Explore every episode of the podcast Sew Much More
| Title | Pub. Date | Duration | |
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| 492 - Marta Power - You Make It Work, You Just Get It Done | 30 Nov 2025 | 01:37:59 | |
Marta Powers is the owner of MartaPOW LLC, a custom workroom in Richmond, Virginia, offering upholstery and soft goods services nationally To The Trade. Her past career as a project manager for architecture and design firms has informed her business processes and broadened her network of professionals across the hospitality and interior design sectors. Marta's early training in tailoring, pattern drafting, clothing design, and fabrication skills led to her creation of a business serving designers, helping them to achieve their and their clients' vision. A co-owner of Upholstery Education LLC, Marta and her partners bring educators from the UK and France to the U.S., offering courses in traditional upholstery methods, materials, and related interior furnishing trades. Marta has served on the boards of the National Upholstery Association and the Virginia chapter of the American Society of Interior Designers (as an Industry Partner). She is also a member of IFDA Richmond, the SeatWeavers Guild, and the NUA's Education Committee. Instagram @Martapowva LInks and Resources; You Are A Badass by Jen Sincero Profit First by Mike Michalowicz | |||
| 491 - In Memory of our Friend, Kevin Kise | 23 Nov 2025 | 01:34:45 | |
This past week, we lost our friend, Kevin Kise. I wanted to find a way to honor him and remember him, so Jonathan Bennett and I recalled our favorite memories of Kevin and I hope you will share yours on the Sew Much More Facebook page. | |||
| 482 - Susan Fortucci - I Do Something I Love and Make Money At It | 21 Sep 2025 | 01:16:06 | |
Susan Fortucci began sewing at home on her grandmother's treadle sewing machine and made most of her own clothes throughout high school. In her early twenties, she met her future husband, who owned a sailboat, and she soon learned to make canvas projects and sails. This experience led her to work in canvas shops and sail lofts as the couple sailed from Boston to Florida and the Bahamas. After settling in Maryland, Susan accepted a position at a sail loft. Not long after, she noticed an ad for a seamstress in a drapery workroom. Intrigued, she applied and was hired. When the workroom owner retired, several of her designers encouraged Susan to open her own business. She followed their advice and officially established her workroom in 2003. You can reach Susan at pincushionsusan@gmail.com
Links and Resources; You can find pictures of Susan's workroom in this edition of the Drapery & Design Digital Digest The Sew Much More Podcast is sponsored by; Klimaka Studios The Workroom Channel Scarlet Thread Consulting The WCAA The Curtains and Soft Furnishings Resource Library National Upholstery Association Workroom Tech
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| 393 - Listener Favorite - Jayna Manzelli | 31 Dec 2023 | 01:08:52 | |
Jayna Manzelli graduated from Brandeis University with a BA in Biology and began a career in Pharmaceutical Quality Control. Experience gained in analysis, equipment, procedures, organization, specifications, and personnel management became relevant when Jayna began her new custom workroom business. With a keen eye for detail and a passion for creating beautiful things, Jayna opened JM Custom Creations in 2008. JMCC is a to-the-trade workroom, specializing in draperies, Roman shades, top treatments, pillows, and cushions. Jayna became a member of WCAA in 2010, served as VP of the Eastern MA chapter 2015-2016, and has been President since 2018. She is currently a Director at Large on the WCAA National Board Jayna is on Facebook Raiseyourshade.com Pricing without Emotion Course by Michele Williams M'Fay workroom manuals are available on the Library Dropbox.com IPad - pencil Notability The Sew Much More Podcast is sponsored by; The Workroom Channel Scarlet Thread Consulting The WCAA The Curtains and Soft Furnishings Resource Library Merril Y Landis, LTD Angel's Distributing, LLC National Upholstery Association Workroom Tech | |||
| 392 - Julie Wood - White House Christmas Decorating | 24 Dec 2023 | 00:50:54 | |
Julie Wood, owner of The Leading Edge, began her career as an Art Educator. An avid interest in interior design led her to enroll in the Interior Design program at the New Hampshire Institute of Art. While at NHIA, her love of fabric and sewing translated perfectly into a career creating window treatments. Since she launched her business in 2006, she has specified her services largely to the interior designer. Julie enjoys assisting designers in creating spaces for clients that far exceed both client and designer expectations. Julie understands the importance of fresh and unique treatments and continues to enhance her knowledge through webinars, workshops, and classes. Julie is constantly learning new Links and Resources;
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| 391 - 2023 Year End Wrap Up with Michele Williams | 17 Dec 2023 | 01:07:30 | |
I look forward to this episode with Michele Williams! We hope you enjoy hearing it as much as we enjoy recording it.
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| 390 - Cara Rinne - I Work in the Past, But Live in the Present | 10 Dec 2023 | 00:49:11 | |
Cara has had a needle and thread in her hand since she was six. While raising her three children, she ran a sewing business from 2005 to 2021, where she focused on children's clothing items, bedroom soft furnishings, and accessories. Always with a taste for decorating, Cara rebranded her business, Threaded Hive Interiors and Antiques, in January 2021 focusing solely on custom-sewn/fabricated soft furnishings, interior decorating, and styling with antiques. Cara lives in the Kansas City area with her husband and two dogs and spends time visiting her three grown children and extended family throughout the country. Her hobbies include antiquing, and volunteering at an 1865 historic stagecoach stop as a docent and costume maker. She enjoys traveling, visiting historic sites, is a Jesus lover, and is a big KC Chiefs fan. Cara is on Facebook and Instagram
Links and Resources; Ann Johnson's Article - Three Strikes and I'm Out! | |||
| 389 - Shari Walla - You Have to Implement What You Learn | 03 Dec 2023 | 01:07:29 | |
Shari Walla learned her love of sewing as a young child from her mother. Initially, she worked as a draftsman in the automobile industry. She started working for Accent Custom Drapery LLC 21 years ago, eventually became a partner. When her business partner, Karen Miceli, retired in 2018 she became the sole owner. She is married and has three adult children. In her spare time, she loves spending time in northern Michigan, fly fishing, and knitting. Shari is on Facebook and Instagram Michele Williams Courses The Sew Much More Podcast is sponsored by; The Workroom Channel Scarlet Thread Consulting The WCAA The Curtains and Soft Furnishings Resource Library Merril Y Landis, LTD Angel's Distributing, LLC National Upholstery Association Workroom Tech | |||
| 388 - Julia Fields - I Think There is a Lot of Opportunity for Pride to Happen Here. | 26 Nov 2023 | 01:02:31 | |
Julia Fields worked in the bridal industry for more than five years, making wedding dress dreams a reality. Since joining Savannah Window Fashions, she has had the opportunity to transfer her skills into all things custom for our clients homes! | |||
| 387 - Nikki Greenwood - When You're in the Midst of the Crazy, You Can't Always Look Ahead | 19 Nov 2023 | 00:58:47 | |
For Nikki, it was love at first sight when she first visited Savannah to plan a destination wedding downtown in April 2018. She and her husband decided to move and bought a house sight unseen in August 2018. In their new neighborhood, they were fortunate to find a fabulous group of neighbors, including the former owner of Savannah Window Fashions Jeanne Dunn. Nikki purchased Savannah Window Fashions in 2020 from Jeanne, leaving behind corporate life and a career in advertising. In Nikki's previous corporate life, she wore many hats. Advertising, project managing website builds at a digital agency, floral designer, non-profit economic development, event planning, and property management. Nikki is thrilled to take Savannah Window Fashions forward as the new owner. It was an unlikely career change, but perfect in so many ways. Nikki has always had a deep and abiding love for homes. As the granddaughter of a builder and daughter of a carpenter, she spent many summers on job sites as a kid. She adores Savannah, and her greatest desire is to build a business that contributes to the community by helping interior designers in the amazing work they do, providing top-notch, treatments for our local historic homes and properties, and making homes more beautiful and functional. Nikki is passionate about preserving the great skill and craft that goes into fabricating custom window treatments, and has a great desire to pass the knowledge on from her current team to a new generation of seamstresses and seamsters. When she's not living and breathing window treatments, Nikki loves exploring downtown and surrounding areas, spending time with animals (her family has one dog, three indoor cats, two porch cats, and two turtles), reading, and hosting friends and family on visits to Savannah. Nikki's husband, Ryan, works at Georgia Ports. They enjoy bike rides, spending time with friends and neighbors, beach days at Tybee, and exploring Savannah. Nikki's daughter, Zoe Greenwood, is a full time student at Georgia Southern Armstrong Campus, studying Political Science. Zoe also helps out at the family business part time. Ryan has a daughter attending Ohio State University and a son living in Dayton, Ohio. Nikki is a member of the Ardsley Park Garden Club and enjoys volunteering at and attending the home and garden tours put on by local clubs. Savannah Window Fashions is on Facebook and Instagram
Links and Resources; LuAnn Nigara - A Well Designed Business
(Some of the links I provide, specifically to Amazon and a few others, require me to let you know that if you use those links and make a purchase, I will make some money. I won't make a million dollars, but I might be able to get a cup of coffee, so thank you!)
The Connection Method by Kelsey Kurtis
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| 386 - Cade Smith - From Employee to Owner in No Time! | 12 Nov 2023 | 00:58:44 | |
Cade Smith was born at a very early age in Pensacola, Florida. Upon moving to Tennessee in 1999 at the age of 5, he began to explore many art and craft activities and finally found his way to The Appalachian Center for Art, Craft and Design at Tennessee Technological University, where he studied Fiber Arts and graduated in May 2020, virtually... Cade wandered into an interesting looking store in an industrial strip mall in August 2022, and in May 2023 he purchased that company and has continued to grow The Curtain Call into one of the premier drapery workrooms in Nashville, TN. When Cade is not making drapery, installing drapery or doing paperwork related to drapery, he spends his time in the country with his horses and dogs. Cade wishes to impart to you his daily affirmation: May your hems be right, and your seams be tight, namaste. You can find The Curtain Call on Facebook and Instagram. Links and Resources; The Sew Much More Podcast is sponsored by; The Workroom Channel Scarlet Thread Consulting The WCAA The Curtains and Soft Furnishings Resource Library Merril Y Landis, LTD Angel's Distributing, LLC National Upholstery Association Workroom Tech
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| 385 - Julie Wood - There is Nothing You Have to Lose! | 05 Nov 2023 | 00:43:55 | |
Since she launched my business in 2006, she has specified her services largely to the interior designer. Julie enjoys assisting designers in creating spaces for clients that far exceed both client and designer expectations. Julie understands the importance of fresh and unique treatments and continues to enhance her knowledge through webinars, workshops, and classes. Julie is constantly learning new Links and Resources; #157 - Opportunity Thinking Series with Renee Rucci and Julie Wood
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| 385 - Lilye Lavender - I Know I Won't Let Myself Fail | 29 Oct 2023 | 01:03:00 | |
Lilye Lavender owns Laveña Luxe Interiors, a new workroom based in Austin, TX. Together with her fashion school peer, Joseph, they fabricate and sell drapery, shades, and other soft furnishings to the trade. With success happening early on, they have big ideas to help drive the industry forward for a new generation of workroom owners.
Lilye is on Instagram
283 - Kristin Speyer - I Didn't Think I Could Do It, But I Just Did It! The Curtains & Soft Furnishings Resource Library Kitty Stein's Price Your Work with Confidence Fabric Rack - Contact Dean Fountain - deansdraperies@gmail.com
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| 481 - Listener Favorite - Jonathan Bennett | 04 Dec 2025 | 01:08:46 | |
Jonathan Bennet, owner of Unsprung Upholstery is originally from Martinsville, VA. He caught the sewing bug from his great grandmother at a young age. He moved to Richmond, VA on a whim in August of 1989 and earned a BFA in Fashion Design from Virginia Commonwealth University. Directly after graduation, Jonathan taught in the Fashion Design department as an adjunct professor for 13 years. He started his first workroom job in 1997, learned how to make various types of window treatments, cushions, pillows, and more; since then, he has done freelance workroom client projects in his home for over 25 years. Jonathan opened Unsprung Upholstery LLC in August 2019 and will continue this beautiful journey for the rest of his life!
Website: UnsprungUpholstery.com FB: Unsprung Upholstery Company
Links and Resources; The Custom Workroom Conference | |||
| 384 - What Three Items in Your Workroom Can You Not Live Without? | 22 Oct 2023 | 00:21:22 | |
Links for podcast
Terko thread - https://workroommarketplace.com/collections/sewing-supplies
Jewel's tape Home Sewing Depot - https://homesewingdepot.com/collections/sealah-tape-glue/products/3-16-jewels-tape-double-sided-adhesive
Workroom Channel Marketplace - https://workroommarketplace.com/collections/sewing-supplies/jewels-tapes
Dondar Designs - https://www.donnaskufis.com/shop/
JSH Designs Rulers- https://jsh-designs.squarespace.com/shop
Grids and Templates on The Workroom Marketplace - https://workroommarketplace.com/collections/grids-templates
Creative Hands Debbie DiFrancesco - https://www.creativehandsinfo.com/
Sloan Machinery - https://www.sloanmachinery.com/
Workroom Table Construction 30 Minutes with Workroom Tech Podcast 18 Using Your Fabric Rack to Inspect Fabric by Denise Canney
Workroom Stands - https://pub.marq.com/2023-0506DigDigest/#8KA8_kTwmZZZ The Workroom Market Place - Sewing Custom Curtains, Shades, and Top Treatments by Susan Woodcock Price Ultra Pro seam ripper Workroom Marketplace https://workroommarketplace.com/collections/small-tools?page=1
30 Minutes with Workroom Tech, 74 - Learning About Thread
Sloan Machinery
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| 383 - Listener Favorite - Jeanne McDermott of Virtual Design 4 Interiors | 15 Oct 2023 | 01:24:24 | |
As the owner of At Your Service, a drapery workroom in the Boston area for over 15 years, Jeanne McDermott was always searching for the best way to communicate with her clients. Jeanne discovered her passion for computer programs and has developed this into a service for designers and workrooms to help them convey their ideas in a fast and efficient way. Her years of experience in the workroom/design process from concept and measuring to procurement and installation gives her the ability to understand complicated design concepts and offer solutions in addition to translating the design vision. Saving both time and money, our service creates an environment of confidence between the workroom/designer and clients that the project will look (and feel) as presented. Jeanne's full-time business is creating renderings through her website: www.virtualdesign4interiors.com You can watch today's podcast on YouTube. Jeanne is on Facebook
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| 382 - Opportunity Thinking Series with Taylor Angel | 08 Oct 2023 | 00:50:47 | |
Taylor Angel is the Vice President of Angel's Distributing, LLC. Today we are talking about customer service and some new products that Angel's has developed and the how and why behind their new products. | |||
| 381 - Kari Culberson - I Feel Comfortable and Ready for More | 01 Oct 2023 | 01:10:17 | |
Kari Culberson is an interior designer, textile designer & sewist specializing in contemporary block printed textiles & soft goods fabrication for the home. Kari has a Masters in Interior Design from Florida State University & has been working in the interior design industry for the past 15 years. She began her design career working under renowned designers such as Victoria Hagan & Robert Brown, but her love of fabric & textile design led her to move to the vendor side. In 2011, she began Kari Fisher Designs, a to-the-trade textile line producing hand-block printed linen. Her fabrics have been carried in design showrooms across the country and her work has been featured in several magazines such as Atlanta Homes & Lifestyles, Lonny, & Martha Stewart Living. With the birth of her first daughter, she took a step back from hand printing yardage in-house and started printing digitally, while also offering some workroom fabrication. Now as her younger daughter has started school, Kari has relaunched her business under the name House Marais, and has expanded her workroom offerings to include pillows, drapery, soft goods, and lampshades. Kari works out of her home in Decatur, GA just outside of Atlanta. Kari is also a sewing teacher, having taught garment sewing and block printing for the last several years in Atlanta, virtually, and traveling to sewing retreats. Her favorite garment to make is her own jeans and is often wearing her own "me made" garments. Kari is on Instagram, and Facebook Links and Resources; Closet Core Patterns (Some of the links I provide, specifically to Amazon and a few others, require me to let you know that if you use those links and make a purchase, I will make some money. I won't make a million dollars, but I might be able to get a cup of coffee, so thank you!) The Artists Way by Julia Cameron Singer Sewing Custom Curtains, Shades and Top Treatments: A Complete Step-by-Step Guide to Makine and Installing Window Decor by Susan Woodcock Soft Goods Guidebook for Interiors by Stephanie Stickler Instagram account - Can You Sew This For Me Kari mentioned Window Treatments 101, these videos are part of the Curtains & Soft Furnishings Resource Library PRO Plus Memebers 30 Minutes with Workroom Tech - Who's on Your Team The Sew Much More Podcast is sponsored by; The Workroom Channel Workroom Tech Scarlet Thread Consulting The WCAA The Curtains and Soft Furnishings Resource Library Merril Y Landis, LTD Angel's Distributing, LLC National Upholstery Association | |||
| 380 - Kimberly Lista - I Found My Peace in the Workroom | 24 Sep 2023 | 00:54:34 | |
Kim has a very unique way of tapping into what her clients want for their homes, and creating that atmosphere by mixing both high and low-end furniture items in her designs. Every design is different, and her specialty is to bring out the personality and style of her clients, into the design of the space.
She redesigned her life and her brand by launching Kim Lista Interiors, LLC. a full-service consulting and design company.
Links and Resources;
Sewing Custom Curtains, Shades and Top Treatments by Susan Woodcock | |||
| 378 - Listener Favorite - Donna Hovis | 10 Sep 2023 | 00:57:22 | |
Donna Hovis owns Donna Hovis Interiors, a one-woman drapery workroom serving Middle Tennessee for the past 18 years. Donna has an Associate's Degree in Interior Design and loves being involved in every aspect of her projects: from measuring to designing to fabrication to installation. Donna is on Facebook and Instagram. You can see Donna's published window treatments here in the Drapery & Design Digital Digest Links and Resources; (I do use some affiliate links) Drapery & Design Digital Digest Charles Randall's book is available for purchase from The Workroom Marketplace Sew What? Magazine issues are to PRO Plus Members in the Curtains & Soft Furnishings Resource Library Some of the links I provide, specifically to Amazon and a few others, require me to let you know that if you use those links and make a purchase, I will make some money. I won't make a million dollars, but I might be able to get a cup of coffee, so thank you! Susan Woodcock's Book - Singer(R) Sewing Custom Curtains, Shades, and Top Treatments: A Complete Step-by-Step Guide to Making and Installing Window Decor Stormie Omartian Books The Sew Much More Podcast is sponsored by; The Workroom Channel Scarlet Thread Consulting The WCAA The Curtains and Soft Furnishings Resource Library Merril Y Landis, LTD Angel's Distributing, LLC National Upholstery Association | |||
| 377 - Jenny Ellis - I Just Knew I Wanted To Do This | 03 Sep 2023 | 01:11:40 | |
Jenny Ellis is the owner of The Artful Chair. She spent her childhood in Ohio, then moved to Boca Raton, Florida in 1968, in a hurricane! After High School, she secured a scholarship at Texas Christian University where she studied Fashion Design, Clothing Construction and Textiles . Jenny was always a creative maker, even as a child she learned how to make pillows and crafty things, but she was very fond of textures and textiles. Initially, she thought she'd be in the fashion industry, making beautiful ball gowns and party dresses. And initially, she did. When she bought thier first house, Jenny started to look at those windows to be "dressed" ..you know how every homeowner does. She decided they must be easy to make, compared to the curvy complicated dresses and gowns she was doing. She set out to find out and decided to get her window treatment certification (WTCP) in South Florida at the Master's level. There she started "Designs by Jenny G" ( when Kenny G was popular, it was catchy) she found that window treatments and soft furnishings were way more lucrative and less stressful than dressmaking. in 2002 Jenny became Macy Furniture Store's window treatment specialist and they included her in their trips to High Point Furniture Market. Her eyes were opened. The creative ideas were just exploding. Jenny thought about how she could make high fashion chairs with her arsenal of dressmaking skills. Fast forward to a move to Asheville, NC in 2004, and she had the opportunity to, as her new husband called it, "reinvent herself". Jenny did try a few different things. Initially, she thought she would just do soft furnishings, and window treatments again, but she was not feeling the same about the market as she was in south Florida. Her husband then asked her the most memorable question: "What have I always wanted to do, but never had the opportunity to?" She told him her idea of upholstering beautiful artful chairs, like she made dresses, and told him about her vision from High Point Furniture Market. Her husband gave her the blessing to follow her passion and she enrolled in upholstery classes for 2 years at a local technical school. Then Jenny launched her crazy unique business, The Artful Chair in 2013, at age 57. It was definitely a niche; people never saw anything like it. Her creative chairs made everyone smile. She could have done "regular" upholstery because she understood the rules. She did the learning. But her vision was so different she thought she could create amazing upholstered furniture and sell it. Jenny had to push through a lot of barriers, and setbacks, but finally she found her ideal customers. This year Jenny is launching online learning classes of her most popular designs, as well as offering beginner basics. She is so excited to open up this wonderful, fun world of upholstery for creative DIYs everywhere. It's a long way from her dressmaking years, but she could not be any happier about the journey she has traveled. If you ask anyone in the upholstery industry, it is becoming a lost art or trade. Jenny is here to revive it in a big way. Jenny's Motto from Vincent Van Gogh:" Learn the rules like a pro, so you can break them like an artist." Jenny is on Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest and TikTok Links and Resources; Some of the links I provide, specifically to Amazon and a few others, require me to let you know that if you use those links and make a purchase, I will make some money. I won't make a million dollars, but I might be able to get a cup of coffee, so thank you! Life Whimsy: How to Play, and Work More Creatively by Wendy Conklin The Sew Much More Podcast is sponsored by; The Workroom Channel Scarlet Thread Consulting The WCAA The Curtains and Soft Furnishings Resource Library Merril Y Landis, LTD Angel's Distributing, LLC National Upholstery Association | |||
| 376 - Opportunity Thinking Series with Sue Parten of The Workroom Pro | 27 Aug 2023 | 00:51:36 | |
Sue Parten opened her workroom in 1985. She found that To-the-Trade was the best fit for her so she could be home with her kids, and she didn't have to continuously find new clients. Sue hired a business coach in 2009 when the economy crashed. She was working a 2 nd job to make ends meet and knew she needed to change things up. Her coach helped her look at her workroom as a business instead of a paycheck. Together they built systems and set goals so that someday, Sue could hand someone else the keys to the kingdom and ride off into the sunset! Donald Miller - Story Brand Some of the links I provide, specifically to Amazon and a few others, require me to let you know that if you use those links and make a purchase, I will make some money. I won't make a million dollars, but I might be able to get a cup of coffee, so thank you! M. Scott Peck MD - The Road Less Traveled Rick Warren - The Purpose Driven Life | |||
| 375 - Judi Turner - I Am Always Looking for Information | 20 Aug 2023 | 01:24:47 | |
Judi Andersen Turner has been the owner/designer/fabricator for Domicil Design since 1992. She holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts, the University of Michigan, and explores many other art mediums including oil paints, 3D sculptures and other fiber art crafts. Throughout her time in business, she has organized networking groups, including Professional Sewing Association-Home Décor Workrooms (Cincinnati) and WCAA, holding President positions in chapters. Professional accomplishments include being a published contributor to Drapery & Design Professional trade magazine for several years, 2019 Artisan Project winner for WFCP Window Fashion, as well as networking and sharing knowledge with other professionals. Judi has some videos on YouTube that you can find here. Judi is on Instagram Links and Resources; The Custom Workroom Conference The Sew Much More Podcast is sponsored by; The Workroom Channel Scarlet Thread Consulting The WCAA The Curtains and Soft Furnishings Resource Library Merril Y Landis, LTD Angel's Distributing, LLC National Upholstery Association | |||
| 374 - 7th Anniversary Podcast | 13 Aug 2023 | 00:12:44 | |
Thank you to my listeners for their kindness and loyalty and friendship!
Links and Resources;
The Sew Much More Podcast is sponsored by; The Workroom Channel Scarlet Thread Consulting The WCAA The Curtains and Soft Furnishings Resource Library Merril Y Landis, LTD Angel's Distributing, LLC National Upholstery Association
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| 480 - September Reset | 07 Sep 2025 | 00:07:41 | |
LInks and Resources; Ann Johnson's Three Strikes Article The Sew Much More Podcast is sponsored by; Klimaka Studios The Workroom Channel Scarlet Thread Consulting The WCAA The Curtains and Soft Furnishings Resource Library National Upholstery Association Workroom Tech
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| 373 - Diane Girty - I Put Aside Everything I Didn't Like | 06 Aug 2023 | 00:54:12 | |
Diane Girty lives and operates New Skins Upholstery in Lasalle, Ontario, just south of Detroit. A 15-year veteran, she's known for her marine upholstery work, but also works with classic cars, golf carts, all-terrain vehicles, residential furniture, and such outdoor accessories as gazebos and cushions. Prior to this, Diane spent 32 years in accounting, ending that career as a major corporation's director of finance for Canada. She has two young-adult granddaughters who are learning the upholstery trade from her — one of whom has opened a shop in Edmonton — and loving it. Learn more about Diane on her Website or Instagram. Links and Resources; The Custom Workroom Conference Press and Snap | |||
| 372 - OT Series with Susan Woodcock | 30 Jul 2023 | 01:00:04 | |
Susan Woodcock is an entrepreneur, educator, and spokesperson for the custom workroom industry. She
Susan mentioned the Cocktail Party with NUA at CWC. Here is a link to register for that event. | |||
| 371 - Lisa Moore - Meet The New Owner of Home Sewing Depot | 23 Jul 2023 | 01:24:24 | |
Lisa Moore is a true AZ native, born and raised. She began sewing at the age of three on her mom's lap, learning tailoring from her. Lisa ran a successful alterations business from home between 1994 and 2008, and during that time, discovered the home decor arena, where she began learning about soft furnishings. In 2009, Sew Classic, a full service workroom, was established. 2021 brought the opportunity to purchase Home Sewing Depot, a professional sewing and workroom supply business that is dedicated to providing professional grade notions, tools, and workroom supplies to the start up workrooms, and DIY community. She currently employs a staff of 3, and operates both businesses from her property in Glendale, AZ.
Lisa is a member of the Phoenix Association of Workroom Professionals, since 2013, where she is currently acting President. She is also a member of the Slipcover Network.
Links and Resources; Michele Williams Pricing Without Emotion Kitty Stein's Price Your Work with Confidence Profit First by Mike Michalowicz Some of the links I provide, specifically to Amazon and a few others, require me to let you know that if you use those links and make a purchase, I will make some money. I won't make a million dollars, but I might be able to get a cup of coffee, so thank you! The Sew Much More Podcast is sponsored by; The Workroom Channel Scarlet Thread Consulting The WCAA The Curtains and Soft Furnishings Resource Library Merril Y Landis, LTD Angel's Distributing, LLC National Upholstery Association
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| 370 - Listener Favorite - Rodger Walker | 16 Jul 2023 | 01:12:21 | |
Rodger Walker retired from the City of Richmond, Virginia Fire Department in 2012, after a busy and exciting career. He moved to North Carolina that same year to marry the Love of His Life, Susan Woodcock. In 2013 they started Home Dec Gal, a workroom and educational resource. With years of experience planning events for non-profit organizations, Rodger was ready to help Susan produce the first Custom Workroom Conference in 2016. In 2017, Rodger and Susan opened Workroom Tech, a trade school for sewing professionals, in the charming town of Tryon in the mountains of Western North Carolina. Rodger is on Instagram Links and Resources; The Custom Workroom Conference The Sew Much More Podcast is sponsored by; The Workroom Channel Scarlet Thread Consulting The WCAA The Curtains and Soft Furnishings Resource Library Merril Y Landis, LTD Angel's Distributing, LLC National Upholstery Association
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| 369 - Karen Lander - I Love Trying New Things | 09 Jul 2023 | 01:22:29 | |
With over 30 years in business, Karen and her team at Drapery Design collaborate, with several nationally recognized interior design and architectural firms to execute the designer's vision for their clients. The focus is to create sophisticated, bespoke window coverings with customized detailing and manage the project in an organized and timely manner. Creating beautiful things from fabric has been an interest of Karen from an early age. Her work has been featured in magazines and Designer Showhouses and she has received many industry awards throughout her career. Karen is also a long-time member of the WCAA and has served on their national and local boards.
Links and Resources; Work with Passion: How to Do What You Love for a Living by Nancy Anderson What Does Scaling Your Business Mean to You? 30 Minutes with Workroom Tech Podcast | |||
| 368 - Kelly McGrory - The Pause is Everything | 02 Jul 2023 | 01:18:39 | |
Kelly McGrory is a woman of many interests, pursuits, and hobbies. She lives in Kennett Square, PA with her life partner and husband, William, and their faithful malinois, O'Neal. Kelly is the slipcover maker behind Covered & Stitched, a cottage industry workroom in Kennett Square, PA, where she has been stitching custom slipcovers since 2015. When Kelly is not making slipcovers, she is sketching, painting, hiking, running, gardening, reading, practicing yoga, meditating, or catching up with a dear friend.
Some of the links I provide, specifically to Amazon and a few others, require me to let you know that if you use those links and make a purchase, I will make some money. I won't make a million dollars, but I might be able to get a cup of coffee, so thank you! Steal Like an Artist by Austin Kleon Show Your Work by Austin Kleon The Sew Much More Podcast is sponsored by; The Workroom Channel Scarlet Thread Consulting The WCAA The Curtains and Soft Furnishings Resource Library Merril Y Landis, LTD Angel's Distributing, LLC National Upholstery Association
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| 367 - Listener Favorite OT Series - Two Sisters Ecotextiles | 25 Jun 2023 | 01:00:45 | |
Almost 20 years ago Leigh Anne was looking for fabric to reupholster her sofa. She found fabrics that were sophisticated, but not environmentally friendly; or "green" (mostly recycled polyester – actually a poor green choice), but not stylish. Even the fabrics claiming to be "organic" were processed with chemicals that were harmful to people and the planet - and many of those chemicals remain in the fabric. Since Leigh couldn't find a company that was creating entirely safe but gorgeous fabrics using organic or sustainable methods and using zero plastic (polyester, nylon, etc), she enlisted her sister, Patty, and together they formed Two Sisters Ecotextiles, to "change the way textiles are being made." You can find Two Sisters Ecotextiles on Instagram and Facebook.
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| 366 - Barbara Holley - I Had the Patience To Do It Right | 18 Jun 2023 | 00:54:08 | |
Barbara Holley was a systems analyst for Sunbeam Corporation and quit her job to be a stay-at-home mom. She enjoyed decorating her home and her friends and neighbors' homes as well. Her ability to sew was the big thing that made her able to magically transform a room. Barbara's husband's job moved them to Texas and her neighbor across the street was opening a drapery workroom in her garage. Barbara would go over and help her for free and was more excited about the projects than the owner was! Her neighbor soon grew tired of the business and Barbara went to work for a local workroom. She knocked on doors, made sales and then created the treatments. When that workroom closed, she picked up where they left off, bought equipment from another drapery shop, converted her garage and worked from home. In 1996, Barbara opened a retail shop and was in business with a partner for 9 years. She sold that business and opened Holley's Window Fashions in 2005. Barbara recently sold that business to her daughter and son-in-law and is now enjoying being employed without the stress of running a business.
Links and Resources; 30 Minutes with Workroom Tech Podcast 75 - What Does Scaling Mean to You? | |||
| 365 - Margie Nance - Everything I've Learned Has Brought Me to Where I am Today | 11 Jun 2023 | 01:15:26 | |
| 364 - Loretta McGranaghan - When It Turns Out Right, You Hear the Angels Sing! | 04 Jun 2023 | 00:57:12 | |
Loretta McGranaghan is the owner and President of Loretta's Designs, LLC. She has been in the business for more than 30 years as a workroom, servicing retail & wholesale clients. They offer many services including soft treatments (panels, shades, cushions, cornices/valances, etc.), hard treatments (shutters, wood blinds, woven wood shades, etc.), fabrics, hardware & faux painting. Loretta's Designs also offers a full interior design service. Loretta received her Interior design degree from the Art Institute of Philadelphia & studied Fine Arts at Rosemont College. Loretta is proud to say that although she graduated from a prestigious institute of education she is a self-taught sewer. Instagram: lorettasdesigns LinkedIn: loretta-mcgranaghan Loretta's Designs
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| 479 - Bob Gallic - Our Goal is a Beautiful Finished Product | 31 Aug 2025 | 01:02:08 | |
With over 30 years in the interior design industry, Bob Gallic has founded and led multiple successful firms specializing in custom upholstery, window treatments, and automated shading. His work spans major markets from New York and Miami to Chicago and Vail. Bob maintains close collaborations with clients and interior designers, working discreetly and efficiently to bring design visions to life while exceeding expectations every step of the way.
Workroom Services is on Instagram The Sew Much More Podcast is sponsored by; Klimaka Studios The Workroom Channel Scarlet Thread Consulting The WCAA The Curtains and Soft Furnishings Resource Library National Upholstery Association Workroom Tech
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| 363 - Opportunity Thinking Series with Taylor Angel | 28 May 2023 | 00:51:00 | |
Links and Resources; My first interview with Taylor in Podcast Episode 259 Taylor's Podcast with Kate the Socialite
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| 362 -Justin Dazey - Hire Professionals and Expect Them to Act Professionally | 21 May 2023 | 01:28:41 | |
Justin began his journey into the world of furniture and soft goods working in and managing antique showrooms. After receiving a degree in Interior Design, he began working in a full-service Design and built-to-order luxury home furnishings showroom. He designed residential interiors, attended market as a showroom buyer, and eventually opened a satellite location as Design Director and Showroom Manager before leaving the Design profession in search of a new challenge. Now nine years into his career in Upholstery, Justin draws heavily on his past experience in the antique and design fields to inform his work as a prior Studio Director and Current lead upholsterer working for Castillo's Custom Upholstery in Seattle Washington. When not in the workroom or the studio, you can find him contributing as a co-administrator of the Professional Upholsterers Network, or at the helm of his latest personal side project, "Foxglove Artisan LLC" created to explore upholstery and adjacent craft, education, research, and training opportunities. Justin is on Instagram Links and Resources; National Upholstery Association Professional Upholsterers Network of Facebook The Power of Habit by Charles Duhigg The Sew Much More Podcast is sponsored by; The Workroom Channel Scarlet Thread Consulting The WCAA The Curtains and Soft Furnishings Resource Library Merril Y Landis, LTD Angel's Distributing, LLC National Upholstery Association | |||
| 361 - Frances Pusch on Retirement | 14 May 2023 | 01:07:08 | |
Frances Pusch has worked with textiles in some form her entire professional career. Her training includes art school and a bachelor's degree in textile design from Boston University. She also studied tailoring and fashion design at the Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT). During twelve years in New York, Frances worked for two leading textile companies, had a custom tailor shop, was a pattern-maker for outerwear companies, including London Fog, and taught tailoring and pattern-making at FIT. As a business owner, she has made men's and women's custom suits, designed and produced a collection of women's clothing, and later a line of gift items for dog lovers. Her sole focus, starting in 2002, has been creating fine products for home interiors. Frances keeps her business up-to-date by actively participating in online discussion groups and webinars, as well as traveling to conferences and workshops around the country. She is always searching for better techniques, resources and technology—all the while keeping hand stitching alive and well! Her professional affiliations include the Window Coverings Association of America, the Drapery and Design Professional Network, and the Maine Women's Business Network. Frances lives in an 1848 cape-style house, next door to her studio, in a small village in coastal Maine. When not working, she is most often found playing with her rescue dog, Tilly, or on a tennis court, or enjoying the company of art, music, books and friends.
Links and Resources; First Podcast with Frances Pusch - #53 - I Followed What Made Me Happy Profit First by Mike Michalowicz
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| 360 - Elaine Parry - I Just Keep Going for Things | 07 May 2023 | 00:52:50 | |
Elaine Parry is English, born in London and brought up in Bath. Elaine studied retail design in Paris and worked in haute couture boutiques and soft furnishings for over 20 years before moving to the countryside in Touraine. She has two grown-up children who have gone back to England to work and study. Elaine is surrounded by chateaux, vineyards, and forests and has two miniature donkeys, three miniature sheep, two cats, and a little cairn terrier who keep me busy when not sewing. Elaine owns Pretty Petite Choses and she can be found on Instagram. Links and Resources; Houles Declercq | |||
| 359 - Resources Revisited | 30 Apr 2023 | 00:25:52 | |
Podcast 240 - Resources for Your Business Laura Nelson's Artice in the Drapery & Design Digital Digest Jill Robson's Policies & Procedures Webinars (Available to PRO Access and PRO Plus members of the Curtains & Soft Furnishings Resource Library) Donna Skufis's Calendar Blocking The Sew Much More Podcast is sponsored by; The Workroom Channel Scarlet Thread Consulting The WCAA The Curtains and Soft Furnishings Resource Library Merril Y Landis, LTD Angel's Distributing, LLC National Upholstery Association
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| 358 - Listener Favorite - Laurie Medford | 23 Apr 2023 | 01:36:41 | |
What a thrill is was for me to interview Laurie Medford on today's podcast! Laurie joined the window treatment industry in 1983. Her workroom Centsible Creations specialized in window treatments, bedding, and upholstery. Laurie was an upholstery instructor at the Custom Home Furnishings Academy in Charlotte, N.C., and has written how-to articles for multiple magazines. From 2009 to 2018, Laurie worked for Rowley Company as an educator. In addition to her workroom experience, Laurie is an expert at crochet and shares her ideas and talents by teaching beginning through advanced classes both in the U.S. and internationally at conferences and seminars. In her spare time, Laurie enjoys testing patterns for international designers of yarn art. In 2021 Laurie joined Workroom Tech in Tryon, N.C. as an instructor for professional workroom courses. Laurie is on Facebook | |||
| 357 - Listener Favorite - Jennifer Franco | 16 Apr 2023 | 00:57:19 | |
Jennifer Csanyi is the owner of Jennifer's Sewing Studio located in Cocoa, Fl. Jennifer has been sewing most of her life and learned from her grandmother, a wonderful and patient teacher. Jennifer started her business as a single mother, needing to create more income for her family. She is focused on educating herself to increase her skills and confidence. When Jennifer attended the Custom Workroom Conference for the first time it was a life-changing event for her and her business and she had the pleasure of meeting Ceil and Susan while there and many other wonderful workroom owners and workers. Jennifer has also been taking virtual classes with Susan. The classes have been fantastic and she has learned so much from them! She is also a member of the WCAA virtual group and has recently been elected President. Links and Resources; Some of the links I provide, specifically to Amazon and a few others, require me to let you know that if you use those links and make a purchase, I will make some money. I won't make a million dollars, but I might be able to get a cup of coffee, so thank you! The Slip Cover Network Facebook Page The Custom Workroom Conference Kim Chagnon/Kim's Upholstery Fit-Like-A-Glove Slipcovers with Jeanelle Dech Slipcovers by Shelly Workroom Tech- check the WRT Website for upcoming slipcover classes (and lots of others!) with Emily Petit Kitty Stein's Book Singer(R) Sewing Custom Curtains, Shades, and Top Treatments: A Complete Step-by-Step Guide to Making and Installing Window Decor by Susan Woodcock The Sew Much More Podcast is sponsored by; The Workroom Channel Scarlet Thread Consulting The WCAA The Curtains and Soft Furnishings Resource Library Merril Y Landis, LTD Angel's Distributing, LLC National Upholstery Association | |||
| 356 - Opportunity Thinking Series - Meet Jessica Harling | 09 Apr 2023 | 00:58:25 | |
With unwavering conviction, Jessica Harling can break down complex decisions to simplify an action plan. Her dynamic problem-solving can confront potential obstacles proactively and energize any team, making others feel valued to achieve their ambitious company goals. She is the founder of Behind the Design, a People Operations company that enthusiastically collaborates with leadership to build dream teams! From recruiting to training and process development, their intuition for creating strong emotional connections discovers and nurtures rockstar talent with established streamlined processes that impact the company's bottom line.
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| 355 - Excellence vs Perfection | 02 Apr 2023 | 00:10:07 | |
I wonder if any of you were as impressed with the idea of Excellence rather than Perfectionism as I was. Please let me know what you thought about Jeanne Swartz's conversation on her podcast.
Links and Resources; Growth Mindset: The New Psychology of Success by Carole Dweck | |||
| 354 - Re-release of Jean Lawes and the Jill Robson Scholarship | 26 Mar 2023 | 01:36:41 | |
Jean Lawes has been a guest on the podcast a few times, and on this episode, she shares what winning the Jill Robson Scholarship meant to her. You have until April 30th, 2023 to apply for the Scholarship. Visit WCAA's Scholarship webpage to find out more. Ann K. Johnson's Workroom Skills Class The Complete Book of Curtains and Drapes Lady Carolyn Wrey Bluprint is back to Craftsy - Cynthia Blescakchek's class - Getting Started with Upholstery Curtains and Soft Furnishings Resource Library
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| 478 - Listener Favorite - Rhonda Shananhan | 24 Aug 2025 | 01:18:12 | |
Rhonda Shanahan, owner of The Whimsical Chair, learned to sew growing up in Iowa from her grandmother and mother. They taught her their passion for sewing and creating with beautiful fabrics. Rhonda received her degree in fashion merchandising. After college she moved to Kansas and worked in retail sales and display. When Rhonda got married and started her family she was able to stay home with their 3 kids. Once her kids all started school she had extra time during the day. There was an upholstery class through her local extension office in Wichita Kansas so she decided to give it a try. Her first project was a wingback chair and she was hooked. She worked on several pieces for her own home. It was wonderful to be able to restore and refurbish antique and vintage chairs. Rhonda and her family moved to Colorado in 2012 and she continued to learn with upholstery education online. Friends and family started asking if she would do chairs and settees for their homes. This was the start of The Whimsical Chair. Links and Resources; Kim's Upholstery
The Sew Much More Podcast is sponsored by; Klimaka Studios The Workroom Channel Scarlet Thread Consulting The WCAA The Curtains and Soft Furnishings Resource Library National Upholstery Association Workroom Tech
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| 353 - Jeanne Henzel Swartz - We Strive for Excellence Not Perfection | 19 Mar 2023 | 01:37:24 | |
Jeanne Henzel is a creative artist with the mind of an engineer. She practices the kind of visionary magic that comes from a degree in fine art and a background in theatre design and theatrical costume crafts. Theatre requires couture-level quality with bomb-proof design — costumes that can be used over and over and modified from frog to princess and back again. It is wonderful training for a creative problem solver. Her work has appeared in the theatre, in museums, and in beautiful homes throughout California and the United States. You can see Jeanne's work here on her website. She is also on Instagram. Links and Resources; Kim Buckminster - YouTube channel Louise Turner - Gareth R. - Upholstery Education PUN group on Facebook NUA Kitty Stein's Book - Price Your Work with Confidence Michele Williams Pricing without Emotion Splashtop - anywhere access for multiple people VA in Montana Seemless admin Amber Robertson Zoho desk Turboscan document scanning app | |||
| 352 - Michele Fugazy - Networking is Everything | 12 Mar 2023 | 00:58:24 | |
Michele Fugazy is the owner of a to the trade soft furnishings and hard treatment window coverings company in Fairfield County CT since 2000. Prior to this, Michele worked for 12 years as a fashion industry executive designing & selling accessories in NYC, making biannual trips to Europe, India, & Japan working on product development and fabrication. Her garment center experience provided the foundation for owning her own business. Michele Fugazy Designs for the Home Michele is on Instagram
Links and Resources; Some of the links I provide, specifically to Amazon and a few others, require me to let you know that if you use those links and make a purchase, I will make some money. I won't make a million dollars, but I might be able to get a cup of coffee, so thank you! Working with Soft Furnishings by Charlotte Dunkerley Episode 64 - Adding Hard Treatments to Your Workroom Business with Freddie Graves The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People by Steven Covey
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| 351 - Listener Favorite - Jean Lawes and Cindi Gray - Partnering Up! | 05 Mar 2023 | 01:14:27 | |
Jean Lawes is the owner of HomeStyle Workroom, LLC, a Custom Workroom to the Trade, located in Jarrettsville, Maryland. With an extensive background in Sewing and Design, Jean is thrilled to be working with outstanding Interior Designers in Maryland, Pennsylvania, and New Jersey. Thanks to Jeanelle Dech's marvelous "Real Workrooms" series, she met her "partner in crime," Cindi Gray, owner of Manor Decorative Services. Fabricating, and collaborating together (two business ventures working in a cooperative), they truly make a Dynamic Duo! Cindi Gray learned to love sewing as a small child and eventually leveraged that love into a business when she established Manor Decorative Services in 1999 in her home in Monkton MD. This allowed her a flexible schedule to be available to her family, as well as allowing her to earn a degree in Interior Design from Harford Community College. She has recently joined forces with Jean Lawes of Homestyle Workroom LLC, working together to create beautiful window treatments for local designers. Links and Resources; I've attached a pdf in the show notes, if you want Jean and Cindi's Excel spreadsheet, just send me an email; ceilwdi@gmail.com You can see the Real Workroom Tours on The Workroom Channel's YouTube site. Ann Johnson's Workroom Skills Class If you would like the sheets Jean mentioned, please email me at ceilwdi@gmail.com and I will send them to you. The Sew Much More Podcast is sponsored by; The Workroom Channel Scarlet Thread Consulting The WCAA The Curtains and Soft Furnishings Resource Library Merril Y Landis, LTD Angel's Distributing, LLC National Upholstery Association | |||