After all the holiday hullabaloo, this creature of habit confesses to greeting dull routines  with open arms.  But habits can become hobgoblins and I know that getting too comfortable in old ways is the death of the creative.  So I’ll begin the new year by rethinking habits for 2013 and  resolve to see with new eyes.  I've already tried a few new things this year, like pinfitting sofa slipcovers on site.  And I am testing some gorgeous new Brazilian linens from my fabric rep in High Point.  And I am planning a Reboot Break for September.  

Organic cotton laces are my favorite and the one in this photo is from Near Sea Naturals. I don't think the butterflies are available any more.  Probably because I stitched them to so many cotton and linen slipcovers.  But another favorite is the Brontosaurus lace which can be found on the link below.  I used both the Butterfly and the Brontosaurus lace recently on a pair of straightleg levis so I could get them over my red cowgirl boots.  www.nearseanaturals.com

Here is a photo from one of my favorite family fall vacations to Disney World.  The year was 2000 and I am wearing one of my favorite outfits.  White linen of course.  100% Irish linen to be exact.  I can't remember how many times I have worn this or how many times  it has gone around in the washing machine.  A whole bunch.  I never get tired of this outfit, and cool comfort never goes out of style.  So no I will not be ditching the white just because Labor Day has come and gone once again.  As a matter of fact, I am inspired to create a line of white linen slipcovers.  I can imagine the infinite possibilites of white.  Because white slipcovers never go out of style. Of course, I will need to throw in a few color options for zest.  Off to the drawing board!

Do I have a source for the perfect linen for slipcovers? 
I get asked this question all the time and the answer is yes.  Where can I purchase this fabric?  
You may purchase this fabric exclusively from Pencil Me In.  
Why Irish linen?
I am a big believer in purchasing the best quality you can afford.  See below.


 And that especially applies to materials, whether it be in the design of a slipcover or in the design of an architectural structure, especially if you are paying an expert craftsman to create custom product of the heirloom variety.  Irish linen’s unique qualities of comfort, drape, and distinctive appearance have secured it’s place in the luxury market for centuries, and has only recently been widely marketed in apparel and home textiles.  Irish linen is still woven today in the same traditional areas by descendants of those who have worked in the industry, using skills passed down over many generations.  
If you are a discerning buyer with an appreciation for craft, quality, and heritage, contact me for more information about purchasing Irish linen for your fine projects.  
I have a selection of two different linen weights, one that is perfect for slipcovers and also a lighter duty one. These fabrics are prewashed and do not shrink.  Currently I am stocking Irish linen in white.  Beautiful range of hues available, shipping from Ireland.   
What other colors should I stock?

"Curiosity is lying in wait for every secret."
Ralph Waldo Emerson
In my nearly 30 years experience in the textile industry, I have come to realize I know a thing or two or three about fabric.  Okay, let me get to the point.  I have opinions about fabric.  Yes opinions are subjective, and there are no right or wrong opinions, but I am surely one to argue my opinion when it comes to fabric for slipcovers.  

My strongest opinions are:
1.   Cleaning style should influence the fabric selection.
2.  The design and the fabric must be compatible.
3.  The experienced slipcover artisan will want to advise and approve of fabric choice.  

Whether it is because I am passionate about R&D, or because my curiosity is innate, I have spent hours and hours researching fabrics, as they relate to new product development.  Because I specialize in cotton and linen slipcovers,  I have searched the world over and have wonderful offerings that are appropriate to designing beautiful and functional slipcovers for furniture, and would be happy to share these secrets with you.  My collection focuses on cottons and linens, and these fabrics originate from the Carolinas to Ireland, England, Brazil, and beyond.  Check back for the new FABRICS button on this website, which is currently under construction.

Now I must be true to another favorite quote and get moving on some slipcover action, because "An ounce of action is worth a ton of theory."  Ralph Waldo Emerson

A good day becomes a great day when a friend stops by with a bucket of homegrown freshcuts.

And when Fedex delivers Irish Linen.  From Ireland.  Which I'll be stocking in white.  

And when the find is found.

Now is the time of year I am frequently asked “Can you make washable slipcovers?”  Well the answer is “Of course I can!”  However, fabric choice should be your first design consideration, and your cleaning style should influence your fabric choice.  Most decorator fabrics are labeled “dry clean only”, and if that is your cleaning style then you are good to go.  If the fiber content is cotton or a cotton/linen blend, then chances are the fabric will machine wash and wear beautifully.  Truthfully, the only way to know is to do a wash test, as machine washing can alter the hand of the fabric as well as change the color.  Certainly you will want to prewash fabric in order to preshrink the fabric if your goal is to be able to machine wash your slipcover.  So the next question I get is "So if I machine wash my cover, what kind of cleaner do I use?"  I use FOREVER NEW fabric care wash both in the prewashing of fabric as well as cleaning my own slipcovers.  The granular formula is biodegradeable and is made from a natural base of multiple sodas and citrus.  I have been using this product for about 5 years now and currently stock the line of cleaners and stain removers.  I discovered this product at the Bra Patch, here in Raleigh NC.  And in case you did not know, the Bra Patch is an East Coast destination for custom fit bras.  www.thebrapatch.com .  I purchased my first bottle of FOREVER NEW at the Bra Patch and use in handwashing all my delicate undergarments.  And for washing slipcovers.

  There are some wonderful cottons and linens available in a wide price range, many of which are made from organic fibers as well as  domestically grown fibers.  It is best to consult with your slipcover artisan before purchasing fabric, especially if you plan to machine wash your slipcovers.