Sew Much More

Ronica 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, and fabrication techniques. Memberships in several home furnishings networks, including the Window Coverings Association of America (WCAA), where she has held several board positions, provide educational opportunities and important contacts and resources. Ronica strives to achieve the highest levels of proficiency in drapery fabrication. She searches out new knowledge in the field by attending educational seminars and conference

Who 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 by The Curtains and Soft Furnishings Resource Library  

The 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 work has been seen in publications such as Southern Living, Jezebel, Better Homes and Gardens and Kid’s Rooms. Collaborating with her on some of her projects is her husband Brian, who has a degree in Architectural Engineering. He is a huge asset in designing and building custom projects with her clients. Member – Wi

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 Home Décor was a logical choice and she has been fortunate to have a career she loves, which has helped support her family. As a perpetual learner, she has attended many classes and seminars and is a member of the Atlanta WCAA Chapter.   The Sew Much More Podcast is sponsored by;   The Workroom Channel   Scarlet Thread Consulting   The WCAA    Helser Brothers, Inc     Resources and Links; Dritz Hem Guide Atlanta Homes and Lifestyles Donna Cash  

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

 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.    Laura mentioned the event for WCAA Indiana  Deb Barret will be presenting.    Register here for - Where The Window Is Headed Fri, October 25, 2019 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM EDT   Laura is on Facebook and Instagram   Links and Resources; Ann Johnson’s Workroom Skills class Scarlet Thread Consulting - Pricing Without Emotion 3 strikes article by Ann Johnson can be found on The Curtains

I 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 professionals. Membership to the library gives you access to a wealth of downloadable reference materials, videos, live events, and a community of support to help you develop your design and fabrication skills, and start or grow a business.  Along with The Workroom Channel, the Library publishes the Drapery & Design Digital Digest. The Library is the central hub of communication between DIY crafters, professionals, educators, and suppliers.   Visit CURTAINSANDSOFTFURNISHINGSPRO

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 as Secretary and also Co-president. LHS Designs has been recognized in R.Home Magazine as "Window Treatment Fabricator of the Year” category, in 2016 as first place and 2017 and 2018 as runner up. Leisha is on Instagram Resources and Links; Sloan Machinery Profit Is A Choice Podcast Thanks to my Corporate Sponsors; The Window Covering Association of America Scarlet Thread Consulting The Workroom Channel The Curtains and Soft Fur

  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 confidence for selling custom window treatments. In her spare time, she is an avid runner and yogi. She is also a music enthusiast, loves seeing concerts, and is the bassist and singer in her band “Fifth Species” residing in Greensboro, NC. Kristen is constantly inspired by the enthusiasm, creativity, and passion to preserve the traditions of old-world craftsmanship in the ind

Originally 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 Cathy on Facebook and Instagram   Thanks to my Corporate Sponsors; The Window Covering Association of America Scarlet Thread Consulting The Workroom Channel The Curtains and Soft Furnishings Resource Library  

Hope 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. QUIPA is on Instagram   Resources; QUIPA Custom Workroom Conference The OPPORTUNITY THINKING SERIES  of the Sew Much More Podcast is sponsored by the Curtains and Soft Furnishings Resource Library.    

In 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 industry leaders and talented instructors.  For six years this event drew attendees and speakers from across the US, Canada, and England. Since the closing of her CSI adventure, Susan has focused on growing SK Designs and focusing on her increasing clientele, many of whom have found her via her A-rated Angie’s List membership and on Houzz,

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 involvement in workroom networking groups, including the Window Coverings Association of America (WCAA)  she is able to keep up to date on the latest trends and methods of fabrication. She strongly believes in education and improving her techniques. She regularly attends industry conferences and events to keep up to date on the newest trends, fabrics, and fabrication methods.   Kendra is on Facebook and Instagram. Resources and Links; The Drapery and Design Network

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; Deb Barrett Custom Workroom Conference Qigong 

After 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 back.  Window coverings proved to be the ideal outlet for Nancy’s pursuits of perfection, creativity, and innovation.   Links and Resources; The Custom Workroom Conference Pentel Twist Erase Pencil.09   Thanks to my Corporate Sponsors; The Window Covering Association of America Scarlet Thread Consulting The Workroom Channel  

On 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 PRINTED TABLE CANVAS has been an essential tool for professional drapery workrooms ever since. Listen to this podcast to hear more about the development of the Printed Table Canvas and the challenges along the way.   Grid Installation video: Several sizes and styles of the Printed Table Canvas can be purchased thru The Workroom Marketplace  Denton Drapes (Metric)   Anita Boetsma has been in the window treatment and design industry for over 25 years. She has been a workroom o

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 where her soft-goods fabrication journey began. Sewing draperies and pillows was a mere “side hustle” for the first 5 years. It wasn’t until she started working at a fabric showroom that she realized it could be an actual business.    She is still navigating the ins and outs of running a business and is currently in the process of finding commercial space. In just the past year, h

Jessie 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 thrilled to find a way to channel her talents and interests into a business. Jessie Lee is on Instagram Resources; Custom Workroom Conference Unique Expressions Table Clamp Terko Thread in The Workroom Marketplace Gridded Table Cover in The Workroom Marketplace Susan Woodcock Workroom Tech The Curtains and Soft Furnishings Resource Library WCAA

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 w

An 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 through webinars, workshops, and classes. She is constantly learning new methods and techniques to incorporate into products, and she often passes along those tips to her interior designers.  Renee Rucci Design serves residential and commercial clients throughout the northeast. Renee’s love for design reflects in her diverse style that she brings to her clients home. After being an art