for home decor sewing took off when she was given her first sewing machine. She filled her new home with various curtains and bedding. One of her first projects was her oldest sons nursery! Her work has evolved through the years and she loves collaborating with and inspiring her clients to make their house truly unique. Through her active invo...2019-08-1158 min
Sew Much More163 - Sue Sifakis - I'm Always Able To Get Back Up On My FeetSue 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; Deb Barrett C...2019-08-041h 06
Sew Much More162 - Nancy Bramwell - I Still Look At Every Job as An Opening NightAfter earning her BFA in Costume Design, Nancy Bramwell opened Bramwell Designs, a special event décor business. Using fabric as her primary material, she created fantastical environments that wowed guests and lead a typical client to exclaim: “It’s one of the pleasures of my job to have an idea, turn it over to someone as talented and creative as you are, and get such a spectacular return product.” In the mid-90s, one of her special event clients asked Nancy to create window treatments for her daughter’s room, and Nancy’s window coverings career was launched. She hasn’t looked...2019-07-281h 03
Sew Much More161 - OPPORTUNITY THINKING SERIES - The Printed Table Canvas story With Jeanelle Dech and Anita BoetsmaOn a sofa in the basement apartment of Cheryl Strickland’s home, and a few days later on a flight to Tampa, FL, for the 2005 International Window Coverings Expo, Jeanelle and Anita Boetsma chatted about their work in the custom home furnishings industry. Anita shared her idea of having a printed work table grid to replace the difficult process of hand-marking table canvas with indelible markers. "Can your company print on canvas that is 72" wide? Can that print be as simple as a numbered grid?" …and the PRINTED TABLE CANVAS was born! The PRINT...2019-07-2152 min
Sew Much More160 - Callie Bullock Revisited! Thanks to my Corporate Sponsors; The Window Covering Association of America Scarlet Thread Consulting The Workroom Channel Callie is the owner of Draped and Tailored, a new fabrication studio in Little Rock, AR. Working mostly with the Trade, she creates everything from draperies and pillows, to bedding and Roman shades. By the age of 30, she had several upscale projects in her portfolio, including the Arkansas Governor's Mansion and country music star, Justin Moore. Callie has an Interior Design degree from the University of Central Arkansas. While earning her degree, she was required to take a sewing class in 2008. This is whe...2019-07-1444 min
Sew Much More159 - Jessie Lee Miller - You Just Have to Rest in The Imperfection of TimeJessie Lee Miller owns a custom workroom in Winston-Salem, North Carolina aptly named “Winston’s Workroom.” The one-person workroom was established in 2017 and serves both trade and retail clients. The workroom operates as a part-time business so that she can care for her three small children. Jessie Lee has lived in Winston-Salem since 2001 when she moved to attend college at Wake Forest University. She met and married her husband there and also worked at the university until her “retirement” when her first child was born. Jessie Lee has always had a deep love of sewing and was thr...2019-07-071h 11
Sew Much More158 - Rachel Fletcher and Audrey Lonsway talk about the new National Upholstery AssociationThere 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 he...2019-06-301h 02
Sew Much More157 - OPPORTUNITY THINKING SERIES Renee Rucci and Julie WoodAn interior designer's best friend! Julie began her career as an Art Educator. An avid interest in interior design led her to enroll in the Interior Design program at New Hampshire Institute of Art. While at NHIA, her love of fabric and sewing translated perfectly into a career creating window treatments. Since she launched her business in 2006, she has specified her services largely to the interior designer. Julie enjoys assisting designers in creating spaces for clients that far exceed both client and designer expectations. Julie understands the importance of fresh and unique treatments and continues to enhance her knowledge...2019-06-2344 min
Sew Much More156 - Linda Erlam - I Like To See Things Through Linda started sewing Home Decor because there wasn't anyone else in her community doing it. Shortly after starting to sew home decor, she took the New York Institute of Art and Design course and was then able to offer design, construction and installation services which she continues to offer today. In the last few years, she has added color specialist to her portfolio. She also writes a home-decor related newspaper column, has written 3 decorating made simpler books, over 700 How-to shorts, and is currently at work on the 'big course;' Learn to Choose Window Coverings.' Resources; Your Busine...2019-06-1657 min
Sew Much More155 - WCAA Executive Director - Renee Williamson and Marketing and Membership Director - Susie TannerJoining me today on the Podcast today are Renee Williamson, Executive Director of the Window Covering Association of America and Susie Tanner, Marketing and Membership Director. Whether you are a member of WCAA or not, I loved learning more about how our association is run. Renee Williamson is a native of Augusta, Georgia and now lives in beautiful Wilmington, NC. With over 20 years of leadership experience in the non-profit and for-profit sector, Renee brings a wealth of knowledge to the WCAA. Previously she was the Executive Director of a community organization in...2019-06-091h 01
Sew Much More154 - Christine McLean - Every Day Is DifferentChristine McLean, Owner, The Red Pincushion- An interior Design workroom, Christine never imagined, in a million years, that she would own a workroom. A graduate of Michigan State University, with a degree in Biology, she spent 14 years between Pharmaceutical Sales and Medical Software, even starting her own electronic claims processing company. A native of Detroit, she has lived in Los Angeles, Houston, and Dallas before being transferred to Birmingham, AL in 2002. She met her husband in 2003 when she opened a Franchise of the Dating Service, It’s Just Lunch, in the same building as his practice, when she feigned a...2019-06-0253 min
Sew Much More153 - OPPORTUNITY THINKING SERIES - Safe T Shade - You Can't Lose if You Don't Quit!Will Lynch - President and Owner of Safe T Shade, and Jacquelyn Weber - Vice President of Sales and Marketing visit us on this OPPORTUNITY THINKING Series to talk about the products that Safe T Shade provide for our industry. We talk about the steps necessary to get a product to market, what do they do with prototypes and how long does all of this take?? Meet Jacquelyn and Will at The Custom Workroom Conference in September. Resources; Sandra Van Sickle's Live With Sandra V Facebook Page 2019-05-261h 01
Sew Much More152 - Camille Moore - I Am Able To Help Them Catch A Spark Camile Moore's first love was fine art and oil painting. She looks at a client's home through the eye of an artist, as a work of art .. and window treatments are an artistic element. Camile attended Harris School Of Art and Watkins Art Institute as a young adult. In 1989, she took Advanced Custom Curtain, Drapery & Roman Shade Fabrication classes at Watkins Art Institute in Nashville TN, and business started blossoming soon after she completed the courses. Since then, Camile has taken hundreds of hours of custom and couture window treatment, drapery, curtain, pillow, bedding & slipcover workshops. She e...2019-05-1941 min
Sew Much More151 - Patti Ayers - If I'm Competent, I'll Be Confident! Patti is the owner of Pillows & Pleats, LLC, a drapery design and fabrication business located in Loudoun County, Virginia. Patti’s journey began when she studied Interior Design in college some 33 years ago graduating at the top of her class. Two weeks after receiving her bachelor’s degree, she married her high school sweetheart and supported his career path which involved several moves across the country. As a stay at home mom, she raised four children, spent years volunteering in the school systems and sewed countless costumes for community theater. It wasn’t...2019-05-1256 min
Sew Much More150 - Diana Hershey - I Tried To Absorb As Much As I Could 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 Insta...2019-05-0547 min
Sew Much More149 - Re-release of My Interview With Doshie WitcherHaving 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...2019-04-2851 min
Sew Much More148 - Nicole Nomer - Just Because Its Different, Doesn't Mean Its WrongNicole Nomer is the owner of Fabrication Studio, a drapery workroom that has been servicing the interior design industry since 1985. She is a self-taught fabricator starting her sewing journey at the age of 7. She graduated from Dean College with a degree in Art Therapy. Although she never entered that field she feels that her degree has aided her in helping her clients navigate the sometimes difficult decision-making process. Attention to detail, a positive attitude and a willingness to think "outside of the box"...2019-04-211h 03
Sew Much More147 - Cleo Marthel - I Am A People PersonCleo Marthel owns and is the sole operator of Complimentary Designs, a custom soft furnishings workroom located in Murfreesboro, TN. She has been in business for 15 years working with both wholesale and retail clients. Cleo is a member of a local trade group, Professional Drapery Workrooms of Middle TN. She is also a national member of WCAA. For a period of time, she lived in Birmingham, AL and served 1 term as Vice President and 1 term as President of the Alabama chapter of WCAA. Cleo believes that walking into a beautifully decorated home or w...2019-04-141h 14
Sew Much More146 - Marge Jones - Still Slipcovering After 44 Years!Marge Jones is the owner of Marge's Custom Slipcovers. Her mom taught her to sew at 5 and by high school, she was making tailored suits. Marge taught herself to reupholster in the 70's and two years later to make slipcovers. She has been in business for 44 years and at 74 doesn't seem to be slowing down much!! Marge is on Facebook and Pinterest Resources; Kim's Upholstery The Sew Much More Podcast is sponsored by; The Workroom Channel Scarlet Thread Consulting The WCAA2019-04-0743 min
Sew Much MoreFreddie Graves - If You Respect Yourself, People Respect You MoreFreddie 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; Wild Chairy The Sew Much More Podcast is sponsored by; The Workroom Channel Scarlet Thread Consulting The WCAA2019-03-3156 min
Sew Much MoreOPPORTUNITY THINKING SERIES - Ann K. Johnson and Susan Woodcock on Authoring and PublishingContinuing our series of products brought to the market in our industry, Ann k. Johnson and Susan Woodcock share the stories of how they wrote and published their books. 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 fully packed with time-saving tips and techniques, delivered in a r...2019-03-241h 11
Sew Much More143 - Louise Cornick - It Quickly Became Apparent This Was What I Should Be Doing Louise Cornick is the owner of Upholstery Education which formally started in 2018 but was in the making for 2years prior to that . Louise started her upholstery journey when she first arrived in the US from her homeland of England 7 years ago. She took an Upholstery course through adult education as a way of making new friends and getting out of the house. Little did she know what a major impact that choice of class would have of her life. From offering upholstery services to customers from her home in Southern California to suddenly running a National business was not something she...2019-03-171h 38
Sew Much More142 - Mary Jo Huyard - You Have To Be Ok With The CrazyMary Jo Huyard is the proud owner of Savannah House, a boutique window treatment shop and showroom in downtown Lancaster PA. Mary Jo works directly with clients in residential and commercial settings as well as working with designers, architect, and builders in a collaborative approach. She worked primarily out of her home until fall of 2017 when she rebranded and founded Savannah House and opened the boutique showroom and workroom that she operates out of today. You can find Mary Jo on; Facebook Instagram2019-03-1044 min
Sew Much More141 - Cynthia LeBlanc - Growth Isn't Always A Fun Process Beautiful Spaces opened it’s doors in 2006. Owned and operated by Cynthia LeBlanc. Beautiful Spaces is a full-service Interior Decorating Studio located in Vermilion Ohio. Which is often referred to as “ Little New England” due to its lovely waterfront communities. At Beautiful Spaces our goal is to inspire, educate, problem solve, and finally to design spaces for our client that they will love, and create memories in for years to come. We bring a unique, often overlooked perspective to the design process, through our 13 years of experience and expertise, specifying, designing, and fabricating custom...2019-03-031h 34
Sew Much More140 - OPPORTUNITY THINKING SERIES - Seamless WorkroomAmanda Smith and Rose Mary LeBlanc are the owners and developers of Seamless Workroom, a system that helps you keep track of job specifications with fillable measuring forms, resource documents and fabrication workbooks that will calculate yardage as well as quote labor, hardware, and fabrics. Amanda is the owner of Resources; Amanda mentioned Meetedgar and Canva The OPPORTUNITY THINKING Series of the Sew Much More Podcast is sponsored by; The Curtains and Soft Furnishings Resource Library2019-02-2455 min
Sew Much More139 - Laura Hawley - I Am The Monday Morning OptimistLaura Hawley is a co-owner of AD Window Treatments, a Custom Window Treatment and Hunter Douglas Showroom in Blue Bell, PA. Ambiance is on Facebook, Pinterest and Houzz. Resources; Dave Ramsey's Every Dollar App Disto Measuring Device Profit First The Podcast is sponsored by; The Workroom Channel Scarlet Thread Consulting The WCAA2019-02-171h 30
Sew Much More138 - Jill Plummer Stanbro Hughes - In The End You Gain What You Want To HaveJill Stanbro Plummer Hughes was born, raised and has spent her entire life in Canton, Oh. She has imported two husbands from out of state. At separate times, of course! Married for 7 ½ years to Michael Hughes with three grown children, Eric, Julie and Sean, 7 grandchildren and one great-granddaughter, who are all the loves of her life, along with her son-in-law and two daughters-in-law. Since 1979 Jill has worked strictly in the window coverings business. After working for another company, Jill started her own business, in January 1984. In the 35 years that Stanbro’s Draperie...2019-02-101h 13
Sew Much More137 - Regina Allen - Find A Fabric That Inspires You!Regina Allen is retired from the military and a native Arkansan. She has had a life-long passion for interior design, window coverings, and fabric. Regina is the owner of Beau Embellishments. While moving from place to place for over 20 years she designed her own draperies and soft furnishings. Ever the perfectionist, Regina, wanted to fabricate with professional techniques and quality craftsmanship. She invested in professional equipment and is a graduate of the Custom Home Furnishings Academy and the Custom Workroom Technical Center. She has established relationships around the country, with other workrooms, designer's and suppliers so she can provide...2019-02-031h 14
Sew Much More136 - OPPORTUNITY THINKING SERIES - Dean Fountain's Workroom RacksDean Fountain is the owner of a wholesale workroom providing draperies, bedding, slipcovers, upholstery, and installation in and around Jacksonville, FL. Dean opened his workroom in 2001, and he added Workroom Racks to his business in 2018. 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. 2019-01-2730 min
Sew Much More135 - Rita Boland and Auret De Gasperi - Mother Daughter TeamRita Boland and her daughter Auret deGasperi are the owners of Island Drapes and Upholstery on St. Simon Island in Georgia. It was truly my pleasure to get to know them better during the interview. You can find them on Facebook. The Sew Much More Podcast is sponsored by; The Workroom Channel Scarlet Thread Consulting The WCAA Resources; The Workroom Channel Kitty Stein's Book 2019-01-201h 09
Sew Much More134 - Donna Skufis - I'm An Education Freak!I'm talking with Donna Skufis of Dondar Designs. Donna shares the story of her business, how education is important to her - both learning herself and sharing her knowledge and why she made some of her choices. Donna is on Facebook. Resources; You can watch some of Donna's videos on The Workroom Channel's YouTube Channel The Sew Much More Podcast is sponsored by; The Workroom Channel Scarlet Thread Consulting The WCAA2019-01-131h 00
Sew Much More133 - Heather Taylor - Go Afraid! Take Your Fear With You! Heather Taylor owns and is the sole operator of Custom Textiles, a workroom located by her farmhouse in the Northwest Hills of Connecticut. She has been producing residential and business window dressings since 2003. Heather is on Facebook. Speaking with Heather was truly an honor. I admire her strength and resilience as well as her creativity. Resources; The Custom Workroom Conference Kim's Upholstery A Monster to Love Dean Fountain's Workroom Racks or call Dean at (904) 334-3694 2019-01-061h 49
Sew Much More132 - Michele Williams and Ceil Review the Year and Look Forward 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; The Workroom Channel Scarlet Thread Consulting The WCAA2018-12-301h 36
Sew Much More131 - Opportunity Thinking Series - Donna Skufis and the Story of Jewel's TapeDonna Skufis’s passion for creating beautiful and unique window treatments and soft home furnishing has propelled her talents into a thriving 33-year-old business. At the start she was retail; selling, fabricating and installing; but is now strictly a wholesale fabricator. Her love of challenges has encouraged her to take on more difficult even almost impossible projects. These projects showcase her engineering abilities. Teaching others how to fabricate window treatments and soft home furnishing is a large part of her business. She started teaching in 2000 with Cheryl Strickland, then with CHF Acad...2018-12-2343 min
Sew Much More130 - Rerelease of Sarah O'Neil's Podcast - Tomorrow Isn't Promised While many workrooms and designers started out in our homes and because we had a skill, Sarah O'Neil started her business, Storibook Designs out of a need to make a life change and to find joy every day. She no longer wanted a job, she wanted to feed her soul! Sarah talks openly and honestly about the challenges of anxiety and the tools she uses to get through the difficult times. Thank you to my sponsors who make it possible for me to continue to bring the podcast to my listeners. Scar...2018-12-161h 14
Sew Much More129 - Deborah Williamson - What Ever You Want, You Can AchieveDeborah M. Williamson, owner of Treatments For Your Panes, a Shop at Home retail business servicing the Greater Rochester Area and beyond. She has been sewing for 50 yrs. beginning her career in the Dressmaking/Alterations segment. Deborah’s journey began to change when they moved to Rochester from Buffalo, NY due to her husband’s job transfer. As one of the pioneers of a Planned Community of new homes east of Rochester, what better opportunity to learn how to make window treatments and accessories with 120 homes built each year. An added retail fabric outlet was close by allowing many of h...2018-12-091h 03
Sew Much More128 - Judy Soccio - Fail Big! Judy Soccio is a storyteller. But instead of using words, she weaves her tales with fabric and trim. I listen to clues from my clients – and from their homes – to create inspired window treatment designs that honor the home’s history while acknowledging the 21st-century lifestyles of the current homeowner. Her theatre training and fascination with history give her broad latitude to find the right details for each project. Her pursuit of continuing professional education and certification ensures her ability to bring these details to life in her clients’ homes. Judy has an aff...2018-12-021h 30
Sew Much More127 - OPPORTUNITY THINKING SERIES - Taking Stock and Making Changes In this episode, Jeanelle Dech coaches Ceil as she takes a hard look at the time, effort, and costs associated with producing a weekly podcast. Ceil started the podcast because of her passion for the industry and her desire to give back, and now must face the reality of the podcast’s sustainability. With Jeanelle’s help, Ceil is able to identify opportunities for improved efficiency in producing the podcast to lessen the impact on her profitable business activities. Jeanelle and Ceil also define a path forward to generate additional revenue for the podcast through the support of listeners, and...2018-11-251h 02
Sew Much More126 - Lonnie Vanderslice and Kelly Wilson - Supporting Women in Their CommunityThe Sew Much More Podcast is sponsored by; The Workroom Channel Scarlet Thread Consulting The WCAA Kelly Wilson, a lifelong autodidact, has always had a passion for living "outside the box". A combination of varied job experiences from NYC to LA and an eclectic higher education has created the rich foundation for Kelly’s life. As a result of the economic downturn, in 2005 after 17 years of exploring the world “unschooling” her two daughters, Kelly found herself in the job market. Without a professional career to resume, she found a minimum wage, $5-an-hour job, at a local fabric store. Noticing the numer...2018-11-181h 19
Sew Much More120 - The Tables Get Turned and Susan Woodcock Interviews Ceil DiGuglielmo!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. ...2018-10-071h 17