Vintage Needlepoint Pillows

One of my favorite things to collect has been vintage needlepoint pieces. I would always keep an eye out at garage sales, flea markets, and Ebay. I'd look for bouquets of flowers done in pleasing palettes. My heart would race if I happened across petite point. That is the technique of using super small stitching, usually reserved for the highly detailed center image. It always made me feel a little nostalgic for days before TV, when ladies would retire to their needlework at day's end.

 I would re-imagine the tapestry as the focal point of a pillow design. Coordinating velvets, damasks, and fringe would be selected and off to the cottage I'd go. So much fun! The pillow below was made with a piece salvaged from a vintage piano bench. The completed pillow measured a full 36" long.

I knew I was onto something by the response  I'd get from customers. This beauty below barely made it to the shop before she was claimed by an eager shopper. I think it had been out all of 5 minutes before it sold.

Do you have a closet full of needlepoint that you don't know what to do with? Is there a special heirloom made by your favorite Aunt Edna? Let me help you with finishing it into a pillow. It would be my pleasure to do so.  

Prices start at $35 for labor. It includes washing and blocking of your needlepoint piece. Provide your own fabric and trim or use my stash of materials to compliment your unique creation. Email me with any questions. I look forward to hearing from you...

My pillows on Wedding Chicks blog

So, my uber talented friend Jeni (Found Vintage Rentals) and I were playing phone tag. We finally connected as she was walking out the door to a photo shoot. "Do you have any pillows already made that I can take with me? I'm leaving right now."

"Of course! Come on by," I replied.

Long story short... right place, right time... and POOF! 

 (Like magic) 

 I'm getting mentioned on Wedding Chicks Blog for supplying pillows in one of their stories.

The pictures are amazing! 

Thanks Jeni for thinking of me : ) You're the best!

If you see anything that you like, let me know. I can make you your own pillows to cozy up with.

Facebook Page, blog, email, pinterest....

inspiration from my garden

So... I am muddling my way through all the different ways that social media and technology can be used and linked. I'm at a loss when it comes to the best way to communicate what is going on with me and Cottage by Design. I have a facebook page, this blog, email, etsy, twitter, a physical studio address, snail mail, and my phone. Are you as confused as I am when it comes to contacting me?

Well, I hope to clear up some of that! I am working on having a products page...something that you can click and check out easily. Until that day, a phone call to my cell (714.350.3187) or an email to mrslemon@sbcglobal.net is the best way to get a hold of me. I'm usually able to get back to you within the day, 7 days a week.

I'm a small operation with direct communication. My studio, workroom, and supplies are 50 feet away in my cottage and garage. Items get packaged and shipped out without any red tape. Using Paypal, invoicing your orders is easy and immediate. You can rest assured that your payment is secure using any major credit card. 


So what is it that I make? Lots of stuff! Pictures are better... here are a few of past jobs.

outdoor cushions

custom slipcovers

 

 

custom pillows

basket liners with vintage trim

custom lampshades

yards and yards of romantic fabrics

squishy dog beds

pocket rod curtains

tablecloths

Here's what previous customers have said about their experience with me:

• After several e-mails back and forth, Trish Banner of sent me this wonderful package. The pillowcase is made with beautiful white linen, trimmed with gorgeous antique lace. I can't say enough good things about Trish. I was so pleased that I immediately requested another custom order! I'll post on that soon. (From Trina's blog, A Country Farmhouse)

• Love, love, love the Market Tote! Beautifully made with first quality materials! Trish was easy to work with, made the bag within a day and shipped and received it here in Georgia within just a few days! Who could ask for more? I plan to order from her again....probably Totes for gifts as well as slipcovers! Thank you, Trish!

• Beautiful bag! It was a pleasure to work with Trish, and I'm sure I will return for more of her quality products.

cottage floral style pillows