Friday, June 29, 2012

New Direction

I have been brainstorming for over a year to come up with a way to work from home as my days off of work would allow. I have enjoyed re-purposing and still have a few projects I would like to finish, but it takes time and a lot of expense. Many of you know I try to maintain a very busy schedule so time is of the essence.  I have a love for textiles and even though I don't know how to sew, I wanted to find a way to create with beautiful materials!

My husband has lovingly been a huge help and support to get me started as well as a few others who have passed along their knowledge and expertise in the fields of board cutting and design; Jermaine Franks, Billy Stanfield and of course my dearest family and closest friends! 

There are few things that are necessary to make headboards so I have been learning a lot recently in the world of power tools!  It has been so much fun!

It has also been a lot of trial and error when it comes to the design of the headboards as well. I have 16 different styles but trying to work without templates has posed to be quite a challenge. 

I wanted the first headboard design to be for our bedroom.  I had a fun opportunity to go to Mill Village Outlet in Raleigh and this place is every sewer’s and upholsterer's dream come true! You literally get lost in this store with all the rows and rows of fabrics galore. This is where I have bought all of my upholstery products. The prices per yard are reasonably priced and I can't wait to go back to what’s become my new favorite shop! 

Speaking of shop, we set up “shop” in our garage and it has worked out very well for the time being. I have designed and created two boards so far, fit for a queen and a twin bed. I have an amazing job lined up at a cute little shop here in Smithfield.  Peggy Scott owns Curtain Calls and she designs custom window treatments, shades and blinds. She has offered to advertise for me by designing a small scale board for her shop. She has been great to work with and a joy to get to know! She has also given me excellent resources for all my products as well!

I am just now working on my business cards but would love if my followers would help me spread the word to help my change in direction become a success!
 
I would love to invent and create one for one or all of the lovely rooms in your home. Please feel free to contact me with any questions you may have! - jilliannesdesigns@gmail.com

Here are two of the boards I have completed. 


Thursday, June 7, 2012

Nautical Wonder Revealed

I exhausted my search for several weeks to find the perfect canopy to compliment my turquoise beauty,but there were two that I fell head over heels for.

Unfortunately, one shade fit the ocean vision I was trying to achieve, whereas the other one fell into another category all its own. The mustard yellow shade complimented the hue of the lamp strikingly, but the piece itself would be a tough to incorporate into a specific decor. So, I resolved to stay true to my original concept, and although the thought of parting with the yellow shade was all too much, I decided to keep it to use for another design project!

Here's hoping my transformed nautical wonder will find its place in a lovely beach house or in a space inspired by the sea!