Décor etc.

Scalamandre Says "HAPPY HOLIDAYS!"

2011-12-15T13:23:00.000-08:00

I LOVE THIS

2011

HOLIDAY CARD

FROM

SCALAMANDRE!

DENISE

Costco Cookbook 2011 Debut

2011-11-14T09:42:00.000-08:00

Hi Girlfriends, Each year, Costco hands out free, to each customer, the DAY AFTER THANKSGIVING, their own published cookbook. Their cookbooks feature fantastic recipes using Costco products. Included in them are recipes from some of our favorites: Ina, Giada, buttermustadd Paula, Sandra Lee and Christopher Kimball. Ironically, back in November 2009, I blogged Costco's 2009, "Home Cooking, the Costco Way." On this blog, I featured one recipe, which I have repeatedly made since.

Fast forwarding..............

In early 2011, Costco Connection, ran a contest asking for customers to submit a favorite recipe which they love and use, from previous Costco cookbook years. The winners would be featured in THIS Novemember's Costco Cookbook 2011.(HINT: Only passed out the day after Thanksgiving...because they run out fast!) This year, 2 entries, from the Chicago area won. One gal from Naperville with a fish dish and the other winner..............ME!!

To be selected amongest so many was exciting, and then, along knocks a professional Chicagoland photographer, to photo me in my gallery size kitchen. Before the knock, it took me days to "de-cluttter" then, "stage" my kitchen (thanks to the knowledge from following blogger, Maria Killam, Colour Me Happy forever) and all the time I was pondering over what to wear.

Here is my winner. Hope it becomes your winner too!*

*I use Peppermint ice cream & add fresh mint as a decoration

Talk soon and Happy Thanksgiving,

Denise

Think Chocolate

2011-11-12T12:44:00.000-08:00

www.parisbreakfasts.blogspot.com

This is not FABRICS. Wonderful chocolate artists created this exotic costume out of chocolate! Made for The Chocolate Show at the Metropolitan, NY.

Sorry for my latent absence. No excuses...........unless you accept, "the dog ate my computer". But if you are needing designer fabrics at affordable pricing please contact me through my discountdesignerfabricsonline.com.

Talk soon,

Denise

Where's The Fabric?

2011-08-12T12:49:00.000-07:00

What is wrong with this picture?

Girlfriends,

If you are going to have your house photo for advertising...

Remember 2 things:

A. DECLUTTER

B. Hire a professional photographer

Talk soon,

Liberty of London

2011-07-01T09:03:00.000-07:00

I am off to London and Paris for a few weeks. First, stop is going to be Liberty of London. The "quintessential English Emporium," Liberty has been around for 135 years. This fabric is synonymous with luxury and a great design. For everyone who loves fabrics, Liberty is the leading destination store in London, a wonderful emporium, where the latest fashions sit alongside design classics.

I would love to help decorate a bedroom of Liberty of London fabrics for you. All you need to do is select your fabrics and contact me through my website. It is that easy-!

REAL reason for going to UK...............and R&R in Paris

One very special stop off will be, Cambridge University, attending a wedding. The happy couple met while both were on a Bill and Melinda Gates Scholarship here. It is going to be an exciting time for this young couple to have their relatives and friends coming from America and Australia. A memorable time for all attending the Dr. Rebecca Voorhees & Simon Bryne Wedding.

Talk soon,

Denise

A FairyTale Coming True: April 29, 2011

2011-04-27T08:40:00.000-07:00

Follow the Royal Blue Road__________________

Kate is beaming as she does last minute wedding shopping

BEFORE

PRESENT

APRIL 29, 2011

A UNION JACK WELL-WISHER

Mohair Fabric for Draperies and Upholstering

2011-02-16T12:35:00.000-08:00

Mohair fabric was orgininally produced for the seating of thrones and the carriages of nobility. It is known as the fabric of Kings and Sultans. A soft luxurious fabric with great durability for a long lasting product. Mohair is sensuous, sleek and very much a realistic approach to a more urban environment for homeowners searching for "au natural."

It is a silk-like fabric made from the hair of the Angora goat. It is known for it's high luster. Also, being warm, durable and highly insulating. Originally of Arabic origins, it was introduced in England by Charles V in the 1849. As a decorating fabric, mohair is valued for its flame-resistance, and high sound absorbency. Thus, mohair drapes are efffective insulators, keeping heart in during the cold weather (especially this winter) and a great barrier against outside hot temperatures in summer.

Think mohair fabric for reupholstering a sofa, chair and simple pleated elongated side panels for an elegant window treatment.

If you are looking to make your house a home, remember to order your fabrics through me.

Talk again,

Denise

Think RED On Feburary 14, 2011

2011-02-13T14:27:00.000-08:00

Happy Valentine's Day

2011

Here are a few reminders of what red can do for you today:

Jennifer Lopez dining room

Raspberry Macarons

1920's Valentine

Fabrics: Kravet

Amore, Denise

Thank You Brunschwig & Fils

2011-01-14T19:13:00.000-08:00

Brunschwig & Fils

has been one of the premier showrooms for every designer.

Their fabrics are breathtaking.

I thank you Brunschwig Fils

for giving your clients the opportunity to create

beautiful designer living rooms and so much more.

Denise

discountdesignerfabricsonline Wishing You A Happy Holiday 2010

2010-12-16T18:52:00.000-08:00

Seasons Holidays to one and all.........and looking forward to making your house a home in 2011-!!
Denise
Winnetka, Illinois

Ashley Whhittaker Clean Look

2010-12-05T06:53:00.000-08:00

I love how Ashley Whittaker can make a room look so clean-! She mingles just enough "eye" textures and accessories to keep a room interesting. Of course, the solid upholstery fabrics are a must-!!

Contact discountdesignerfabrics .com for your fabrics wants to make your house a home in 2011.

A la prochaine,

Denise

Color My Room Thanksgiving

2010-11-24T09:23:00.000-08:00

A Flat Screem w/Surround ArtWork

2010-11-05T10:15:00.000-07:00

I found this terrific photo on one of my favorite blogs written by Maria Killam, Colour Me Happy. Maria has an" eye" for color and shares everything she "sees." Who wouldn't love this creative arrangement of art above the flat screen-!! It's a fabulous way to make your TV look like a piece of art too-! What is best of all, we all have photos, a mirror or two, artwork waiting to be hung and Grandmother's China Platter that can all come together to be worked in with a flat screen . Note the different dark frames of various sizes with a "slight" hint of a few natural ones..............and the color of the wall.

I just love it-!!

Talk again,
Denise

Marsh Magic In Low Country......Brays Island Plantation, Sheldon, SC.

2010-09-23T13:58:00.000-07:00

Today, I was reading Ragland Hill Society blog and came across a fabric not familiar to me, Rogers & Goffigan. I googled the fabric's name and learned even more by clicking suggested links. To my surprise, I came across a stunning interior project by Atlanta's Buckhead interior designer Suzanne Kasler. The more I studied her classical inspiring rooms, soft palettes and comfortable spaces, I kept thinking I knew this house. I was right-!! This stunning home is on Brays Island, Sheldon, SC. over looking the Pocotaligo River. Breathtaking homes. Breathtaking retreat.

Brays Island is a former rice plantation, developed in the late 1980's and now has over 300 magnificent custom built homes with amenities for owners and their guests to play: golf, sporting clays, small bird hunting, fly fishing, boating, animal kennel, Brays own conservation society from fish to butterflies, and paddocks for homeowners horses. While there over the early Spring the new owner (wife) and her mother were having lunch in the main club house. O how lucky she is to own such a spectcular house.

By switching out some darker pillows for lighter ones, a whole new look comes about.

THEN

FOR THE DINING ROOM the designer kept many of the fine furniture and accessories from the previous owners and added the wonderful leather chairs to go with the kitchen stools.

THEN

NOW

Yes, this is a beautiful home created by fine Atlanta architects and a gifted interior designer.......and with "to the trade" designer fabrics this home is even more spectacular. If you come across a fabric in a magazine, know it will look right for your next project, please contact me for a fantastic price reduction.

A la prochaine,
Denise

IKAT Fabrics For Fall-!!

2010-08-31T11:10:00.000-07:00

Hi Girlfriends, First, I hit a remarkable milestone for my website in August. Since I began in 2007, I have received 1,000,000 visitors with requests. I was....and still am...very excited-!! Economy crunch or what, serious homeowners still know that "To the trade" designer fabrics do make a difference in making their house a home. Thanks for all your past support and may we both grow together in the future.

Second, Whenever I get lots of request for one kind of fabric or color, I know "something" is in the wind with fashion. Nothing is more truer than IKAT fabrics. Now, even I am dreaming of this timeless fabric pattern with the possibility of doing a small love seat in my family room in ikat too.

IKAT (e - kot) means "to bind." It is a very ancient way of creating designs in fabric by resist-dyeing the threads before the fabric is woven. Villagers in Thailand, take the weft (crosswise filling threads) and tie tiny bits of plastic onto the treads. The tightly tied areas of thread, when put into the dye pot, resist the color and create a pattern, once the plastic ties are removed. Traditional ikat cottons are often indigo-dyed in lively and engaging motifs representing the village life and beliefs of the people. Modern ikats come in cotton, linen and silks which are brightly colored with good imported chemicals or natural dyes.

What makes ikat fabric differ from other fabrics is in the woven by hand on narrow looms in a labor - intensive process. Easy to identify because there patterns look the same on both sides of the fabrics..........in other words, no right or wrong side of the cloth.

A hint: Dry Cleaning HIGHLY recommended.

Ikat endless possibilities from runways to accessorities to upholstering to bedding to draperies to even carpet:

runwaydaily.com, blog.hgtv.com, lotushaus.typedpad.com, elledecor.com

Look what ABC has to offer in carpet-!!

Kravet knows....................ikat fabrics with over 208 fabrics from their designers collections.

Sorry, I lost the info on these two beautiful ikat fabrics. '-'

Always count on Scalamandre to show ikat with stunning matching companions.

Sami ikat / 26737 and companion Uppsola / 26738

Think about including this wonderful fabric in your Fall project. REMEMBER.........although very expensive, due to labor intensity, contacting me for a low, low price.

A la prochaine,
Denise

July Heat Is Here-!

2010-07-15T13:40:00.001-07:00

Just wanted to say, "Hi Girlfriends-!" and hope you are all keeping cool. I attempted to do a post on Ikat fabrics, but the heat is melting my brain. I will return...later.......on Ikat fabrics.

Keep cool......and please remember to check on your elderly love ones and neighbors,

Denise

WE THE PEOPLE......JULY 4, 2010

2010-07-04T09:12:00.000-07:00

Parades, backyard picnics and fireworks make for a wonderful celebration in America. Beginning with the American Revolution to the Civil War to our Commander-in-Chief for the freedom we all have today.

Happy JUlY 4th-!!

Red, White, and Blue ,

Denise

What Makes This Room Work?

2010-06-21T10:03:00.000-07:00

With a refreshing color palette and sharp dressmaker details ( a good workroom), you can transform your bedroom into a cool, comfortable retreat with a fabric that is AFFORDABLE.

WHAT MAKES THIS ROOM WORK

A "to the trade" fabric of chinoiserie toile. The color pops to feel new and right for this room.

Bold scale. A smaller-scale toile would look country, while this looks more sophisticated and dramatic.

The settee. It reiterates the main fabric and also serves as a bench for pillows, blankets, clothes, etc.

Plenty of white. On the walls, headboard, linens, lamps, mirror, and even prints framed with wide white mats in simple white frames, it lessens the intensity of the intricate toile pattern.

A sea grass carpet. It adds neutral texture.

BEDROOM BASICS: Avoid clutter where ever you can. One way is to invest in a good nightstand to store some of the smaller items, like a kleenex box.

T.Keller Donovan, designer.
Scalamandre fabric: 11111-006, silk
other colors: Beige, yellow, coral, fern, aqua, black

This fabric does come in linen too, but with only 4 colors: beige, green, coral and blue.

Please contact me if you are interested in this fabric......or any fabric.........for a great price-!

A la prochaine,
Denise

Your Daddy Cares / Edgar A. Guest

2010-06-17T12:18:00.000-07:00

Edgar Albert Guest (1881 - 1959) came to America at age 10 and by age 14, he was working as a copy boy, then reporter for the Detroit Free Press. His first poem appeared December 11, 1898. He became known as "The Poet of the People." Most of his poems have motivational messages.

Girlfriends, this poem is truly a "gift" to understanding our Dads feelings for us. My grandfather
Whalen, Charleston, Illinois, on Christmas morning 1922, gave this to his six daughters. In 1911, their father became "Mr. Mom" upon the death of his wife who was trying to recover from Tuberculosis. He never remarried.

The mounting and frame are original by C. B. Muchmore of Charleston. By the time I remembered it and could read, it was on his bedroom wall amongst other handmade poems by his daughters.

YOUR DADDY CARES, Edgar A. Guest:
.............................Click on photo to read in larger print.....................

Copy Right 1922 by The Buzza Co, Minneapolis, USA D5562

Happy Father's Day to all Dads.

Dad, if you are looking down on your children today, know that I love you and think of you more and more as the years go by.......................

Denise

CONRAD SHADES

2010-06-09T07:21:00.001-07:00

HI GIRLFRIENDS,

Lately, I have been getting inquiries for CONRAD SHADES. One webclient has been dreaming of owning Weave #1 for 10 years-! OK, it's time to take that giant leap and buy them. CONRADS are not for the "bargain hunters." They ARE expensive. Whenever I am in a client's home who says she wants CONRAD SHADES I ask for her budget......just for CONRADS. Depending on the windows sizes, up front, it is wise to estimate so your client either still wants them or moves on to fabrics. Let's say IF a window is 48W x 60L a ballpark will cost RETAIL anywhere from $1400 and up (optionals).

Why are CONRADS so expensive? They have earned it. Though the art of CONRADS are intricate, the materials are simple. After the fibers are nature grown, the materials are harvested, sundried on the beaches, and hand-tied by the villagers, they are bundled off to other parts of the Far East to be handwoven. All this is labor intensity. There is no substitute.

What makes them stand out is the look for passion, elegance and superb craftsmanship. CONRAD offers roman shades, custom drapery, cornices, a Sliding Panel Shade System, and a line of drapery designed for outdoors living spaces.

Fortunately, BP isn't in these remote far east countries to do any damage and CONRAD SHADES can grace your home.

Weave No. 1732, Safari was voted as Interior Design's Best of Year Award. Is it no wonder?-!!

Here are two elegant designed window coverings with CONRAD. This tells you how a simple shade can work with not only a designer chair but also right along with your grandmother's victorian dining room chairs too.

Weave No. #1822 is hand-tied fibers in modulations of green and grey which lends an atmosphere of tranquility. Love the sheerness.

#1744 is inspired by the vivid beauty of the equestrian sport. This new Dressage weave has a sumptuous silky look and feel created by closely interweaving narrow stand strands of fibers suffused in a rich mix of chestnut, black and Palomino.

Weave No. 1718 is a sophisticated and exquisitely sheer ivory grasscloth.

Weave No. 1602 looks warm with these reeds richly-colored fiber strands evoking the play of light and shadow. Perfect for kitchens-!

Discountdesignerfabricsonline.com sells CONRAD SHADES. First, already have a quote, then, contact me. Remember this, THEY ARE EXPENSIVE. Absolutely. But, how much is the question between your quote and mine.

A la prochaine,
Denise

Canopy Beds

2010-05-23T06:44:00.001-07:00

Hi Girlfriends, I love creative canopy beds. I don't own one.......yet. I must confess, tucked away in my basement is one decorative metal canopy form ready to be painted, and me, finding the right fabric to create a romantic guest room. Yes, doesn't that sound like Project #57 waiting? Also, this DIY women, keeps waiting for the perfect room. It is the scale of a room for such a canopy that I am desiring. And, when I move to Pinehurst, NC, I intend to keep this in mind...........for the sole purpose of having a canopy bed in a guest room.

The walls in this room were painted an oatmeal color. The use of bright colors like lime green and orange as bedding accents works too. For any DIY person, note how the canopy is rolled and tied. How easy is that? What I really love is the floral canopy as it softens the room to give the entire effect an inviting and relaxing atmosphere. In fact, all the fabrics blend together perfectly-!!!

Don't you just love the blue in this room with all the wood exposure? This romantic suite takes center stage beginning with the sheer valance edged in a pale blue striped fabric which puddles on either side of the bed's headboard. LOOK how white linens makes the room so crisp and clean.

BEDDING BASICS:
Color: The most popular colors today are blue, whites, neutrals, and greens. If you want bold colors, I suggest bring in lots of white. Everything in a bedroom-furniture, fabrics and color-is all about balance in order for a room to work.
Bed skirts: Matching the skirt with the fabric headboard keeps the bed looking uniform. Tailored skirts with trim or banding is one of my favorites. I also like to make the skirt just graze the floor. And, when summer comes, you can completely change the look of a bed by adding or removing a skirt too.
Pillows: I buy all my down pillows at Calicor Corners for decorative pillows. They carry the best.......and they can custom order any size for you
If you are spending the money on custom linens, then go the whole nine yards and do down pillows too. Decorative foam pillows will give come off flat....and cheap.
Linens: Woods prefers plain, white linens. Like I have already said, "Crisp and clean." And I agree with Birmingham, Alabama Interior Designer, Liz Woods, "It's not the way it looks but how it feels."

Once you are ready to order "to the trade" fabrics" contact me.
I buy ONLY from my accounts with designer showrooms. Never a mill. Mills contracted by the fine reputations of Kravet, Robert Allen, Brunschwig & Fils, Scalamandre, etc. are NOT selling fine production/workmanship to discounted websites. These sites house inferior fabrics in their " warehouses." Understand, what is being sold by a mill to a site ARE the inferior ends of the run fabrics. They are flawed due to multi reasons. Some being: ran out of dyes, thread breaking, lint caught in the process of weaving, skipping and so many more reasons. NO showroom will sell inferior fabric. Thus you are safe with me.

A la prochaine,
Denise

1 HEADBOARD, 3 WAYS

2010-05-16T10:59:00.000-07:00

A BEDROOM should be beautiful, only beautiful in a way that is also confortable and relaxing.

Here's just a taste of what a bedroom should be:

* Don't go overboard with a layered bed. A simple color schemem and minimal accessories keep the room restful.
* Swing-arm lamps offer the best reading light.
* For a professional look, iron all your linens, and pad pillow shams with batting to fill them out.
* To change a headboard look, consider having it slipcovered.

The following is one headboard with 3 different looks. Birmingham, AL. interior designer Liz Woods, designed a headboard with pattern Batan by Dedar fabric with a roll of nailheads as an accent.

In Woods first bedding, notice how the first design is blanketed in white, making the room soft and feminine in layers of different whites. An added color is the one decorative pillow for a colorful pattern contrast as a punctuation.

The appealing shades of gray is all about texture. The muted colors lend a hint of masculinity, but the interplay of textures softens the look. This look also is without a bedskirt, but with all the tucking in of sheets and blankets, this bed has a cleaner, finished look which does emphasizes the headboard and shows off the nailhead trim.

Green is a great color for a bedroom and this pattern fabric in not overwhelming. The look is more relaxed and natural with the paired duvet and quilt, and structured skirt for contrast. I am in love with the velvet accent pillows which I believe provides richness and a sense of depth. Don't you just love the persimmon with the green?

Be ready for Fall, while summer is upon us. Now is the time to consider selecting fabrics and have a local workroom upholster a headboard w/ nailhead trim.

A la prochaine,
Denise

Happy Mother's Day 2010-!!

2010-05-07T08:08:00.000-07:00

If my mother had one weakness in her life, it was hats. Mother passed after 10 children and 96 years later. A day doesn't go by that I don't think about her...........and remember her love for hats.

Happy Mother's Day to all Mothers...........present and past.

Love to all Mothers today,

Denise

Re-upholster Dining Chairs

2010-04-29T12:24:00.000-07:00

If you are thinking of re-upholstering dining chairs, now is the time to do it. Workrooms are slowing down and the wait isn't so long.

I believe in solid color fabrics for dining room chairs. If the right color is choosen, they will "pop" in the room and seem less complicated with your walls, paintings, rug, china, floral arrangements and food presentations. If it's a photo opt time, you will be delighted with the end result, with your guest, sitting on solid color fabric.

Remember for a fantastic "to the trade" pricing for your next project, email me.

A la prochaine,

Denise

Fabrics For Bedding

2010-04-05T10:56:00.000-07:00

Think lots of fabric if you want a stunning focal point to go with your bedding. Of course, the fabrics will be more affordable if you contact me.

A la prochaine,
Denise

Toile For Easter

2010-04-02T06:38:00.000-07:00

A la prochaine,
Denise

The Best In Friends Homes

2010-03-23T07:22:00.000-07:00

Fabrics in glorious textures from bright to faded colours, curtains meticulously swagged, fringed and tasselled, the most comfortable upholstery and expertly applied paint finishes, all set in timeless interiors and discreetly lit to show off beautiful furnishings and art/photography works. These are the hallmarks of what makes a home.

It's fascinating to hear my girlfriends talk about their current projects. All have styles and tastes different from each other and myself. All make it work in differnt types of rooms in a wide variety of locations, large and small, to townhomes to large in my area and other parts of the country.

Here are some examples of how fabric, furniture, paint and your own personal touch can add to a room.

I apologize for not being able to remember where I came across these rooms. I saw them and did a quick copy and paste. By the end of my time spent on the computer and many months later storing them in a program, I humble must confess........I forgot where they came from. '-'

A la prochaine,
Denise

Think Green On March 17th-!!

2010-03-14T10:18:00.000-07:00

The following greens are all...........So simple..............So mystical........So Ireland.

Happy St. Patrick's Day,

Denise

Pleated Drapery

2010-02-19T07:41:00.000-08:00

A drapery arrangement is often the most eye-catching aspect of a room - and the feature that gives the most scope for creativity.

Here is how a professional measurer determines yardage:

Specifications:
* 2.5 times fullness
* 3.00 times fullness for sheers
* 4.00 times fullness for non moving sheers
* 18" hems & headings
* Standard 3.5" overlap for traverse rod
* Standard 2" overlap for wood pole with rings
* Add 10% to finished width for drapery hanging from rings, for easing
* Specify pinch pleats, reverse pinch pleats, butterfly pleats, goblet pleats or cartridge pleats
* Goblets & cartridge pleats are only for standing panels

^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^

Number of Widths: Face width x 2.5 + returns + overlap / fabric width

Cut Length: 1. Finished length + hems / fabric repeat (round up)
2. Number of repeats x repeat = cut length
Yardage: Cut length x number of widths / 36
Sheer railroaded: Face width x 3 + returns + overlap / 36

The chief ingredient in any successful window composition is imagination. To some extent, there is a repertoire of basic forms - a vocabulary of design ideas from which professional designers tend to draw inspiration. Often, the most successful designs are those where a traditional idea is injected with a touch of originality - perhaps in the proportions, or in the detailing, or in the fabric choice.

The following are a few examples of how PLEATED DRAPERY are executed by different designers:

luxe / Chicago Edition / Winter 2010

Private collection

Private collection

Private collection

Private collection

luxe / Winter 2010 / Chicago edition

A la prochaine,
Denise

COSTCO'S SAD SOFA WINNER-!

2010-02-15T07:55:00.000-08:00

Costco knows how to have fun.

BACK IN JULY 2009, Costco held a really fun contest offer from their "The Costco Connection." It was so creative I posted this contest in July too. The contest could be any Costco customer who wanted to take a picture of their sad sofa and send it in. The winner would receive a $500 Cash Credit Card. How many of us have been down the road where we say, "Honey, I think we need a new sofa?" And the response is usually, "Not yet."

Congrats go out to Jared Sorensen, Wooddbury, Minnesota who won.............not a minute too soon-!

I was in my COSTCO Glenview, Il. store over the weekend, and I saw endless possibilities for young families to enjoy watching the Olympics on wonderful dark chocolate colour leather sofas & loveseat with contrast stitching and solid wood legs in a rich espresso finish. Also, what is nice, the 9 x 12 area rugs are now placed near by to help the buyers select and complete their project(s). Anyone on the way home with their new purchases, should consider picking up a can of paint. For sure, select a colour in the rug. Instant gratification for dad, mom and budding olympians-!

GO USA FOR THE GOLD-!!

A la prochaine,
Denise

Happy Valentine's Day-!

2010-02-12T07:52:00.001-08:00

A la prochaine,
Denise

Scalamandre Online Selling and Buying

2010-01-28T11:05:00.000-08:00

I get many a request for a Scalamandre quote on a fabric. At some point, when I have not heard back, I will follow up to see if my webclient is still interested. Not. The most common feedback is: "I bought from someone else below wholesale price."

Impossible.

These webclients have purchased from either eBay sellers or online "stores" that have warehouses. I am not a store, a warehouse, nor, am I selling you counterfeit fabrics. I buy only through our showroom accounts. It is the showrooms who send you cuttings and the fabrics. Never me.

Example: If it's a high end look you are seeking......because you have good taste............ you already will know how Scalamandre pillows are going to be complimenting the rest of your project compared to a flawed Calico Corners pillows.

Ask yourself this: Why would any seller purchase from Scalamandre at wholesale and sell it for less than wholesale? Where is the money in that?-!! The only explanation is: It is counterfeit textiles marketed under the Scalamandre label.

Counterfeit textiles is a big "knock off" market on the Internet today. Not only do you run the risk of not knowing the real nature of the fabric, but you could run into side effects too. The fabric may contain harmful dyes which may be allergenic or even carcinogenic. Some textiles require certain fire-retardant treatments whcih many not be utilized, or lesser quality treatments may be used. The general public may not be aware of the consequesces of purchasing and subsequently exposing themselves to these counterfeit textiles.

How savvy of a shopper are you? Are you seeking the various avenues online and "bricks and mortar" locations for Scalamandre?

"Unfortunately, these avenues aren't always honest. It doesn't matter if they are truly unaware, doing it on purpose, are naive or just don't care."

"eBay, as the biggest venue for selling, has a program called VeRO. This program allows for the protection of the owner of the property. This means the authentic owner, not the person selling the item. When an item is listed as being Scalamandre, the reporting tool they provides, lets Scalamandre immediately tell VeRO that there is something wrong with the listing. Normally, there are only tow reasons. One is that someone is selling an item that is a copy of one of Scalamandre products and the other is that they don't make the item at all. Scalamandre loves VeRO."

Of course, VeRO doesn't stop the Seller from selling to you. Have you been teased by the eBay name, "buyitbeforemyhusbandcomeshome" for a "must have" Scalamandre fabric? Best advise I can give is DELETE-!

The smart buyer will question any Scalamandre fabric being sold on eBay or online businesses who have their own warehouses filled with "purchased from the mills." Remember, it is you who has come to me. I have no inventory, so I have nothing to sell you until you ask. Then, I call my showroom account.

People....designers too........have begun to question Scalamandre lines being sold to them lately. Take the designers who have been walking into stores and making purchases of items marked as Scalamandre for their clients and later have gone into a Scalamandre showroom to try and purchase additional yardage. It is at this point, the designers find out they made a bad purchase.

My motto: You get what you paid for.

A la prochaine,
Denise
discountdesigerfabricsonline.com

SOS 4 Haiti

2010-01-15T08:02:00.000-08:00

Who can say it better than "Things That Inspire" so from her blog to you:

"Things That Inspire

Taking Action
Posted: 15 Jan 2010 05:36 AM PST
When a disaster such as the earthquake in Haiti occurs, it is of critical importance that those who can help take action.
Please consider making a donation to help the organizations that have mobilized to provide assistance to Haiti. Even a $10 donation would be incredibly helpful! As so many of the donations pouring in are made through credit card, American Express and Visa just announced that they will waive the fees on donations.

American Express will waive the fees through the end of February to these charitable funds established specifically to respond to the devastation in Haiti:
http://www.interaction.org/crisis-list/earthquake-haiti
Visa will also waive all fees related to donations to Haiti relief organizations.

This means that 100% of your contribution will go to the charitable funds.

InterAction is the largest coalition of US based international nongovernmental organizations that are focused on the world's poorest and most vulnerable people, and includes the American Red Cross, Oxfam, Unicef, the United Way, and Habitat for Humanity (as well as dozens of additional organizations)."

$10.00 donation from each reader will go a long way for Haiti.

A la prochaine,
Denise

Christopher Edwards Fabrics

2010-01-12T11:48:00.000-08:00

Hi, I can't believe we are already in the middle of January 2010-!

To start the year off, I was given a huge dosage of fabric education of a new kind. To begin with, I had a web-client last week who needed me to call her. I did and learned of an interesting new fabric, Christropher Edwards. ??????? The woman sounded highly intelligent and she was quite proud of the fact her new dining room windrow treatment would be hanging Christropher Edwards fabric, at the cost of "3 figures" per yard. WOW-! I was clueless who Christropher Edwards fabrics were and wondered what showroom carried this line at The Merchandise Mart, Chicago. After an extensive internet search for Christropher Edwards fabrics (and NO showroom carries it at "The Mart") I came across a blog, Bluemlein alerting his readers against this line. What an education Bluemlein gave me-!

First, let's understand one thing............Christropher Edwards fabrics are NOT "To-the-trade" for designers but apparently sold in Boca Bargoons stores which created this line. C Edwards has no " DNA of his own." Also, they have a website called Design Diva Fabrics and sell this "line" on it too. Thennnnnnnnn, there is the infamous eBay where honest people go and get stung many a times.

All in all, Bluemlein says this:

"Now, as to the "Christopher Edwards" brand: there is an interesting website that will tell you who owns which brand.

We took the "Christopher Edwards" name to this site, shook it and what do you think fell out:

http://www.findownersearch.com/brand/4113197/:

Brand Name Owner: WOLLSTEIN, CYNTHIA
Address: 17760 Fieldbrook Circle Boca Raton FLORIDA 33496
Description: Fabrics for the manufacture of clothing, upholstery, quilts and curtains

Brands Owned: CHRISTOPHER EDWARDS
TRIMENDLESS "

Soooooooooooooooooo, I ask you:
Why would anyone pay such high-end prices for fabric if it's not "To-the-trade" only?

If you covet a fabric from eBay, or any place on the Internet, do your homework. HOW? Google the line, then, do this: "Christopher Edwards fabrics + The Merchandise Mart." If no showroom pops up, then, delete the ebay seller..............fast.

I purchase for you through designer showrooms where only designers with accounts can go. Obviously, I have accounts. Never will I purchase from a mill. If you buy from those who buy through mills, then, you get what you paid for...........and, BEWARE of price.

The next education Bluemlein gave me will be my next post.

Thank you Bluemelein for posting Christopher Edwards and the education that went along with it.

A la prochaine,
Denise

5,4,3,2,1.............Happy New Year-!

2009-12-29T16:03:00.000-08:00

A Doll House Christmas

2009-12-24T05:32:00.000-08:00

Like all potential interior decorators, one needs to begin with a home. This "Mrs. Santa Claus" has been busy painting a dollhouse for one dreamy little girl. As I added ladybugs, turtles, frogs, fireflies, butterflies and ants, I, also, added one special effect. Glow paint.

The fun part is going to be, for one possibly future Interior Decorator, to begin picking out furniture, selecting wallpaper, making draperies, finding rugs and having the perfect family move in.

I am in love with this home and the many hours of creativity it will bring for my darling Olivia.

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.

Denise
Winnetka, Illinois

Face Lift.......Then and Now

2009-12-14T09:41:00.001-08:00

Hi Everyone, The lesson today is how to not throw any wood furniture out. If you are dismantling a home of your parents/grandparents/relatives or helping a friend, don't just "pitch" any old wood furniture. Even if you have no immediate use for it .........later you will thank me. Keep the wood items. As decor fashions change, there is "someone" with vision and can create a totally different look to a wood item. This post is proof................

My fabric arrived for my 1950-ish "A Decorator's Chair" and it's wonderful-! The fabric came last Monday and I took it to my workroom on Tuesday morn. At 5:45P Thursday night, the chair was delivered. Now how is that for "instant gratification?"

THEN:

This chair was in the entrance of my g.f. Nancy's mother home forever. Mahogany wood with gold velvet fabric. The cushion and back was of foam and it was hard as a rock. Like petrified. ICK.

What luck though, Nancy's mother was an meticulous caregiver of everything she owned. Nothing in her home was broken or cracked. And everything that had a key to it, the mother still had. A wonderful woman who knew how to maintain her possessions. So it was lucky for me that on the back of this wonderful little gem was still the name plate, "A decorator's chair." It is believed that good decorators gave this chair as a house gift upon completion of a project.

NOW:

I had my workroom paint it lacquer black, and then I went outside- the- box to make this chair noteworthy of popping. Nancy doesn't know yet, but when she comes for my Pheasant dinner party, she will have the honor of being assigned to this chair. I really can't wait for her reaction...........................

Kravet Couture : 28929 - 81 (Zebra)
Kravet: Ultra Suede - Lime

A la prochaine,
Denise

"A Decorator's Chair" Tag, 1950's?

2009-12-03T09:54:00.000-08:00

Hi Everyone, I have this charming and adorable accent chair given to me by a g.f.Nancy, out of her mother's home. Nancy can't recall never seeing this chair in her family home and her mother died at age 92. So I am guessing it is around 1950ish and given by Mrs. Riley's interior decorator, upon completion of a project. I have had this chair for about 5 years and never knowing what fabrics to do with it.

This week I began with earnest to look for fabric. Thanks to Karen from Alkemie, I stayed with her many of her suggestions. Mostly, all , but I failed her when my husband got into the picture on one suggestion. I won't be using vinyl. In my household, we did come to an amicable agreement though.

First thing today, I popped in on my upholstery workroom, and Ernie (80 years) had never seen the brass tag on the back of the chair in all of his years of doing upholstry since 1930. From Alkemie's first suggestion, I watched carefully as all the upholstery guys cringed when I asked Ernie if he wouldn't mine painting the chair a black lacquer. Why they cringed? The chair is mahogany. OUCH-! Well, I couldn't disappoint Alkemie or myself. So, yes, they are going to paint the chair. And, no, I am not going to tell my husband what the wood truly is. '-'

Next, I am doing something Alkemie didn't suggest......................I HATE tufts........so they will go. Although I do want buttons going around the bottom like they do right now. And, I will keep the original shape of the seat. Then, in the back, I will do one large button, because Ernie will be padded the back more. Thanks to another one of Alkemie's suggestions, I will be doing silver nailheads.

I will post photos when chair is completed. But, for the moment, you will have to guess what fabrics I would dare to do "outside the box".

I figure, I won't be having this chair in my house for long, once my soon-to-be 12 year old granddaughter, Victoria, eye's it. The fabric and colors are her thing.

Photos my Moi, Denise, in a spare bedroom.

A la prochaine,
Denise
discountdesignerfabrics.blogspot.com

"Home Cooking" THE COSTCO WAY #8

2009-11-30T08:38:00.000-08:00

Hi, I look forward to "Black Friday" for one reason only. After finding a parking spot, I only hope there is 1 much anticipated Costco cookbook showcasing their products still available for me........... "Home Cooking" THE COSTCO WAY. I was not disappointed. This beautiful gift from Costco, printed for 8 years with new recipes, is a fabulous Costco Way of saying "thank you" to me and all of their members for shopping Costco all year long. AND, this household sure did visit Costco too-!!

Yes, from the clear and tantalizing photos by Iridio Photography, to recipes from famous members such as Semi-homemade Sandra Lee, founder of America's Test Kitchen Christropher Kimball, to, Down Home with The Neeleys (Gina and Pat)............and so many more.

This is where Costco's cookbook comes in very handy for me. My husband likes to pheasant hunt in November. Tis the season to entertain during the holidays and I like to have a Game Dinner with the hunters and their wives. As I will be doing Pheasant with a scrumptious wild rice and a sophisticated turnip souffle, my other guests are given an assignment to bring something too. Costco makes it so easy.........each girlfriend is emailed a photo with the recipe. Since it is pheasant, fruit is so simple and such an available product at Costco.

This year Cricket (Christine) will be asked to bring the appetizer:

Nancy has already volunteered to make the salad. She buys her shrimp already from Costco and her confidence level is very high when she praises Costco for this demanding product:

Sandy is a very busy "Madame President" of her village so I will have her contribute the glazed carrots that go wonderfully with pheasant every time:

Finally, Patty. She has a house full of hungry teens all the time so she will have to make extras for them.........but I know how much fun she will have making this dessert for a Grand Finale.

One last thing I will put in my basket, before checking out at Costco, the day of my party. Flowers.

I promise to post photos once the party is over...............

Bon Appetit,
Denise

The Perfect Turkey

2009-11-22T10:22:00.000-08:00

Happy Thanksgiving. A toast to your health, happiness and prosperity...........up, up Dow Jones.

A la prochaine,
Denise

SundayFunnies: St. Eunice Kennedy Schriver?

2009-11-08T07:24:00.000-08:00

In watching the "McLaughlin Group" last night, McLaughlin prophesied: "I predict in one year, Eunice Schriver will be canonized a saint by the Pope."

Startling forecast.

Now, I know she did a wonderful thing by creating "Special Olympics".........but, does that make her a Saint?

Interior Designer Michael S. Smith and To-The-Trade Fabrics

2009-11-05T11:09:00.000-08:00

Hi Everyone,

Michael Smith is one fantastique California interior designer. This household name first surfaced when First Lady, Michele Obama, hired him for their private living quarters in the White House. A talented designer who knows what looks best with decor. To-the-trade fabrics. The likes of Cowtan & Tout, Brunschwig & Fils, Designer Guild, Colfax & Fowler, Scalamandre, Summer Hill and all the other fine, fine vendors he taps into to make any abode a home.

As I work with clients in person or through my website, everyone knows one thing: Pricing is fabulous. Discounts on all my account vendors. Reason you contacted me in the first place, my word, "Discount." Now, if anyone were to call Michael Smith........well, forget any discounts. Yes, who would dare to bargin with Michael Smith? Therefore, if you have high-end taste, seek the best, know quality over quantity, then, be contented I saved you from 75 - 80% off "to-the-trade" fabrics. I really don't mind you want to save more money, but no vendor is going to lower their prices. And, I have to eat too.

I love designer fabrics and want to share them with you too. I want you to have the right look for your project(s). Why buy from a local discount outlet that sells inferior fabric from a mill when I am here for you with quality? The only reason a mill will sell to Calico Corners is because they are flawed. Sure they are marked "1st Quality" and "2nd Quality" but not by the mill. This is a gimmick sale pitch. Yes, it works too. But, not to your friends who know. By the 3rd year installed in your home, your "1st Quality" fabric begins to look "tired." Your friend who went through us, her installation will look good 15 years later. You see, "you-get-what-you-pay-for" everytime.

Take a look at a few of Michael Smith's interior work and tell me which fabric won't last for years and years? They all will.

I would put this Michael Smith design book on my holiday list:

A la prochaine,
Denise
discountdesignerfabricsonline.com
mydeared.wordpress.com

Happy Halloween-!!

2009-10-26T12:32:00.000-07:00

Hi Girlfriends, Isn't this great carving? Have fun. Be safe.

Talk to you after Hallowen Night................

A la prochaine,
Denise

"Irving Penn: A Visionary in Black and White"

2009-10-20T12:08:00.000-07:00

Working his camera and artistic vision up until the very end of his amazing career spanning over decades of photography, Irving Penn died yesterday at age 92. He began his career as an assistent art director for Vogue magazine and eventually becam the world renowned master of of the black and white photography.

His mesmerizing portraits from trash, to food to people and, most recently, pottery, will surely be remembered most. Looking over the following you will note one thing: Irving Penn will be extremely missed-!

Photos and story line from Kate Smith's blog

A la prochaine,
Denise
discountdesignerfabricsonline.com
mydeared.wordpress.com

HUNTER DOUGLAS QUALIFIES FOR FEDERAL TAX CREDIT-!!

2009-10-13T13:49:00.000-07:00

Hi Girlfriends,

Hunter Douglas is extremely pleased to announce that certain Duette Architella honeycomb shades may qualify for a Federal Tax Credit of up to $15000 for energy efficient products as part of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009-!

This federal offer is good from January 1, 2009 thru December 31, 2010. For additional information on qualifying products and restritions, visit hunterdouglas.com/tax credit or contact discountdesignerfabricsonline.com.

Hunter Douglas will be generating exposure and excitement about this new opportunity, by launching a comprehensive communication program which will include:

+ TV commericials airing beginnng on October 12
+ Magazine in November and December issues of selected National consumer magazines

Duette Architella is already a best seller, thanks to its superior energy efficiency, design and striking good looks. With it 180 color and design choices, it's the perfect product to enhance the beauty of any room. the addition of the federal tax credit opportunity introduces another great reason for more comsumers to buy.

Please contact this Hunter Douglas dealer if you should have any questions

A la prochaine,
Denise
discountdesignerfabricsonline.com
mydeared.wordpress.com

SUNDAY FUNNIES: Hermes Fashion Show, Paris, 2009

2009-10-11T05:33:00.000-07:00

HI GIRLFRIENDS

C'est grace and elegance classique for tennis amour 40 today?
Photo "borrowed" from "Do It In Paris"

A la prochaine,
Denise
discountdesignerfabricsonline.com
mydeared.wordpress.com

Do It In Paris.com

2009-10-08T13:56:00.001-07:00

HI GIRLFRIENDS,

I love spending quality time studying other fashion blogs and here is one I look so forward to each visit: Do It In Paris. I find myself spending over an hour each time, just studying all her own adorable drawings (like at the left) and all what she has to say about "elegant fashion style of the Parisian woman." First, it is her own sketches............notice how she does a whimsical drawing of a model (her?) wearing the lastest Parisan trends, then the rest of the details of the fashions, reminds me of my own paperdoll cut-out days. But, don't stop here......by a simple click, I am shopping at the best Parisian boutiques for shoes, spas, romantic (and $$$) hotels, bistros, "hot" pasteries for macarons, night bars, interviews with equally talented women, and before I know it, I find myself reading a recipe for whipping up a batch of Chocolate Kisses cookies. Believe me, this is one blog you will want to visit over and over.

I love these two ads which appear on Do It In Paris showing off pink to sell their product. Isn't it all exceptionally creative...........and captivating?

Miss Dior. This is one entertaining "Pop - up" book Ad you won't want to miss. You might think ads couldn't get any better than this.................but, it will, because it is Paris-!!

A la prochaine,
Denise
discountdesignerfabricsonline.com
mydeared.wordpress.com

THINK PINK RIBBON FOR OCTOBER 2009

2009-10-01T10:27:00.000-07:00

HI GIRLFRIENDS,

In support of all of our sisters, tell ME why you should win this Estee Lauder Pink Ribbon Compact 2004. I have purchased this lovely compact so many times, IN THE PAST OCTOBERS, for my sisters who have fought and won their battle. Now, it is your turn to become a winner too-!! The winner will be posted on November 1, 2009. In the meantime, wear lots of PINK, PINK, PINK all through OCTOBER.

A la prochaine,
Denise Snakard
discountdesignerfabricsonline.com
mydeared.wordpress.com

Sunday Funnies: ELLE DECO International Design Awards

2009-09-27T07:51:00.000-07:00

Hi Girlfriends,

For this Sunday Funnies........... Milan 2008

GWEN: What is it???

HINT: It will make you "appreciate how some of the simplest furniture pieces can be re-interpreted in any number of ways."

DENISE: Did anyONE guess???

GWEN: A chair-!!

The Designer of the Year, Tokujin Yoshioka, has applied fabric squares to appear like petals, to allow the chair's user (that's us) to feel embraced, evoking a similar feeling to that of receiving a bouquet of flowers.

The "petals" of the chair are designed to return to their original form once a person stands up. Yoshioka explains that "the new chair Bouquet uplifts the sitter as well as a flowr bouquet does it to the receiver. The vibrant colors would evoke one's remembrance."

Remembrance, indeed-! This bouquet will be hard to forget.........especially on Valentine's Day.

A la prochaine,
Denise et Gwen

www.inhabitat.com

Sunday Funnies

2009-09-20T07:12:00.000-07:00

Maison21 is my favorite blog for the real take on "What's-selling-in-California" ............. 3 years later, what has happened in CA. "then" makes it's way to the midwest "later." Chicago's moi tramping grounds-! So I do always pay close attention to what Maison21 posts, where it's unique or just picking up on his wild fantastic spelling of words or his creative style of phrasing an item. I just love him. As for his shopping excursions, I know he gets to have all the fun seeking out the best of new places in his neighborhood.....and I do envy him for this too. He also has a great sense of humor........Like, look what he found at hd buttercup? 3 by 4 foot raffia chandeliers that come in 2 colors for a mere $850.00 each. Only, if this item makes it to Chicago's NorthShore, I see this Sunday Funnies hanging in a huge broom closet in 3 years.

Do visit Maison21 and enjoy his blogging. He's a great insight for what is to come.

A la prochaine,
Denise
discountdesignerfabricsonline.com
mydeared.wordpress.com

REupholstering Grandma's Chair

2009-09-14T08:29:00.000-07:00

Hi Girlfriends, DON'T THROW OUT GRANDMA'S 'FAVORITE' CHAIR just because the fabric looks tattered or the cushion has 'collasped' in size or the varnish has worn thin where your beloved Grandma placed her hands thousands of times. Your chair is a jewel keeper and can be made to pop in a room. TODAY, any upholster CAN make it all look current by adding a new updated stain to the wood (try going the Barbara Berry Java stain or a black lacquer), tightening the springs, new stuffing and puffing up the "too thin" look and ask for more fullness or height (Yes, an upholster can make a back of a chair "grow" too). THEN, have some fun and make this item come alive with fabulous "to the trade" fabrics. Don't forget, to contact us for an affordable price on most "to the trade" designer fabrics.

Here are 9 good reasons why you will want your Grandmother's chair:

I love this chair with this fabric on it. The stain is great too. Then, the chest with the 'hint' of purple and a red lacquer top is wonderful too-!

This marvelous fabric makes this chair pop in any room. I love the subtle pink painted furniture to make it all happen.

The French sure know how to address classique looks with style, dont' they?

C'est this chair perfect for any man's library?

Are you taking in the colors surrounding the furniture? Color walls do play an important part in any setting too.

Q: What pops in this photo? This is why you don't discard Grandma's chair. Subdued colors then PINK-! Love how only the chair and the rug "talk" and one still gets a restful night.

TIP: Your upholster CAN add fabric to the back of any wood exposed dinning chair. AND, by adding a coat of black lacquer to the legs with the final detail being a scrumptious solid fabric you are ready for a romantic dinner for two.

A mellow velvet works too...............and it is still will add to memories in any room choosen for it.

C'est the wood accents just marvelous in this photo?

If you love French style furniture, allow moi, Denise, to suggest a talented designer, Joni, and her blog, Cote De Texas, for ideas and suggestion.

All items are from Roche Bobois out of Paris.

A la prochaine,
Denise
discountdesignerfabricsonline.com
mydeared.wordpress.com

Reupholstering A Chair

2009-09-13T08:23:00.001-07:00

Hi Girlfriends,

Q: Where would you put this pair of chairs in your house?

A: Curb Appeal.

A la prochaine,
Denise
discountdesignerfabricsonline.com
mydeared.wordpress.com

TRIBUTE IN LIGHT

2009-09-11T06:03:00.000-07:00

"Look-! The lights are on-!!!!"

I THANK YOU ,Paris Breakfasts, for this posting today.
In her own words:
"It's become a tradition in New York for 2 days to shine these 2 beautiful It's It’s become a tradition in New York for 2 days to shine these 2 beautiful beams of light to honor those who died on September 11. The "Tribute in Light" is made up of 88 lights and takes a full month to install my friend told me. It was created in 2002 by artists Julian LaVerdiere and Paul Myoda, architects John Bennett and Gustavo Bonevardi of PROUN Space Studio, architect Richard Nash Gould, and lighting designer Paul Marantz and produced by the Municipal Art Society and Creative Time. The lights go on at sunset and then will fade away at dawn on September 12.
If you click on the pictures or on this link you can experience a 360 degree view of these lights. It seemed like the best way I could post today was to share this tribute with you.

If you go to http://360vr.com/light5/ it is awesome.

A la prochaine,
Denise
discountdesignerfabricsonline.com
mydeared.wordpress.com

Designer Guild Fabrics Fall 2009 Collection

2009-09-08T13:49:00.001-07:00

Hi Girlfriends,

Are you thrilled to be hearing the sound of the yellow school bus going by your house? With all the changes that come with Fall, one is you seriously taking a concentrated look over the projects you are going to achieve before the holidays are upon you.

I thought it would be fun to look over the beautiful new Autumn collections of fabrics and wallcoverings from Designer Guild. Designer Guild fabrics are sold by my website The fabrics stimulates the mind and scenses of feel and touch. This new collection is taken from the influences from the 18th century classical architectural motifs, French 19th centruey wallpapers and the renouwned Vienna Werkstatte school: printed cottons, linens and silks reflect these influences and designs range from "sophisticated architectural patterns and flowing arabesques, coupled with beautifully rendered floral motifs. Stunning jacquard and embroidered silks and satins, gorgeous new velvets and luxurious wools, as well as sophisticated wide width voiles are completed by great new 'Essentials' plains and rtexutres, a comprehensive range of FR fabrics and two great ranges of wallcoverings."

Study closely the different fabrics for pillows. I love the fact they don't match the sofa fabric at all. Therefore, if you are one who has your sofa pillows matching your sofa fabric you now know what to do. Pick them up and run to the garage can with them. Note the colours this season are stronger.

Keeping with the "G" organic times, neutrals are offset by masculine shades of charcoal, indigo, and cocoa, highlighted with luminous tones of chartreuse, ocean and berry with gold and silver accents.

Isn't it remarkable how all these fabrics work together and the look is total sophistication.........the European way.

A la prochaine,
Denise
discountdesignerfabricsonline.com
mydeared.wordpress.com

Sunday Funnies

2009-09-06T07:39:00.000-07:00

Speechless.

Enjoy this passage of summer, Labor Day weekend, and a la prochaine,
Denise et Gwen
discountdesigenerfabricsonline.com
mydeared.wordpress.com

Flagler Carriage House FOR SALE

2009-09-03T09:14:00.000-07:00

Hi Girlfriends, Gwen and I love peeking into beautiful houses. Don't you? Today is a real treat for Gwen......and down Memory Lane, for we are going to 'tour' Gwen's, once upon a time, relatives property that is For Sale in Palm Beach, Florida, the Flagler Carriage House. Gwen is related to the famous railroad magnate family, Henry Morrison Flagler, and has visited this Beaux Arts estate since childhood. Today, Gwen is used by the family to decorate their own homes, including Scottsdale.

The opulence and luxury of America's Gilded Age carried itself over into the building of Flagler's carriage house too. This carriage house was purchased and renovated for a wonderful retreat by some lucky owner. I love the preservation done to the outside with the warm tropical sun and dazzling aquablue ocean beckoning us inside.

What a wonderful spot to curl up and read a good book-!

A la prochaine,
Denise et Gwen
discountdesignerfabricsonline.com
mydeared.wordpress.com

Sen.and Mrs. Ted Kennedy, 1999

2009-09-01T12:38:00.000-07:00

Hi Girlfriends, Architectural Digest featured Sen. and Mrs. Ted Kennedy in their Georgetown home in 1999. The decor is timeless. Interior Designer, Josepha B. Faley said of this Washington, D.C, residence for Sen Kennedy and his wife, Victoria, " “My goal was to adapt a formal city house to comfortable family life for a private yet very public couple.”

Fabrics and trims used were Nobilis, Cowtan & Tout, Scalamandre, Brunschwig & Fils, Donghia, Beacon Hill, Lee Jofa, J. Robert Scott fringes, and Houles trims. Ooooh how we wished we could have sold these "to the trade" designer fabrics to them on discountdesignerfabricsonline.com.

I love this floral arrangement of roses and twigs. The painting on the wall was painted by Sen. Kennedy.

This is the backyard and the porch stretches the entire length of the house.

A la prochaine,
Denise et Gwen
discountdesignerfabricsonline.com
mydeared.wordpress.com

Sunday Funnies

2009-08-30T06:47:00.001-07:00

Hi Girlfriends, We cannot imagine how long it must have taken to paint this chair............and we still do not know where you would put it.

Gwen: To the curb?

A la prochaine,
Denise et Gwen

The Power of Color

2009-08-24T18:47:00.000-07:00

Hi Girlfriends, I have been reading a fabulous blog by blogger Maria Killam, Colour me Happy, all summer and I am in love with her. Maria is a Colour Consultant as well as an Interior Designer out of Canada. She has inspired me to look at beige in a whole different way. Even in fabrics-!!! You MUST visit her blog and learn about the 3 shades of beige from her. She describes beige so well and with photos that it would be difficult to duplicate what she says so well. One thing is very clear what she says, "Hire" a professional to assist you in selecting colour for your walls. The power of colour can transform a room. Take it a step further and finish it off with a decorative design can add a whole new dimension to a room.

Isn't this a stunning bedroom? The focal point is the bed and it is the heart of the room. I love everything about it. Even the price is right................DIY. A crisp graphic wall treatment is simplicity itself. Look how the wall is painted black then two white lines are added for the headboard. This is where white bedding with just the right touches of black accent give this room an "architectual" interest where there was none.

Photo taken from Paint Style by Benjamin Moore Paints.
Wall Color: Black 2132 - 10
Stripes: White

Talk again,
Denise

Sunday Funnies

2009-08-23T06:12:00.000-07:00

Hi Girlfriends, This camper had to have been "Beam me down, Scotty" for this photo shoot............

YOU'RE INVITED: Join me in my new blog, "mydeared.wordpress.com," and read the letters and postal cards written in 1910 by Mary "Minnie" Whalen (my grandmother) from her bed as she was recovering from tuberculosis.

A la prochaine,
Denise

COSTCO'S SAD SOFA CONTEST

2009-08-21T07:41:00.000-07:00

Hi Girlfriends, What a clever idea Costco has created to rid you of your trashed sofa-!! I love Costco's The Connection magazine they send to every member. Something for everyone.......like this Sad Sofa Contest they are now promoting. Do you think you have a sofa that is worst than this photo? If you do, submit it and win the Costco Sad Sofa Contest? Get your digital out, photo it (be creative too.......like tuck little Meow somewhere and have her peeking out). But hurry, this contest is over September 1, 2009. Send it to Costco. Here is all you have to do:

Send your photo to : connection@costco.com (with "sad sofa" in the subject line)

Or

Mail photo to: Sad Sofa Contest, PO Box 34088, Seattle, WA 98124 - 1088

Please include your contact information (moi) and membership number.

First prize winner will receive a $500 Costco Cash card. Other prizes will be awarded at judges' discretion. Photos of the saddest sofas will run in a future issue of Costco's The Connection.
Let me know if you win too-!!

Let me know if you win too-!!!

Denise

Brunschwig & Fils Glamorous Fabrics

2009-08-18T10:15:00.000-07:00

Hi Girlfriends, If you venture over to Brunschwig & Fils website you will find just what we have been posting of late. Glamorous gowns made from "to the trade" designer fabrics. We are merely expressing how stunning these fabrics have been executed in the Golden Era of Hollywood and, yet, they many of these fabrics can look incredible on you or your windows, upholstery and bedding. But, first, one begins the concept of design on paper, selection of fabrics, workrooms and, finally, installation. Magnifique-!! Elegance-!!

These Brunschwig and Fils gowns were part of a traveling exhibition (2007) designed by 8 award - winning costume designers using Brunschwig and Fils luxurious fabrics. The gowns traveled a multi city and European tour before ending up in New York where they were auctioned off to benefit The Actors Fund.

If you know which Brunschwig and Fils fabrics you want, please visit our website to obtain them at our prices.

A la prochaine,
Denise et Gwen

Sunday Funnies

2009-08-16T06:58:00.001-07:00

Hi Girlfriends, If you look long enough, we think you will find a kitchen in this photo.

GWEN: IF I ever had to make anything in this kitchen, everything but 'the kitchen sink' would land in it by mistake.

DENISE: Eh, me too.................only, it might be li'l kitty I would be looking for later.

GWEN ET DENISE: A TOTAL MESS-!

photo from housetohome.uk

A la prochaine,
Denise et Gwen

TO-THE-TRADE FABRICS FOR TRAVIS BANTON LEADING LADIES

2009-08-11T11:27:00.000-07:00

Fabrics is about a lot of things: style, beauty, durability, compatibility with your decor and, of course, your individual taste. Every designer leaves their "trademark" and like Dorothy Drapper, Elsie de Wolfe, and Edith Wharton, and, in turn, the "To-the-trade" fabrics they selected for upholstery to window treatments became timeless. Our subject, Travis Banton, wasn't into decorating homes, but, aesthetically, had few rivals for what he did do with designer fabrics. He produced what all decorators seek to achieve in remarkable cut, exquisite fabrics and understated elegance. Banton decorated the figures from The Ziegfeld Follies to leading ladies in Hollywood; Paramount, Universal and Fox. His purchases included fabrics and accessories. At Hermes he ordered dozens of pairs of exquisite kid gloves and handbags, at fabric houses he bought lames, silks chiffons, velvets, silk crepes, sheer wool crepes and tweeds of all kinds. To highlight the intricate shapes of his designs, Banton usually chose fabrics of medium tones
Marlene Dietrich, flanked by Herbert Marshall(RT) and Melvyn Douglas(LT), is wearing a Faberge-inspired creation d Paramount 1937 "Angel>" The stole of the same beaded chiffon edged with thick bands of Russian sable added the final touch of luxe to this superb and costly garment.

Sketch by Travis Banton for Marlene Dietrich.

Marlene Dietrich in "The Devil is a Woman" Paramount, 1935.

Among Banton's trademarks: polka dots. 1936 gown worn by Frances Drake (He also used men's clothes for women......especially Dietrich).

A design for Claudette Colbert in The Gilded Lily, 1935.

Finally, from this sensational and extraordinary fashion designer, here is a "peek" into Travis Banton's French drawing room which the likes of Cote de Texas would love to put these items in your home.........and in exquisite taste too-!

The drawing room of Travis Banton's Hollywood home reflected his personality and preferences for rare antiques, exquisite lamps and paintings. As it was photographed in black and white, we have to suspect the walls are either black or very very dark grey.....and glossy. The French trips did pay off in fabrics and accessories for us movie goers, but so did he profit from the wonder French furniture, sconces, chandeliers, window treatment (very understated) and paintings.

A la prochaine,
Denise et Gwen

Credits:
"In a Glamous Fashion" by W. Robert Lavine
Special Assistant and Photo Consultant, Allen Florio.

Sunday Funnies

2009-08-09T07:54:00.000-07:00

What little girl wouldn't love celebrating Barbie's 50th Birthday in her magnifique Dream House?!!

A la prochaine,

Denise et Gwen

Drapery for Marlene Dietrich

2009-08-05T07:33:00.000-07:00

Bonjour mes amis,

Like any window treatment, a costume designing concept first begins on paper, then selection of fabric, then workroom and finally execution. The designer is involved in every step of the way. The end result being a happy client. Today, renting "Desire", we can "see" and appreciate all the effort that went into creating the "drapery" for Marlene Dietrich.

The development of costume design departments in the Hollywood studios was the result of two major factors: There were few fashion sources to draw on in Calilfornia, and special costumes were needed for the epics, period stories, musicals, and Westerns that became staples of the industry. Interior Designers of that time were just as limited. Three Interior Designers come to mind whom we are forever grateful; Edith Wharton, Elsie de Wolfe and Dorothy Drapper. And rightly so, for they are still the arbiters of taste and correct usage in the making of domestic interior rooms of the first rank. Did you know that Elsie de Wolfe was the first to woman to use a business card and invented the term "Interior Designer" under her name?

Travis Banton designed for Paramount beginning in 1925, "The Dressmaker from Paris." He creations were understated and deceptively simple designs elevated motion pictures costumes to the status of high fashion. He had a great sense of exquistie balance in a garment perfectly captured the new sophistication that arrived with the thirties. A Banton gown, with a softness and sultriness that followed a woman's body, was Hollywood design at its most sublime.
Banton's sketch for the gown from "Desire" is itself an expression of the serene, sensuous classicism that dominated fashion llustration during the 1930's.

Marlene Dietrich, here gowned superbly by Travis Banton for Paramount's 1935 "Desire". Swathed, draped, enveloped in chiffon that flowed about her like the rippling waters about a fashion goddess, Dietrich captured the imagination and heart of audiences with an allure that has never been equaled.

Like the drapery for Marlene Dietrich, window treatments adds a new sense of fashion and beauty to a room. They also give full credit to your taste and thanks to your interior designer.

Credits: "IN A GLAMOUS FASHION" BY ROBERT LAVINE and Special Assistant and Photo Consultant, ALLEN FLORIO

A la prochaine,
Denise et Gwen

Soft Window Treatment

2009-08-03T10:46:00.000-07:00

Hi Girlfriends, The role of fabric at the window has long been an important feature of interior design and decoration. The term "soft window treatments" includes draperies, curtains, shades and top treatments.......all of which are made of fabric.

Denise: Choices are broad and diverse because of the unlimited spectrum of fabrics.
Gwen: A plus tard, one can find decorative functional fabric in an overwhelming array of colors, patterns, texture, weights, and constructions.
Denise: After all is said and done, c'est a one-of-a-kind treatment that is not only right but pleasing to the homeowner.

Gwen: I want to say something about clothes too. Like when I think of velvet, I think of the movie, Gone With The Wind.
Denise: Gwen, I swear, you always go for glamorous and romantic Hollywood.
Gwen: That's because everything was larger than life in the beginning. Diamonds were bigger, the furs were thicker and more. The silks, velvets, satins and chiffons spoke to one-!
Denise: And miles of ostrich feathers.
Gwen: I loved it all "back when" movies were exaggeration of history, fiction and the whole wide extraordinary world.
Denise: Yea, you're right...........remember how the basic was perfect designing and incredible workmanship.........the cut of decolletage, the embroidery, the mounting of a skirt, and miles and miles of bugle beads?
Gwen. (sigh!) If you think about it, costumes made back then (20's, 30's, 40's & 50's) are not much different today for window treatments when it comes to designing, measuring, selecting fabrics, workmanship and the final execution.
Denise: So right. The eye travels, the mind travels, in a maze of perfection and imagination.

Coucou, since it is still summer et window treatments n'est-ce pas on many minds, but, to get into a hint of interior design mood, Gwen et I thought our girlfriends would enjoy some of Scarlet's wardrobe. They were masterpieces of sensitive design that underlined her complex character with subtlety and originality. Her wardrobe designer was Walter Plunkett and his re-creation of the period remains an almost perfect example of motion picture period costuming.

Walter Plunkett's costumes for Vivien Leigh as Scarlett in Gone With The Wind perfectly mirrored the changes in the character. We first see her as an innocent and obviously well protected Southern belle, all frills and lightness.

Plunkett famed, "curtain dress" remains a masterpiece of ingenuity and Plunkett's best-remembered costume. Made from the dining room portieres by Scarlett's mammy.I love the short cape and the sash contrived from the curtain's cord and tassels added a touch of dash that suited the spunky Scarlett.

The irresistible Scarlett on a shopping spree after her marriage to Rhett Butler as we find her indulging herself in countless gowns and fancy hats. This charming dress, with its bodice and apron front of heavy striped satin, butterfly sleeves edged with pleated organdy, and underskirt of faille banded with a pleated ruffle of the stripe, is pure delight. The outfit is said to have cost $4,000.

Scarlet in Walter Plunkett's garnet-red velvet gown, trimmed with ostrich feathers and paste rubies, one of the most beautiful costumes in Gone With The Wind. At the star's insistence Plunkett gave her a tulle stole to dispel her fear that the dress made her look too "tarty."

Denise: Gwen, these black and white photos shout of colour. The fabrics are timeless.
Gwen: As is "Gone With The Wind."

A la prochaine,
Denise et Gwen
discountdesignerfabricsonline.com

Sunday Funnies

2009-08-02T05:20:00.001-07:00

Salut mes ames, Gwen and I are having our doubts this polar bear belongs in the Mid-west.
Gwen: Let's remember this bookcase if Sarah Palin calls us to for design work.
Denise: I was thinking of AZ........if that state hasn't melted away by now.

Girlfriends, "What do you think?"

A la prochaine,
Denise et Gwen

Calvin Klein Fabrics 4 Kravet

2009-07-28T10:07:00.000-07:00

Hi Girlfriends, Yesterday I was in the Kravet showroom and took the opportunity to look over the Calvin Klein Home collection and his 4 new fabric books. The fabrics range from solids, luxurious textures, silks, waxed linens, embroidered linens, velvets, silk/mohair and the yummy cashmere. Magnifique-!

THE COLORS are le classique Calvin Klein.............sophistique hues of Tusk, Bark, Pyrite and Artic tones. The results of any of these fabrics are quite astonishing and "all easy to live with colours."

These books got me to thinking how NOW is the time to begin working on the INSIDE of our houses again. Remember the project that never got off the ground......again? Summer is a great time to revisit those dog-ear interior design mags and jot down the names of the fabrics before contacting "discountdesignerfabricsonline.com".

EYE CANDY from Calvin Klein / Kravet:

VANUATO - DRIZZLE

FORUM - BISQUE

DAPPER - PORCINI et SENTO - POND

SHIBORI - ANTIQUE et DEBUT - PEARL

Remember to remember...........all the fabrics are available through discountdesignerfabricsonline.com

C'est exquis-!!!

A la prochaine,
Denise et Gwen

Sunday Funnies/JK Wedding Dance Entrance

2009-07-26T07:31:00.000-07:00

Hi Girlfriends, Please visit our sidebar under "Sunday Funnies." and click "JK Wedding Dance Entrance." It will make you first smile, then, you will be laughing outloud by the time the bride makes her grand entrance.

We do apologize for not knowing how to post this video any other way. For sure, Gwen and I will have to split a bottle of wine and read our "UTube for Dummies" real soon.

A la prochaine,
Denise et Gwen

Playlist

2009-07-21T08:18:00.000-07:00

Hi Girlfriends, Today, we are introducing music from selection by Playlist.com.......only we are sooooooooo new at this level, we are just experimenting. WE have been noticing a few of our favorite blogs are playing wonderfulllllllllll music, that even us Grannies are loving. It is so very stimulating to learn new "tricks" from so many creative authors of blogs: "All Things Bright and Beautiful," The Paris Apartment," and so many more.

Si "For Starters..." is just the beginning of learning a whole new dimension of this tres confusing network of techy. C'est, we ARE the Susan Boyles of this world, so bear in mind, when you read, "Killer Angel" by Randy Edelman, it is for his "Gettysburg" music only. Of course, once Susan Boyle cuts a CD, we will be all over it-!

"Gettysburg" plays in our home, my husband's office and our Ranger Rover (yaaaa, still young enough to enjoy these wheels). One time, as we pulled up for valet parking at The Greenbrier Resort and we had "Gettysburg" playing. By the time we left our stay, The Greenbrier was playing OUR music-!! Not saying we created the 'mood', but maybe they dug it out from their collections, because it was most fitting they would be playing this music.

A la prochaine,
Denise et Gwen

Sunday Funnies

2009-07-19T04:06:00.000-07:00

Salut Girlfriends-! Gwen and I have been pouring over furniture pieces to post one that we think is hilarious for our Sunday Funnies "Edition." We would have liked for it to have had a designer fabric on it, but going green is household word today. Eco green is passing us by and we find our "chair" today will be a difficult one for those who are trying to stay the course. For one thing, who wants to invite the gardners in to mow your furniture?-!!

Denise: Gwen, Should we tell our girlfriends we are GRANDmothers?

Gwen: I think you just did.

Denise: O yeah, I think I did too.

Gwen: Anyway.......I loved the Sunday Funnies while growing up in the 50's: My favorites being: Blondie, Dick Tracy, Little Lulu & Tubby, Richie, and at some point, Peanuts. Sunday also included church and family brunch afterwards. That meant I got to keep my Sunday shoes on until after brunch too-!

Denise: I remember after church we would drive by a corner where a newsstand was set up on Sundays only and we would buy The Chicago Tribune for 25 cents. By the time we reached home, we kids (one of nine) were fighting over who was going to get to read the Sunday Funnies first. My favorite was Brenda Starr with her mystery man and the exotic Black Orchid he would send her. Oooooh so romanitque.

Denise et Gwen: (sigh-!)

Mes amies, Denise goes everywhere with her Leica Lux-3. She took the following 2 pictures two summers ago. I think they might have been the inspiration for the last designed "chair."

Winnetka, Illinois 2007

Gwen: This last picture I can tell you, I will not be using it for decoratoring any client's room.

Denise: Don't you think this "chair" might give you chigger bites.....like you got as a kid from rolling in the grass during summer nights?

Gwen: N'est it meant for future 911 calls to take me out feet first?

A la prochaine,
Denise et Gwen

Summer Paint Projects?

2009-07-15T07:47:00.000-07:00

Hi Girlfriends, C'est summertime to make over a few rooms with color on the walls. Prepping is the most laborious, but painting becomes a breeze for a final look. C'est magnifique-!

Once the room is completed, you might decide new fabrics are much needed for window treatments and Aunt Edna's chair-!! Begin pouring through the latest fashion mags and interior designer books (at your local book stalls) for inspirations. Be sure and write all the fabrics you have fallen in love with (located in the Source area) and remember to visit our website for GREAT, GREAT, GREAT pricing.

A la prochaine,
Denise et Gwen

Sunday Funnies

2009-07-12T07:38:00.000-07:00

Hi Girlfriends, One request many clients have is, "I want to sit in it first before I buy."

GWEN: How should I tell my clients to sit in this chair?
Denise: Uh, you don't.

Talk again,
Denise & Gwen

2009 Kips Bay Decorator Show House

2009-07-07T08:34:00.000-07:00

Hi GirlsFriends,
Fabulous ideas from high end decorators can begin from show houses held in Spring and Fall in most areas of the country. "Showhouses are built on fantasy, and the most amazing fantasies of all are seen each Spring at the Manhatten Showhouse to benefit the Kips Bay Boys and Girls Club" says House Beautiful. Designers or materials like Jamie Drake, Charlotte Moss, Amy Lou, Christopher Coleman, Bunny Williams, Joe Nye, Kathy Abbott,Lichten Craig, Christropher Maya, Eileen Kathryn Boyd, St.Charles of New York, Sicis mosaic floors........and the list is endless.

Here are a few of our favorites for fresh design, creativity, color, imagination:

Do you have a favorite room?

Talk again,
Denise and Gwen

July 4th Dessert by Sandra Lee

2009-07-01T05:00:00.000-07:00

Hi Girlfriends, I found this scrumptious trifle dessert by Sandra Lee for July 4th. So you know how it is going to be so easy to make: "keep it simple", "keep it sweet" and "keep it semi-homemade."
1 box red velvet cake mix, about 18 ounces (if you can't find red velvet cake use 1 box chocolate cake plus a bottle of red food coloring)
1 (16-ounce) tub whipped topping
2 pints blueberries
1 pint strawberries, tops removed
Directions
Bake the red velvet cake mix according to package directions and allow to cool.
Using a serrated knife cut the red velvet cake into 1 inch square pieces and line the bottom of the trifle bowl with half of the cake squares.
Using a spatula, spread about a 2-inch layer of whipped topping on top of the cake squares.
Layer about 1 1/2 pints of the blueberries on top of whipped topping.
Layer the remaining cake pieces on top of the blueberries forming a second layer of cake.
Using a spatula, spread remaining whipped topping over the cakes pieces.
Decorate the perimeter with the strawberries; placing the strawberries cut side down. Sprinkle the remaining blueberries on top of the trifle inside the strawberry perimeter

Happy July 4th to all our girlfriends,
Denise & Gwen

Michael Jackson KING OF POP

2009-06-26T10:27:00.000-07:00

HI GIRLFRIENDS, We wanted to be amongst the thousands of blogs paying a final farewell to one of our greatest American musical icons, Michael Jackson, KING OF POP. When Elvis died, the then Editor of Peoples Magazine, Richard Stolley (he was from my home town of Pekin, Illinios), told me the HUGE mistake he made when he decided not to put him on the front cover of Peoples Mag. Dick missed being a part of Elvis by 10 years earlier and could not "see" featuring him on the cover and went with someone else. It wasn't until Stolley stepped out of his office and saw all the secretaries crying into their hankies. He inquired and and was told, "Elvis died." He ran back into his office to kill the presses.....but all too late.

Here is Michael Jackson in sequence of his life:

Talk again,
Denise & Gwen

Mom's All-Time Summer Desserts Recipes

2009-06-23T07:35:00.000-07:00

Hi Girlfriends,

Today the humidity is to be very high. Already I have the air on as I feel it climbing. Since Gwen is preoccupied, my energy isn't into going to The Mart, but I am thinking of how Mom handled 9 kids when summer desserts were much a part of our 6 O'clock Supper time. Just as were the tasks Mom delegated to us; "Set the table", "Clear the table", "Wash and dry the dishes" and "Sweep the floor."

My two favorite recipes for summer desserts:

A) Sliced bananas and chopped up oranges sprinkled with some sugar and then homemade whipped cream folded in. Yum-!

B) Vanila ice cream,Hershey surup poured over it and topped with Spanish peanuts. Yum-!

Tonight I think it will be "B".

Talk again,
Denise

Re-upholster Your Grandmother's Chair This Summer-!

2009-06-22T10:17:00.000-07:00

Hi Girlfriends,

Summer has officially arrived
and
we love what you can do with your Grandmother's chair
until you get ready to do the real thing.
Re-upholster it-!

All photos are from the lovely flower shop in London, Scarlet & Violet.

Talk again,
Denise & Gwen

CF Husband is our Father's Day Daddy

2009-06-12T10:42:00.000-07:00

Hi Girlfriends, We are pleased to share with you our favorite pick for "Daddy" this Father's Day. This daddy writes a blog, "Confessions of a CF Husband" is our dream of a husband and father. As his wife, Tricia is equally an important Mommie, it is her husband, Nate, who earns all our kudos for this coming Father's Day.

Story line:

Nate married Tricia knowing of her Cystic Fibrosis condition. Outside of wanting to be married, Tricia also wanted a baby all of her life. She got both. Just before she was to enter Duke Hospital in NC, for lungs replacement, she learns she is pregnant. Along with the support of Duke and her husband and family, Tricia has Baby Gwyneth Rose. Both Mommie and infant are in ICU for quite a while, but eventually baby comes home and Mommie receives her new lungs. Recovery is slow and tedious, but the joy of Gwyneth is every reason for Tricia to survive. And, Nate to be there...full time.

Today, life is becoming "normal" for all three.

Gwen and I are grateful for the quality time Nate has accomplished in his loving care for his family. I took the following photos from his blog and I can't tell you how pleased to share these moving photos.

Happy Father's Day to Nate:

Robert Allen's Parisian Trim Collection

2009-06-05T08:01:00.001-07:00

Hi Girlfriends,

Today it is all about the new eclectic trimming in the Parisian Trim Collection by Robert Allen. This collection is intermix with vintage designs, traditional motifs and luscious texture. Inspired by "the City of Lights", it has eleven versatile colorways being offered.

Gwen: These colorways range from neutrals to classic multi-colored combinations.

Denise: Robert Allen says, " Artful and inventive."

Gwen: I welcome this new collection and know it will be successful with every designer using them as their favorite trim resources.

Take a plain lamp from Home Goods, add Robert Allen Cascading Beads around the shade, buy a new finial and hang Robert Allen chair tassels and it's a designer look-!

Denise: Trims have many names. I have included, as a guide, the names under each Robert Allen trim:

Gwen: Aren't these Robert Allen Cascading Beads stunning?

Denise: These gorgeous Lattice Tassels are a must for my next project-!

We hope everyone has been inspired to think trim. All these trims can be purchased through us at our website too.

A+ blogg this week: Moggit Blogg. These two gals will make you smile the rest of the day as they "snark" about other designers works found in publishing materials. Really hysterical.

Talk again,
Denise & Gwen

Good Bye Plunkett Home Furnishings--Chicago area

2009-06-03T08:54:00.000-07:00

Hi Girlfriends, Sadly, After 75 years of a family owned business, Plunkett Home Furnishings filed Bankruptcy Monday, June 1, 2009. The economy is a factor in every business today, but, this company knew how to survive since going through 1929. No, not the economy, but Irish Pride and Family Feud.

Denise: I talked to several reps (Marge Carson, Hooker and Eastern Accents) whose line of furniture or accessories sold to Plunkett's and they are "very sad."

Gwen: I am out of a job -! When CEO Hugh Plunkett handed out our letters last Thursday he singled out some of us in a personal manner. "Gwen, I will not miss you for you never learned to even wrap a lamp-!"

Denise: Mean.

Gwen: Yes, but his wife, Joan, was very nice to me. She gave me a martini glass with red dice in it. (Gwen's son is a partner in Lettuce Entertainment and oversees the restaurants in Las Vegas)

Denise: Do we dare tell what the CEO said personally to one female designer?

Gwen: You tell.

Denise: Nayyyy, it is too mean to repeat.

We hope John and his sister, Jamie Plunkett, both land on their feet and can begin to enjoy their families now that the stress is nearly over.

Talk again,
Denise and Gwen

Bay Window Treatments

2009-05-28T15:50:00.000-07:00

Hi Girlfriends, During the Renaissance a window style developed throughout Europe call the bay, or projecting window.

Gwen: Bay refers to a common area in a medieval house that was used for cooking, living, and sleeping.

Denise: Yes, and when large Manor homes were built, bay windows were the size of small rooms, projecting straight out from a hallway, library or gallery, with glass on three sides of the projection.

Bay windows are more costly than windows that are set flush with the wall. They are far less energy-efficient. Heat lost is great in the winter and in the summer the direct sunlight magnifies glare and solar heat gain.

Treating a bay can be a challenge. Some of the possibilities for installing pairs of draperies and one-way draws at bay window are just a few of the demanding task for any designer.....and homeowner.

As one is limited to design, looking over the following gives anyone an idea how making a bay window a focal point can be achieved.

Denise and Gwen: If you do decide on window treatments for your bay window, please visit our website, discountdesignerfabricsonline.com

Talk again,
Denise & Gwen

Online Bedding Linens Sites

2009-05-24T08:28:00.000-07:00

Hi Girlfriends,

We love bedding changing. We love to see our clients change out the look from Winter to Summer. So refreshing. So satisfying.

Denise: All the bedding we found on the Internet on Designer Linen Outlet and Linen Source websites.

Gwen: If anyone wishes custom-made, please remember our website as the place to go for fabrics.

Talk again,
Denise & Gwen
discountdesignerfabrisonline.com

Kravet Fabrics for First Lady's Congressional Luncheon-!

2009-05-16T13:09:00.000-07:00

Hi Girlfriends, On April 30th, the Congressional Club held their annual luncheon in a non-partisan setting for all spouses of members of both House, Washington, D.C. This is to honor the First Lady of the United States.

DENISE: Did everyone know this toile table cloth fabric was designed and created by Kravet fabrics?

GWEN: Yes and Kravet has been generously doing this since 2001.

DENISE: If anyone is interested in purchasing this fabric, please visit our website, discountdesignerfabricsonline.com and let us know from our "get a quote" window.

A very special thank you to Kravet Inc for your continuous support and generously donating yards and yards and yards of beautiful toile. And, wish we could take orders on your tote today-!

Girlfriends, HAVE A NICE WEEKEND.
Denise and Gwen

All photos from Kravet's Inspired.

Pekinite Commands the Atlantis-!!

2009-05-14T15:09:00.000-07:00

"PEKIN, Ill. -
The space shuttle Atlantis is flying about 350 miles above earth in an area speckled with space debris and junk. So it is no wonder that shuttle Commander Scott Altman’s parents, Sharon and Fred, were happy to get word from their son.
“We were relieved today to hear that damage in the tiles on the shuttle was only superficial,” Sharon Altman said. “Actually every launch/landing reveals some damaged tiles on every mission. No one ever worried about this damage much until the disaster with the Columbia. That was a factor with that situation — everyone was too complacent.”
“We received an e-mail from Scott tonight after they had rendezvoused with the Hubble and captured it with the arm,” Fred Altman said, noting that “Scott was the person who guided the Atlantis shuttle into position. He seems to be in good spirits.”
The Altmans said that while the weather in Florida has been pretty warm, with rain the past two days, it was fortunate that the launch was rescheduled for Monday rather than Tuesday as originally planned.
“That made travel plans more hectic for many people, but the weather was certainly great for the launch,” Sharon said."

Gwen: This is really cool Denise.

Denise: You bet. A home grown Pekinite like myself.

Gwen: Anyone else famous out of Pekin?

Denise: The Hon. Senator Everette McKinley Dirksen for starters. Then we had newly appointed Secretary of the State, John McNaughton. Sadly McNaughton, his wife and one son were killed in a commercial airlines in '67. They were returning to Washington after getting their son from camp.

Talk again,
Denise & Gwen

Happy Mother's Day

2009-05-10T07:53:00.001-07:00

Happy Mother's Day to all of our girlfriends.

I, Denise, gave this beautiful statue to my mother on Mother's Day about 20 years ago, Madonna and Child by Herend.

Love on this special day to all mothers,
Denise & Gwen

Home Theater Interiors

2009-05-08T13:32:00.000-07:00

Hi Girlfriends,
We have been working on a project that calls for drapery treatments in the owners Home Theater. The most fun has been buying up old movie posters from the 50's. Both Gwen and I grew up going to every Saturday Matinee as kids in the 50's. 25 cents you could get in and still have enough for a box of popcorn.

Denise: Here is what the inside of my home town's movie theater looked liked before being razed in 1986:

Gwen: Movie theaters have come a long way since this was built in 1928-! Look at what is going on in homes today:

Photos from ads: Barretts, Avtel Inc., The Dana Group, Pekin Daily Times

Talk again,
Denise & Gwen

Yahoo Is Up and Running-!!

2009-05-05T05:47:00.000-07:00

Nieman Marcus Bedding

Hi Girlfriends,

Every since January 2009 we have been having problems with Yahoo not being able to get our website, discountdesignerfabricsonline.com to work. It seems this Grannie is the designated techie of the twosome and it has been me talking, talking, talking to Yahoo, our fabulous webdesigner, Jim Jamesson out of Groovy Web Designs, Ashville, NC., the Apple Hospital, Comcast, back to Yahoo and the circle would repeat itself. Many $$$$$$ later, we are "up and running." Now that we are back in business, please visit our site and contact us through, "get a quote."

Many thanks to Jim at GroovyWebdesign for paving the way to finally making it work

Talk again,
Denise & Gwen

Bamboo Flooring and More-!

2009-05-02T04:11:00.000-07:00

Hi Girlfriends,

Today is going to be brief. If you are into being price conscious this Spring.....and who isn't.......I found a few sites I want to share with you:

Bamboo Flooring
Fantastic flooring specials.
www.silkroadflooring.com

Cheap Bamboo Flooring
Don't overpay for your flooring any more.
www.Flooring-Stores.info

Look for decorating tips or ideas?
This site is where you can search thousands of photos for your home.
wwww.myhomeideas.com

Another site for redecorating.
Wallplates to match your decor-!
www.WallplateWarehouse.com

Talk again,
Denise

discountdesignerfabricsonline.comVisit this site for "to-the-trade" designer fabrics and compare prices against others. i.e. your decorator or BigBox stores.

CANDICE OLSON DIVINE INSPIRATIONS

2009-05-01T07:12:00.000-07:00

HI GIRLFRIENDS,

TODAY WE ARE GOING TO talk about one very respected interior designer, Candice Olson. As if we already don't know, she was born and raised in Canada, attended college for a bachelor of scinece degree and, at the same time, traveled the globe playing volleyball for the Canadian National Team. Upon graduation she decided, as a "whim", applied and attend School of Interior Design at Ryerson University. She was always headed for success and recognition, and, it may have happened sooner, by being scouted for her remarkable talent, she honed her skills for several years with notable Canadian top interior designer firms, contemporary modern with a touch of the unexpected. Olson has become the success she is today and with fans who adore her. Like us-!

Gwen: (sigh) Her signature style incorporates creativity, practicality and timelessness.

Denise: Amen. Also, Candice Olson has a following that borders on mania.........and rightfully so.

Gwen: Yea, and design point of view resonates strongly with today's consumer. Espcially in these eco times.

Denise: So true. That is why Candice Olson is a natural choice for Kravet Fabrics, JIA, AF Lighting, Norwalk Furniture, York Wallcoverings, SilestoneUSA, Revcon Intl, Thermador, and Paragon.

Gwen: Whew-! She is one busy girl.

CANDICE OLSON WALLPAPER INCLUDES WALLPAPER CHARMS TOO-!

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Denise: Girlfriends, What a good thing FOR YOU we sell Candice Olson fabrics through our website, discount designer fabrics online.

Credits provided: Kravet Fabrics, Hooked on Houses blog,York Wallcoverings and Revcon International.

TALK AGAIN,
DENISE & GWEN

Palladian Window Treatments

2009-04-21T13:28:00.000-07:00

Hi Girlfriends,

Gwen's baaaaaaack-!

After a long "holiday" Gwen is most welcomed back. Occassionally she may stray during a pressing big job, but, she is here today, so let's get started Gwen talking to our girlfriends.

Denise: Why do architects feel the need to put in a palladian window in most Mcmansions today? By the time we get the 911 Homeowner call, she is freaked out about what to do with the one thing that made the buying of the house so attractive at the first showing.

Gwen: Does everyone know............Any two-story palladian window treatment IS going to cost to "fix" the problem? Yards and yards of fabric, a scaffold and a two-man team to install.

Denise: Rods, brackets and finials to compliment the height aren't cheap either.

Gwen: Amen.

Denise: Palladian windows, in addition to offering scenic benefits, ventilation, light and protection, this style of windows can and should be an important complement to any interior design.

Gwen: Yes, and ideally, windows are a means of documenting historic style.

Denise: And, adding character or charm to the home.

Gwen: But, at the same time, challenging.

Denise: OMG, after the challenges, the next important step is getting the SPECIFIC measurements and treatment information for each window.

Gwen: Professional, professional professional measurers only.

Denise: I see where you are coming from. Send your handyman husband to the grocery store for measuring palladian windows is tricky.........very tricky.

Denise & Gwen: Here are two choices that is less fabric, but, they won't change the installation price: These simple, soft and elegant treatment lends flavor to the Palladian window. It works really well. The first is a sunburst and the last one being a semicircle arched flourished during the Georgian Era.

Denise: Is one still insists on light, I suggest going with a lighter fabric that complements the feel of the room.

Gwen: I do the same, but never, never silk. By the 3rd month silk is the victim of "sun rot."
Denise: If Hunter Douglas or Conrad Shades are made wide and long enough, this style works in any Family Room.
Talk again,
Denise & Gwen

Sketches by Visionmaster

OPERATION SHOWER

2009-04-15T09:18:00.000-07:00

HI GIRLFRIENDS, "I'm really excited"...........is how HWTM blog begins by sharing Amy Belle Isle from Stem Parties a fabulous celebration and YOU are invited too-!! Amy read is just the right message telling how 'near and dear to my heart as entertaining: Operation Shower."

By the time I read "contribute" I was ready with my cr.cd. AND I did-!!

Amy says:

"Due to the success of last year's Mother's Day Showers, we have decided to hold an annual Mother's Day event for the military moms-to-be whose spouses are deployed. This year's theme is "Boxes in Bloom" and we are excited to throw our very first Eco-Conscious Baby Showers in just a few weeks. They will be held at Fort Hood,Texas and Scott AFB, Illinois just in time for Mother's Day!

"We have some amazing sponsors and can't wait to share some of our post-event photos and party details with you soon. In the meantime, we need your help? Here is your chance to be a hero to Operation Shower, as we commit ourselves to throwing the best showers possible for our own real-life American Heroes and their families."

"We are still in need of some very basic items and we've made it easy for you to help us reach our goal of filling 60 boxes with lots of love. Simply log onto our Operation Shower site and click on the "Contribute" tab. There you will find several items at budget-friendly price points from which to choose in a simple and safe Google Checkout system. We could easily use some of the basics listed at the top of the list!

"You can also log onto the gift tab at Resa Design and purchases any of the adorable itmes (a few pictured below) that she has specially selected to be gifted to Operation Shower.

Operation Shower will be shipping VERY soon, and their goal is to have all the donations in by Friday, April 17th. NOT much time left, so call you friends! Call your MOM and let her know what you are

Contributing, like I did, and 'make my day.'

Special kudos to "life in a sippy cup " franki for sharing this event which encouraged me to find HMTM's blog.

My A+ blogs this week: HWTM, Stem Parties, Hostess (with the Mostess), life in a sippy cup

Talk again,
Denise
discountdesignerfabricsonline.com

Spring is here-!!

2009-04-08T07:16:00.001-07:00

Hi Girlfriends,

My Interior Design Pick-of-the-Week blog: maison21................he loves pets too-!

Talk again next week,

Denise

Brays Island Plantation "2nd" Home

2009-03-29T20:16:00.000-07:00

Hi Girlfriends,

Are you like me.............when you drive by a house you admire, you are just itching to see the interior? I guess we can be thankful for Spring and Fall garden club House Walks. Allow me to show you around a FOR SALE "2nd" house at Brays Island Plantation, Sheldon, SC. If you are not familiar with Brays Island, that is because it is a private island, gated, and once invited.......you may tell yourself you are never leaving. It's so deep south........low country actually.

Over at maison21, the author is inviting all bloggers to decorate a room and use some of his "stuff" he has been featuring throughout the year. Oooooooh could I have had some fun if I had known about his clever invite.....for I would have collected long enough to do one of the FOR SALE rooms-!!

But first....

LOTS OF ADULT TOYS ON THIS ISLAND: FINE ENGLISH GUNS, THOROUGHBRED HORSES,LEICA CAMERAS, AND ANTIQUE CARS.

UNTIL WE TALK AGAIN,
BYE, DENISE

All credits go to the following:
photos by Brays Island Plantation, Sheldon, SC and Holland & Holland

Window Treatments from Ireland

2009-03-17T11:41:00.000-07:00

Erin Go Blaugh Lassies-!!

While on vacations, I am always snapping window treatments. My Mac is loaded with the results. And, on the TODAY SHOW this morning, they were talking about great 4-day "holidays" for Americans to go, right now, in Ireland, until May 1st. If flying out of NY, a Continental flight to Shannon airport is $300 or less for a ROUND TRIP. What's even better, one can stay at the following for under $150.00 a night-!! One place is a bit more, but you get an Irish Breakfast and $150.00 off dinner. So I got on the Internet and began sleuthing around until I found a few of the hotels Today spoke about. I figure tonight after a "gourmet" cornbeef and cabbage dinner with a handsome sherry spiked trifle, I will approach the subject with a wee twinkle in me Irish green eyes. See, if you have a husband who loves, loves, loves golf......well, need I say more? Too many lovely golf courses to choose from in all these given hotel areas. Then, as your soulmate golfs, you can get in a cab and head for ruins and shopping. I especially love the local towns for window displays of hats. It's click, click, click for me while in town. Back at one of the three fabulous "must stay" places, anyone could find me taking photos of all the window treatments for my drapery archives later. What fun I would have clicking every room at the "G" Hotel.
Bellinter House
This striking house regally stands on the banks of the River Boyne and one can take in the breathtaking rolling landscape of County Meath, where take in the euphoric understanding of this hotel's glamour period. The house, in her classic Georgian heritage, is meticulously preserved, while enhancing it with the best of the modern Irish design.
One does not need to pack a book when this library offers plenty of read.
Now this wall scones could be interesting to examine up close. Is it made out of paper?

Very nice colors in this suite.

The "G" Hotel
WOW...Wow...WOW-! Galway has gone Hollywood. Designed by Galway native Philip Treacey, I actually love the decor, even if it "over the top" for one seeking an Irish "feel." What I love about this is the colors and lighting Treacey selected. Bold, daring, but sexuous. Why with so much glass, crome, mirror, it's a "get away" for anyone in a fun and romantic mood. Every thing just pops.........and keeps on popping. Notice the bar. Why girlfriends, please remember to wear your jeans if you sit on one of the stools. Need I warn you?

BAR WARNING FOR ALL LASSIES: WEAR YOUR JEANS-!!

"Must see" room in person-!

The mirrors are fabulous and I am sure this room is quite stunning in person.

The Coopershill Hotel
The Coopershill Hotel in Silgo is a beautiful Georgian style house built in 1774. I would have no problems staying here, for I have a family photo of a Sligo police officer from my mother's side of the family. It would be an ancestor hunt for me to try and locate relatives in this area.......or head for the local church yards to learn what I can.

This room reminds me of my childhood. Vanity table, oval mirror, single shaded ceiling fixture, and the matching pair of lamps on each end of the bed. It's all so warm and inviting for me to rest.

Perfect........a shower head for my husband and a long and leisure bath drawn for me.

An Irish breakfast will be most welcomed in this stately dining room. The sideboard is showing some stunning Waterford decanters too.

WHEW-! Dreaming is wonderful, but girlfriends, we can make this happen too. Right now the fares to Ireland are very low. Let's all make it happen.........before May 1st.

Talk again,
Denise

Yahoo Stress...........

2009-03-13T07:29:00.000-07:00

Hi Girlfriends,

I keep asking myself,"Why didn't I marry a Geek?" Instead, I married the one who knows everything and can do all, except turn on a computer-!! Right now, Yahoo isn't able to send any "get a quote" from my website, "discountdesignerfabricsonline.com" for several months now. I was paying my webdesigner to host me, but he had me switch over to Yahoo in November. All was fine until '09. The lingo is about "PHP".......lol like this Grannie would know all about PHP. Stressful for me, only I am at Yahoo's mercy waiting for them to correct the situation into my 3rd month. Why is this so difficult? I think it has to do with everytime I call, I get a new geek with a better solution. In the meantime, Yahoo keeps taking my monthly payments out of my credit card.

Despite Yahoo, Spring is coming. Sunshine is warming the Spring bulbs and by this time next week, all the astilbes will be blooming. Here is one of my neighbors front yard.

I LOVE THE BLUE-!!

I sincerely apologize to anyone trying to contact me through my website. Especially since economy times are stressing us all enough. My what a good thing my "to-the-trade" designer fabrics are so attractive in pricing to you, my internet client.

My blog pick of the week: Alkemie.blogspot.com

Talk again,
Denise