Villa Savoia, Inc.

At Home

2010-12-30T05:34:00.000-08:00

Suzanne Rheinstein's book "At Home - A Style for Today with Things from the Past" is a lovely book full of absolutely beautiful photographs of her interiors. The book features a collection of her projects including two of her own residences. Click on Elle Decor for a link to an article on her New York Residence - which has better pictures than these.

I had the pleasure of hearing Suzanne at a lecture on the book recently and was delighted to hear about her past and the many things that have influenced her vision with regards to her interior design. Her talk was very personal - her early years spent in New Orleans, her travels - her interests in art and architecture - she speaks of these things with a clear voice that brings added depth to her work.

My involvement with Suzanne has been the kind of quintessential collaboration that is ideal. We talk about embellishments - she will give me background information - colors, fabrics, design concepts - and then let's me interpret all of that into something special. She doesn't try to control me but gives me the freedom to utilize my knowledge and is open to the results.

I embellished the curtains in the living room of her New York residence with a custom embroidered chenille design. Inspired by a drawing in the Jansen book - the design is a simple, classic - well scaled geometric design. The chenille was custom dyed and applied to the fabric using a hand-guided technique with the Cornely machine and was given an additional chain stitch outline "shadow" in a darker color to create more surface interest.

Hearing Suzanne's story was interesting for another fact - she used to be neighbors with another client of mine - Ann Holden of Holden & Dupuy. Suzanne's recalled fond memories of the home of Gerrie Bremermann, Ann's mother, another very successful interior designer and antiquarian.

Should you wish an autographed copy of Suzanne's book - call her beautiful Los Angeles shop "Hollyhock" - I know they will be delighted to send one.

Once again - Trapunto!

2010-12-10T11:45:00.000-08:00

I love the dimensional effects I achieve with Trapunto. Recently a client brought me a photo of some antique pillows. The images on the pillow were built up for dimension using some kind of underlay - I've seen antique pieces that had a sewn underlay in stitches or felt but have also seen them utilize a cellulose underlay as well.

I chose a dark platinum rayon thread to approximate the tarnished metallic like embroidery on the original and proceeded with my sample by digitizing a series of satin stitch shapes then using a software tool called line carving, to create the linear separation in the satin stitch.

Some people may actually prefer a flat surface for their pillows - but wanting to capture the essence of the antique piece, I utilized a hand-guided chain stitch outline that provided an additional detail and at the same time, allowed me to attach the muslin backing I needed for Trapunto. Once the chain stitch was completed, I could fill the pocked made by the two fabrics with cotton thread and complete the final sample.

My client loved the results - there will be four pillows to design.

Applique'

2010-11-01T13:15:00.000-07:00

The age old decorating problem: I love this image - but I don't like any of the ground colors it comes on or it just doesn't seem special enough...

Answer: Applique'

My client, Randy Patton of Patton Design Studio in Rancho Mirage, CA found an embroidered image that he liked for a chair back - but the image was simply part of a repeat - rows of the image with a smaller image offset between the rows. The fabric is from the Larson showroom.

To arrive at a more customized look, the images were cut from the original ground fabric, secured onto a new Rogers & Goffigon silk background, and then transitioned using a contrasting yet pale color that married the two materials and provided a lovely emphasis to the medallion.

Villa Savoia Custom Embroidery In Architectural Digest

2010-06-12T12:03:00.001-07:00

My July 2010 issue of Architectural Digest arrived with a residence designed by Ann Holden of Holden & Dupuy. A redesign by the original architect, Ken Tate, the home is classically elegant with French accents with a "contemporary, sleek look look throughout."

I recognize some of the beautiful Jean Michel Frank reproduction furniture - such as the two arm chairs like those famously once in the Rockefeller New York residence designed by Jean Michel Frank in 1937 near the fireplace; the sofas and the vellum cocktail table - most likely recreated by Mattaliano Furniture, a line I sold while I worked at Mimi London Inc. years ago.

The beautiful photograph by Jeff Herr shows everything with a yellowish cast which isn't the way the photos look on his website. Please follow the link and view his interiors portfolio for a better impression of the colors in the room. I documented the curtain panels in this photo taken prior to shipping.

The embroidery consists of hand-guided cording using a tonal palette of coordinated threads along with chain stitch as a textural shadow. The design is about 13" wide.

Ann Holden is a great talent. She has a style that blends sophistication and elegance while keeping the interior available for every day use. Thanks Ann, for your continued use of my embroidery - it is much appreciated!

Rogers & Goffigon Custom Outlines

2010-04-30T10:08:00.000-07:00

I have always enjoyed the fantastic effect a simple embroidered outline can bring to fabric. Whether it be on Fortuny or in this case, a beautiful Rogers & Goffigon textile, the difference can be dramatic.

The fabric is "Mirador" and the color is Mirage and it is 50% wool and 50% linen - it has to me a decidedly arts and crafts feel. I loved this fabric the first time I saw it at Cowtan & Tout here in Los Angeles and I'm glad I have finally had a chance to embellish it.

In the top photograph you see a close up of the embroidered detail - it consists of a multi-thread cord which is achieved by creating a bobbin of threads which are used in the Cornely machine, a turn-of-the-century hand-guided machine. The cord is accented using a hand-guided chain stitch. The second photo shows The final panel (one of two,) shown in the last photo, was embroidered for on of my favorite designers, Waldo Fernandez of Waldo's Designs. They are to be upholstered on two small bench seats. I like these panels so much that I purchased a couple of yards to make some pillows for my showroom.

Villa Savoia Sighting in C Magazine

2010-03-23T14:44:00.000-07:00

What a nice surprise to see embroidery in the new issue (April 2010) of C Magazine. The Beverly Hills home of Danica and Charles Perez, by designer Chad Eisner of C.W. Eisner Inc. includes my embroidery on the skirts of two lounge chairs in the living room and two Trapunto Maze pillows on a custom sofa in the Master Bedroom.

Chad is a wonderful designer and client - he uses embroidery in such a unobtrusive way. If you have the magazine - also check out the work of Erin Martin - the embroidered bedspread in her Napa Valley project is a quiet knockout - if you know what I mean.

The article on Erin is written by Diane Dorrans Saeks who has the most wonderful blog, The Style Saloniste.

Mary Tait:Textile Artist and Extraordinary Seamstress

2010-03-21T13:49:00.000-07:00

Here it is again - the Sunday before West Week. I need to be dusting, vacuuming etc. but instead I feel the need to share. For many years now I have had the privilege of working with the New Orleans firm of Holden & Dupuy. Along with that distinction, I have the pleasure of working with the wonderful studio of Mary Tait. Mary has been making beautiful window treatments, slipcovers, and other soft treatments that one finds in publications featuring the designers of that location and across the country.

As I have before mentioned, seldom do I see installation shots featuring my work, which is one of the reasons I feel such great satisfaction when a residence containing my work is published. Sharing emails with Mary this weekend, she included the above installation shot of some "Large Acanthus" embroidered satin curtains made for Ann Holden's project. Embroidered on a beautiful rich blue-violet-silver silk satin, the design is created using hand guided techniques including cording for the main outline of the design and contrasting chain stitch for emphasis and shading.

One of the many benefits of the design business is our friendships created by our different collaborations with both designers and artisans like Mary. Even though we may never meet in person, the friendships we create are quite special and long lasting. If you would like to contact Mary, here phone number is (479) 253-2372 - I know she is currently working on a website - I'll be sure to share it when it is ready.

Have a very good Sunday and enjoy West Week 2010.

The Evolution of Embroidered Design

2010-03-18T12:02:00.000-07:00

Recently I was approached by the San Francisco Interior Design firm The Wiseman Group, to create an embroidered design from their concept, for use as an embellishment on some round ottomans.

The design is relatively simple and was provided to me in a cad drawing complete with measurements. Using my Pulse Microsystems embroidery software, I was able to translate those measurements into a perfect replica in thread. The design runs continuously around the bottom of the ottomans - about 1" from the base.

The simplicity of this design has a clear strength about it which happens through the use of a foundation of threads underneath the satin stitches, which results in a very rich, dimensional embroidery. This embellishment will go a long way to add style to a simple shape.

April 2010 Architectural Digest

2010-03-07T11:21:00.000-08:00

The April 2010 issue of Architectural Digest is on the stands now and I'm delighted to see my embroidery. The interior is by Michae S.l Smith and the residence is located in Rancho Mirage.
I photographed the page and hope you can see the deck of the corner sofa - the embroidery consists of a DMC cotton satin stitch outline with a cotton cording fill in a pattern that much resembles some of the work of Maison Leleu, a favorite for inspiration.

La Maison Leleu

2010-02-16T14:42:00.000-08:00

I am a lover of books. I can't seem to own enough books. My library pages probably have at least 3 lifetimes of inspiration. The contents vary with information spanning centuries. Among my most recent passion is 20th century decorative arts; specifically, French decorative arts and fashion. It is a shame that I do not speak French as many of my books are in French and I have to restrict my appreciation to wonderful photos and my vague understanding of words I somewhat recognize.

The history of La Maison Leleu is the topic of Leleu by Francoise Siriex. It is a richly illustrated book showing the work of the family...I am especially attracted to the embroidered upholstery, wonderful rug designs and curtain embroidery of Paule Leleu.

The embroidered border above is my own interpretation of the style - it is based on a leading edge of a curtain in an interior from 1957. My border is sewn using my Tajima Neo2, digitized using my Pulse software. The repeat is 23" and uses three types of stitches, some layered for an iridescent effect. There is a joy about this work - much like the work of the 50's with it's international flavor and it's modern primitive point of view.

Trapunto With Satin Stich

2010-02-07T17:13:00.000-08:00

I've been in the studio this afternoon, trying to photograph embroidery for a new mail piece. I do all my own photography and I particularly like to take close up shots of trapunto. The technique is so wonderful and the resulting relief creates such a rich textural element that I had to share these photos.

The top photo features a detail of a Turkish inspired design - a mixture of shapes further enhanced by satin stiches on the smooth matte wool sateen surface.

The next photo is of a pattern inspired by Hawaiian quilts. The pattern is repeated in a circular fashion from the center. This design has been used not only for pillows but also as a chair back.

You can see why I like trapunto so much - the effects are wonderful.

Chenille Embroidery

2010-01-20T07:04:00.000-08:00

The last several months have been very busy. I am on a schedule that has been wonderfully consistent lately. Today I am starting a new design - a chair back pattern that I'm really excited about. Organic in nature, the image will be used on insides or outsides of chair backs and I'm thinking about using it on two chairs from the Kerry Joyce collection to show the design off in my showroom.

Here are a few pictures of my showroom sample board. It shows patterns utilizing different styles of embroidery. You will see computerized satin stitch and pattern stitches, hand guided embroidery in the form of cording and chain stitch, applique' and two examples of trapunto; one on a beautiful Rogers and Goffigon silk/linen blend and one on mohair - both designs based on Moroccan detailing.
The close up is my sample from a job I just completed for designer Suzanne Rheinstein. The striped ground is oneof her fabrics at Lee Jofa and the embroidery is created by using a custom hand dyed chenille with the hand-guided cording machine then bordering it with a chain stitch outline in coral colored cotton. I love it - it is such a charmingly unexpected color combination,

Charles Rennie Mackintosh

2010-01-01T21:53:00.000-08:00

From the papers of Mackintosh:

The props of art are - on the one hand - the slavish imitation of old work - no matter what date or from what country - and on the other hand the absurd and false idea - that there can be any living emotion expressed in work scientifically proportioned according to ancient principals - but clothed in the thin fantasy of the authors own fancy. The artists motto should be I care not the least for theories for this or that dogma - so far as the practice of art is concerned - but take my stand on what I myself consider my personal ideal - and I am sure that no one of any gifts of reasoning will question the value of higher ideas - a strong conviction.

This quote resonates with me as I move towards creating embroidery patterns for the new year. I have spent the past few months reorganizing my samples and my office. I've painted walls removing the dark brown color replacing them with a lively color from Farrow and Ball called Oval Room Blue. It is a breath of fresh air for me and has brightened the place beautifully. Last year I gave 15 pillows from my showroom stock to Divine Design to raise money for Project Angelfood. I felt the need to clean house and the opportunity of donating them to raise money suited me. I've been designing new pillows for the shelves and new curtain borders as well.

In the next few weeks I will be sending out a new direct mail piece that is the first of a series designed by Alexander Irvine who will also be reworking my website later this year. If you would like to be added to my mailing list, please email me at Michael@VillaSavoiaInc.com.

I wish you a very happy, healthy and successful new year - I like the sound and look of 2010 and will embrace all the possibilities a new day has to offer.

Best regards,
Michael

Quote and photo from "Charles Rennie Mackintosh the Architectural Papers edited by Pamela Robertson

Sample for a series of Beaded Pillows

2009-11-28T13:38:00.000-08:00

This approved sample will be the basis for a series of pillows. Swarovski crystals have been added to silver matte seed beeds and gold lined crystal beads.

Billiard Room Bar Stool Chair Seats

2009-11-28T13:23:00.000-08:00

I totally embraced the opportunity to rework one of my old patterns. Years ago, for a "Snooker Chair" for Mimi London, we made Billiard Balls using chain stitch on Gretchen Bellinger's "Billiard Cloth." They were whimsically charming and made a nice custom accent for the chair.

Recently, when asked to make them for some bar stool seats, I decided to rework the design and do it on my computerized embroidery machine. There was a tightness of design I felt was missing in the previous version that I thought could be addressed by digitizing a new version.

Here are the results. I wish the photos were better but I was on a very tight deadline and had to deliver the work as soon as it was completed. The colors work with other materials in the room yet still maintain the basic color/number correctness of the standard. There is shading to the balls accomplished with the help of my Balboa training cd's which gave the work a truly unique dimensional feeling.

Ashanti Curtains

2009-11-12T12:29:00.000-08:00

Recently I posted a photograph of a curtain sample for approval. The design, based on an image in the Fortuny "Ashanti" fabric is colored per the designers request and laid on a beautiful (and heavy) Rogers & Goffigon linen. (Click on Fortuny to see their new website)
The wall of curtains is worked around 3 pairs of french doors. The first and last of the 16 total panels consisted of 2.5 widths of fabric, with the remaining two panels five widths each. Leading edge and hem were highlighted with the embroidery - the above photo is 5 folded panels showing two leading edge treatments and 3 hem sections. Each panel in the photograph is 1/4 of the actual width.
Because of the complexity of the panel joins, I have grouped the four sections and named them A,B,C & D. Within each letter, each panel is then marked according to a corresponding drawing - 1 through 16. Next stop, Valley Drapery...

Outlines Provide Impact

2009-10-20T05:57:00.000-07:00

I am an avid collector. My collecting passions are many but one of my most consistent efforts has been finding and buying antique textiles; especially embroidered or otherwise embellished textiles. I've run the range from Arts and Crafts era pieces to antiques and also more modern pieces.

There are textiles I have found irresistible from the mid-20th century. Moving from Arts and Crafts and Art Deco to Moderne, some of the textiles I have collected are indeed fascinating. The design above is one of my favorite prints.

It was found during one of my usual scans of textiles on eBay. A short single curtain, this linen was obviously unlined as it had sun wear on the back but the front looked great. With no identification on any selvedge giving me a clue about it's origin, I proceeded to deconstruct it's pleats. Once I had it in a flat panel, I determined it to be stable enough for a gentle hand washing. It was filthy!

Finally, I decided to embellish the design with just an outline on some of the major areas. It didn't need much but I guess I wanted to leave my own mark. I then used some Rogers & Goffigon fabric for the backs of a pair of pillows seen above. One day I hope to take my fabrics and reproduce them, creating a line of textiles.

The Fine Art of Trapunto

2009-10-19T11:36:00.000-07:00

Years ago I graduated with a MFA in Weaving and Textiles from Edinboro University in Pennsylvania. Prior to that I received a B.S. in Art Education. I've always been a teacher personality and I hope to be able to teach again sometime soon.

During my time at school I learned about trapunto. This age old technique allows one to create wonderful relief patterns on the surface of a textile. Often times it has been used to enhance a design on the fabric or in some cases creates the design on a plain fabric

The method of doing trapunto was to top stitch a pattern onto the surface of a fabric - either with machine or by hand - using a secondary fabric underneath so that one would have two fabrics being joined with the stitching. Once the areas of relief were determined, one only had to make a cut in the backing, stuff the area with fiber, and hand sew the cut to create the desired effect.

Through the years, I have discovered a much better way of creating trapunto. There is such a thing as a hollow needle that when combined with the use of an air compressor, can pierce the backing and shoot fiber (string) into the pocket created by the double layer of fabric and produce the same effect with much less effort and a much cleaner look. The needle is a bit flexible and allows one to get into the corners and tight spots. The above photo is a detail of one of my favorite trapunto patterns. This one is on a beautiful Rogers & Goffigon wool twill, which adds a beautiful directional pattern to the work. Be sure to click on the photo - it will give you a good look at the results.

Jansen's Curtain Border Interpretation

2009-10-06T09:54:00.000-07:00

When I first glanced at the beautiful book "Jansen" by James Archer Abbott, with it's striking red jacket, I found it compelling. Then, on page 219, I saw a beautiful drawing of a window treatment for the bedroom of Mr. & Mrs. Charles Allen Jr. The simple but graphic border along with the beautifully articulated valence, soft blue gray color against the black background just captured me. Needless to say I bought the book.

Within hours, I set out to capture the essence of that design using satin stitches on a Rogers & Goffigon wool sateen. Technically, I think I did a proper job, but I did not catch the pattern's romance in my first attempt. I put the sample away and moved on to orders.

Recently, Interior Designer Suzanne Rheinstein approached me about interpreting the pattern for curtains in her New York home. This time I took a different approach. The fabric ground is a handsome platinum colored silk from her own collection designed for Lee Jofa. For the image, I custom dyed a rayon chenille in a dark taupe and using the hand guided Cornelly machine applied the chenille and finished using chain stitch. The finished embroidery is finished above along with a detail for closer inspection.

The chapter on the Allen residence does not show the master bedroom and I am not sure if the curtain treatment was ever made but Suzanne tells me that she loves her curtains which makes me very happy indeed.

Ashanti Curtain Border

2009-09-29T08:14:00.000-07:00

Today I am reviewing this large sample which if approved, will be the basis for a curtain order. The design will be used along the leading edge and hem of the curtains. The design is pulled from an element in Fortuny's "Ashanti" pattern which I have admired for years and have hand beaded often times as decorative pillows.

The fabric is from Rogers and Goffigon, available here in Los Angeles at Cowtan & Tout Showroom. The embroidery is achieved by using the hand guided Cornely machine which gives the pattern a lovely hand made quality.

Below I am attaching two photos - one is the initial sample of the design which inspired the designer to customize the pattern in her colors and material and beaded pillows in the Ashanti pattern which I sold recently to Michael S. Smith.

Custom Sofa Embroidery for Michael S. Smith Inc.

2009-09-26T12:03:00.000-07:00

This week I finished a project for interior designer Michael S. Smith. I embroidered an interlocking geometric pattern to be used for the deck of a sofa.

The project consisted of three panels; two side panels and one front panel. I made a right and left side panel and ended the design off rather than continue it to go inside the seam. This gives the side a custom, finished look. Each side panel measured about 44" in length - the pattern measured 6.5" high.

For the front, the fabric consisted of three fabric sections with two seams. Starting from the center, I worked towards the ends by framing the fabric in 3 sections, each time making sure that the pattern matched exactly by using registration lines that I built into the pattern. The total width embroidered for the sofa front was 108 inches.

The fabric is a beautiful woven silk from Claremont Textiles and I used a cotton thread for the embroidery. The pattern is a classic one that I digitized using my Pulse software for my TajimaNeo2 embroidery machine with the extra long border sash frame.

Custom Embroidered Tablecloth with Linens

2009-09-11T22:28:00.000-07:00

The above photo was taken at my home. The tablecloth I hand-guided machine embroidery on J.Robert Scott Silk; the trim is from Decor de Paris. The Linens are from Sferra, the tableware is Cristofle, the dishes from Genori, the glasses are vintage Mirano.

The napkin is embroidered with a design taken from an antique embroidery I found on eBay. I had my good friend JeriLee Auclair digitize it for me. I used just part of the pattern, there is a beautifully articulated birds nest with eggs that is an optional part of the leaf pattern. It is also beautifully used with a monogram.

The border on the tablecloth is my Spanish Border, a border I have used a number of times for curtains. I is large at the corners and slims down on the sides. Taken from an antique piece of embroidery I acquired some time ago, it can be interpreted in many different ways.

Leather, Embroidery and Pearls

2009-09-10T22:11:00.000-07:00

Leather can be such an amazing material to embroider. The acanthus pattern with pearl trim was a recent selection by a designer for use in creating two leather ottomans. The embellishment is placed on the oval shaped ottoman sides.

It is challenging making this because the material had to be completely seamed prior to embroidery. It will be placed on the ottoman form and more or less slid into place. This allows a beautiful finished seam in four places on the ottoman with the embroidery moving over the seams to give a wonderful custom look. The leather is from Edelman Leather.

The cording and the chain stitch are achieved using the hand guided Cornely machine. There are two sizes of pearls used here, the are applied using metal prongs that pierce through the back of the leather and firmly pierce the pearl and hold it in place. The effect on leather is really quite surprising.

Custom Embroidered M Monogram for Chair Backs

2009-07-26T09:26:00.000-07:00

It seems lately I am doing quite a collection of monograms for upholstery. Having just finished the pearl encrusted S about a week ago, I am now finished with two inside chair backs. The M is modified from a previously digitized AL monogram, which for maximum decorative effect, was mirror imaged to form a beautiful emblem.

Single letter monograms are generally not quite as emblematic, and in my search for the perfect historical document, I never found one that was exactly right. That said, I started to review others that could be modified and one that I already had seemed perfect for use. The size of this monogram is 10" wide by 8.25" high - it is a perfectly scaled size to rest on the back of the chair without taking over the chair.

This monogram was digitized by my good friend and digitizing guru Jerilee Auclair - she also managed the color change modification which now makes the M stand out in great glory. The depth of Jerilee's satin stitches is amazing. Next up is a letter A monogram which will be used on a foot board panel of a Michael S. Smith bed. I will be posting that in a few days.

Chair Back Embroidery

2009-07-20T07:11:00.001-07:00

A while ago I did a blog post on a "brand" I interpreted in embroidery for a chair back. Seldom do I see photographs of installations or of completed projects but National Upholstery Co. was kind enough to forward these shots of my chair back in place to my friend Luis at Mimi London, the Los Angeles representative for National.

The embroidered back is made up of a complex fill pattern using my computerized embroidery machine, that I digitized from artwork provided by the client. National is a wonderful furniture manufacturer from the San Francisco area that makes fine custom furniture.

Embroidered and Hand Beaded Custom Monogram

2009-07-19T07:25:00.000-07:00

Recently I was approached by a colleague about creating a special monogram for a design firm that wanted to use it for the back of a vanity chair in "her" bath. As always, when broached with this concept, it takes some time to determine what the client is looking for.

In this case the letter S was needed and it was to dramatically fill the chair back(a huge 12" wide x 18" high) and was to be punctuated with gems and other beads, encrusting it with the look of glamor.

Often times, such exercises involve the never ending balancing act of when is the treatment finished: when are there enough beads - when are there too many beads. First I started with a strong foundation of computerized satin stitches. Based on a historic document the pattern is articulated with underlay and satin overlays that create a luxurious base.

Some of the bead placement is anticipated in the design process with the center area of the S singled out for large cultivated pearls. Other parts of the articulation are also natural, such as the use of crystals as flower centers. My goal was to work with the feeling of generosity with the beads but to hold the embellishing back a bit - and allow the satin stitches the room to capture light luxuriously. Alas, it turned out not to be enough for the designer, who had me add larger and additional crystals as well as more pearls. Here I show my first effort only and will reserve the final version for the client.

Making Pleated Flange

2009-07-18T14:20:00.001-07:00

I have two 24" pillows that are embroidered and hand beaded using crystal beads and pearls that also require pleated flange. I used to have the flange pleated by a local company that has pleated fabric for designers and the studio industry for years but recently I found that pleating fabric jumped in price from about $150 to $600 - a great surprise to me that unfortunately, I had not covered in my pricing.

In order to keep the price of pillows down, I am now pleating the fabric myself. First, I have the fabric cut and over-locked by my seamstress. In this case, we decided not to railroad the fabric for the strips, so each one is 54" wide, the width of the fabric, a beautiful silk satin from Clarence House.The size of the strips vary depending on the size of the pleat, but in this case, the flange is going to be made using 1/2" x 1/2" sections. I had the pieces cut 3" wide. The first thing I do is iron the fabric in half so that the flange is self lined.

I then start the formation of my pleats, using a ruler to help start the strip, steam pressing each section before moving onto the next.

Continuing down the fabric length, I create the flange. The over-locked side will be inserted into the seam of the pillow. As you can imagine the steam so close to the fingers is a little hot!

Around The World

2009-07-08T07:35:00.000-07:00

One of the best things about writing a blog is seeing reports viewable through my account on Google. Each time I look at the visitor overview map - it is as if I am suddenly a part of a world community that is connected through embroidery and interior design.

This morning my map told me that someone in Venice, Italy was looking at my blog - and there is someone in London who spends time on them too. I miss Italy, and I have never been to England. I have longed to see the architecture in Glasgow and have admired the works of Charles Renie Mackintosh for years and to see someone in that fine city looking at my blog is an instant thrill for me. India, France, Sweden, Belgium, Turkey, Mexico, Argentina, China, Russia to name a few - so many countries I feel connected to in a way I could never have felt before. And of course, all my friends in the United States that take the time to look at my work are greatly appreciated.

The influence of different cultures around the globe have been a great influence in my work. The top photo is from a famous arabesque document. The second is of hand beaded antique Fortuny pillows - fabric from Venice. The third is a detail of some hand embroidery that I did on a Claremont Fabric which became the basis of additional panels I had over-embroidered in India. There is always so much work to be done that it is difficult to find the time to travel these days. Having a new puppy also distracts me from that thought as well but the connections I feel to the world through this Internet life brings a connection that for now keeps me satisfied. Thanks for taking the time to look at the blog - please don't hesitate to drop me a line at Michael@VillaSavoiaInc.com or leave a comment. Cheers!

Missy Goes To Work Tomorrow

2009-07-05T06:52:00.000-07:00

Yes, finally graduating from school, Missy will be accompanying me to work tomorrow at the PDC. Joey, at the information desk is off for a week I hear, but I know Missy will enjoy seeing him every day as he greets all the building's canines with treats. Buddy used to rush his way down the hall to see Joey.

The transition home has been interesting. She helped me make a commitment to clear away my clutter so now I have a fairly barricade free home and boxes of things to post on eBay: the thought of her chewing on an antique textile I am used to so casually having about the house made me realize I no longer need them. I've also learned to close doors-she decorated my living room with toilet paper from the powder room while I sat in the kitchen snacking on some yogurt with strawberries. Accomplishing that deed took but a moment and taught me quickly to keep doors closed! My living room, above, has never been so clutter free!

We have been outside a great deal the last few days and understand the common bond we have with those puppies of a similar age: their playing habits can be exhausting! Visit us anytime - many hats are worn at the office so although we have errands to run, and necessary walks to take and can't always be there - we will enjoy seeing you! Be prepared, she likes to give lots of kisses!

A New Mural by Kaveri and TJ Singh

2009-07-04T07:09:00.000-07:00

TJ and Kaveri came to see me yesterday. I made them come by for tea and to remove a chair away that I wanted to give to their son, Angad. They have just completed a new mural for a home in Beverly Hills and had a camera full of photos. Since we both own the same camera, I was able to download their photos and have a good look at their beautiful work.

With their kind permission I am sharing some details with you. The spa room in the Beverly Hills home consists of many small walls with a variety of openings - a great challenge for the artists. Keeping the work in transition from one wall to the next was a must in the mind of the client and designer.

There is a glimpse of the impressionistic soul in Kaveri as you can see by the deft brushwork and the seemingly quick work in the landscapes - I can attest that it was not quick work - the planning of such an artwork as well as the painting itself is a true labor of love.

The Evolution of a Design - Orientalism

2009-06-25T15:35:00.000-07:00

I just completed the above embroidery for two kidney pillows. The fabric is from Cowtan & Tout and the embroidery pattern is based on an image I found in a book.

The book is "Alberto Pinto Orientalism" from Rizzoli and it has provided much inspiration. The design was created for a project I did for Interior Designer Kim Alexandriuk. The embroidery was used for the outside backs of some Michael S. Smith dining chairs - the inside backs were a Fortuny applique'. The fabric used on the project is a Claremont Fabric and here is production shot of the inside back.

The pillows are a wonderful accent that have great texture and over all design that add to just about any interior without trying to steal the show.

Reworking A Monogram

2009-06-19T12:35:00.000-07:00

The above monogram has be altered to emphasize the letter M. Based on an antique lettering combination, this beautiful monogram was originally developed as AL. As with many antique letter combination, letters were often mirror imaged so that the design created a type of emblem.

Below is my original monogram in a single color. The version above is on a silk ground with the M in gold thread while the balance of the design is rendered in platinum; the change is subtle but of course it can be any color combination one can imagine. The monogram is 12" high x 14.5" wide - the perfect size for a chair back or pillow front. The version below is on mohair and the monogram is approximately 4" tall.

Cocktail Time

2009-06-18T04:43:00.000-07:00

I have embroidered tons of napkins over the years. Some of my favorites have been cocktail napkins. More of a conceptual entertainer than an actual one myself, I have a huge collection of antique, vintage and new linens that I've collected over the years.

The above photo shows one of my favorite cocktail napkins. I embroidered this particular Sferra napkin for a client who gave a set as a gift. That is my stemmed glass - I found that set of stemware at auction years ago. The embroidered set below is used with Richard Ginori china, one of my favorite manufacturers of fine china.

The beautiful monogram below was made for a designer - utilizing the couples last name initials H and K. The image itself was found in a journal of antique letter combinations. Also shown below is a napkin with a large coral red linen border on white that I made for my own use with my collection of vintage Fiesta Ware dishes. The design is traditional yet made lighthearted by using bright colors and accented with the simple yellow flower. Finding the time to use them is the biggest challenge.

Outlining For Emphasis

2009-06-17T07:20:00.000-07:00

I am always amazed at the effect a simple outline can achieve in creating emphasis and definition to a fabric image. The above pillows are a good example of this concept.

The fabric used is available through Brunschwig & Fils, a wonderful source of great traditional fabrics, trim, wallcovering, upholstery and furniture. This particular fabric is a woven blend of rayon and linen. I did not applique' the medallion onto the fabric. It is woven into the ground of the plain weave ground directly during the weaving process. Often used as chair backs and seats as well as pillows, it is supplied with 2 images per fabric width, centered on the half width - with space between the images. The solid ground is also available allowing for larger areas of upholstery for a beautiful custom finished look.

The photo below shows the sample I provided the client. You can see half the medallion has been outlined and the other half left as purchased. Using the hand guided cording technique with threads the same color as the medallion gives it an added strength for the right finishing touch.

The Evolution of an Embroidery Design

2009-06-13T06:58:00.000-07:00

For may years I have collected antique and vintage embroidery. I love them. They are beautiful creative expressions of a time past. I have specifically loved the linens created during the early to mid 20Th century during much of the period in which they are described as Arts & Crafts style linens. These linens often have a primitive quality and a directness that I greatly admire. they are graphic expressions which were made to adorn a home. Sometime crudely worked, they seem almost urgent - as if they were made a bit on the fly. Other times they were obsessively needled into the most artful creations. My collection of Arts and Crafts embroidery has some stunners.

I like to utilize these graphic designs in current work. Pictured below is an embroidery I purchased on eBay. Most likely a table top linen - it is decorative, bold and although not labored over as far as embroidery style is concerned, it is effective. Time has not been too kind to it, but that just tells me it was somewhat utilitarian. I am happy it is still alive today in a sense - for it captured my imagination and I used it for inspiration.

A designer came to me wanting pillows for an interior. The room is colorful and features a large antique Suzani embroidery hanging over a fireplace. The colors we selected for the embroidery came from that Suzani. Thus bright and bold - the pillows are on a ground of hand woven antique French fabric.

The pattern is drawn and the colors of colors identified. By using the bright colors of the Suzani, the pattern becomes much less Arts and Crafts and much more in the character of the Suzani. this version of the embroidery was accomplished using hand guided techniques of cording and chain stitch, which worked beautifully on the highly textured ground.

Another Villa Savoia Sighting in Architectural Digest

2009-06-12T08:35:00.000-07:00

It is so rewarding to see an interior that has embroidery; and it is especially sweet when the embroidery was provided by Villa Savoia, Inc. In the July issue of Architectural Digest, you will see the above bronze-brown fabric applied to luxurious pale green silk satin pictured above.

The project interiors was articulated by the talents of Ann Holden of the firm Holden & Dupuy of New Orleans and the architecture is by Ken Tate. The project took 5 years to construct. The living room pictures below contains not only my curtain embroidery but also some demilune console tables (one viewable in the photo below) from Amy Perlin in NY, chairs and two beautiful Louis XV settees upholstered in Fortuny fabric; the settees are also from Amy Perlin Antiques.

The curtain embroidery, fyi - did not take 5 years. If you have a chance, please take a look. I've photographed part of the room and attached it below.

There is a back story (there usually is) to these curtain panels. Once completed, I sent the panels to Mary Tait of Mary Tait Inc. Mary is the amazingly creative woman who has been responsible for curtain artistry for Holden & Dupuy and other prominent interior designers from around the country for many years. My box arrived at Mary's office and for some reason the FedEx man threw the box somewhere on the property and ended up in the garbage bin. Astute Mary saw the box, retrieved it and saved the panels from decorating a land fill.

Recycling Antique Textiles

2009-05-28T07:08:00.000-07:00

Being a person obsessed with fabrics, I find fragments of textiles that I just have own. Beautiful, poorly described textiles on eBay can astound me. Friends have also been known to pass along textile fragments that they have coveted for a long period of time and no longer have the room to store or realize they will never utilize them in the creative way they once imagined; they know I will be a respectful keeper of these treasures.

The handwork involved in the shawls from Kashmir are magnificent. This art is a tradition of excellence that I can appreciate with great admiration on so many levels. Not often able to afford a fine piece in excellent condition, I have more often settled for those battered examples with moth holes and worn elements and converted them into something new again.

The pillows above are created using fragments of a shawl. The center of the shawl was long gone and the border was in tatters. The application of the antique fabric onto a new velvet ground was handled in a sensitive way and the transition of the two utilized a black thread chain stitch that both highlighted the textile with a contrast that seemed appropriate.

Homage to Fortuny

2009-05-28T06:34:00.001-07:00

If you have ever seen a panel of Fortuny's "Ashanti" fabric it is rich with design detail. Images that are at once intriguing and joyful; with a look that is organized yet spontaneous. The sharing of design elements from person to person and culture to culture are evident just about everywhere we look. I saw it in the new exhibition at LACMA. Pompeii and the Roman Villa which has many examples where Romans so admired the beauty of the Greek traditions before them that they incorporated classical Greek details into their villas and public spaces.

In the above curtain border I call "Ashanti Border" I have taken one element that is used by Fortuny and consecutively placed to form a leading edge and hem treatment. I have also used it on bedding. The graphic pattern is created by using the cording machine and is hand guided on the design stamped linen.

My personal library is full of books that I bought for their source of inspiration and I think I have 3 lifetimes worth at my hands and yet my production schedule is weighing heavily on my shoulders and not allowing me as much creative time as I would like. As soon as my current project is completed I intend to spend a week creatively - have fun with my books and do some expressive experimentation in thread. After all, Summer is here and it is nice to get out of our routine.

Custom Curtain Applique' on Alpaca Fabric

2009-05-23T11:30:00.000-07:00

Today I start working on two mirror image applique' and embroidery leading edges for curtains. The two panels will have a 164" of embroidery each, which will require 10 framings on my large border sash frame NEO 2 embroidery machine.

The challenge is great as I cut the images on the machine during the embroidery process. It is exacting, time consuming work. The texture, thread colors and the use of contrasting colors of the same fabric make for a beautiful combination.

I'll add a shot of a completed panel as soon as I have one.

Classic Arts and Crafts Pillows Etc.

2009-05-23T07:12:00.000-07:00

The Arts and Crafts patterns of the past have great transitional power. They have an honesty of design and straight forward sense of practicality combined with a touch of refinement in a style that bridges tradition and modern elements. The works of Frank Lloyd Wright, Stickley, Charles Rennie Mackintosh all come to mind as well the work of many others.

Inspired by an old embroidered throw of mohair and cording embroidery from the turn of the century, this pattern is one that I've used for years. The nature of the line, the spareness of design yet a punctuation of a flower form blend beautifully in a simple pattern as well as a more complex version.

Different shapes and sizes - from kidney pillows to chair backs, I've seen this pattern used frequently by Ann Holden of Holden & Dupuy of New Orleans. The Chair above is one by Dessin Fournir created for an interior by Ann. Randy Patton of Patton Design Studio in Rancho Mirage commissioned his own interpretation in this delightfully long kidney pillow below.

Embroidered using hand guided machines, the cording and chain stitch have the right interpretive sense of the design while allowing color changes and fabric choices that meld the pattern to just about any room.

The Lotus Collection

2009-05-19T07:34:00.000-07:00

My hand made Ikats arrived from Mallorca yesterday. They are so beautiful! The patterns and colors are exactly what I remembered; what I forgot was the amazing texture of the fabric. I am so happy that I connected with Juncosa; to have the opportunity to own this fabric again is very satisfying. Ms. Angel Juncosa tells me that there are only 3 weavers left making it - in my eye that makes this an endangered textile! One of my fabrics from Mallorca is pictures below:

A few weeks ago, I visited the Los Angeles Antique Show in Santa Monica. While visiting the booth of Kathleen Taylor of The Lotus Collection, I spied a beautiful antique embroidery that has not left my mind. This is reason to own it as far as I'm concerned and I will soon do so. Here is a photo of the embroidery as well as a detail. I will frame it and add it to my ever growing collection of antique embroidery I display in my showroom. The patterns will be reinterpreted and used on top of the Mallorcan Ikat fabrics. Watch for future posts of my results.

The exciting thing about textiles to me is how fabrics have a history. And how we can recreate a pattern that has historical references and make it fresh and new again and appropriate for today's interiors. Check out the amazing textiles viewable on the website of The Lotus Collection - just click on the name and you will be transported to a world of textiles and embroidery that to me is thrilling.

Custom Bed Pillows

2009-05-12T17:32:00.000-07:00

A few weeks ago, I posted a photo and description of a panel of embroidery that I made for Patton Design Studio. The panel was used by their workroom in producing a duvet. Along with that panel, I was commissioned to create two pillows for the bed utilizing the same pattern.

Here you see the complete pillows completed and on their way to the Carmel installation. The details specified double mitered flanges as well as a small welt trim in colors that coordinated with the rest of the bedding. The embroidery is a pattern that I created in my digitizing software; the pillow faces were able to be sewn in one framing thanks to my large frame NEO 2 from Tajima.

Embroidery Production - Monogrammed Towels

2009-05-12T17:23:00.000-07:00

My current project is in full throttle with an estimated completion of tomorrow. Yes, tomorrow. If it is one thing I truly love to do - it is to ship completed projects. It is always such a relief.

These towels are personalized with the name of a residence. Being used poolside, they will provide a nice touch, a little color and a lot of class.

The towels are from E. Braun & Co. and a dream sewing field. Just twelve more to do...

New Arrival at Villa Savoia

2009-05-09T10:01:00.000-07:00

Here she is - Villa Savoia's new receptionist.

Missy came to me from a shelter. Having been scheduled for termination, an emergency email was circulated which came to me through my good friend Erika Glazer. Erika has rescued many dogs over the years and has a habit of putting people and animals together at the right time.

Nine months old and with very little training, Missy will be a challenge for me. She is smart, beautiful and very affectionate and I'm looking forward to us both making adjustments. Here she is, up since 3:30am - taking a nap while I write this and wishing I could be taking one too. But there are projects to embroidery and deadlines to meet.

I'm not sure that Missy will be available Monday through Friday at Villa Savoia headquarters yet; so far she isn't barking much except at the mirror. Time will tell -

Have a good weekend!

Mallorcan Ikats

2009-05-08T09:46:00.000-07:00

Every now and then I have searched for Mallorcan Ikats. Years ago, I used to sell them at Mimi London. Since then, I have lost contact with the representatives and have had a very difficult time finding any trace of these beautiful hand woven fabrics.

A few weeks ago, I was in Suzanne Rheinstein's Hollyhock - delivering some pillow fronts I embroidered for an event on La Cienega Blvd. During my visit, I spied one of the ikats used for two kidney pillows on a bed. Grabbing the pillow, I asked Suzanne where in the world she acquired the fabric. She proceeded to give me instructions on finding it beginning with ...."first you have to book a flight to Mallorca." That said, she did give me some very helpful tips that allowed me to improve my google search and now, as of yesterday, I have wired funds and will soon have some of this wonderful fabric.

My communication began with Angel Juncosa, who sells the fabric in her showroom. She provided me with photos which you see with this blog. I intend to embroider on these fabrics - using images that compliment the color and texture of the fabric - probably with Suzani style images.

Angel informed me that the techniques used in creating these fabrics are closely guarded by the families that weave them on the island; she says there are only 3 now producing these goods. It is a shame that so many of our traditions are falling away from us. But for now, I will value this source and hope that the fabric is available for years and years to come.

Custome Embroidered Border

2009-04-29T07:01:00.000-07:00

Shipping orders is something I do with great satisfaction. Yesterday I shipped two completed orders - one, the panel above for Patton Design Studio and another, the pillow below for The Wiseman Group. The panel will be used on bedding for the master bed treatment that will include two pillows featuring the same design. The design is based on one I made for a curtain border and modified it using a circle to replace a square used originally. The pillows are yet to be started - I have to layout the images for the rectangular shape and create a way to make the images match perfectly...that is always a challenge.

The amethyst silk pillow for The Wiseman Group is decorated with a custom dyed chenille embroidery accomplished by hand guided machine. I utilize the skill of Jo Kitchen, the owner of Gibson Chenille here in Los Angeles to dye my chenille - her skill is so greatly appreciated and gives me the flexibility of using this technique as the range of colors available in the market is never what one needs. The contrast of the chenille, surrounded by a chain stitch on the silk makes for a lovely embroidered surface.

Evolution of a Design

2009-04-18T12:13:00.001-07:00

I produced this pattern for Mimi London and Mark Boone of the AD100 design firm of London Boone Inc. The inspiration is from a rug that Mimi and Mark purchased for a client's home. The large hand woven rug is brilliantly colored and had many images that provided us with embroidery possibilities.

Starting with a photograph of one of the images, I created a digitized version of the design and did thread color samples for the designers. Mimi preferred that I use cotton thread from DMC which made a nice contrast to the mohair ground of the fabric.

Working with mohair can be challenging because of the thick, resilient pile and the first goal is to systematically use underlay to keep that pile down as much as possible. You can see in the following pictures how the machine creates a new surface for the thread.

The end result is a more refined version of the handwoven image, and a great compliment. Mimi and Mark used the embroidery for the inside backs of four game chairs made by A. Rudin.

Embroidery on Leather

2009-04-18T11:29:00.000-07:00

I have always had the best of luck creating embroidery on leather. Recently, my client Randy Patton of Patton Design Studio asked if I could provide embroidery on suede for the inside chair back of a National Upholstering Co. lounge chair. The project is in Colorado and the home is associated with a brand. The above represents the brand with the outer portion being a stylized horse shoe.

The thread coverage on this project is pretty high as I chose to run underlay to secure the leather on the frame and to stabilize it from stretching. The final result is 8" high by 7.25" wide and is just under 38,000 stitches. The photograph of the panel on the frame shows the underlay sewn in the first phase of the embroidery process.

Leather is also nice for Trapunto - however, a think leather is best for this process as the relief from the fiber fill is greater with thin surface leather. Kidd leather and pigsuede work nicely.

Gothic Cross Embroidery

2009-04-18T06:07:00.000-07:00

Above is a design I created for Interior Designer Thomas Pheasant for chair backs that I have since used for a number of pillows and upholstery. Some designs lend themselves to size manipulation and the flexibility of patterns in my software can sometimes really astound me.

The design originally came from an ornament book although I venture to say my articulation of the design makes it practically unidentifiable from the original inspiration. Originally made about 13.5" high - here you see it reproduced as a chair back reduced to about 7" high and featured with two images side by side. I have also used the same chair image as one for kidney pillows, seen above. The antique French Renaissance style chair below is one I purchased at auction and recovered in a Rogers and Goffigon Linen with Cowtan & Tout trim under the original nailhead trim, beautifully applied by my French upholsterer, Mr. Roger Chopinet.

Photographed below is another version which of the same pattern in the larger size sewing on my Tajima embroidery machine on a printed Rose Tarlow fabric for another effect and another pillow. I just received a new order for the pattern, with the request of interpreting it in a two color version. Once completed, I'll post that version as well.

Augusta Auction Company's 16th Fashion & Textile Auction

2009-04-16T09:15:00.000-07:00

I have been so busy lately that I have not had time to post much - but today I received an email from Karen Augusta with a link to her upcoming auction. Fashion and textile auctions make me go fabric crazier than ever as I so appreciate the work of the past as well as current work.

While viewing the catalog this morning, one of many lots that caught my attention is the beautiful blue wool morning coat with floral embroidery. When I see things like this, it is as if someone has just smacked me on the side of the head! Talk about inspiration - I could find so much inspiration with this one garment alone. Such beautiful, restrained work is always a pleasure to view.

Besides the antique textiles, it is always a treat to see the antique and vintage clothing - some of it I remember seeing in magazine new.....I know, that dates me, but what can I say.

It is always a treat to see a 70's Halston dress or a Rudy Gernreich wool bathing suit. No one from my generation will really be able to forget the topless bathing suit that Rudy Gernreich made, will we? Or the paper Campbell's Soup Dress by Andy Warhol.

So take a look at the catalog at www.augusta-auction.com and enjoy the viewing. Meanwhile, I did happen to see a couple of things at this months Bonhams & Butterfields auction that perked me up too...it is a guilty pleasure sometimes but I take pleasure when I can.

Karen's auction is April 29th with previews on the 28th 3-7pm and the 29th from 9am to noon. Too bad it is in New York - but I can enjoy it online anyway.
Happy Bidding!

Charles Rennie Mackintosh and Hill House

2009-04-01T06:55:00.000-07:00

Last night Kaveri, TJ & I went to a lecture at LACMA by Pamela Robertson on Charles Rennie Mackintosh and Hill House. I've always held a certain fascination for Hill House and the life and creative world of Mr. Mackintosh and jumped at the chance to hear Ms. Robertson, who is an authority on the subject of all things Mackintosh and more.
Some years ago I heard of the watercolors that Mr. M. painted; mostly floral and landscape paintings created while living in the South of France. They are beautiful artistic expressions. When I realized there was a book on the subject, I could not find it anywhere. Finally, calling Glasgow in an effort to get a copy, I spoke to handful of people at a variety of locations before finally ordering the book. Ms. Robinson wrote that book which made the opportunity to hear her speak a great treat.The event last night was as I said, held at LACMA, through the Decorative Arts and Design Council and sponsored by the Elsie de Wolfe Foundation. Some of the upcoming programs sound very interesting and I must take the time to investigate these groups.

The one thing that I never captured about Mackintosh - with all my books on the subject and I have many as his work really is a passion with me is the romance in the work. I guess I sensed it but Ms. Robinson really summed it up when she talked about the young owners of Hill House and the romantic touches in the decor...stylistically I've always responded to it but I think I failed to respond to it emotionally until last night. Thus you see the value of these events...and why I shall participate more in the doings of these two organizations. Cheers Mr. Mackintosh...

Westweek 2009 at Villa Savoia, Inc.

2009-03-28T09:46:00.000-07:00

Westweek 2009 took place Wednesday and Thursday March 25th and 26th here at the Pacific Design Center. A busy time for all here, most showrooms make an effort to freshen their appearance and here at Villa Savoia, I too took the opportunity to make a few changes.

Wishing to feature my beaded Fortuny pillows and my love for Venice, I brought some of my treasures from home and my portable storage facility on wheels (my car) to help with the task.

One of my favorite pieces of art usually hangs over my living room fireplace. But for now, it will remain here at the showroom for a while. The charcoal drawing of a Venetian canal and bridge is a beautiful rendering framed with care by Memento, here in Santa Monica. Memento has framed most of my art and artifacts for years and the job they do is sensational. Much of what you see in the photos I have acquired over the years from Bonhams and Butterfields auction house. I love buying antique chairs and reupholstering them with embroidered textiles. It spotlights my work and is at the same time an economical way of featuring embroidery on beautiful pieces of furniture. What you see is the very front of my showroom; the other areas include my office space, cutting room and areas for two computerized embroidery machines. Those areas are not so neat and orderly!

My good friend interior designer Frank McGinley was kind enough to bring me the floral arrangement. Take a look at his work at this link www.frankmcginley.com.

Custom Options With Stitching - It Is All Good!

2009-03-15T10:03:00.000-07:00

Recently a designer sent me three fabric samples and told me that pillows would be ordered and asked that I show some different options in treatment. The fabric is from Le Gracieux Textiles.

Once the color palette was determined, I selected different methods of embroidery to accentuate the pattern provided. The first method shown above is a fairly complete outline of the design using a tiny three-thread outline. In contrast to that, an added line of chain stitch highlights the green/blue chain that is present in the design.

The second sample is very similar in concept however approached using chain stitch outlines only. And the third sample utilized both above techniques and added a moss stitch for greater textural relief - which is accomplished by modifying the height of the chain stitch. All these techniques are created using the hand guided machines of the past.

I think they are all successful versions - my favorite and the one the designer chose is the first one, the three thread outline. When the final pillows are completed, I will post a photo. They are being embroidered on both the front and the back sides, and will have double moss trim and an inserted rope detail.

Kidney Pillows with Satin Stitch and Bean Stitch Outlines

2009-03-07T18:18:00.001-08:00

Kidney pillows are a great opportunity to express oneself. Mine are usually about 10-12" high x 20-22" long. They are fun to make - it is something about the intimacy of the size I guess. Many times they are more complicated than one would think. Above is a close up of a pillow; one of a pair on Rogers & Goffigon Wool Sateen - the other was sold to Madeline Stuart and used in a project in Malibu (Veranda July/August 2008) followed by another version of the same design but this time in a J. Robert Scott silk textile. The different effects one can achieve by using different materials is endless.

Below is a detail shot of the Red Square Pillow - showing how I utilized the texture of the silk in creating a textural element that contrasts with the satin and bean stitches made by my computerized embroidery machine.

Hawaiian Quilt Influenced Trapunto Pillow

2009-03-07T07:02:00.000-08:00

My bookcase is jammed packed with books - all of which are a great source of inspiration. There are books everywhere in my home and my office; I can't get enough books - period.

One of the books I own I bought years and years ago during my first visit to Maui. Having taken the trip to Hana where there was a small store that carried some Hawaiian quilt patterns, I found the concept of building the image of a quilt on the profile of a plant, animal or other native object really fascinating. The book provided wonderful images, one of which I interpreted in a trapunto pattern above.

Worked on my computerized embroidery machine on a lovely putty colored wool sateen, the pillow has outlines of triple stitch that attach the fabric to a muslin backing which is used to create the pocket for cotton thread that fills the shape to give it sculptural form. The pillow was purchased by a designer who also asked that I make another panel in white linen for the back of her own office chair.

You might also notice the seat cushion on the chair is outlined Fortuny - an ever beautiful and classic covering for my classic French carved oak chair.

Discovering Italian Embroidery: The Work Of Paola Matteucci

2009-03-05T05:54:00.000-08:00

The other day I was looking around the Potterton Bookstore as they were finishing their 25% off sale at the end of February and I spied a book called "Merletti e Ricami Italiani" Italian Laces and Embroideries. This modest looking paperback book is a snapshot in time at work from various embroiderers throughout Italy in 2007.

The work of individual artist is represented by one pillow per page with their location highlighted as well as techniques and local affiliations. The text was in Italian and English. The work of all the artists is exceptional but one pillow really caught my eye and frankly took my breath away; that of Paola Matteucci of Umbria.

The floral embroidery is at once rustic and elegant and so finely styled that it has a quality of a snapshot in time. It is as if she walked in a field then returned to her embroidery frame and recorded the moment. At once beautiful and nostalgic, quiet and peaceful; you are probably asking yourself..."all this in a pillow?" I wanted to buy it.

An email address is listed for Ms. Matteucci so I wrote. Using the translation of Outlook - I wrote in English but include a translation. To my great surprise I found a response from Ms. Matteucci telling me that she is a teacher of embroidery and that she wasn't sure which pillow I was referring to. She suspected it one that is currently in a local museum and included the photo for confirmation. She was correct.

Respectfully, I asked if she could make one for me. As an embroiderer myself, I explained, this inspired piece of work she did was something I wanted to own. Her response was like reading poetry. Following is my general interpretation of her response:

"The pillow design is inspired by our Umbrian landscape in Winter, when the colors are warm and gilded in rest, the rose hips interlace with the copper of dried oak leaves and the dried clematis flowers. I work on cotton tulle with silk that is spun and natural dyed by local hands and the clematis flowers are embroidered with white cashmere. This pillow has not only the colors but also the scent of my Umbrian Earth."

She went on to tell me she is currently working on a wedding veil commission which must be done in May but would make a pillow for me. She said that she normally does not like to make the same pattern twice but in my case she would make an exception to that rule.

The chance of such an encounter is rare, isn't it? I happen to see a book in a store which leads me to an email connection with someone I consider one of Italy's National Treasures of Embroidery and one day soon I will have that piece of art and always the connection to Ms. Matteucci.

More On The Effects OF Color On Embroidery Patterns

2009-02-28T07:10:00.000-08:00

I designed the above circular design as an accent for a beautiful old wood frame chair. The chair was quite fanciful and was being used as a decorative element in a hallway. Actually, it was a pair of chairs. I needed to do a classic pattern but instead of something so serious as a Napoleonic design or classical, I opted to do something a little more organic.

The circular vine with leaves and stems started out by dividing a circle into eight sections. I then created a section of leaves, buds and stems that could connect on either end. Once that was fine tuned, I could merely repeat it around the circle to create a total design.

The next thing I had to do was determine where I would have color changes. Once that was decided I had to build the pattern in color order, combining each section of color so that my computerized embroidery machine could work each color around the circle in an unbroken run. On linen, the final result is quite charming and if memory serves me well is about 12" in diameter; perfect for the chair seats of the beautiful antique chairs.

Upon reviewing the design with the designer, Peter Schifando and Jonathan Joseph of Peter Schifando & Co. we decided the effect would be better in one color - the same color as the beautiful blue silk being used for the chairs. The character of the blue silk version below brings a formality back to the design and just the right touch for the project.

A Visit To Venice and Fortuny

2009-02-28T06:20:00.001-08:00

I'm back to having a Fortuny moment. I was reading the New York Times this morning, which had an article about vacationing in Venice during the winter and it of course, makes me think of the home of Fortuny fabric. I had the pleasure of visiting the Giudecca headquarters years ago and didn't see much, as the production facility is held in secret; but did get a look around the storage facility and saw bolts and bolts of wonderful Fortuny everywhere! It was a pleasure to see.

You see, I hear the name Venice - and my memories go to Fortuny and also Bergamo fabric headquarters. I visited their headquarters in Venice as well. It was such a wonderful trip.

Now back to pillows: The pillow front at the top of the post is hand beaded with bronze beads. The fabric is old. Most likely from the first quarter of the 20th century. The patina of the gold pigment on the surface of the fabric has changed in places to a rich gold/platinum. I purchased it from someone in Rhode Island who claimed it was left over from one of the rich estates around Newport.

I took one of the completed panels to New York to look for trim. I wanted something special, preferably something old like the fronts themselves and finally found what I wanted at Tinsel Trading Company. TTC has a really wonderful history and is a good resource for old stock. Click on the name and you can read about that history and take a look at some of that stock. I settled for antique ball trim in a similar gold/bronze color that had the right patina then used a beautifully subtle silk velvet for the backs.

While I was in New York, I made a visit to Fortuny headquarters in the D&D building and had a look at the same pattern which had just been newly released and purchased some yardage to make additional pillows which you can see here as well.

There are many, many reasons to treasure a trip to Venice and Fortuny is just one unforgettable aspect of that magical city.

Custom Patriotic Flag Applique' Pillows

2009-02-27T09:26:00.000-08:00

A client came to me a while ago with an old worn out pillow version of an American Flag. It was purchased inexpensively, but as those things go, once stock is gone there are no more to be found - anywhere. The task was given to me to reproduce it. Now, there wasn't any way that I could reproduce it exactly but the thought occurred to me that I could do it in applique. I digitized a sample, which the client approved and I went about the process of developing the design.

Once I began my process, I found that I truly had bitten off more than I could chew. That is not possible with me and Cherry Pie (especially the Cherry Pie from Pie and Burger in Pasadena) but my ambition with the unreasonable is often one of my biggest challenges. This project proved to be a huge challenge.

I decided I would applique' everything to a ground fabric - in this case I was using a chenille and would applique' it to a muslin base. That worked well for the field of stars, but once I had those done, I couldn't work out a way to add my stripes within the framework of my embroidery frame; the pillow width being greater than the width of my frame. The client had ordered four pillows and requested the flag be on both the front and back, thus I had 8 panels to produce.

Each star and stripe on these panels was hand cut on the frame. The nature of the chenille and it's capability of unravelling proved to add another complication to the project. In December, I purchased a new Tajima embroidery machine which gave me a greater field of embroidery, specifically taking my width from 21" to 47" which gave me new hope with these pillows.

A short time later (relatively speaking) I had the panels done and off to my sewing workroom. As an added precaution because of the nature of chenille, I had my workroom fuse a backing to the panels giving them added stability which after all that work, I hope will give them a nice long life. I believe they are intended for a yacht - and hope they look great with the blue ocean water as their backdrop.

Color Changes And Pattern Character

2009-02-27T07:12:00.000-08:00

I love seeing the effects of color changes on patterns. It can be huge; just as the color and texture of fabric ground can also have wonderful effects on the character of a design and in this case pillows.

Above you see a pair of boxed pillows with an overall design done by computerized embroidery in two colors. It is based on a pattern I found in an old reference book. I love the complicated yet primitive quality of the design which is reminiscent of some of the patterns from Suzani designs. The fabric used above is from Rogers & Goffigon and is a lovely linen fabric. I used a slim flat flange to accentuate the seams of these pillows.

A different version of the same pattern is below. Using the same format of a boxed pillow but with no flange I did the same pattern in one color below. The fabric is a rich deep brown velvet from Joseph Noble Textiles. The thread color was selected to match the color of the fabric and the flatness of the embroidery provides a beautiful relief on the pile of the velvet, giving them a very elegant look.

I have been toying with the idea of turning this pattern into a curtain leading edge pattern - so perhaps one day soon you will see it reconfigured and mirror imaged. I'll keep you posted on that process should it happen.

Clarence House Fabric With Embroidery

2009-02-27T06:25:00.000-08:00

These are two of my favorite pillows. The fabric is a wonderful Clarence House fabric that has an aged quality in a rich deep rose red color. The image is a design that is built by different processes.

First, I run a digitized program on my computerized embroidery machine that lays down a series of satin stitches that makes up the color of the leaves. Once that is completed, a hand guided outline is next done using the Cornely machine followed by a moss stitch, which in this case is merely a modification of the chain stitch, where the loop from the chain is made to be longer giving a wooly texture to the flowers.

The trim, beautiful multicolored silk tassels attached to a wonderful woven header, is from Decor de Paris and was selected prior to picking out embroidery colors so that each color selected could be fine tuned to work together. The pillows are not overly large, just 18" square.

Building A Beaded Pattern On Fortuny Fabric

2009-02-23T06:45:00.000-08:00

Many textiles inspire me to embellish, but the lure of Fortuny, with its exotic Venetian creation locale, historic references and characteristic texture is something special.

When I look at the pattern and color of a Fortuny panel, I select beads that I think will enhance that inherent beauty. Often time I move towards bronze beads, because they have a color and texture that provides an instant patina. I choose from bugle beads, seed beads, three-cut beads or other special shapes and sizes like English cut beads to accomplish the goal. The sample above is a study showing the project development utilizing antique beads that I found downtown Los Angeles on one of my shopping expeditions.

This sample has never advanced to a pillow unfortunately...as you might guess, I have several projects around my office and my home that are at best unfinished. The priority of order production and management collide with the creative process while at the same time sustain the creative process. But that is an age old story, isn't it.

Outlining A Damask Fabric

2009-02-17T07:22:00.001-08:00

The use of an outline to provide emphasis to a fabric can be a dynamic element in design. This is especially true with textiles. The above outline was accomplished using a Cornely machine to hand-guide the multi thread cord around the intricacy of the damask pattern. I have also used this process to enhance many other fabrics such as Fortuny. The result speaks for itself - the added touch of elegance. Below is a photo of the completed chair back. For a very close up view of the cording, click on the top picture.

Barbara Broccoli Family Crest

2009-02-16T06:44:00.000-08:00

Some time ago, I was approached by designers Annie Young and Dot Spikings about reproducing a family crest. The crest was taken from an enamelled piece of glass, from the home of Producer Albert Broccoli of the famed James Bond series and Annie and Dot wanted it for the backs of bar stools in the home of daughter Barbara Broccoli.

This version is on a different fabric - this is a linen velvet from Rose Tarlow Melrose House, but the final version was done on a bright saffron colored fabric from C&C Milano with the thread colors staying the same. The colors were selected based on those used for the window pane - keeping quite true to the original was the goal.

Once again I called on my friend and digitizer Jerilee Auclair for the digitizing of this complex design and as always, I'm glad I did. Her articulation and layering of the areas worked extremely well and was a treat to watch sew on my computerized embroidery machine. As usual, I never did see the end result of my work - the completed crests went to the upholstery workroom, the stools were completed and installed. Annie and Dot tell me they were beautiful and a delight to Ms. Broccoli, thus another job well done.

Another Villa Savoia Sighting: Architectural Digest March 2009

2009-02-14T10:15:00.000-08:00

It is always such a pleasure to open a magazine and see something one embroidered. The creative process and producing a lovely, quality piece of embroidery is the reward but seeing one's work in a magazine is truly the icing on the cake.

In the March 2009 issue of Architectural Digest, on page 96, you see in the foreground two concave sided stools. The tops of these stools are embroidered in a rich complex fill of a design that resembles the plan for an old English garden maze. The fabric is from Manuel Canovas, Inc. and is a wonderful texture in a pleasing shade of blue. Many of the Canovas fabrics are woven with a percentage of rayon - combined with the rayon embroidery thread used with my computerized embroidery machine, the stool tops turned out quite nicely.

The interior designer is Thomas Pheasant of Washington D.C. The project is a home in St. Michael's Maryland on the eastern shore. The client mentioned her love of blue so Mr. Pheasant incorporated that color "the perfect color to pair with the water" says Mr. Pheasant in the article. Of course having the opportunity to participate in this project was much appreciated. Below is a photo of the room's entire two page photo.

Interior Artist, Muralist Kaveri Singh Paints A Kitchen

2009-02-14T06:30:00.000-08:00

Watching a large scale interior mural project take shape is an interesting process. I had the pleasure of doing just that when my good friend Kaveri Singh and her husband TJ went to work on a difficult octagonal kitchen recently in Beverly Hills.

Starting with measurements and photos, a layout was created in the form of a rendering. This happened after conversations with the client deciding the main content of the mural. The client wanted the outside garden brought into the kitchen and flowers-she loves flowers and color; so Kaveri created a rendering that illustrated a framework around the room that gave the mural structure, then defined the areas spatially with flowers in the foreground and landscape in the middle ground and sky in the background.

I hope you agree that the final result is pretty magical. The colors are soft enough to keep the mural in the background of the room while still covering every inch of wall space. The client was delighted and the time it took to create was kept reasonable because of the planning and renderings which maintained a discipline and order to the process which involved scaffolding and long hours. Be sure to click on the above photograph to get a larger view of the walls shown.

Traditional Monograms

2009-02-11T07:11:00.001-08:00

I am often asked to design monograms. People have many expectations when they ask me to work on such tasks and it can result in great embroidery and yet sometimes not. The task can be extremely time consuming and I really work to research past examples from a large resource I've put together over the years, but sometimes one's initials do not make good embroidery.

My favorite monograms have an ability to look like a graphic design first, a monogram second. These are tricky but so rewarding to make when possible. A client and friend has the same three initials - three J's as his first, middle and last name and it is difficult to find a plan that pleases him. The above monograms were created using historic graphics by my expert digitizer and friend Jerilee Auclair. Her hand with these beauties is remarkable.

The blue monogram above was created for Michael Hampton, a designer of the team of AD100's Thomas Pheasant, Inc. Michael has an amazing gift for creating wonderful architectural drawings and watercolors. He has a blog that focuses on his work, please click "Michael Hampton Watercolors" to take a look. The monogram below I digitized for my good friend and designer Brenda Fox Wilson for a client. It was used as upholstery on a bench at the foot of a bed.

I utilize established monogram programs that are available to the embroidery community and I also digitize my own. Many of my monograms are large - about 10" - 14" high and wide, and I have even created 18" high Roman Numerals for chair backs which were really wonderful. The trick with large letters is determining a way to articulate the graphics in thread so that one can create interesting stitches and cover the area of the letter. A combination of pattern stitches along with satin stitches is often the way I handle the project when doing pillows, chair backs or bench upholstery. The above photos are some examples of my custom work that I feel worked beautifully.

Eleonora di Toledo Embroidery

2009-02-11T06:47:00.001-08:00

For years I have been fascinated by Renaissance paintings and the depiction of clothing by artists. Specifically, the paintings of Bronzino and the portraits of the Medici have really been inspiring. This led me to many searches and reviews of different sources of information and finally a new book which I adore. " Moda a Firenze 1540-1580: Lo stile di Eleonora di Toledo e la sua influenza" is that book. Written in side by side text of Italian and English, it is full of information and beautiful photographs that document the period mentioned in the title. Being the wife of Cosimo di Medici, Eleonora had an amazing impact on fashion in the city of Florence and the evidence is beautifully documented with portraits.

My first sight of a border used on a garment of Eleonora's was in a book by Janet Arnold. She studied and drew a pattern from remnants of a burial dress. From that documentation, I created a border I named "Eleonora" and have used that border for the leading edge of curtains as well as for pillows. Above and below this text you will see different uses of this border. For all those interested in Renaissance fashion, take a look at the book. It is costly but truly a rich resource that can bring a wealth of knowledge.

Victorian Pillow Reproduction

2009-02-09T07:50:00.000-08:00

Some time ago, I found an antique pillow on eBay that is just too charming to believe. The pillow, Victorian, is embroidered on black satin and stuffed with horse hair. The back of the pillow - a deep fuchsia silk.

My good friend and extreme digitizer Jerilee Auclair was visiting one day and we reviewed that pillow and Jerilee agreed to make this reproduction of the pattern. She is an artist with her computer and she was able to interpret the character of the antique pillow with great authenticity. She uses running stitches in such an amazing way. Please click on the top photo to get a close up view of Jerilee's amazing detail.

The two pillow fronts shown are small, the same scale as the original pillow. The pillows are charming - the ticking stripe version is a linen from Rogers & Goffigon, the silk/cotton blend is a Rose Tarlow Melrose House fabric called Amalfi - one of my favorites. I used Amalfi for my own living room embroidered curtains - a separate post on those will follow soon.

Custome Embroidered Curtains

2009-02-08T07:58:00.000-08:00

The above photo is a production photograph of my recent panel production for a pair of curtains. The fabric is from Nancy Corzine; it is a silk from Thailand that is opulent and bold, the color is called straw but it is more like the straw that has been turned to gold.

The design is made up of computer generated satin stitches, pattern stitches and bean stitches in a series of squares and squares on point with interior circles and outlines. My friend and client Erika Glazer decided this design was perfect for her Foyer, and we used the same color tone for the embroidery thread.

You can see the efficiency of Darlene Dando's 4-head Tajima embroidery machine. Darlene is my associate and has her own company All Quality Stitches in Oak Harbor, Washington. The use of her expertise and machine brings speed while maintaining quality, a must in my world of top design.

Custom Chain Stitch Embroidery

2009-02-05T13:41:00.000-08:00

This s a floral border that is made up of three colors of chain stitch. The chain stitch is applied using a hand guided machine and each row is done separately - one color after the other. In this case we worked from dark to light.

This pattern is going to be used in a master bedroom where it will be a leading edge embroidery on curtains as well as trim on a bed skirt. In the master sitting room, two chairs will also have this detail on the skirts and a balloon shade.

Antique Suzani Applique'

2009-02-05T07:26:00.001-08:00

The pictures above and below feature newly completed applique' for Katie Leede of Digs by Katie. Katie and I share a passion for antique fabric and we love to rescue pieces that are a little sad from wear and tear and give them new life buy doing a "cut and paste" on them in the form of applique'. In this case, Kate used an older washed fabric - a linen - for the base of the applique, and the antique Suzani for the images. The large piece is going to be upholstered as a headboard and the smaller piece is a section of a bed skirt.

The contrasting ground fabric freshens the applique and the image has been repaired where necessary to complete some of the chain stitch that has been lost through the years. I can't wait to see the pieces completed by her workroom. Check out the work on her website by using the link provided above by clicking on her company name.

Villa Savoia Pillows Sighted in Elle Decor

2009-02-01T14:06:00.000-08:00

I was skimming through the new March 2009 issue of Elle Decor Magazine when some pillows at a window seat caught my attention. Sure enough, they were pillows done a while ago for designer Waldo Fernandez for his client Director-Producer Brett Ratner. The house, once owned by Ingrid Bergman as well as Allan Carr is "one of the most famous residences in Hollywood."

The residence is featured on page 90-97 with my pillows being the two embroidered ones facing each other in the center of the window seat. They utilize the double self mitered flange and I think they were made on Rogers & Goffigon linen.

The Designer, Mr. Fernandez, has been one of my favorites in town for years. His style is strong and spare and contains a rich simplicity that I admire. If you have the opportunity to view the magazine, be sure and take a look - it may be a bit of an eye strain - so I've attached the above, a close up view of the seating area.

Below are four other pillows I made for Mr. Fernandez - I found this picture on his website. They are chain stitch technique in a floral pattern and coordinating leaf pattern. The room is beautiful and I'm happy to have my work included in such a lovely interior. I have also attached a close up view of one of the completed pillow fronts used for the sofa pillows so that you could get a good view of the lovely detail of the chain stitch floral motif.

My New NEO Tajima Embroidery Machine

2009-01-28T12:45:00.000-08:00

Well, here it is. My new NEO from Tajima, the leaders in the world of computerized embroidery machines. This model has been enhanced by the addition of an upgraded motor and a large border sash frame with the capability of running designs as wide as 47" and a maximum depth of 14" - a big help to me when I'm creating involved repeats for curtains or as in this case, upholstery. Click on the photo above for an enlarged view.

The pattern visible is an applique of a heavy woven fabric on the surface of a Great Plains fabric from Holly Hunt. Besides using the applique feature on my new machine through digitizing, I also utilized an enlarged pattern stitch that is applied on top of the rich satin stitches that surround the applique.

This is one of about 9 pieces that make up the embroidered skirt of a lounge chair. With my normal sash frame, a section like this could require as much as 3 separate framings. This 32" section is not done with one framing. After some initial difficulty with my new machine all seems to be running smoothly and I am looking forward to full steam ahead on this project which includes 6 chairs and 2 8' sofas. I hand cut the applique while it is on the machine - I've had some hopes of leads for local laser cutters who might be able to help me with this process but none so far are up to the task.

I love the mechanics of my machines and the beauty they are capable of producing!

White on White Embroidery on Linen

2009-01-18T18:31:00.000-08:00

These two pillows are embroidered on beautiful linen. I call this pattern the Ann Border because it was first made for Ann Holden of Holden & Dupuy of New Orleans.

They are 26" square and have a 3/4" flat flange with small pleats at the corners. The embroidery is done using cording - a hand guided technique done using the Cornely Embroidery Machine and the size of the pillows was actually determined by the configuration of the pattern.

This same pattern has been used in a variety of ways - often as applique for curtains. Below are a detail showing the pattern used as an applique' curtain border. The applique' fabric is a beautiful soft pink and cream coloration of a Fortuny pattern. The fabric, a wool and linen twill. The combination is rich yet light and playful.

Interlocking Knot Embroidery in Satin Stitches

2009-01-18T18:26:00.001-08:00

This beautiful silk panel is one I made for a couple of custom pillow fronts. The pattern is a traditional Interlocking Knot pattern - very often used in printing, tile work and inlay in wooden floors. A good friend of mine, Erika Glazer, has this design on her hardwood floors which are original to her house in the late 1920's.

The pattern is strong, straightforward and would make a great ottoman top and or chair back. It is a nice traditional touch which can be very masculine or feminine depending on the colors used and the ground fabric.

More on Frank Lloyd Wright

2009-01-18T18:04:00.001-08:00

In a previous post I introduced an embroidery I've been working on for "Hollyhock House" - the Barnsdall residence built in Los Angeles on Olive Hill by Frank Lloyd Wright during the early years of Hollywood. The curator of the house contacted me about helping create an embroidery that would appear similar to one used for the Dining Room Chandelier. The only known photograph of the fixture is not clear so we had to try for the impression of the fabric more than an exact copy. Please see my prior post for more information.

Some years ago, the living room furniture was reproduced and I was contacted about remaking the Living Room sofa pillows. Very basic in concept and having an actual surviving pillow front as an example, I made a variation that had the correct look of the original. The difference, the original appeared to have been completely hand embroidered. My version was created using a metallic soutache which was applied by hand-guided machine using a Cornely Embroidery Machine.

The pillows above are similar to the pillows at Hollyhock. The fabric is a Michael S. Smith Jasper Collection velvet - the soutache is vintage metallic. The pillows at Hollyhock utilized an exact reproduction of the fabric from the original.

The pillows are 22" square and the front and back fabric are identical. The two panels are put together using a self mitered and reversed flange - creating a double flange effect.

Claremont Paisley Fabric in Hand Embroidered Chain Stitch

2009-01-18T17:52:00.001-08:00

Above is one of four pillows made from a Claremont fabric that I sent to India for hand embroidery. I believe this fabric is hand printed in France. The colors are rich and earthy and I thought the hand embroidery would give a nice primitive texture to the fabric design that is over-embroidered.

There are several colors used to embellish the surface and with a variety of stitches. French Knots are used around the large leaf shapes and chain stitch and back stitch are used for the rest of the pillow. The floss is cotton. here is a detail of the pillow front. Click on either of the two photos for an enlarged view.

I have four pillows from this pattern - two 20" square pillows and two 18" x 23" pillows. Both sizes are filled with feather and down, have a Samuel and Sons fan trim and a Michael S. Smith Jasper Collection fabric back.

See the post below for an additional pillow collection I had embroidered in India. My global production experiment is a great success!

Claremont Fabric with Chain Stitch Embroidery

2009-01-18T17:27:00.000-08:00

About a year ago, I purchased two yards of two different fabrics from Claremont Furnishing Fabrics Company. One of the fabrics, a lovely yellow ground cotton print, had flowers and some Chinese images - a charming fabric that I had previously hand embroidered for a client of Leta Austin Foster of West Palm Beach, Florida. I sent my sample and the fabric along with a dozen colors of silk floss to a company in India. This blog posting is for the first fabric, I'll follow this with another post of the second fabric.

The process of accomplishing the embroidery was complicated. The sample I made was articulated carefully with a mixture of single thread colors creating a handsome and varied looking stitch. it was basically a chainstitch but my control of the color gave the end result great rich character. Click on the detail below for a close up view of the fabric and embroidery. You can also click on the photo above for a better look at the completed pillows.

My reproduction from India, although different than my sample is quite bold and direct. The stitch is basically the same but the embroiderer did not mix thread elements to create the variety of colors that I had. I love the pillows. They are 18" square. I have finished them with a fan trim from Samuel & Sons and used a Michael S. Smith Jasper Collection fabric for the back. The effect is muted and everything is done to emphasize the stitchwork - an over embroidery on the existing print pattern. I have five completed pillows; some are right, some are left facing.

Fortuny "Ashanti" Textile Pillows Hand Beaded in Bronze

2009-01-03T19:57:00.000-08:00

The Fortuny fabric used to create the pillows photographed above is called “Ashanti” and is named for the inspiration fabric from Africa. Made by the Ashanti (or Asante) people of Ghana in Western Africa, the hand printed cloth is known as Adinkra. Motifs are applied to cotton by using stamps carved from gourds. Boiled tree bark with iron slag is used for dye. Patterns are built up in squares by repeating design elements which usually have some magical, historical or proverbial significance. This information I found in one of my books, African Textiles by Christopher Spring, a curator of the British Museum specializing in Northeast, East and South Africa.

Here I’ve hand beaded the fabric using different textures of bronze beads. Bugle beads, seed beads and three cut beads have been combined to embellish the beautiful Fortuny fabric. The pillows are completed with a small welt and back panel in suede.

Lyon France Silk with Bronze Beads and Pearls

2009-01-02T20:34:00.000-08:00

The two kidney pillows shows above are gems. The fabric is from Prelle; woven silk from Lyon, France. Precious in itself, the fabric is one of many historic patterns that are still being produced by this centuries old silk weaving community. I purchased the fabric through the New York Showroom and used bronze beads and pearls as the basis for the embellishments with a few touches of color for balance.

The corner pleated flange, welt and back are made of linen from Bergamo Textiles. I love the rustic nature of the linen with the silk floral, as it keeps the pillows from becoming too precious. Be sure and click on the photo above and get a good close up view of the pearls and bronze beads – they really are a treat.

The pillows are 10”x 21” and 10” x 23” and filled with down and feather.

Suzani Inspired Custom Pillows

2009-01-02T20:13:00.000-08:00

Some time ago, I purchased the most beautiful damaged antique Suzani (by clicking on the the word Suzani you will be directed to the website of Marla Mallett which has history and wonderful examples of the embroidery) on eBay. It has the most beautifully articulated embroidered images decorating the silk ground. The colors are brilliant and I have used it for inspiration many times.

The pillows above are just one example of the results of that inspiration. It also was the basis for curtains I made for designer Katie Leede of Digs By Katie. The Suzani images became the leading edges and hem return for a residence in Santa Monica. The work was chain stitch outlines and fill and the colors were brilliant on raw silk. The pillows above are a design I created using my digitizing software for my computerized embroidery machine. The fabric is from Old World Weavers and the trim is from Décor de Paris. The pillows measure 20” x 20” and are filled with down and feather. Click on the photo above for a close up view of the pillows.

Gold Beaded Fortuny "Impero" Pillows

2008-12-30T10:06:00.000-08:00

I have just finished two new hand-beaded Fortuny pillows. The pattern name is “Impero” and the color is described as copper with silvery gold. I used gold lined crystal 3-cut beads for the embellishments. Each of the pair of pillows is 18” x 23” and the back and small welt are pigsuede in the same color as the Fortuny background.

This is one of my favorite Fortuny fabrics – years ago, I found an antique panel which had a beautiful patina. For those pillows I used antique pewter beads which complimented the oxidized metallic print.

I have also used the image on this pattern in part to embellish the back of a banquette. The inspiration appears to be just about limitless. Be sure to select the photograph with your cursor to see an enlarged view of the pillows.

Custom Cowtan & Tout, Nancy Corzine and M.C.Escher Inspired Pillows

2008-12-17T05:16:00.000-08:00

The pillow above is one of two pillows I created some time ago. Inspired by a pattern I first noticed in a magazine by Lesage, it is inspired by the works of M.C. Escher.

The hornet positive shape gives way to a bird in flight in the negative space. I contrasted the positive with the negative by using a Cowtan & Tout printed linen and a Nancy Corzine solid green fabric.

The process is intense. The first part of the process involves creating an outline of the shapes using my computerized embroidery machine from my digitized pattern. Once the outlines are in place, I remove the frame from the machine table and hand cut the pattern, removing the negative area from the double layered field.

Once that process is complete, the design is reinforced by additional securing stitches before it applies a thicker outline of satin stitches, followed by the decorative overlay stitching used for the lines on the body of the hornet and the eye.

I finished these pillows by doing a boxed treatment. They are approximately 14” x 20” in size and the Corzine fabric is used for the back and boxing with a small cord-free welt out of the pattern fabric.

The Inspiring Textiles of Robert Kime

2008-12-14T07:08:00.000-08:00

The beautiful textiles of Robert Kime have inspired countless numbers with their rich colors and textures and their homage to historic inspiration.

One of my favorite things to do is take something wonderful, such as his Suzani inspired textile “Susani“ and embellishing it, thus taking it to a different level of impact. I do this by sometimes simply outlining the design with cording and/or chain-stitch or even cutting the pattern out and appliquéing it to a new surface – and even providing additional relief by using the effects of trapunto in areas for an additional touch.

The term embellishment surely fits with this kind of work, whether it be with embroidery, beads or appliqué has added much to our wardrobes, our homes and gives us a sense of self expression and personalizing. When working with the fabrics of someone like Mr. Kime, this effort is extremely satisfying. These fabrics are available for viewing in Los Angeles at Hollyhock.

Fleur Arabesque Pillows In Satin Stitch On Silk

2008-12-13T14:45:00.000-08:00

Arabesque imagery has always been intriguing to me and I find the complex images to be quite appropriate for interiors here in Southern California. There are many Mediterranean style homes that were built in the 20’s and 30’s that have wonderful old world charm and beautiful beam and tile accents. There are many books that feature these homes including architect Marc Appleton of Appleton & Associates “California Mediterranean" with Melba Levick and “California Romantica” by actress Diane Keaton who has long been a great enthusiast in architecture and interior design.

This pattern is historic. You have undoubtedly seen it used in numerous ways by many people over the years. I decided to recreate it in thread. I asked my excellent digitizing associate Jerilee Auclair of Blackeagle Designs to give her time to this project and she rewarded me with the most beautiful image.

The design consists of more than 170,000 stitches for a pillow that is 10” x 20” in size. The silk I used is from Prelle, which I purchased in NY. It is woven in Lyon, France. I call it Fleur Arabesque because of the multitude of flowers that create this beauty.

Art Deco/Arts and Crafts Period Linen Pillows

2008-12-13T14:37:00.000-08:00

For many years now I have been a great collector of fabrics. Interested in most types of fabric, I am especially interested in those embellished. My collection is quite large and I have to say, Ebay has been a great source for many treasures which I find to be great inspiration.

The above pillows are a direct reproduction of a pillow I purchased on Ebay. I consider this imagery to be somewhat transitional between the Arts & Crafts and the Art Deco periods and personally find it at once nostalgic and handsome.

Originally the pattern was created using very hot silk colors of red, orange and lime green with some black outlining. It was embroidered on natural linen with a deep red silk velvet back panel. It was absolutely brilliant in projecting a feeling of the time however much of the embroidery silk is missing and the silk velvet back is quite worn. What an adventurous piece of usable art in its day.

Here I have translated the pattern into computerized embroidery as it seemed most appropriate for the geometry of the shapes. The result is crisp clear articulation in rayon thread satin stitches on medium/dark brown linen plainweave. The pillows are loosely filled with goose down and feathers and they are 20” square. These pillows can be custom made on a variety of ground fabrics with different thread colors.

Custom Hand Painted Garlands by Kaveri Singh

2008-12-13T13:47:00.000-08:00

My good friend Kaveri Singh sent me photographs from one of her recent commissions: murals for a powder room in a Beverly Hills residence.

I love this detail of a ribbon hung garland of stylized flowers and instantly imagined my own view of a room using a repeat of this treatment. The articulation is classic and yet has a deco feeling to it that makes it very 40’s modern.

Click on the photo to enlarge it and get a wonderful close-up view of her work.

Custom Embroidered Louis XVI Chair in Rose Tarlow-Melrose House Linen

2008-11-28T15:49:00.000-08:00

Practically a year ago, I purchased this chair from my friend and antiquarian Nathan Turner, whose charming shop is part of a compound of resources which includes Claremont Furnishing Fabrics, Hollywood at Home by Peter Dunham and Lucas Studio. This is all located next to Lief at Almont Drive and Santa Monica Blvd. in West Hollywood, just around the corner from the Pacific Design Center.

I spent the better part of the year trying to find the perfect fabric to work with the lovely green-gray painted finish. The finish wasn’t original but it was a beautiful old finish with good shading in a historic color. My upholsterer, Roger Chopinet, tells me that the chair is a early-mid 1800’s reproduction of a Louis XVI chair.

During that time, I purchased some “Scala Damask” linen from Rose Tarlow – Melrose House in Wheat and proceeded to do a mad outline combination of cording and chain stitch. Originally conceived as pillow fronts, I did my usual thing and draped both pieces on the chair and I decided it was an inspired mix. So off it went to the upholstery workroom after trim from Samuel & Sons and antique bronze nailheads were selected and here it is.

Clicking on the photo will take you to an enlargement that will give you a good look at the cording and the chain-stitch. The pattern is generally speaking very subtle, but my outlines bring an entirely new dimension to this lovely textile.

Custom Beaded Silk And Linen Pillow With Tassel Trim

2008-11-27T06:40:00.000-08:00

One of my all time favorite fabrics is the “St. Simon Lampas” from Old World Weavers. Years ago, I worked as a salesman for Mimi London in the Pacific Design Center. At that time, I sold the lampas for a line we represented, Andre Bon. Since then, the fabric has been incorporated into the collection of Stark/Old World Weavers.

This beautiful fabric originates from France: my guess is that it is woven in the Lyon area. The fabric has a fiber content of silk and linen and is woven on the same loom that has produced this fabric for well over 200 years. The width is traditionally narrow based on that loom’s weaving capability. Other fabrics woven by the silk weavers of Lyon are those supplied by Prelle.

Available in just three colors; besides the one above, it is also woven in a beautiful taupe-blue and a rich raspberry-red. These descriptions are not adequate to describe their color quality. Locally, I’ve noticed this fabric in a few public installations. The blue colorway is installed in the beautiful dining room of the Chateau Marmont above banquette seating. If you scroll through the pictures on the Chateau's website, you will come to one of the banquette area and will recognize the lampas on the wall above. The red colorway has been used as upholstery on two beautiful chairs in the collection of the Getty and viewable in the Decorative Arts wing as well as the link if you click on Getty.

The pillow above is hand beaded using old beads found on the shelves of my workroom. They add to the inherent opulence of this beautiful woven textile as does the silk trim, which I purchased at Décor de Paris in Los Angeles.

Embroidered Silk Velvet Fortuny Inspired Pillows

2008-11-26T09:52:00.000-08:00

Mariano Fortuny was greatly inspired by historic textiles. Looking through the fabric boards at the Fortuny showroom in the D&D Building is in many ways a history lesson. Some of my favorite patterns are Renaissance style and one merely has to run a little bit across town to see original versions from the Renaissance at the Metropolitan Museum of Art. It was about this time last year that I made that trip; New York always leaves me with so many exciting images.

The pillows above are two that I just completed and shipped for Ann Holden of Holden & Dupuy of New Orleans. These pillows are 14” x 26” and are on rich silk velvet. The color is a muted deep gray-violet and the embroidery utilizes a cord outline of gray-blue threads then shading is added in a rayon chain-stitch that is a little darker than the silk velvet. On top of that – icing on the cake – is an extra chain stitch of antique bronze metallic.

The effect is ultimately soft, elegant and rich. With these pillows I think I pay appropriate homage to the master, Mariano Fortuny and to his inspiration as well.

Frank Lloyd Wright "Hollyhock House" Custom Chandelier Project

2008-11-22T07:26:00.000-08:00

Many years ago, I had the pleasure of recreating embroidered pillows for the beautifully reproduced living room furniture for Frank Lloyd Wright's famed residence in Hollywood called “Hollyhock House.” Using an original pillow front as the basis for the reproduction, a classic metallic soutache was used to achieve the correct effect. Fabric just like the original was woven and the well documented result of our collaborative work is seen in many books on the subject, including the Rizzoli book “Frank Lloyd Wright Hollyhock House and Olive Hill” by Kathryn Smith. It contains beautiful pictures including those of the living room furniture.

Jeffrey Herr, the curator of this landmark residence, came to me a while ago with the project of recreating the dining room chandelier. Based on an old photograph, the best we are able to accomplish is an impression of the original. Utilizing my computerized embroidery machine, I have created a pattern that consists of fine pattern stitches that resemble traditional cross stitch, which I have outlined. Most machine embroidery requires the use of fabric stabilizers, or backing, to keep the fabric from being damaged by the aggressive work of the needle. In this case, as the fabric is a linen sheer, I did not want any residue of backing to be visible so once again I turned to that marvelous water soluble backing. After several rinses, the backing is gone and I have this lovely, flowing sheer pictured above, which makes me very happy.

The chandelier will be put together by the hands of others now. Samuel and Sons has created custom tassels that will add weight to the fabric and complete the effect. I am so happy to be a part of this project and delighted to have added to the illusion of the past of this lovely home.

Custom Embroidered Table Linens

2008-11-14T09:50:00.000-08:00

This is one of my favorite place settings. The dishes are made in Florence, Italy and the pattern is "Fiesole" by Richard Ginori. The simple elegance of this service is that quiet charm that would make a toasted cheese sandwich seem special. The Venetian stemware I bought at auction years ago at Bonhams and Butterfields and the table linens are from Sferra, also from Italy and embroidered by Villa Savoia. The technique is hand-guided machine using a variety of threads with a little bronze metallic thrown in for sparkle. Bon Appetito!

Custom Pillow: Suzani inspired with embroidered accents

2008-11-10T17:11:00.001-08:00

The fabrics of Michael S. Smith's Jasper Collection are beautiful. Each fabric has a quiet opulence that enriches an interior or a piece of furniture. The pattern above is a large scale woven wool textile. The inspiration is undoubtedly an antique Suzani textile which have been rightly popular for some time now. The color palette has been toned down from the original pieces still being produced in Uzbekistan today.

My good friend and Interior Designer Brenda Fox Wilson brought this project through my door; she used the fabric to upholster a chair in a client's bedroom and wanted me to make a pillow with the untouched fabric as an accent pillow for the bed. By clicking on the above photo you will see an enlargement of the pillow, giving a close up of the cording and the chain-stitches, all hand guided using the Cornelly machine. There is a small rope trim used that was purchased from Janet Yonaty. Brenda and her client like the down pillow inserts to be very loose - a quality that I prefer as well. My seamstress Nancy removed a good 3-4 handfuls of fill to give us the right look and feel. The pillow is 18" high x 26" wide.

I'll be sending out a post card featuring the embroidery in the next few weeks.

Kaveri Singh - Interior Artist

2008-11-08T14:03:00.000-08:00

A photograph of two Acanthus pillows I recently made for The Wiseman Group are shown a few posts below. As I mentioned in the post, the design was created by my good friend Kaveri Singh. I have known Kaveri and her husband TJ for many years as a result of a design project we shared in the late 1990's. Kaveri did the decorative painting and glazing throughout the house, I worked on the interiors. We became acquainted by mixing paint together – matching this fabric or that wall covering. Among the many notable projects we did together in the house included a dining room with a beautifully articulated hand painted ceiling and wall panels. Here is a photograph of one of her more recent works of art - she hand painted the walls of this large entry with a Chinoiserie style treatment featuring bamboo, flowers and birds.

TFS - a book review

2008-11-08T13:48:00.000-08:00

I am in production of a complicated design. For each 14 inches, the design requires 93,550 stitches.
While I watch over this design I am taking the opportunity to read one of my newer books, TFS Toni Facella Sensi Architect. It is mostly a book of interiors done by this master tracing work from the 1970’s to 2000. I just recently discovered this book while looking through the shelves at the Potterton Books at the Pacific Design Center; however it was published in 2002.

There are first three amazing residences of the designer – one in Rome, another in his native Umbria at Orvieto and a third in Hammamet, Tunisia.

The text of the book is written by Cesare Cunnacia – and it is colorful and nostalgic. He has some great lines from a variety of sources such as Oscar Wilde – “there is no art without style, there is no style without harmony, and that harmony was of the individual” – I like that. And the interiors are richly detailed. The fabrics are quintessential fine European textiles used appropriately for their location; Palm Beach, Milan, Munich, Caracas, and London to name a few. International in scope and flavor, there is much to inspire in these details.

There is plenty of textile embellishment in this book – often times it takes the shape of appliqué. There is a beautiful piece of furniture – a sofa that is in a wonderful colorful lampas fabric. He has cut some of the floral elements from the lampas and appliquéd them on a beautiful blue velvet. It is a light touch as he employs the appliqué sparingly and the result is absolutely charming and perfect. Needless to say, I love the book!

Custom Velvet Acanthus Pillows

2008-11-07T05:54:00.000-08:00

The custom pillows above shipped yesterday to The Wiseman Group in San Francisco. These pillows are on beautiful a Marvic velvet and are embellished with hand-guided cording and chain stitch using an Acanthus pattern designed by my good friend Kaveri Singh. This is an adaptation of the pattern used on silk satin shown on a previous post - used to make curtains for Holden & Dupuy of New Orleans.

The pillows measure 16” in height and 23” in width and were made to coordinate with a color palette of the room and were trimmed with a small matching cord from Samuel & Sons trim.

Custom Beaded Rose Cumming Pillows

2008-11-02T14:18:00.000-08:00

Last week I finished these two pillows for Randy Patton Design Studio. They are currently on their way to a new home on Fisher Island off the Miami coast. The linen velvet from Rose Cumming is a very soft pink with a lovely french style gaufrage pattern. The fabric was first outlined with embroidery in areas to provide a shape I filled with pink irredescent beads. Large pink freshwater pearls were added as well as smaller pearls and faceted pink quartz. The trim is hand tied silk from Scalamandre. The embellished surface is richly decorative.

Fortuny Applique'

2008-10-31T15:44:00.000-07:00

Recently I created a new border using a Fortuny fabric as an applique' on a Michael Smith Jasper Collection velvet. The design is inspired from an architectural element in a book on the work of Alberto Pinto.

I simplified the design, adhered an iron-on backing to the Fortuny and sent both to a company that could laser cut the pattern. Once that process was complete, I could iron the Fortuny in place on the velvet, then outline the shapes with cording and chain stitch. This pattern is suitable for both drapery and furniture.

Custom Monogram

2008-10-31T06:34:00.000-07:00

DMC is one of the most important names in the embroidery world. Having been established in the mid 1700’s as a fabric printing business, it later developed it’s now famous reputation in the production of mercerized cotton thread and with the help of Therese de Dillmont in the 1800’s became responsible for the development of the embroidery program well known to so many generations.

At the request of many interior designers, I needed to add cotton thread to my palette and knew DMC was the place to go. I purchased about 350 colors in cones that were compatible with my Tajima computerized embroidery machine. Above is a large scale monogram that is scaled for pillows or a chair back. Although the design is actually two A initials artfully combined, a found example in one of my many books on monogram initials, it is a pleasing shape simply as a flourish and can add great style to a modern or traditional interior.

The fabric is from Cowtan & Tout and of course the thread is from DMC. My very good friend and magnificent digitizer Jerilee Auclair is responsible for the digitizing of this beauty. Her artistry is beyond compare!