IWC Expo in Atlanta in May

Pam Damour who will be organizing the Construction Zone would like to have Slipcovers being cut and sewn on the show floor.

Is anyone available to help and talk about the Slipcover Network at this show?

I cannot be there.

Let me know ASAP

Karen
slipcovernetwork@gmail.com

Looking for Fabrics!

I am having a very hard time finding washable fabric for slipcovers. Right now I am looking for off-white cotton, linen, or hemp with textured slubs. Can anyone you help me?

Susan Burns
Custom Cottage Slipcovers
Customcottageslipcovers.com

Slipcovering in San Diego

Can anyone help?

I just had a request to make a slipcover for a large couch. It is a perfect candidate for slipcovers. The problem is, she lives in San Diego, CA and I live in Chicago. I told her that I would not be able to do this long distance, but I would try to find someone near her. I am contacting you to see if you know any one in the San Diego area that does slipcovers.

Thanks!!

Tamara Roberts
Maywood Designs
Yorkville, IL 60560
maywooddesigns@hotmail.com

Silk Film as Demonstrated at Slipcover Summit 2009

Use silk film with your shop vac to quickly draw down foam to manageable size for stuffing into the cushion cover.

To the trade: Sunshine Foam Rubber Co. 1-800-688-7648 Ask for Brian Weaver and mention the Slipcover Summit.

Another source: Active Foam Products, Inc. 1-800-728-4567 Ask for Dennis Stanczack and mention Slipcover Summit.

Workroom Buttons

Workroom Buttons has some great ideas for embellishing Slipcovers. Dede will be doing a workshop about buttons and more at the Slipcover Summit June 24-26th in Seattle.

Designs by Mara

Designs by Mara Inc
Mara is our host for the Slipcover Summit 2009
in Seattle, Washington

Laura Nelson, owner of Sew Nice Custom Window Treatments and More

Nice article in the Sunday paper about Laura Nelson's statehouse job!
http://www.jconline.com/article/20090208/BUSINESS/902080335

Slipcover Design Contest for 2009

Slipcover Design Contest. It's time to begin.............

Therese Davis in class at Vogue Fabrics

You could win 1st place and classes at the Next Slipcover Summit in 2010!

click here for the 2009 Brochure

click here for the application to enter

Kim Needs Our Input.... Help

How to make a cushion to allow for the open shutters?

We decided to make a center cushion and then 2 bolsters. The picture with the shutters open doesn't show clearly - but with them open, the bolsters either have to sit over the edge of the seat, or sit on either side of the center cushion.



It's an ok solution BUT the bolsters don't really go with the mid century modern style of the rest of the furniture (The Knoll sofa is slipcovered!)

Initially I made them with no buttons to create a geometric look, but she didn't like that...

I added the buttons and that was better, but really she just doesn't like bolsters.

Can anyone see a creative solution for 2 side cushions that can be placed in a presentable and functional manner with the shutters open?

The center cushion must be used - can't start over from scratch.

BlogTalkRadio Share Show Widget

Making a Slipcover from an Old Slipcover

Hello!

I attended the Slipcover Summit last June and could really use your expert opinion in this situation! I am making 2 slipcovers long distance and so do not have the chair. The customer wanted me to make the covers from an existing old cover, so she sent it to me and I took it apart and made patterns from it.

The problem is that the outside back is about 3/4 of an inch shorter than the sides which is causing me grief in inserting the zipper. The keyholes match up with the front of the outside arms and deck perfectly. The actual back pattern piece is correct too. Would it be ok to trim the outside arm 3/4 of an inch shorter where it meets the zipper and taper it to the halfway point of the outside arm piece along the bottom edge?

I realize the old pieces have probably stretched a bit out of shape, so that my patterns are not perfect. The crazy thing is that I can stretch the pieces enough to make the seams match on the left back where there is no zipper, but cannot do so on the right side with the zipper.

Any help would be appreciated.Sincerely, Jenise LeMaySew L'eMayzing www.sewlemayzingwindows.com

Motor Home Makeover

Wow look what Burgundi ThureOckes has done to the inside of a motor home.

Is this fun or what?

Write her if you'd like to know more about the fabrics that she used.

b.sewrose@yahoo.com

Slipcover Network

How to Put On a Slipcover

slipcovers vs re-upholstery

Uploaded on authorSTREAM by HomeFashionU

Southern Living Magazine

Look who's work is in the January issue of Southern Living, why it is our own Kendrah.... from Savannah. We love Them!

Cover in Style
Pages 58-60: Slipcovers by Kendrah White Galassi, Savannah, Georgia, www.savvysewing.com or (912) 695-5667; design by Jane Coslick, Jane Coslick Designs & Restorations, Savannah, www.janecoslick.com or (912) 354-8602. For information on Diane Kaufman’s vacation rental cottages in Tybee Island, Georgia, contact Mermaid Cottages, www.mermaidcottages.com or (912) 313-0784.

10th Anniverary Calendar is Ready.....

Our Calendar is ready and 4 Sale....You are going to Love it, if you love Slipcovers

6 winners from 2007-08

12 slipcovers artistic professionals showing their slipcovers.

Calendar is available, plus note cards and post cards.

All proceeds go toward the scholarship we are giving to attend the Slipcover Summit in Seattle.

Right now we can only afford to give 1 scholarship, but if we earn enough from calendar sales we may be able to award another scholarship.

here is the link to cafe press: http://www.cafepress.com/SlipcoverNetwrk.344651608

Amy Walker and Penny....Coming to Texas in February.

I am looking for Amy Walker and Penny who live in Austin.

I will be in Dallas around Valentines but would love to do a workshop in Austin for Slipcovers.

Amy or Penny is that possible?

Let me know

Karen
slipcovernetwork@gmail.com

Happy Holidays to Everyone

Please go to the Slipcover Network blog and view my holiday greeting to you...

It's time to party.............

Snow bound

always
Karen with Slipcover America...............

Slipcover Network

Send your own ElfYourself eCards

Slipcover Network Directory

Slipcover Network Directory is being updated. http://www.slipcovernetwork.com/

If you currently have a listing on the Directory page of the Slipcover Network website, you may now have a small image of your slipcover posted there.

Send us your photo and your membership renewal.

slipcovernetwork@gmail.com

Thanks

Karen

Slipcover Book of the Month

Slipcover Style: Easy-To-Make Covers for
Chairs, Sofas, Bed and Tables

Revitalize home decor with 26 easy-to-make projects- Create classic and contemporary slipcovers for chairs, sofas, beds, and tables - Presents clear step-by-step instructions and illustrations.

Why not complete your library of Slipcover Books.

Consider ordering at a reduced rate from eCampus.com

click here to search for this book and others

Slipcover Summit Host Hotel will be

Embassy Suites is our host hotel. We will be spending the days at Designs by Mara Studio and Workroom and by night sleeping in a wonderful hotel.

Plan to share your room with one or 2 people... Every room is a Suite...

Breakfast is included in the price of the room.... Cocktails are included at the end of the day also.

Plus there is a shuttle that can take us back and forth to the Slipcover Summit.

Our special dinner (Thursday night) will be in Edmonds on the waterfront.

Take the tour of the hotel... here is the link http://embassysuites1.hilton.com/en_US/es/hotel/SEALWES-Embassy-Suites-Seattle-North-Lynnwood-Washington/photoGallery.do

Slipcover Summit..2009 Seattle Washington

Plan to arrive early or stay a day longer









Downtown Seattle









This is the Edmonds Ferry


Acutally we will be in Montlake Terrace... just North of Seattle...

Slipcover Summit 2008 ...

New Slipcovers from Kathy

before

after

Kathy Phillips

Seattle, HERE WE COME!

I'm getting really excited about the 2009 Slipcover Summit!

I'll be repeating the skirt class, but with more time for class samples and discussion. My new button class offers TONS of different ways you can add buttons to slipcovers, and the fun, crafty things you can do with them ("thank you" gifts for clients, raffle donations to promote your business, etc.). Class samples galore to take home, along with source lists for materials - nothing held back!

*happy dance*

Call for Class Proposals for Slipcover Summit 2009

Call for Class Proposals for Slipcover Summit 2009

Now it is time to submit your ideas for classes for the Slipcover Summit 2009 which will be in Seattle, Washington.The Summit will be held at Designs by Mara in Mount Lake Terrace not far from downtown Seattle.

If you have an idea for a class, or would like to teach a class you submit include that in your proposal to slipcovernetwork@gmail.com .

All ideas and proposals must be submitted before August 25, 2008.

Proposals will be voted upon, and decided by mid-September.

3rd Place Winner: Slipcover Network Design Contest 2008

The 3rd place winner was Julie Van Ormer
from Dimebox Designs in Scottsdale, AZ.

2nd Place Winner: Slipcover Design Contest 2008

The 2nd place winner was Laura Nelson
from Sew Nice in West Lafayette, IN.

And the Winners IS

Slipcover Design Contest 2008 had 9 remarkable participants who submitted fantastically beautiful slipcovers. Unfortunately those at the Summit could only vote for 3.

1st Place 2008 Slipcover Design Contest
is
Therese Davis
of
Sew Your Home, Barrington, Il.

Therese Davis
http://www.picturetrail.com/theresed

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
2nd Place Winner:
Laura Nelson of Sew Nice
West Lafayette, Indiana

soon to have photo up on blog

3rd Place Winner:
Julie Van Ormer of Dimebox Designs
Colleyville, Texas

soon to have photo up on blog

2008 was INDY: 2009 will be SEATTLE

2008 Indy Slipcover Summit participants

What a great time was had by all. Heads full of new information with items of the past brought to the surface once again. 3 days filled with information about Slipcovers, how to, why, fabrics, methods, and more. It is impossible to share it all.

So there will be more.

Slipcover Certification Survey is almost ready to be sent out to those who are considering becoming Certified as a Slipcover Professional through the Slipcover Network. So watch for this soon....

• For those who attended take what you learned an apply it.
• Go over your notes, write down what you'd like to achieve.
• Stay connected via this blog, or other network groups.
• Monthly report your results to others.

Start saving $$ to attend the Slipcover Summit 2009 in Seattle, Washington the last week of June.

always
Karen
www.homefashionsu.com
www.slipcovernetwork.com
www.slipcoveramerica.com
Home Fashion U Online Classes

Thank You Slipcover Summit Students

To my wonderful students... THANK YOU!!!

I couldn't have asked for a nicer first class - you (all) breezed serenely through those, um... unfortunate rough spots (like, oh... trying to cram six hours of material into three...).

If you have any questions about any of them; indeed, about ANYTHING from class, please don't hesitate to contact me. I'm so grateful to everyone - I learned so much about teaching, and your kindness (and patience) was very dearly appreciated!

You're THE BEST!!!

Sincerely,
Dede
West Village Home
Custom Cushions and Slipcovers

PS: There were questions about how I attach a skirt with a finished seamed edge. I'll take photos of the process for the Slipcover Press, because while the process is easy, it's hard to explain.

Slipcover Summit: Wonderful Venue

Thank you Karen and all for providing a wonderful venue of classes at the Slipcover Summit 2008 in Indy.

I learned so much and I now have the confidence to step forward and make a quality product. I didn't know this type of training was available anywhere.

Now to get to work and make some money! I have already considered how I can take these skills on the road with me when we travel during the winter months. I know there are RV'rs who would love to have new coverings for their sofa beds and dinette seating.

Thanks again for all your hard work.

Roberta Davis
ASG Member in Indy

Slipcover Summit in Indy 2008

Thank you again for everything!!!!

The main reason I was able to attend the 2008 Slipcover Summit in Indianapolis is that I won the Slipcover Design Contest in Boston last year. The prize for winning the contest was a free attendance to the next Summit which for me was 2008.

As a winner of the Slipcover Design Contest, Karen submitted several press releases to local papers and I was very surprised when they were printed. That was also a bonus beyond the 1st place prize!

At this years Summit I felt very privileged being surrounded by so many great teachers. I learned so much from all the teachers and the great variety of classes. I especially want to mention Bernice’s hands on class “Slipcover on the Half”. This class alone was worth the trip for me. I have the confidence to cut in the customer’s home for the first time since I started making slipcovers. This new process will increase my speed and profit. I cannot wait to try it out and my husband will be happy when he doesn’t have to pick up and deliver sofas.

The lunch time speakers were great. We had a visit from the local J Ennis Company representative and Dede’s great lunchtime snap button tufting example. Dede O’Hare shared a wealth of information at the Summit with all of us. Then there was the evening class on fabric vendors. Karen Erickson and Angie Knowles spoke of the new green fabric craze and gave many resources to offer to our customers. Everyone shared their favorite slipcover fabric vendors and we were given a printed listing with phone numbers and websites.

The whole networking experience was incredible. We exchanged tips and techniques till the wee hours of the night. I have made many friends and had a great time at the Thursday evening dinner. All I can say is that what happens in Indy stays in Indy.

I want to give a great big “Thank You” to our great host Sheryl McAfee and her Hope Convenant church for hosting the Summit and to Stephanie for the great lunches each day.

I recommend attending the next Summit which will be in Seattle, Washington in 2009, to anyone who makes slipcovers or would love to learn how to make slipcovers.

Teresa Bennett

Cozy Cottage Slipcovers

Parma, OH

1 Week Until the Slipcover Summit

Shirley are you out there?

How does your Garden Grow?

We will miss you but will take lots of photos.

always
Karen

Roommate for Summit

I'm looking for a roommate for the Summit. Anyone want to share? Email me @ threadneedle@tampabay.rr.com.

Angie

Deadline for Design Contest

Slipcover Design Contest 2008

If you make slipcovers for furniture now is your opportunity to enter your favorite Slipcover Creations....

Deadline is June 1st...

Send in your entery NOWclick here to print off entry form

1st Time Slipcover

Louise from Idaho came to a Slipcover Workshop last weekend and look at her results!

Am I a good teacher, or is Louise just talented?

:) Karen

12 Weeks until the Slipcover Summit

12 Weeks until the Slipcover Summit (click here)

It's time to

• pick your classes
• make your reservation to the hotel
• plan your trip

Here are the classes

Here is the flyer

Slipcover Design Contest

Amy Walker NEEDs our Help with Fabric

I have a customer who wants microfiber for a couch. I have not sewn with microfiber before. What do I need to know and where do I get it?

Also, where are you getting your welt cord?

And, after coming to the sewing retreat I signed up with a few fabric companies but have yet to find anyone with cotton,linen or blends home decor weight fabrics.
I seem to have a lot of customers who want natural fibers. I want some simple and retro/modern type stuff. Does anybody work with these?

Thanks, Amy

Slipcover Design Contest 2008

If you make slipcovers for furniture now is your opportunity to enter your favorite Slipcover Creations....

Deadline is June 1st... Send in your entery NOW

click here to print off entry form

Welcome to Geroge of Custom Drapery Workoom

A big welcome to George Rigney Custom Drapery Workroom

Atlantic Highlands N.J. 07716

George has been in business for 40 years. He also has done Slipcovers.

Welcome George to the forum.

always
Karen

It's Time To Re-Introduce Yourself

Hi...

There are new people who are wanting to participate in the Slipcover Network blog.

So let's re-introduce ourselves..................

Name
Business Name
Where are you located?
How long in business?

Why you have joined this forum?

I'll go first...
---------------------------------------------------------------
Karen

Business: Slipcover Network

Home office: Snohomish, Washington

Been in Business: 22 years

I joined because I enjoy networking with others who love slipcovers, for new ideas in fabrication and earth friendly fabrics "green". I also want to help others grow in their businesses.

Slipcovers from Orchard Park NY

Slipcovers from

JoAnn Duggan

Orchard Park, New York

Professional Sewing Workroom MeetUP

I have started one in Washington also. Why don't you start one where you live and meet others who are sewing in the area. Cost is not a lot, and you can become the expert where you live plus meet others in the industry.

Claudia started one in Arizona too.

Here is the Washington Professional Sewing Workroom MeetUp

Best Organizing Tips

Do you have any great organizing tips? Then please share them with me! In preparation for my class--Sew Organized--at the Summit in June I am collecting organizing tips and ideas from other professionals in the industry. If you have any tips for getting and staying organized, I would love to hear them.

I will also be compiling these tips into a booklet to be sold at the Summit. All net proceeds from the booklet will be donated to the Scholarship fund. If you would like your tip to be published (you will receive credit) please let me know.

And if you have any specific organizing challenges you would like to see covered in the booklet and the class, email them to me.

Lastly, I am looking for several slipcover professionals to profile in the booklet. If you are interested, let me know.

My email is threadneedle@tampabay.rr.com.

Looking forward to receiving some great tips.

Angie

Undergarment Advise

Question - I just received a slipcover job - 4 leather bar stools (the seats are a full parson) What would I make the undergarment out of so that the decorative fabric doesn't shift around?

Thanks again,

Sherree

in Canada

can we make stuff sticky ?

so the important posts stay at the top of the page ? Otherwise I feel like talking about other stuff would be nonsense, if the stuff that folks should read doesn't get pushed down the page.

Slipcover Pros in Atlanta this March

March 26-29th

International Window Coverings Expo

Georgia World Congress Center

Atlanta, Georgia

Come, join us in the Slipcover Network exhibit booth.

Plan to join us as we share slipcovering with the trade.
I just hear through the grapevine that Shirley, Angie, Claudia, Julie and I will be there.

Sure would be fun to have a lot more of us!

I will be doing a presentation on Wednesday before the exhibit floor opens, then Claudia and I have been asked to present in the Construction Zone.

If you have never been before this is a great show regarding Interior Home Decor.

Slipcover Design Contest 2008

NOW IS YOUR OPPORTUNITY

This is your opportunity to show off how creative you can be, to peers in the industry and potential customers alike.

Votes will be cast by ballot for the: Best Designed Slipcover

All voting will be done during the 2008 Slipcover Summit in Indianapolis, Indiana June 25-27.
Entries must be post marked no later than June 1, 2008 to be eligible for the contest.

1st Prize in will receive:
Full admittance plus all supplies for classes to the Slipcover Summit in 2009 ($400 value)
1 yrs Directory listing and Slipcover Press (full Membership with the Slipcover Network $45 value)
Photo of award winning slipcover to be used in all advertising regarding the Slipcover Summit and Slipcover Network, plus choice placement on the 2009 Slipcover Calendar.

2nd Prize will receive:
1 yrs Directory listing and Slipcover Press (full Membership with the Slipcover Network $45 value)

Gift Certificate Value from Home Fashions U ($45 value) Choose from Books, DVDs or Supplies in relations to the Sewing Fabrication Industry.

Photo of award winning slipcover to be used in all advertising regarding the Slipcover Summit and Slipcover Network, plus choice placement on the 2009 Slipcover Calendar.

3rd Prize will receive:
Gift Certificate from Home Fashions U ($45 value) Choose from Books, DVDs or Supplies.
Photo of award winning slipcover to be used in all advertising regarding the Slipcover Summit and Slipcover Network, plus placement on the 2009 Slipcover Calendar.

Slipcover Design Entry must submit:
1) Quality 8x10 photos shot from 4 sides of Slipcover
Make sure to high light special design features of the slipcover in a close up photo.
2) Brief description of how any special design features were accomplished should be included in the entry.
Photo will only be returned if a self addressed envelop is included with submission.

Name_________________

Address_______________

City___________________

Zip code_______________

Email_________________

Website_______________

Phone_________________

Mail to: Slipcover Network
1101 Ave D C102 PMB 128
Snohomish, Wa. 98290

Questions about the contest
slipcovernetwork@email.com
800-267-4958

Laurie's Ideas Slipcover After the Summit

Laurie received a Scholarship to the Slipcover Summit in June of 2007

Here is an idea she picked up during the Summit and has used it in one of her jobs for a customer.






What a great idea Lauire! You can reach Laurie at rbrule@comcast.net

Olson Slipcovers Happy New Year

Stagging and wanted to use the old furniture.

Sofa before the Slipcovers

The Slipcovers on the sofa

delivered poly suede slipcover

my first, and I have good news and regular news about that. No, I didn't take photos, it wouldn't have photographed well the good points, and it had good points.

the priority was cat claws, and I think we chose well for that. Another issue was wipeability, and I think we chose well for that.

As you know, there won't be any chance to press the final cover, and that is a hard thing for me to shake off.

My major concern is with maintenance, when air does not pass through it's a problem.

Air is expelled when we sit, and then the furniture is gasping for air when we get up. The poly sticks where our rear ends slid it to. That's the description, not a judgement.

In this case, I'd be happy to repeat the effort for the same priorities, as cat claws and need to wipe for cats is certainly a hard goal to plan for. The poly suede was very good for that.

Just a report that my old brain still has some flexibility.

Little old ladies and their ridiculous rates

Just got off the phone with a potential customer. She moved a Queen Anne chair into another room, and the "eggplant slipcover she had made "just a few months ago" doesn't match anymore. It's "very clever, with Velcro on it so it doesn't move - can you imagine doing all that at her age?"

A "nice old lady" made it, you see. For (get this) $70.

I think I'm gonna be sick... No, really - this is making me physically ill.

Everybody bug Rusty

tell him we need a man's perspective. Tell him we need him in June.....

Rusty is a high volume double on half old urban slipcover workhorse like we sometimes talk about.

so as to avoid the trawlers I am writing it so it won't highlight

slipcover it

at

yahoo

dot


com

who's in Trenton or near by ?

who can give me a sizing up of the slipcover market there ?

I do mean specifically Trenton or north as opposed to Philly, who works that area,, anyone we know ?

Fabric sources

Claudia will be teaching a class at this years Summit on Fabric Sources, but in the meantime, let me suggest some words to Google.

Min Fab , Carr Textile, cut yardage textiles. Others here may give you specific links.

There are no shortage of fabric jobbers, though you'll want to be very specific in your quizzing of these companies before paying for books.

Personally, I only ever use cotton 8 ounces per yard or more, and I only ever order from folks who actually have stock.

You'll want to know what you are willing to sell, as 99% of what books they may ask you to buy will be appropriate for windows but perhaps not slipcovers.

Making copies

the only ways I have discovered that work for me are :

making a double on half cutting with the real fabric, trimming the seams down to the intended seam allowance, complete with all the signals you give yourself. Take out the pins, and make another ( or make 12, or 200 ).

or: making a single on half fitting, out of the real cloth or muslin, trim, use signals, and then make not only your duplicates but the second half of the first cutting, if you used decor fabric to fit with.

these are reasonable strategies if you have certain insurance.

leave plenty of skirt hem, to individualize copies if need be.

Triple check your assumptions that matching furniture is alike enough to do this, then use the largest one. Only differences within certain tolerances merit using absolute copies ** read below.

Use cotton fabric, soak and dry ( if that can be done safely ) to increase elasticity. Think how elastic works in your clothes, same here.

Never assume a pattern or an original cutting can be used to copy to a less elastic fabric than the one fitted, never. It will likely be too small, unless you leave big seams, and even then, it's likely not good. Only copy to the same fabric, or to a more elastic one.

If your copies turn out too large, this is easier to fix than if they come out too small, obviously. *** you may copy your duplicates with a larger seam allowance and then try one each to individualize, this is possible with enough patience and perhaps more trips.

Copies can be better than if fitted one by one from a couple perspectives. Yes, the fit won't be as good. But, the seams will all be in the same places, as will be the motif. If the cord stands out and the pattern placement stands out loudy as well, then copies can be very good.

Double on half will be offered at the next Summit, and this is where all copy strategies begin, double on half.

Once you do it you'll wonder why you didn't do it sooner.

Elements of effective pricing

effective being the most money you can probably get and preserving having that person willingly pass your name around and come back themselves for more.

that gives you a spectrum to choose from, the immediate money being ( or seeming ) far more important than continuing purchases from this person ( like, when ? if ? how likely ? ) or having them gladly pass your name around.

that balance is for each person to weigh, and then it changes for folks month to month and year to year. Your best guess here is all you get. We all guess how to balance the two needs.

Survey what slipcover buying folks are going to hear on the phone when calling your competitors by calling yourself first, all the numbers listed in your local phone book. Fib and fake it, get those facts. Ask in person if you prefer, go shop. Business slow ? Best time is now.

Ask not only price but policy. How long ? Is COM allowed ? Ask if sales are common, and when. Ask what is included what is add on, whether they work in the home. Hone your skills calling the folks that matter least, the ones farther away.

Partricipate in the http://www.Slipcovernetwork.com survey, soon to come, here. Karen will tell us about it.

Develop questions. Develop your own questions about why the final last right pricing seems ellusive to you. Those are good facts in themselves. You may never sort all the answers but do have the questions. The questions tell you how flexible you need to be in your area.

A good example of a relevant question that makes me wonder about what goes on in my own area: stores pump up labor then run " fabulous " sales on labor. How does that impact me ? I may never know, but I better keep asking myself to wonder.

Let's talk about the questions, the answers are hard to identify, but let's identify the questions. Who picks up furniture, who drives far from home to do this ? Who are the local players ?

The best price you can choose to give is a price that you can live with, and that the customer is feeling good enough about to call you back again and plan more, especially if enough folks aren't finding you.

A lost job due to what is judged to be a too high price is neither right or wrong, but it may be more convenient or less convenient, depending on when it happens. A lost job is somethimes not only a lost paycheck but a lost chance for good referals or a good new unique experience.

Giving up something on price is not without compensation when you at least get the job. This isn't as negative as it may sound, your paid for advertising to a cold market may be as costly as what you choose to underprice, and that cold advertising buck shot can be ineffective even once paid for.

Underpricing is a choice, especially when you are new feeling out your market, if the phone isn't ringing as much as you'd like. It's an aggressive strategy.

Hi all, Amy here, from Austin. I met some of you in Arizona at the 06 summit.
It was very inspiring and now I am making slips for a living! I have a couple of questions for you all.
I almost always use Karen's method, that class was a real eye opener!
I have a customer who wants 2 sets of covers for each piece I am doing.
How wouyld you guys charge for that? Using Karen's method I would need to basically do each piece
completely seperately, so would I charge double?
My other question is about selling fabric. Austin has a pretty small selection of fabric to choose
from and I think sometimes clients would really like to just order from me. I don't know the
first thing about selling fabric. Comments? Hope you all had a lovely Christmas.

Amy

Holiday greetings for all who belong or wish to

I think I speak for all who regularly meet and share at our annual event the Slipcover Summit when I say thanks to each of you for your continued support and for being here with us.

Wishing everyone of us Peace and Joy, and extending a hope we see one another soon.

If you are wishing to belong or have an interest in what we do here, don't hestitate to ask for more information.

slipcoverlady@juno.com for those questions.

Slipcover Pricing Survey?

Tessy and Dede when will the Slipcover Pricing Survey be distributed to Slipcover Professional to fill out?

Folks are anxious and looking for 2008 price summary already.

Thanks
Karen

Watch the Power Point Presentation of Slipcover Summit 2007

Okay everyone here is a short power point of what went on at the Slipcover Summit 2007

click here

Z-Tex "Timeless Twill"

I just received some new samples from Z-Tex - I requested everything they have that's "8 oz. and heavier." Timeless Twill wasn't among them. Has it been discontinued? Or was it lighter than 8 oz.? Can't remember, but I'm thinking of asking for some lighter samples.

Has anyone ever used 7 oz. fabric?

Suggestions AnyOne?

I am about to embark on six dining room chairs.175 year old dining room chairs I should say.


Of the six chairs, there are NONE the same size! They are all the same shape but they vary in height and width, any where from half inch to one and half inch from the shortest to the tallest.


Two of them (we can put the two that are the tallest and the closest in height together side by side) will be the first thing you see when you walk in the front door and look into the dining room.

How would you do that?

In my mind, I think I should just make all the backs, seats and apron the same and the skirts will be where me make up for the different heights.

Making sure they are all X amount of inches from the floor. Is that right, or am I way off?

I attached pictures of the style the custom wants and the actual chair.

Barbie Morgan SheffieldSheffield's Custom Slips
The Art of Flexible Decor

About Welt Cord

In your DVD, "So you want to make a slip cover", (1 of 3 that I bought awhile which was very much worth the cost), you say that you use 'cellulose' cord to make your welt cord.

You said this doesn't shrink like cotton will when the slip cover is washed.

Is 'cellulose' cord the same as 'tissue cord'?

I have been using the tissue cord and recently heard from two sources that tissue cord is never to be washed.

Thank you for any help.

Gene Janney Fabric Elegance, LLC

Welt cord

Who do folks buy their weltcord from?

chomping at the bit

waiting for my new Juki 8700-7 to get delivered. Tedco is bringing it to me, lugging it down the basement steps.

They are providing a mechanic to set up the electronic panel when it's in place and give me lessons.

The electronic panel gives undertrimming and auto foot raise options along with tension and stitch lengths.

Have I seen one at all yet ? Nope !

I am getting slower at sewing, so the 5500 SPM may be overkill, but I am sick of the knee lift and clipping a million threads. Speed where I can get it, to make up for when I am not so fast.

I will add photo when it comes.

okay new tactic

Maybe nobody else had this problem, but apparently if you chose to open a G Mail account when Blogger changed it's preferences back in July ? and Blogger asked you to open a G Mail account ( I don't think it was stated as mandatory ) it's not then the email address you put in the box on the sign in page.

I think I am finding this to be true consistently, but I'll have to do it more than once to be sure. The ID I originally used to sign is still the sign-in ID in the ID box.

the password is now the password to the G Mail account.

So, am I crazy ? Am I alone in this difficulty ?

I used my original sign-in ID and password. Bogger then added @ juno.com ( I didn't do that ) and then rejected my original password, but instead of saying the password was wrong they said the email addy didn't exist.

I put the G Mail addy in the ID box, and it again said the same thing, no email exists in that name ( both addresses work for me as email addresses )

I erased the ID box, typed in my old ID, typed in my most recent change of password for my G Mail address, and Blogger then let me on. I am sure it's my old brain that has something wrong with it, but if anyone else is having trouble, maybe we can get to the bottom of this. ( in case someone is suffering in silence)

I'm baaaack !

I never was actually away, I got confused about how to sign on. The G Mail thing got me twisted around. Anyone else need a hand with that sign in problem email Karen or email meat slipcoverlady@juno.com

Wonderful Video, I assume we can tell others about that ?

I am actually lacking a sound card in my computer but I read your lips, Karen....

How to Put On a Slipcover

See my 1st You Tube video.... :)

click here

test test test

Who is receiving the info from the Slipcover Network Blog?

Sunbrella Fabric for the Recent Slipcover Project

Jo Ellen in St Louis purchased the Sunbrella fabric for her sofa slipcover from
Shasta at http://www.uniquexpressions.net/

It did not have much give, but was easy to sew with.

There are other fabrics out there that have the same inherent protection, but Sunbrella guarantees their product as long as you follow the guidelines.

always
Karen

name

HI Karen

I thought I made my posting id to be Tessy OH but it is showing Cozy cottage slipcovers. How do I change this?

Job in St Louis

Recent job that I did in St Louis in September.

It was out of Sunbrella Fabric

Whining about (lack of) pinning speed

Pinning on-site... I'm too d@mn slow!! It takes FOREVER, I HATE IT. I'm so frustrated. I feel like crying. I ended up using a weird combination today of double-on-half and single-on-whole just to get out of there, HOPING I can duplicate the single parts later.

How do Calico Corner contractors pin more than one piece a day? How do they get in and out so fast?

Also, for the first time a finished slipcover with my default zipper (to the skirt welt only, not through) DIDN'T FIT a chair with T-cushion and big puffy back! Very embarrassing, folded it up and promised to make it all better.

Did I mention I feel like crying?

another credit to Cozy Cottage

the winner of the slipcover network design contest, apparently there's a photo of the winning entry in Window Fashions magazine. Sorry I don't know which issue, can anyone add to this information ? Thanks !

Members of the Slipcover Network

As you can imagine managing this site does take time, and effort. It simply can't run on its own. The Slipcover Network serves many purposes for many people.

• The Slipcover Professionals
• Home Fashion Workrooms
• Designers and Decorators
• Potential Customers looking for someone to make them Slipcovers for their furniture
• DIY for how to sew their own Slipcover
• Instructors Teaching Slipcovers in their area of the country

The only way we can keep the Slipcover Network running is with your financial support.

Thank you in advance for your Support!

Copy and print the information below and mail to:
Slipcover Network 1101 Ave D Suite 102 PMB 128 , Snohomish, Wa 98290

___ I would like to be a Member of the Slipcover Network plus be listed on the Slipcover Directory, receive the Slipcover Press, 10% discount to Online Classes,10% discount to the Slipcover Summit, Slipcover Network Blog (our online forum), Mentorship Program (being planned), Certification Program (being planned).
Cost $45 yr.. Click here to do this online with a credit card.

___ I would like to receive "Slipcover Network Quarterly Update" via E Publication;10% discount to Online Classes, Slipcover Network Blog (our online forum), Mentorship Program (being planned), Certification Program (being planned).
Cost $25 yr. Click here to do this online with a credit card.

___ I would like to have my business as a Vendor on the LINKS PAGE of the Slipcover Network Website (cost $50 yearly).Click here to do this online with a credit card

___ I would like to advertise my business as an Adversting Vendor in the Slipcover Press Quarterly and be listed on the LINKS PAGE of the Slipcover Network Website (Cost is $125 yr). Click here to do this online with a credit card

Name of Business___________________________________________________________
Contact Person_____________________________________________________________
Business Phone______________________________________________________________
Email address______________________ Website address___________________________
Business address_______________________________________ City__________________
State__________________ Zip code__________ How many years slipcovering?________
Dreams for future in Slipcovers?_________________________________________________
Payment total_______________ Check _______________Credit card _______________
CC #________________________________________Exp ____________________
Send photos of your slipcover work, possibly your business, could be our Feature business of the Month

Linda's Chair Took 2nd Place

Linda's entry was a puzzle to start with....

A recliner to cover, and all she saw prior to the job was a small swatch of fabric.

It was amazing how she tackled this project.

Thanks Linda for entering the contest.

1 Week to Submit Class Proposals for Slipcover Summit 2008

Good afternoon

Thank you to all who have submitted class proposals so far. They will be put into the loop for voting by the Slipcover Summit Committee. For your information we try to include a mix of classes at the Summit including at least 2 Methods, plus the day before class Training the Teacher.

We are still seeking Workshop Proposals for the Slipcover Summit 2008 which will be held in Indianapolis, Indiana June 25-27, 2008.

As is our tradition we seek ideas, and recommendations for workshop ideas from those who have attended past Summits.

Proposal should be sent to slipcovernetwork@gmail.com in an outline form to include

Name of workshop
Length 3hr or Full Day
Specific subject matter to be covered
Ideal number to participate in the workshop
Instructor recommendation

All proposals and suggestions need to be received by August 31, 2007

Thanks so much
always
Karen Erickson
www.slipcovernetwork.com
360-862-9087

Proposals Now Being Accepted for Slipcover Summit 2008

Good morning...

Hope everyone is having a wonderful Summer.

We are currently seeking Workshop Proposals for the Slipcover Summit 2008 which will be held in Indianapolis, Indiana June 25-27, 2008.

As is our tradition we seek ideas, and recommendations for workshop ideas from those who have attended past Summits.

Proposal should be sent to slipcovernetwork@gmail.com in an outline form to include

Name of workshop
Length 3hr or Full Day
Specific subject matter to be covered
Ideal number to participate in the workshop
Instructor recommendation

All suggestions need to be received by August 31, 2007

Thanks so much
Karen Erickson
www.slipcovernetwork.com
360-862-9087

Slow business

Is it the humidity? *pant* Cushion/slipcover orders are at an all-time low. I do, however, have orders for FIVE costumes (!). All ASAP, naturally.

How's everyone else doing? Swamped to the point of asphyxiation? Watching the grass grow?

Woo-Hoo!!! Posted... TWICE!!

Mere mortals may bow before me! - oh wait... everyone else already figured this out?

Never mind.

Just checking

Hey there, slipcover fans! Finally figured out how to use the [new] system (brain... slow... need... chocolate...).

It won't be a fluke if I manage to post TWICE - stay tuned.

Slipcover Summit 2008 will be in Indiana

Have you ever been to Indiana?

Cozty Cottage is posted on Workroom Intelligence

http://www.workroomintelligence.com/blog/index.php

1st Place Winner of the Slipcover Design Contest 2007

Click on her website to see the black and white slipcover with bows and monograms.

Congratulations Tessy..... :)

Cozy Cottage
Parma, Ohio 44134
216-749-1829
teresa@cozycottageslipcovers.com
www.CozyCottageSlipcovers.com

1^st Prize in each category will receive:

Full admittance plus all supplies for classes to the Slipcover Summit in 2008 ($350 value)

1 yr Directory listing and Slipcover Press (full Membership with the Slipcover Network $45 value)

Photo of award winning slipcover will be showcased in publications of the Slipcover Summit and Slipcover Network, plus choice placement on the 2008 Slipcover Calendar.