Wednesday, April 29, 2009

Sun-sational outdoor fabrics


The warm weather of the past week has reminded us that it is time to give a little attention to our outdoor living areas. These outside gathering places should be just as inviting as our indoor spaces. New products for outdoor use are constantly being introduced - from furniture and carpeting, to lighting and even privacy panels. One of the hardest working design elements that gets better every year is outdoor fabrics. Colors and textures have improved to the point that often they cannot be distinguished from many indoor textiles. Yet, they are washable and fade resistant. In fact, these fabrics stand up to the sun and stains so beautifully that we recommend them for many indoor applications such as window seat cushions, slipcovers, and leading edge banding (so as to protect shades and drapery from strong sunlight). On the patio, they can be incorporated into cushions, pillows, tablecloths, runners, placemats, awnings, umbrellas, privacy panels (just about anything under the sun - pun intended). Consider creating some outdoor comfort for your home using these great patterns from Kravet.

Monday, March 16, 2009

Totally unrelated to window treatments - Random Acts of Kindness

Despite the bad news we hear on a daily basis, stories about random acts of kindness are being shared. Recently, NBC Nightly News ran a series that highlighted stories about people helping others just because it was a nice thing to do. This is the kind of news we need to hear. A friend sent this story which I thought I would share.
http://www.irishtimes.com/newspaper/magazine/2009/0228/1224241795032.html?utm_source=Ode+Newsletters&utm_campaign=d853211259-daily-rss&utm_medium=email

If you take a moment to notice, opportunities to help others are all around you. Just yesterday, as I was visiting Boathouse Row in Philadelphia, a stranger asked to use my cell phone because she had lost her car key while running. I was surprised when she told me that she had already asked several people who would not help her. I suppose I'm grateful that they all said no. I got the opportunity to say yes and to be rewarded with that warm and fuzzy feeling that you get when you help someone else.

Thursday, March 12, 2009

Sprucing up for Spring



Can you believe in just a week spring will be upon us? I can't wait to ditch my coat! As for our most recent incoming design inquiries, I sense a growing desire to cast off heavy winter decor in favor of lighter, more playful colors. To celebrate spring, I've put together an irresistible collection of fabrics and that adorable nest tassel. To see more of these great fabrics, visit http://www.greenhousedesign.net/

Sunday, January 18, 2009

Link to Extreme Makeover: Home Edition recognition page

We're listed on the "As Featured On page". Look for the Drumm Family episode and scroll down to the listings under Ty's Secret Project.
http://abc.go.com/shows/extreme-makeover-home-edition/as-featured-on/drumm-family/165258
I love the way this room turned out.
Let me know what you think after the show!

Wednesday, January 7, 2009

Battling The Elements

During these cold winter days, it is wise to consider how much of your heating dollars are flying out the windows. Even if your home has the most energy efficient windows available, heat can escape during the winter and, with just a touch to the glass, you can feel the cold air entering. In the summer, the heat of the sun passing through a closed window can quickly warm up a room. This heat transfer forces your air conditioner to work harder to keep your home comfortable.

Carefully planned window treatments can help you get better control over how these external elements affect your home's interior. The following is an excerpt from the US Department of Energy's - Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy website.

http://apps1.eere.energy.gov/consumer/your_home/windows_doors_skylights/index.cfm/mytopic=13500

A Consumer's Guide to Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy
Window Treatments and Coverings
You can choose window treatments or coverings not only for decoration but also for saving energy. Some carefully selected window treatments can reduce heat loss in the winter and heat gain in the summer. They include the following:
Awnings
Blinds
Draperies
High-reflectivity
films

Insulated
panels

Mesh
window screens

Overhangs
Shades
Shutters
Storm
panels
.
Window treatments, however, aren't effective at reducing air leakage or infiltration. You need to caulk and weatherstrip around windows to reduce air leakage.

Learn More
Professional Services
Directory of Home DecorProfessionals
Window Coverings Association of America


All Sewn Up, LLC offers a variety of treatments that will help you battle the elements. With our help, you can create a little comfort in your home.