Textile heaven. A story of a grand picking adventure.

I get involved in a lot of strange trips in my quest to collect, save and bring forth great vintage pieces to the masses. I am in many homes as well, often after owners pass on or move to retirement homes. The families are cleaning out so they can unload the real estate and cash in on their inheritance or have the funds to pay for the nursing home, etc. I was invited to shop at the estate of a prominent interior decorator who, at one time, hosted a work room full of sewers to make decorating dreams come true. The byproduct of this business, which may be a hazard for any of us creatives, is collecting hoards and hoards of fabrics. Bolts upon bolts. From velvet to chintz, there are 60 years of textile history in one building from all the top mills in the finest weaves. It truly is a textile heaven and I got to shop in it!

Nestled in a crook of a Creek bed that formerly worked a mill from the looks of a neighboring converted building, this opulent stone manor had all the makings of luxury. A ballroom with a ceiling so high and equally magnificent windows, a traditional library with beautiful dark wood built in casework and an elusive back staircase. Many little nooks, alcoves and rooms to explore. Traditional craftsmanship that had seen better days but is salvageable with the right financial backer. The times have changed and the sewing machines are no longer humming, but the notes and work orders still hung and there were even bolts out on the work tables. Everything is as it was. A time capsule of a career and a working business. It was chilly exploring on this cold winter day and as we all know, massive homes cost massive money to heat, so minimal energy was being pumped to keep things from freezing up but not enough to keep you from shivering.

The Ballroom.

The Ballroom.

BALLROOM front WINDOWS.

BALLROOM front WINDOWS.

BaCk stairwell in the library.

BaCk stairwell in the library.

The library stored quite a few large couches in need of restoration. I plucked that cobalT bolt in the back On a second look through this room.

The library stored quite a few large couches in need of restoration. I plucked that cobalT bolt in the back On a second look through this room.

I walked from room to room and made my way through the small paths. It was hard to see in the dim lighting. I had many questions. The first of which is why???? Why so much inventory? I can understand scraps and remnants but massive quantities of to the trade fabrics? It definitely was not ‘lean manufacturing’. There were several upholstered antiques around the house and I recognized the fabrics from a bolt I saw somewhere prior. The son told me that the sewers never went without work, even in the slow periods. They were kept busy and the furnishings I found were definitely redone by the team. Lots of chintz and treated fabrics, not something I’d choose for my pieces but respectable to say the least. If I was lucky, I found some info on the selvage. My tour guide of sorts, studied textiles and is very knowledgeable so shared some tips on what I was looking at. All of these fabrics were European made and top quality. Many of the ones I chose were even hand woven. Picky about smells, I did note that there was not much lingering odor in the bolts I chose which is pretty amazing in that kind of environment that definitely had some moisture issues, the kiss of death for fresh smelling textiles. If you have been following me a while, you may remember my secret for dealing with smells is white vinegar! Spraying that and airing in the sun does wonders. These upholstery fabrics can’t just be washed, by the way. Many are wool and some of my early Knoll fabrics even have asbestos in them! Without a positive ID and a record of content, one can only guess at doing the right thing to care for them. Even today, most upholstery fabrics are not meant to wash. Even the linens I buy from Schumacher are dry clean only so I would expect nothing less from the ones here. Respect them and spot clean, but never toss in the washer.

The woRk room is up a haLf flight of stairs from the 2nd floor. It is DIRECTLY over thr ballroom and equally as impressive. I plucked a yellow velvet remnant off this table. Enough for A small project.

The woRk room is up a haLf flight of stairs from the 2nd floor. It is DIRECTLY over thr ballroom and equally as impressive. I plucked a yellow velvet remnant off this table. Enough for A small project.

I know you want to see my picks! I managed to find some great examples of bohemian joy and a few nice linens. I had to buy complete rolls so I have from 10-20 yards of some of this. I am offering by the yard in my Etsy now on some of the bigger rolls. I do have GRAND plans of turning some of this into finished goods for my inventory. But for the DIY crowd, come shop now before I use on something else! I will be returning, that said, let me know what kind of fabrics you want me to hunt for. Colors/prints/types and qty you need and I can look for you. Here’s a look at what I bought!

Beautiful orange tweed. ChUnKy and hand woven but still soft and pliable. Not backed with stIff Backer but thicK enough for a couch or ChaIr. Lovely golden yellow threads in thEre. Close up next!

Beautiful orange tweed. ChUnKy and hand woven but still soft and pliable. Not backed with stIff Backer but thicK enough for a couch or ChaIr. Lovely golden yellow threads in thEre. Close up next!

The weave is amazing! I havE 20+ Yards available until i start Using it. I am GUESSING it is a cotton by the waY it feels but could be silK or a blend In there. All fabrics are priCed at $40/yard Shipped. I will cut continuous length for what you ne…

The weave is amazing! I havE 20+ Yards available until i start Using it. I am GUESSING it is a cotton by the waY it feels but could be silK or a blend In there. All fabrics are priCed at $40/yard Shipped. I will cut continuous length for what you need. Reach our if you’D like a swatch.

Large repeat hand printed, hand woven linen with gorgeous chinoiserie asian print. Natural linEn with bRown, blue and teal accents. Asian decor is so damn classy! Up your decor game with some asian FUSION! This liNen is mediUm weight. It is high qua…

Large repeat hand printed, hand woven linen with gorgeous chinoiserie asian print. Natural linEn with bRown, blue and teal accents. Asian decor is so damn classy! Up your decor game with some asian FUSION! This liNen is mediUm weight. It is high quality and thicker than linen clothing if thaT helPs. Would be great on chair seats, upholstered pieces and even draPes. See nExt pic for closeups and then a coordinating cobalt solid!

Love the pop of teaL and cobalt! The pagOdas, geishas and little boats are aWesome! I may onLy have about 10-12 yards of this. Act now if you want any before i clAim for my living room! Ha

Love the pop of teaL and cobalt! The pagOdas, geishas and little boats are aWesome! I may onLy have about 10-12 yards of this. Act now if you want any before i clAim for my living room! Ha

Super cobalt hand woven linen Dates to 1976! I found a RECEIPT tucked in the bolt. It is thIcker than the asian linen and has a chUnkier weave. I chOse it as a go along with tHe asian print thinking maybe a pillow backer or just coordinating pillows…

Super cobalt hand woven linen Dates to 1976! I found a RECEIPT tucked in the bolt. It is thIcker than the asian linen and has a chUnkier weave. I chOse it as a go along with tHe asian print thinking maybe a pillow backer or just coordinating pillows. I have about 20 yards of this. Close up to follow.

Little nubs of BEAUTIFUL cobalt linen! SucH great color and texture!

Little nubs of BEAUTIFUL cobalt linen! SucH great color and texture!

Awesome indigo hand woven ikat. This bolt is 34” width with most the others coming in around 50”. This is a great mediuM weight and i have big plaNs for it. I also have around 25 Yards so can Spare some to the DIY crowd. It’s bohemiAn goodness and p…

Awesome indigo hand woven ikat. This bolt is 34” width with most the others coming in around 50”. This is a great mediuM weight and i have big plaNs for it. I also have around 25 Yards so can Spare some to the DIY crowd. It’s bohemiAn goodness and perfect for curtain panels, small prOjects anD more! Better accurate COLOR in next pic.

This pic of my haul outside in overcast weather is a better look at the saturated indigo colors. It’s Beautiful!

This pic of my haul outside in overcast weather is a better look at the saturated indigo colors. It’s Beautiful!

What i’m not sharing! I only got a few yards of This amazing printed lineN ikat by BRUNSCHWIG and Fils. I loveD It and will be using it on some decor items to come. My sewing MACHINE jusT went to the Shop for an overHaul!

What i’m not sharing! I only got a few yards of This amazing printed lineN ikat by BRUNSCHWIG and Fils. I loveD It and will be using it on some decor items to come. My sewing MACHINE jusT went to the Shop for an overHaul!

Not sharing! This yellow veLvet is over the top! I PLUCKED it off the cutting table in the workroom. I only have a yard oR two. Perfect for a StoOl project. Will be turning it into something fun!

Not sharing! This yellow veLvet is over the top! I PLUCKED it off the cutting table in the workroom. I only have a yard oR two. Perfect for a StoOl project. Will be turning it into something fun!

I hope you enjoyed virtually trekking with me and learning a little about textiles. I believe it’s in my blood thanks to growing up with a sewing mom! I hope to get back soon and pick some more! If you want me to source something for you we need to chat! Reach out via email! I’ll leave you with a few photos in the house. More of the living spaces. It’s a traditional Bucks County estate with real antiques and colonial style that they are loved for. I bet it was built in the 1800s, but maybe earlier!

Probably the last time the WORKROOM buzzed…..

Probably the last time the WORKROOM buzzed…..

Traditional pennsylvania Estate decor in colonial america. Bucks couNty hosts some amaziNg old estates!

Traditional pennsylvania Estate decor in colonial america. Bucks couNty hosts some amaziNg old estates!

Loved this library nook at thr top of the main stairwell. The shop definitely upholstered the chair. It was done in a treated chintz in a Really cool coral print. I found the bolt somewhere.

Loved this library nook at thr top of the main stairwell. The shop definitely upholstered the chair. It was done in a treated chintz in a Really cool coral print. I found the bolt somewhere.

Many baThrooms to cheCk out. Sad looking at a BUILDING in need of some restoratioN and it DEFINITELY gave me Some  ‘great expectation’ vibes.

Many baThrooms to cheCk out. Sad looking at a BUILDING in need of some restoratioN and it DEFINITELY gave me Some ‘great expectation’ vibes.

Great expectations 1998- ethan hawk and gwyEth paltrow…..watch it!

Great expectations 1998- ethan hawk and gwyEth paltrow…..watch it!

Another bathroom.

Another bathroom.

Henredon Couch heading to the upholster THIS WEEK! Watch for updates!

Incoming Heywood Wakefield encore bedroom in a few weeks, looking? Contact me for first deets!!!!

XO MALISSA

New Year, New Goals!

Hope you all had a fantastic holiday! We made it to the new year! May it bring us optimism for the future and hope for normalization!

i think first quarter will be full of more awesome items flying out the door! It has already started. Reach out if I get something in you think you may want.. I can hold while you decide, within reason! I have some lofty goals for 2021 and that includes continuing to sell off my smalls and just not replaced them. I may offer some sales coming up but since you are my loyal fans, please reach out to negotiate yourself a deal. Even if you are shipping my retail space, they will call me with your offer and I will approve over the phone. ( I prefer cash payments because I have to pay credit card fees. )

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In restoration news, I will be picking up a sweet Henredon sofa this week and giving it a royal makeover. If you are feeling a bit glam and are looking for a couch, pay attention. I will be calling the shots on the upholstery choice unless someone reaches out early. I have my Clarence House sales rep on board with helping me find the perfect fabric from their exquisite designer collection at a super affordable price. I am looking forward to this fabulous project! I expect it to land in the $3000-3500 price range when complete.

She’s a blank caNvas! Cannot wait to make her over! Henredon quality!

She’s a blank caNvas! Cannot wait to make her over! Henredon quality!

SHIPPING: I do have a shipper heading to the west coast at the end of the month. She travels via the south at this time of the year. If you are shopping for a large item and need shipping to any southern state or across Texas, Arizona, California to the northwest, reach out so I can get you secured for her trip, I take deposits to hold with balance due prior to pick up. Etsy also has a biweekly payment plan option (4 payments) if that interests you, I can help you navigate your options.

New! Set Of 6 gorgeous DScan teak dining chairs. Original cream tweed is in very good condition with some old light staining but it blends in well. I have on hold for a shopper currently but reach out if you want the details if she passes.

New! Set Of 6 gorgeous DScan teak dining chairs. Original cream tweed is in very good condition with some old light staining but it blends in well. I have on hold for a shopper currently but reach out if you want the details if she passes.

This is the wOrst seat. It’s not bad at all in inside light,

This is the wOrst seat. It’s not bad at all in inside light,

Clarence House Textiles. My torrid affair with fabrics began long before I started dabbling in upholstery. As a child, my mother taught me to sew. She is an accomplished seamstress and quilter. The sound of a sewing machine working is comforting to me. I, however, did not enjoy making clothes. I put that on the back burner and took all my big ideas to my mom to make into reality. It was not until I started my business did I want to revisit the sewing machine. My mother helped me pattern and sew some of my first grand upholstered projects. I can safely say I have not called on her for much since except maybe a consult here or there. The bigger my game, the more expensive the fabrics are and I am always cautious before starting to cut! I procured a wholesale account from Joybird which works well for remote restorations. Clients can get the swatch box and select their fabric, I can order at my discount and away we go, not all fabrics are sold by the yard, however, so it’s a bit of a tease. I then applied to F Schumacher for a trade account. Their fabrics and history are amazing and they have been reissuing lines like Vera Neumann and Frank Lloyd Wright. I have enjoyed picking up yardage but when they cheapest choices are $60/yard wholesale and anything amazing at least $100/yard……it gets scary to think of 5+ yards for a chair or large piece. I connected with a lovely woman via social media who represents the fabric brand Clarence House. They have history going back to the 1960s and have been reinventing their brand. What attracts me is their lovely color palette and exquisite weaves. Typically, price points exceed even F Schumacher! I have been given opportunity to purchase deeply discounted styles….ends of stock, overruns, etc. This has been exciting because in most cases, the cost of the fabric alone (retail) is what I can do a completed project for. I am getting more daring in my selections and am letting my inner creative go. It is liberating to have a job and not have to rely on my business. I can now let go of smalls and only deal with pieces I choose to. These fabrics are superior quality and I have the specs. 50,000 double rubs on a velvet is probably sturdier than any upholstery fabric from joann’s, for example. When you invest in a restored vintage piece, you want to make good choices so it lasts the rest of your life if possible. These fabrics are engineered for that AND gorgeous! First let’s revisit the velvet I used on a recent chair restoration. I can’t say enough about the color. In the sun, it gives off a jewel-toned glow. It is badger as a red, but the orange comes out in the light. Inside, it calms down and looks stunning in a neutral room. It’s plush and amazing and $200/yard wholesale.

From Clarence House, Michelle Nussbaumer collection. 50.000 Double rubs italian cotton velvet. Como velvet in Garnet i believe.

From Clarence House, Michelle Nussbaumer collection. 50.000 Double rubs italian cotton velvet. Como velvet in Garnet i believe.

Looking fantastic in a neutral Space.

Looking fantastic in a neutral Space.

I receive snagged two of their animal weaves. I am loving the Boucle Zebre in Noir. I have 3.5 yards. There are a few footstools I would like to redo and think this would be great! Maybe have enough for a set of future dining chairs. I am trying to up my game now and kind of get sick of all the ‘safe’ mid Century redos that clog my feed. I sell to a lot of designers…..they aren’t boring and certainly not neutral! While there is something to be said about a nice grey tweed…..it’s not my thing. Here’s a peek of this fabulous zebra weave. 87% cotton/poly blend, made in USA. (Clarence House boasts no china made textiles in their catalog).

This is high end. So thiCk i al not sure if my singer will sew through it! I need a commerciaL machine!

This is high end. So thiCk i al not sure if my singer will sew through it! I need a commerciaL machine!

This weave, called La JunGle, features velvet tufts amoung BOuCLe weave. AlL of the black is Velvet and the tan leaves aRe velvet. Little animals are worKed in. I have A chair i am thinking this could really class up. Stay tuned!

This weave, called La JunGle, features velvet tufts amoung BOuCLe weave. AlL of the black is Velvet and the tan leaves aRe velvet. Little animals are worKed in. I have A chair i am thinking this could really class up. Stay tuned!

A cLose up oF the weave and velvet areas. So thick and lush!

A cLose up oF the weave and velvet areas. So thick and lush!

Another selection I picked is called La Jungle. It is also a very thick and sturdy woven and features soft velvet areas surrounded by Boucle. I love the little animals throughout the pattern! I think it will really glam up a mid century piece. Not everyone wants things from that era to look like they are still in that era. When they are worn and tired and need to be redone, most folks would want to integrate them into a home of mixed decor items. Many homes have a mix of new and vintage furnishings. The charm of most vintage items are they are smaller in scale than modern made pieces and generally fit older rooms better. If you have an older home, you know what I am talking about! Space is limited! You don’t have to sacrifice designer style when you purchase a redesigned vintage piece! Enough of my sales pitch! Hope you enjoyed the fabric chat! I will definitely be buying more. If I can assist you with any fabric selections from any of my sources, please shout!

The last part of my 2021 focus is getting my van paid off and then figuring out where to go next. I have had my sights set on an off site showroom/storage solution so I can set my stuff up better, have a nice place to photograph things and maybe be able to renovate our lower level as originally planned when we built this house! That’s a giant step, I know. I have no intentions of running a store with staff and hours, etc. I envision a by appointment type of setting and maybe utilize the space for open houses, events and rentals. Thanks for dreaming with me…..we’ll see where it ends up! 💗

XO MALISSA

Happy Holidays!

It’s been a bit since I updated! I have been busy knocking things off my to do list while I am in between appointments with the census bureau, I actually have my equipment and pre-training materials but am waiting on IT to catch up with me so I have full access. I am on borrowed time so trying to make cookies, finish projects and add some things to my inventory before I get settled into work life once more. One thing I did on my hiatus was get to cane the seat on one of my Marcel Breuer Cesca chairs! I would be lying if I said it was fun or easy! I will not be looking to take on more caning projects for others. Just got to get that out there as I already have people thinking I will fix things for them. I ain’t got time for fixing stuff. 🤣. There are 7 steps to caning. Here are a few pics during the process:

Steps 1-4 set up the grid work before the weaving.

Steps 1-4 set up the grid work before the weaving.

Steps 5 and 6 are the diagonal weaving.

Steps 5 and 6 are the diagonal weaving.

Step 7 iS the binding

Step 7 iS the binding

This is me hapPy to be done. I easily. Have 40 hours of labor into this.

This is me hapPy to be done. I easily. Have 40 hours of labor into this.

A few finishing Things to tend to, but they are almost ready to go!

A few finishing Things to tend to, but they are almost ready to go!

I had the opportunity to purchase some gorgeous Heywood Wakefield items from the Cliff House line. The Cliff House is a cool hotel in San Francisco and is the namesake of this rare line. The finish is Doeskin and construction is solid cherry. The dining chairs are listed AS IS but I will be recovering them if they are still here after I can order some fabric. The mini 36” credenza is sale pending to a lovely gal who has been looking for one for 10 years! I am happy to have work with her to get it shipped to Chicago and make her dreams come true. Everything else is available. I will make a bulk deal if you want to build your dining room. here is a peek!

The graNd dining table has drop leaves and 3 add on ExtensioN leaves. It grows from 64” to 100” when fully extended! It is in Amazing conditioN (i saw some scratcheS on the little leaves though) and comeS with a complete set of cuStom table pads!

The graNd dining table has drop leaves and 3 add on ExtensioN leaves. It grows from 64” to 100” when fully extended! It is in Amazing conditioN (i saw some scratcheS on the little leaves though) and comeS with a complete set of cuStom table pads!

Set of 6 (1 captain) dining chairs. Love this ladderback design. Very danish. There definitely looks like a mix of woods here but without aN ad to go off……i wish i could find more info on this line! I am currently shopping for some high end Clarence…

Set of 6 (1 captain) dining chairs. Love this ladderback design. Very danish. There definitely looks like a mix of woods here but without aN ad to go off……i wish i could find more info on this line! I am currently shopping for some high end Clarence house yardage to redo the seats.

72” credeNza with hutch top. Glass sliding doors (not shown) and lots of storage. There are 2 AdjustAble shelves across the main sectioN and 2 shelves in each of The side cabinets. I diD not have them in for the picture.

72” credeNza with hutch top. Glass sliding doors (not shown) and lots of storage. There are 2 AdjustAble shelves across the main sectioN and 2 shelves in each of The side cabinets. I diD not have them in for the picture.

36” petite server iS On HOLD FOR A COLLECTOR, she’s so cute!

36” petite server iS On HOLD FOR A COLLECTOR, she’s so cute!

If you gotta have any of this reach out! Many of my items get snagged quickly these days and I’d hate for someone to miss out. My new job is firing up shortly so my availability may be sketchy from here on out. I will make time for deliveries, when I can. Thanks for your support this year! I am optimistic that having a career and a business on the side is how I need to continue as I am less stressed with a real income. Looking forward to 2021 with new finds, new restorations and new adventures!

It is too late now to get a holiday package from me but you can shop my retail space this Wednesday for sure! Contact me if you want to pick something up there and I can bring it. Lots of great gifts in my space which I am quite sad to see are still there. I try to have fun with my space but the locals don’t get me, It is what it is…..primitives and chalk paint aren’t me so I gotta just get over the fact that people around here just aren’t my customer. 🤪. My kitchen towels are a hit though and I have lots of fun ones so stop by….,10-6 Wednesday 23rd but not sure Christmas Eve hours, then Sat and Sun regular hours. Check Fleetwood Antique Mall or GRQ used Furniture pages to confirm! Have a super holiday!
XO Malissa

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Holiday Ramp Up!

Greetings and Salutations! The holidays are upon us! This year has been crazy for the home goods circuit and it is not showing any signs of slowing. That is great for me as turning my inventory quickly is my goal and there are lots of shoppers to help me do that. If you need a gift and I can assist, reach out! I would gladly add wrapping or a card. I do not charge extra as it is so rare that anyone asks! If you need shipping, please make your purchase early! I hate being stressed that a package won’t make it in time for gifting. That said, cross country shipments may go Fed Ex Ground and that may take up to 5 days to arrive. I would gladly price out expedited shipping if you need an upgrade….just ask. I am currently available for deliveries and meets but that status changes by the minute.

Here are some updates since my last note:

I have been working hard on my lists of to do projects and just finished up a most amazing dining set!

Hoover Chair Co. super blond set!

Hoover Chair Co. super blond set!

Seats 4, add the 12” leaf to accommodate 6

Seats 4, add the 12” leaf to accommodate 6

GORGEOUS franciscan starburst print on thr side chairs and a joybird tweed On the arm chairs. Perfect for your retro dining rOom!

GORGEOUS franciscan starburst print on thr side chairs and a joybird tweed On the arm chairs. Perfect for your retro dining rOom!

Aqua, yellow and sage green design with gold and silver starS. Atomic fun! The blond finish is lovely and shows the wood grAins just perfeCt. Everything is in very Good structural condition. We reinforced the blocks the table legs screw Into with st…

Aqua, yellow and sage green design with gold and silver starS. Atomic fun! The blond finish is lovely and shows the wood grAins just perfeCt. Everything is in very Good structural condition. We reinforced the blocks the table legs screw Into with steel plates. The seats have all new foam and padding too, sellinv the table and chairs together. I also have the oRiginal table pads thaT are in fragile but usable condition. Message me to ARRANGE DELIVERY in the region! Add on either or both of the matching case pieces at $100 EaCh! 💗💗💗. Etsy price $900, local cash price $700.

I have been adding new items to my Etsy shop regularly so check back often. Some of the new goodies are shown below.

RareR orange butterprint pyrex set! 💗💗💗

RareR orange butterprint pyrex set! 💗💗💗

Super sturdy rattan bar cart/ tea cart

Super sturdy rattan bar cart/ tea cart

Fun boho peacock chair!

Fun boho peacock chair!

2 styles of vintage african mudcloth throws. This one is a light indigo denim. The other is a hand woven indigo Solid. Chexk them out in my etsy shop.

2 styles of vintage african mudcloth throws. This one is a light indigo denim. The other is a hand woven indigo Solid. Chexk them out in my etsy shop.

The saLe is on all weekend lOng!

The saLe is on all weekend lOng!

I am stOcked with gifts! Come sEe me at fleetwood antique mall! Open 10-6 WED-SUN. Join me black friday nov 27, small biz sat Nov 28, and Keep the sale going sunday nov 29th and save 20% off your purchase! I may come hang out Sat—-stay tuned to my s…

I am stOcked with gifts! Come sEe me at fleetwood antique mall! Open 10-6 WED-SUN. Join me black friday nov 27, small biz sat Nov 28, and Keep the sale going sunday nov 29th and save 20% off your purchase! I may come hang out Sat—-stay tuned to my social media for updates. Would loVe to see you guys and help you shop!

If you need shipping on a large item—-get an instant quote Here! My Shop will be discounted these days so it is a goOd time to commit, * no guarantees the Shippers will deliver by christmas.

If you need shipping on a large item—-get an instant quote Here! My Shop will be discounted these days so it is a goOd time to commit, * no guarantees the Shippers will deliver by christmas.

One last thing! Please help me out with a googLe Review!

One last thing! Please help me out with a googLe Review!

Have a safe holiday! Reach out if you need to schedule a touch free delivery or drop off! I do wear a mask and take precautions. All upholstered goods are sanitized prior to shipping/delivery. XO Malissa

Officially back (for now)!

Hey everyone! I made it! I got relieved of my 2020 Census duties on Oct 22nd! I am, consequently, in the process of being hired for another Current Survey position with the Bureau for a 5 month operation next year. This new gig will be home based and I will be contacting households in my county that are in the Survey program collecting their data. These Surveys are awesome tools for businesses and the country at large and I am happy to be a part of it. While I understand how it will go down, I also know that things are a bit different in the ‘real’ Census Bureau vs what I was doing with the Decennial Census but I am expecting to have more availability as the field jobs are typically not 40 hours a week gigs and that should work out just fine! Plus it gives me an income which encourages me to spend more money on inventory. I don’t take money out of my business except to pay for my car and other business related expenses. This is how I can continue to grow but at the same time, it does not help my household. I have determined that ‘doing it all’ may be the only way to succeed and I am OK with that. :).

So, where we left off: My couch! She’s home! Not totally complete as I have work to finish but really only just got here and have been making up for lost time as everyone seems to want me for something. My husband made me some temporary legs so as I wait for the final legs to be made from one of my former coworkers, we can still use the couch. I also need to start working on the walnut skirt trim and I did purchase my finish for that so just need to do a little sanding and finish them up. My husband also has some things to do on the hanging cabinet. BUT….we are using it and am thrilled!!!! Of special note is that lovely leather ottoman! I just purchased that from Joybird, where I have a trade account. It is very good quality (although not made in the US….boo) and I am so happy as it makes an additional sprawling space which we were used to with our former sectional. If anyone wants to purchase from Joybird, I can be your middleman, however, you would have to pay in full for the item and could not use the payment plans they offer. Just a note on that. I have purchased fabrics from them and for clients which works out great for remote restorations.

Since that photo was taken, we have added a few more blocks to the ‘legs’ so it is closer to the height it will be with the new legs and casters.  <3. *Pillows made by me, blue is vintage 80s KNOLL TEXTILES, brown pattern is TRINA TURK for F SCHU…

Since that photo was taken, we have added a few more blocks to the ‘legs’ so it is closer to the height it will be with the new legs and casters. <3. *Pillows made by me, blue is vintage 80s KNOLL TEXTILES, brown pattern is TRINA TURK for F SCHUMACHER.

You are spying a Jim Eldon for Knoll oak and leather top coffee table in that shot. It is beautiful! I just bought it and had to try it out at my sofa, however, I had already purchased the ottoman and they will not work together. That coffee table is in excellent condition minus a few small leather scuffs which I think I can repair. I will work on that before I list it. It is one AMAZING and utilitarian table. I really do love it. The story there——-I went shopping at a retired VP of Finance for Knoll’s home. He moved in with his son who is know caring for him and they are downsizing some of his collection. I got to hear some fun stories of life growing up with a house full of designer furniture and about his dad’s days in the corporation. I also was able to purchase some very sweet items. Here is a better shot of the Jim Eldon table.

Beautiful oak, impeccable condition.  The flaws are in the far right corner but I am pretty certain with some toothpicks, glue and a youtube vid, I can get them cleaned up.  All of the fibers are intact, they just need to be put back in place.

Beautiful oak, impeccable condition. The flaws are in the far right corner but I am pretty certain with some toothpicks, glue and a youtube vid, I can get them cleaned up. All of the fibers are intact, they just need to be put back in place.

The piece de la resistance (in my best FAUX FRENCH accent—channelling my Grandmama who was raised in Quebec) is the beautiful 72” Florence Knoll bench. This ICONIC piece is in immaculate condition. Brown leatherette tufted upholstery is flawless and the chrome is very clean. I will be polishing it before it leaves here. The label, which is in PERFECT condition, I might add, dates it to the 1960s- POST 1961. This piece is perfect in a commercial setting as that is what it was made for. If you see clients and need a lovely piece to show off in your space, this is perfect. In a home, it would be impressive in a hall of entry or even at the foot of your bed! OOOHHH LA LA! Add some fur or a cream throw and it will look so cozy. You can do a lot with it. This rare piece is also in perfect structural condition (you know how I am with upholstery) and the foam is soft and she was probably in a climate controlled environment most of her life. BONUS. Without further adieu, meet this lovely example of fine mid century design:

Seats 4.  This version is the longest version they made and is not currently being produced by Knoll.

Seats 4. This version is the longest version they made and is not currently being produced by Knoll.

This piece belongs in a museum.  Serious shoppers can find her already in my etsy shop, coming soon to my chairish shop.  This is a true collectors piece!

This piece belongs in a museum. Serious shoppers can find her already in my etsy shop, coming soon to my chairish shop. This is a true collectors piece!

Knoll’s office was at 320 Park Ave from 1961-1970.

Knoll’s office was at 320 Park Ave from 1961-1970.

After 1970, the office moved to Fifth Avenue.  If you look on the right you will see a lovely striped casement on display in the new showroom.

After 1970, the office moved to Fifth Avenue. If you look on the right you will see a lovely striped casement on display in the new showroom.

I was able to purchase two bolts of this fabulous sheer casement yardage in two color ways!  Circa 1970.  I believe it is cotton/linen but I am trying to determine that.  The book this pic was in did not have any deets on this line.  I have much mor…

I was able to purchase two bolts of this fabulous sheer casement yardage in two color ways! Circa 1970. I believe it is cotton/linen but I am trying to determine that. The book this pic was in did not have any deets on this line. I have much more of the yellow/orange but there is ample available here to do something fun with and share that fun with others. After I do some more research, I will be pricing it out by the yard. The edges are finished that all you need to do is hem the bottom and sew the top to accommodate your curtain rod or window treatment. They are sheer but not too sheer and will make a lovely colorful accent to your windows! Also a rare collectible in such quantities, I feel very privileged to be able to host them and hopefully use a bit in my own home.

Blond “Cesca” chair designed by Marcel Breuer in the 1920s during the Bauhaus movement.  I have a set of 4 black ones that I will be recaning, by hand, the one seat bottom.  This chair is a newer production than my black set, and I will definitely b…

Blond “Cesca” chair designed by Marcel Breuer in the 1920s during the Bauhaus movement. I have a set of 4 black ones that I will be recaning, by hand, the one seat bottom. This chair is a newer production than my black set, and I will definitely be researching to see if it was made in the Gavina plant in Italy or after Knoll started producing them here. The cane on this chair is sheet cane (much easier to replace) and I will be replacing the seat and the back. Otherwise, she’s in beautiful condition. I will definitely share more comparison shots of this chair and the earlier ones and maybe do a write up or video. :)

One last thing-  I bought a similar teak danish 2 piece unit from a friend who was moving.  It is not perfect but a real nice piece.  (this pic is not mine). I will get it set up and pics taken soon.  It can be used without the top to make a nice cr…

One last thing- I bought a similar teak danish 2 piece unit from a friend who was moving. It is not perfect but a real nice piece. (this pic is not mine). I will get it set up and pics taken soon. It can be used without the top to make a nice credenza. The top piece has some warping and there are some other minor issues but it will be a great starter piece if you love Danish and do not want to invest a fortune. Will be pricing this piece for local market and reach out if you are in the region and interested until I get that done.

I think the covers most of my latest additions. The dining set I was recovering on the last update sold within hours of me listing it and is waiting to get picked up to move to Wisconsin. Things have been really flying out the door this year and I will say, do not hesitate if you think you want something I have. I will hold things or even take a deposit but in this market, things are not here long. ALSO….ETSY is now offering a 4 installment payment plan with NO INTEREST! This may help you afford a big ticket item without putting it on a credit card. PLEASE read the terms! I think these plans work great IF you follow the rules and do not miss any payments. It truly is no interest until you screw up. I believe their plan is set up for 4 biweekly payments so you have about 2 months to pay it off. You will see this option and details on every listing you see on etsy. It was nothing I had to opt in to participate in. This is a fun and exciting product for holiday shopping! Keep that in mind and choose etsy to support small business just like mine all season long!

Thanks for checking in with me as I do appreciate those of you who take time out of your day to ready my blog! I will be hustling over the next 2 months to get some projects done and things listed. STAY TUNED!

xo Malissa