Academy Class Descriptions

Window Treatment Fabrication 100
Starting and Operating a Workroom

Connie Sikora
Learn how to turn your love of sewing and creativity into a BUSINESS. This 2-day class teaches you about types of window treatments, an overview of the industry, business fundamentals, being a wholesale vs. retail workroom, pricing, marketing, measuring, forms and paperwork, where to get tools and supplies, which tools you’ll need, start-up costs, and more. Whether you are considering a career change or you’re already feeling your way around in the industry, this class will give you the information you need to run a successful business and earn the respect of your customers, vendors, and competition.

Day 1: 

Start up costs and income potential

Equipment recommendations

Supplies and resources

Tools

Fabrication and Design Aides

5 Basic Window Treatment Styles

Day 2

5 Basic Window Treatment Styles (con’t)

Pricing

Calculating Yardage

Required class for Window coverings Career Professional™ Program.

Tuition: $398

Register now: Classes fill quickly! Call 1-800-222-1415

Window Treatment Fabrication 101
Workroom Shortcuts, Draperies, and Shades

Mary Dwan & Connie Sikora

This fast-paced, intensive 5-day class provides step-by-step hands-on training on four fundamental window treatments: Rod pocket panels, Pinch Pleated Panels, Roman shades, and Balloon shades. Students learn a variety of pinch-pleat styles, including goblet and Euro pleats. Students also learn a multitude of tricks-of-the-trade, industry secrets, tips for calculating yardages, and crucial timesaving shortcuts that assure optimum efficiency. All attendees will have the opportunity to become comfortable with sewing on industrial serger, straight-stitch machine, and blind-hemming machines. See day to day outline below:

Day 1:
Students will discuss and have training on industrial sewing machines. There will be a discussion on other workroom equipment that will be used through the week. Students will load their work apron along with a discussion of the tools that will be in the apron that each student will have during the week in the workroom. Students will fabricate a lined rod pocket panel sample. Students will begin to work on the worktable and will be shown how to use it properly, as it can save time in fabricating window treatments.

Day 2:
Rod Pocket panels vs. Pinch Pleated panels will be discussed. Fabrication begins of a lined and interlined Pinch Pleated panel sample.

Day 3:
Students will finish sewing their Pinch Pleated panel sample. Calculating pleats and spaces will be discussed. Students will continue sewing their pleats to finish their Pinch Pleated panel samples. Students will hang samples on traverse rods to see how they operate.

Day 4:
Measuring windows, figuring fabric amounts, hardware placement ideas will be discussed. Students will discuss and fabricate a Flat Roman shade sample; this exercise will also cover how to cover mount boards and how to attach the shade to the mount board. Students will discuss and start fabricating a Gathered Balloon shade sample.

Day 5:
Students will finish fabricating their Gathered Balloon shade sample; this exercise will cover how to use cord locks for these shades. Other lift system options for shades will be shown, and the pros and cons of each will be highlighted. Discussion wraps up and class ends at 4pm on this day.

Required class for Window coverings Career Professional™ Program.

Tuition: $995

Register now: Classes fill quickly! Call 1-800-222-1415

Window Treatment Fabrication 102
Swags, Top Treatments, and Embellishments

Cathy Tucker
The techniques of WT 101, Workroom Shortcuts, Draperies and Shades are expanded in this 4-Day class. Topics covered in this 4-day class include a multitude of top treatments; basic and a variety of more difficult swags; jabots/cascades; a variety of box pleat styles; making and applying decorative trimmings, including banding, shaped banding, mitered banding, ruffles, and cording; applying fringe and twisted cord; various Roman shades, including London, relaxed, and ‘swagged’. See day to day outline below.

Day 1:
Trims, banding and cording.
Discussion of several ways to make cording and banding as well as methods of attachment. This segment also includes tips and shortcuts for fabrication. If you want to bring your own fabric for this class you would need 1.5 yards of two coordinating fabrics.
Pleats.
Discussion of several styles of decorative pleats, with emphasis on box pleats and inverted box pleats. We discuss the problems with these types of pleats and solutions for making them look and hang better. A sample valance is fabricated using one of these alternative methods, which also includes a lesson on motif placement and mounting a valance on a board.
Day 2:
Swags and cascades.
Lessons on how to determine the number of swags needed for treatments and also how to determine their size for both board mounted and pole mounted swags. Discussion also includes learning which fabrics do not work for swag valances. A comprehensive lesson on dressing a swag is followed by the making of a sample swag.
We talk about different styles and sizes of cascades and fabricate sample ones.
The amount of fabric used on this day is 4 yards of face fabric and 2 yards of a contrasting fabric. The swag will be cut on the bias, so fabrics such as toile do not work well for this treatment. Sheer fabric is also not a good choice for this day or any of the projects for the WT 102 class.
Day 3:
Valance Day:
Students are shown several valance styles, from which to choose to fabricate as much on their own as possible. The main lessons on this day are how to follow the instructions, choose the appropriate fabrics and make changes where necessary to fit the finished product. Using lessons from previous days, the valances may need pattern placement choices, cording, banding, trim and/or interlining.
Styles vary on this day, but the most fabric you would need would be 4 yards each of a face fabric and a contrasting fabric, and about 6 yards of trim (optional). Many of the styles work best with fabrics that can be railroaded.
Day 4:
London Shade Valances:
We discuss several shades and valances that fall into the category of London Shade or Relaxed Roman, how to determine the droop area and how to fabricate. A valance selected from these styles is them constructed and mounted on a board. This again involves pattern placement determination and board mounting techniques.
Fabric - 2 yards each of a face and contrasting fabric.

Required class for Window coverings Career Professional™ Program.

Tuition: $796

Register now: Classes fill quickly! Call 1-800-222-1415

Window Treatments 103
Advanced Top Treatments and Shades

Donna Skufis & Terri Booser

This 5- Day advanced course will cover Kingston and Empire Valances, Embellishments, Hobbled Shades and various other specialty shades. Students will have a thorough understanding of the differences between the Kingston and Empire as it has to do with both design and fabrication of these two “difficult” treatments. Various embellishment techniques will be demonstrated as they pertain and can be applied to these treatments as well as others. Students will also fabricate a flat back hobbled shade and mount it to a clutch system that they will construct themselves. Various other clutch systems as well as  advanced shade techniques, such as a double sided roman, concealed cords, top-down bottom up, reverse mount, fan bottom and stitch tucked shades will be covered with the opportunity to construct mini samples.

Day One:

Discussion of Kingstons and Empires: Design and Fabrication Considerations.

Students begin their empire project.

Day Two:

Embellishment Discussion

Students complete first project and begin their Kingston project.

Day Three:

Students complete working on Kingston project.

Discussion of Hobbled shades.

Students prepare for hobble shade construction.

Day Four:

Discussion of Clutch Systems.

Students construct their clutch system.

Students Complete Hobble shade construction.

Day Five:

Mini- sample Day! Students create as many mini samples of specialty shade techniques and/or embellishments as time permits.

Review and questions.

Note: If students wish to bring their own fabrics for their projects:

Empire – 3-5 yds of face fabric. 1-2 yds contrast. 4-5 yds trim

Kingston   same as empire

Hobbled Shade = 2-2.5 yds of face fabric

Mini-Samples – 1 yd will do two samples of most styles. So 2-3 yds of anything! Bring your fabric scraps of fabrics and trims.

Required class for Advanced Window coverings Career Professional™ Program.

Tuition: $995

Register now: Classes fill quickly! Call 1-800-222-1415

Window Treatment Fabrication 104

Susan Schurz
This advanced 4-day class will cover high-end drapery panels, advanced valance techniques, arched and bay windows, custom details and hand-sewing. Students will complete an arched drapery panel, bump-interlined panel, interlined panel with attached valance and other samples using high-end fabrication techniques. See day to day outline below:

Day 1:
Bump interlined, trimmed drapery panel with hand-sewing and hand-pleating techniques.

Day 2:
Interlined panels with attached valance, student chooses style from several different designs.
Embellishment techniques including hand pleated ruffles, micro-cording, bow-tie box pleat trim, shaped bandings, and more lead-edge styles for drapery panels.

Day 3:
Discussion of bay windows including how to measure and fit boards.

Advanced box pleat styles. Students will be given pre-selected fabrics and trims and will design and fabricate a custom valance based on their materials.

Day 4:
Arched pleated drapery panels including pattern drafting for arched windows.

Required class for Advanced Window coverings Career Professional™ Program.

Tuition: $796

Register now: Classes fill quickly! Call 1-800-222-1415

Window Treatment Fabrication 105
The Challenge

Donna Skufis
Pre-requisites: WT 100-104 preferably, or WT100-102 and 2-3 years in the industry business). See day to day outline below:

Day 1:
On this day after the student’s general knowledge and introductions have been accessed; proportional scaling and proper proportion will be covered. Pattern drafting skills and pattern alterations along with historical and other text will be referenced for pattern piece visualization and drafting help. By mid-day the students will draw for their projects and as a group we will be deep into their individual projects.

Day 2:
On this day each student will work to complete their project and the instructor will be available to help each student as much as needed.

Day 3:
On this day an hour or two will be allowed for completion of their projects in the morning. As a group the remainder of the day will be spent reviewing the plans as they compare to the finished project; how things went, what had to be changed and why, what would you do differently next time? After each student shares all aspects of the project the instructor will reveal how they actually constructed the project if different than the student. Each student will learn all aspects of all the projects undertaken during this 3-day class, and the instructor will provide a series of photos and all paperwork of each project for each student to take home with them.

Tuition: $597

Register now: Classes fill quickly! Call 1-800-222-1415

Fabricating Bed Treatments

Donna Ayesh
Students will come away from this four day class with the knowledge and resources to fabricate beautiful bedding ensembles, including bed skirts, bed coverings, duvets, pillow shams and Euro shams. Bed treatments are covered in complete detail, from measuring, calculating yardage, fabricating, quilting resources and pricing, to design ideas and the addition of the finishing touches. Students make samples for an 18x24” miniature bed that they take home with them, as well as a full size pillow sham. Information, basic construction and design ideas are shared for baby and children’s bedding, table skirts, headboards, coronas, half-testers and four poster treatments. There are two additional classes offered for more detail: Ottomans and Headboards and Coronas, Bed Canopies and Awnings.

Day 1:
Bedding Basics: Sizes, Measurements and Forms
Bed Coverings: Calculating Yardage and Fabrication
Duvet covers and Inserts: Fabrication and Resources
Make a sample bed covering for 18x24” bed
Custom Quilting Resources
Tricks and Techniques

Day 2:
Bed Skirts: Ideas and Fabrication for many different styles, using both decking and banding
Make a sample bed skirt for 18x24” bed
Table Skirts: Fabrication and Ideas

Day 3:
Ideas for detailing and grouping bed pillows
Pillow Shams: Ideas and Fabrication
Make a sample pillow sham using various techniques
Baby and Children’s Bedding Ideas
Pricing and Marketing

Day 4:
Overview, discussion and design ideas for:
   Headboards
   Canopy and Four Poster Treatments
   Coronas and Half Testers
   Complete Samples

Day 4:
Overview, discussion and design ideas for:
Headboards
Canopy and Four Poster Treatments
Coronas and Half Testers
Complete Samples

Required class for Bed Coverings / Pillows Career Professional™ Program.

Tuition: $796

Register now: Classes fill quickly! Call 1-800-222-1415

All About Pillows

Donna Ayesh

This class begins with the very basics of pillow construction, zipper insertion and button closures, and leads into the detailing, pattern drafting and fabrication of high-end pillows.  Students will learn the various fabrication methods for square, round, boxed, bolsters and unique shaped pillows.  Samples will be made incorporating basic fabrication and the many various detailing techniques and embellishments that are covered.  These include detailed piecing with the addition of any of the following: welt cord, twist cord, trims, various ruffles, flanges with mitered corners, appliqués and shirring.  By the end of the class you will have learned how to critically look at any pillow and determine how to break it down and fabricate it.

Day 1:

Pillow Forms and Suppliers

Basic Pillow Construction Overview:  Includes pattern placement,

     Lining/interlining, corners, finished edges, knife edge pillows

Closures: Demonstration of zipper in the seam and zipper ½” above

     Bottom back seam

Edges and Borders:  Welt cord and Twist Cord, Difficult Trims

Classroom Sample:  Pillow with zipper closure with either cord or

     Twist cord, samples of both zipper insertions

Day 2:

Pillow Construction Overview:  Bolsters, Neckrolls and Round Knife-edge

Piecing:  Stripes

Closures:  Demonstration of invisible zipper insertion, Ties

Edges and Borders:  Ruffles, Pleats

Classroom Sample:  Bolster with Invisible Zipper or Neckroll with Ties

Day 3:

Pillow Construction Overview:  Boxed Pillows – square, rectangular and

     Round, Turkish Corners and Mitered Box

Piecing:  Framing, Ruching

Closures:  Buttons and Plackets

Edges and Borders:  Mitered Flange, Scallops

Classroom Sample:  Boxed pillow

Pricing and Marketing

Day 4:

Pillow Construction Overview:  Detailed Piecing, Creative Designs and

     Fabrication methods, Review pillow instructions included in handbook

High End Embellishments

Fabric Manipulations

Classroom Sample:  Creative pieced pillow of choice

Required class for Bed Coverings / Pillows Career Professional™ Program.

Tuition: $796

Register now: Classes fill quickly! Call 1-800-222-1415

Installation 101
Professional Installation Techniques

Beth Hodges & Jerry Titus
Never be intimidated by installations again! This intensive, 5-day hands-on class covers installing professionally from beginning to end. Attendees learn industry terminology; measuring techniques; and the proper supplies, tools, and equipment needed to install mini-blinds, verticals, and a wide variety of window treatments. The experienced instructors share a multitude of tricks-of-the-trade and timesaving tips. Students actually install and learn how to dress all the basic treatments, including sheers, rod pockets, pleated draperies, swags, cornice boards, tiebacks, Roman shades, balloon shades, blinds, verticals, and more. Crucial business topics will also be discussed, including pricing, marketing, insurance, and customer service. See the day to day outline below:

Day 1:
Tools and Supplies
Fasteners
Measuring
Business

Day 2:
Traverse rods/String rods
Residential rodding/café rods
Install Swags, Balloon, Roman Shades

Day 3:
Install curtain rods
Bending rods/bay boards
Install decorative, wood, pole rods

Day 4:
Tile and cement
Traversing sheer/drapery/cornice combination and install Fan-folding

Day 5:
Hard Treatments
   -blinds
   -shades
   -verticals
Commercial Tracks
Anchors for Concrete and Tiles

Required class for Installation Career Professional™ Program.

Tuition: $995

Register now: Classes fill quickly! Call 1-800-222-1415

Installation 102
Professional Installation Techniques

Jerry Titus
This more-advanced 2-day class includes: making a template, building a frame, and installing arched-treatments; mounting and installing both pre-formed and scarf swag treatments; measuring, specifying, and installing motorized hard window systems and drapery rods; stringing multi-draw traverse rods; and much more. See the day to day outline below:

Day 1:
Arched Windows
   -Templates
   -Casual Swags
   -Bend rods to fit templates
Bishop Sleeves
Puddling

Day 2:
Motorize Treatments
Tracks and Shades
Double Master Rods
Discussion

Required class for Installation Career Professional™ Program.

Tuition: $398

Register now: Classes fill quickly! Call 1-800-222-1415

Installation for the Workroom and/or Designer

Beth Hodges
Installation for the Workroom and/or Designer is geared toward workrooms and designers who really want to be in the know.  Have you ever wondered if your installer is doing the right way?  Do you worry that it might not stay up?  Did he use the right anchors?  What should you know about dealing with an installer?  Learn how to install your own or keep your eye on the person who is installing for you.

Tuition: $398

Register now: Classes fill quickly! Call 1-800-222-1415

Basic Cornices and Advanced Cornices

Donna Skufis
The Basic Cornice class is two days of intensive education on proper building materials, construction techniques and upholstery methods for cornices.

Cornices are very popular types of window treatments.  Make sure you can offer these wonderful treatments to your clients.  Learn how to create cornices from scratch.  Select the proper materials and supplies, build the structure and upholster it with covered welt cord or other trims.  You will also use a wide range of power and pneumatic tools that will increase your confidence level.  Additional embellishing techniques will also be shared so you will be able to create these popular treatments on your own at home.  Using the basic class information we will dive head first into all shapes and upholstery methods and techniques available.  Alternative materials such as firmaflex and bendable plywood will be available for student’s use.   The creation of arches, projections, pagodas, tiaras, hinged, awning and operable door cornices will be included and each student will construct multiple projects during this class.  Hard and soft techniques will be discussed in detail and both types will be offered for hands on construction.  A variety of embellishing techniques will be shown including floats, shadow box, button tufting, ant trail banding and trimming, foam rolls, multiple welt trims, and much more.  Bay and corner window construction is also discussed.  Creating hard structures for other types of window treatments are also included so each student returns home with a complete knowledge of structures and construction techniques to handle most any project.

Tuition: $995

Register now: Classes fill quickly! Call 1-800-222-1415

Professional Slipcovers 101
Parsons Chairs

Jeanelle Dech

This class is an introduction to professional slipcovers and is ideal for drapery fabricators and upholsterers who are considering adding slipcovers to their business. Students will complete a basic Parsons chair slipcover with a tailored or gathered skirt. Students may bring their own fabric and chair, or use fabric and chairs provided by the CHF Academy.  Identical chair forms can be purchased so that completed projects can be used as showroom samples.

Day 1 (8:30-5:00)
• School orientation
• Introduction to Reverse Pin Technique
• Fabric selection
• Introduction to walking foot machines
• Welt
• Begin pin fit
Day 2 (8:30-5:00)
• Complete pin fit and stitch
• Power Point Presentation: Parsons Chair Design
• Portfolio photos

Required class for Slipcover Career Professional™ Program.

Tuition: $398

Register now: Classes fill quickly! Call 1-800-222-1415

Professional Slipcovers 102
Fit-like-A-Glove Slipcovers

Jeanelle Dech
Pre-requisite: Professional Slipcovers 101
This class covers how to make professional fit-like-a-glove slipcovers from start to finish using the reverse-pin technique. Students will use industrial equipment (walking-foot sewing machines and industrial sergers) to complete a cushion and a wing-chair or arm-chair slipcover, which is theirs to keep. Other topics include: pricing, marketing, fabric selection, calculating yardage, cushion inserts, decorative skirts and closures, plus problem solving techniques for difficult furniture. Instructors share timesaving tips, and suppliers. All materials are provided. However, students may bring their own chair and fabrics if they prefer.

Day 1 (8:30-5:00)
• Discussion: Fit-Like-A-Glove Slipcovers
• Fabric selection
• Welt
• Begin box cushion construction
Day 2 (8:30-5:00)
• Complete box cushion
• Begin reverse-pin fit
Day 3 (8:30-5:00)
• Discussion: Slipcover Profitability
• Begin stitching
Day 4 (8:30-5:00)
• Discussion: Marketing Fit-Like-A-Glove Slipcovers
• Complete stitching
• Velcro attachment
• Portfolio photos
Day 5 (8:30-3:00)
• Discussion: Details and Embellishments
• Sample making

Required class for Slipcover Career Professional™ Program.

Tuition: $995

Register now: Classes fill quickly! Call 1-800-222-1415

Outdoor Living

Jeanelle Dech

Patios and backyards have become extensions of the home and serve all types
of functions from entertaining to relaxing. Creating beautiful, practical,
and safe outdoor living areas has never been more exciting. In this class
you will create an outdoor cushion, drapery or awning, and participate in the onstruction of an outdoor umbrella.  With each project you will learn the proper techniques and materials needed extend the longevity of outdoor textiles.  This class is designed to inform students of the latest trends in custom outdoor decoration with an emphasis on resources such as Sunbrella fabric, mildew-resistant foam, outdoor thread, outdoor trim, and hardware for umbrellas and awnings.


Day 1 (8:30-5:00)
€ Discussion:  Outdoor Design
€ Create sample waterfall or box cushion
€ Seam techniques
€ Umbrella construction
   
Day 2 (8:30-3:00)

€ Discussion:  Outdoor Hardware
€ Create roll-shade, awning or banded drapery panel

Tuition: 2-day class costs only $398

Register now: Classes fill quickly! Call 1-800-222-1415

Business Plan From Start to Finish

Jeanelle Dech
Can’t find the time to sit down and plan for the future? Whether you are starting in business, or well-established, a plan can be the difference between success and failure. Participate in this 2 day class, and you will leave the CHF Academy with a comprehensive business plan tailored to your custom home furnishings business. Complete all standard sections and learn to forecast your earnings 3-5 years ahead. Bring your laptop (with power-point and quickbooks) and GET IT DONE! Laptop computer is not required for this class. See the day to day outline below.

Day 1:
Discussion: Why Create a Business Plan?
Mission statement
Group with like businesses
Begin sections:
   I. Executive Summary
   II. Products and Services
   III. Market Analysis
   IV. Marketing Strategy
   V. Operations

Day 2:
Continue sections:
   VI. Financial Data
        Balance Sheet
        Break-Even Analysis
        Income Statement (Profit and Loss)
        Cash-Flow
   VII. Supporting Documents

Tuition: Each 2-day class costs only $349

Register now: Classes fill quickly! Call 1-800-222-1415

The Art of Upholstery

Laurie Medford - Instructor
This upholstery course is for the “dabbler”, the one or two year upholsterer who may want some skill expansion, or the absolute beginner. It is an intensive, fast-paced and hands-on course, simulating a real workshop upholstery business. Participants in the class will learn the many aspects of upholstery from the frame up, including: spring tying, fabric pattern matching, estimating fabrics, cushion construction, webbing and padding, the making of various types of skirts, basic sewing (both hand and machine) and many other upholstery techniques and their applications. See day to day outline below:

Day 1:
1. Introduction and orientation
2. Overview of upholstery – history, techniques, etc
3. Furniture assessment – developing an action plan on piece to be upholstered
4. Measuring, estimating yardage requirements and developing a fabric cutting plan
5. Demonstration of tools and safety guidelines
6. Begin work on wing chair, starting with webbing the seat and tying the springs

Day 2:
1. Demonstration of fixing edgewire to front of seat springs
2. Demonstration of stitching edgeroll to springs
3. Finish seat and review measuring and the fabric cutting plan

Day 3:
1. Begin cutting fabrics
2. Complete seat upholstery
3. Affix webbing and burlap to inside of chair
4. Apply padding to inside of chair
5. Discussion of button tufting

Day 4:
1. Apply fabric to inside of chair (emphasis on pattern matching and symmetry)
2. Discussion on keyholes (front of arm panels)
3. Demonstration on sewing machine and sewing techniques including hand stitching

Day 5:
1. Apply fabric to outside of chair
2. Show proper techniques for use of both polygrip (metal edging) and hand-sewing
3. Demonstration on brass nailing

Day 6:
1. Completion of chair upholstery
2. Cushion design and construction
3. Sewing of cushion and filling

Day 7:
1. Demonstration on the various types of skirts and their construction
2. Applications for the various types of trimming including how to make double welt
3. Discussion of the marketplace for upholstery today
4. General review of week and questions

Day 8:

Skirts

Class Discussion:  Starting up an Upholstery Business, Pricing

General Reveiw, Lessons Learned, Q&A

Required class for Uphostery Career Professional™ Program.

Tuition: $1592

Register now: Classes fill quickly! Call 1-800-222-1415

Upholstery 102

Laurie Medford

This class is for the upholsterer that has experience in the field. Upholstery 101 and sewing skills are prerequisites for this class. This is a 5 day, hands-on, fast-paced course that will progress at the pace of the student. It will NOT cover frame-up upholstery as that is covered on Upholstery 101: The Art of Upholstery.

The student will learn techniques for covering different Inside Backs of chairs and couches by developing patterns and learning application techniques for attached pillow-backs, channel back, and barrel chairs as well as split-back and deep tufted pieces. Multiple styles of cushions cushion fillers and furniture types, as they pertain to upholstery, will also be covered. The goal is for student to leave the class with multiple patterns and samples. Some time will be spent on advanced fabrics.

Day 1:

• Introduction and Orientation
• Cosmetic Furniture Assessment
• Furniture Styles
• Hide-A Beds
• Recliners
• Chair vs. Loveseat vs. Couch

• Begin Inside Backs- Pattern Development and Application
• Attached Pillow Back Chair

Day 2:

• Continue Inside Backs – Pattern development and Application
• Attached Pillow Back Chair
• Attached Arm Cushions   
• Armless Chairs
• Barrel Chairs

Day 3:

• Continue Inside Backs – Pattern Development and Application
• Barrel Chairs
• Channel Backs
• Deep-Tufted Backs and Arms

Day 4:

• Complete Inside Chair Backs – Pattern Development and Application
• Split-Back Couch – Pattern Development and Application
• Storage Cubes – Pattern Development and Application

Day 5:

• Advanced Fabrics: Leather, Silk, Vinyl and Faux Furs
• Design and Build Project

Tear down is on-going, as it applies to the Inside Back of the project

Tuition: $995

Register now: Classes fill quickly! Call 1-800-222-1415

Design 101 - Determining the Needs of the Residential Client

Davetta Moore

Wouldn’t you like to feel confident that you gathered all the information necessary to address the needs of the client on the first visit? Could you benefit from some time saving tips on how to work smarter not harder? Join me and other industry professionals for my next seminar. 

How to determine the needs of the Residential Client

The “Room Planner” what would I do without it. “Waste a lot of time” that’s what!

This seminar is all about determining the needs of the residential client. I will share with you my design concept for planning for profit by using “The Room Planner”.  When you measure and plan ahead you can come up with a realistic time frame and budget for each design project. 

• Designer’s tool box “My traveling office”
• The client phone interview
• The client contact form
• Organization of client information for the first appointment
• First appointment using the Room Planner “The what it really is”
• Second appointment “The what it could be”
• Third appointment “Client approved the design concept work-in-progress begins”
• What is my secret: forms, facts, formulas, final answer!

Understanding the layers of a window treatment

I will show you step-by-step from the inner privacy layer to the outer decorative layers. We will discuss decorating elements of the window style and what layers are necessary for meeting the client’s needs.

• Where do you start in the window treatment design plan
• What are the layers of a window treatment
• Learn the importance of always using a measuring form
• How do you solve the client’s needs
• What are the basic types of windows and how do they function
• Will the window treatment need to be functional or a non-functional design
• How is the window treatment to be installed
• What is the size of each return:   0”   1½”   3½”   5½”   7½”
• What is the perfect window treatment

Designing and calculating yardage for decorative panels can be quick, and fun. Let’s learn more about the simple facts and formulas to plan your next decorative Draperies. You will learn common workroom terminology, the basic steps of measuring, calculating yardage, drapery hardware, and planning for the drapery installation. We will look at magazine pictures and discuss endless ways you can embellish Drapery Panels. We will complete a drapery room work order together. I have designed a form for stationary side panels you are going to love!  

Designers Guide to Decorative Panels

• Learn the common workroom terminology for drapery panels
• Basic steps to measuring a window for draperies
• Planning the function of the Drapery
• Rod and hardware placement
• Heading styles
• Decorative embellishments
• Fabric, lining, and Interlining selections
• Calculate yardage with the forms
• One-way draw panel
• Two-way draw pair
• Non-functioning decorative Draperies “Also called Stationary Panels”
• Stationary Panels fabric estimator

Tuition: $1495

Register now: Classes fill quickly! Call 1-800-222-1415

Sew Like a Pro

Connie Sikora
This class is for the home sewer that wants to make window treatments. Whether you want to just make them for your own home, or are considering the possibility of venturing into the Professional Window Treatment Industry. You will come to understand different fabric contents and how they affect their use in window treatment fabrications. We will visit a near by fabric supplier where we will discuss propery fabric usage, yardage calculation, as well as what other supplies are needed to make your window treatments special. You will also be introduced to industrial sewing equipment..

Tuition: $796

Register now: Classes fill quickly! Call 1-800-222-1415

Ottomans & Headboards

Zona Tiller

This course covers two items of furnishing, which are very popular for the design marketplace: the Headboard and the Ottoman.  Participants in the class will learn the design and upholstery techniques necessary for the construction of two types of each.

During the headboard part of the course we will address two classic designs-the center field rolled border and the basic rolled-over with surface buttons.

Two types of ottoman which are always popular are the attached cushion top and the deep-buttoned.  Students will learn how to design and upholster both.  This course provides training in the use of foam cutting saws, a pneumatic stapler, button making machine, shears, needles and other related tools.  We will also discuss the various types of foam and their applications, fabric pattern placement and yardage estimating requirements.  See day to day outline below.

Day 1:

1.       Introduction and orientation

2.       Tools and their safe use

3.       Overview of various types of headboards and their construction

4.       Design and construction of a single bed sized headboard

Day 2:

1.       Measuring and cutting of fabrics

2.       Discussion of button tufted headboards

3.       Cover and complete headboard

4.       Overview of different types of ottomans

Day 3:

1.        Using a pre-built square ottoman frame, begin upholstery of semi-attached ottoman

2.       Construction of attached skirt for ottoman

Day 4:

1.       Overview of button-tufting,

2.       planning, and design its application on a round ottoman

3.       Construction of round frame ottoman

4.       Upholster  button tufted round ottoman

5.       Review of headboards and ottoman

Tuition: $796

Register now: Classes fill quickly! Call 1-800-222-1415

Corona’s, Bed Canopies and Awnings

Cathy Tucker
In this 2-day class you will learn the necessary techniques to measure and construct Corona’s, Bed Canopies, and Awnings. These treatments can be used to transform an ordinary bedroom into a relaxing retreat.


Day 1:
On this day students will study where it is appropriate to use a corona and various styles. They will build and start to construct a corona.

Day 2:
On this day students will complete their Corona and start to study a bed canopy. Proper measuring as well as different styles and mounting techniques will be discussed. Students will build and complete a “mini canopy”.

Day 3:
On this day students will be introduced to wood frame awnings. This technique allows you to make extra wide awnings with a very taut look.

If you have been afraid to tackle these treatments in the past, this class will give you confidence to construct and remove those fears.

Tuition: $796

Register now: Classes fill quickly! Call 1-800-222-1415

Draping and Drafting Window Treatment Patterns

Donna Skufis
This three day class will teach each student the secret to creating most any type of top treatment, panel, drapery or swag from scratch, no system or pattern required. When you are given a photo or drawing you will be able to copy or duplicate the treatment. Top treatments and historic treatments will be covered. Panels and draperies can also be altered by changing pleat styles, positions and top shapes. All swags can be easily created, from level mounted swags, pole swags, point to point swags, boxed swags, and arched or shaped swags.

Using a vertical pinning surface, beaded chain weight and lining scraps or pattern paper each student will learn to create many types of treatments. The proportional scale will also be demonstrated to help duplicate most any treatment or style. Determining proper proportion and scale for treatments will be discussed and examples included. Installation concerns will also add the how the design needs to be engineered. The use of existing patterns and how to alter them will be included.

Tuition: $597

Register now: Classes fill quickly! Call 1-800-222-1415

Knock Your Socks Off Presentations

Margi Kyle
Day 1:The wonders of technology and how it can change your life.

Let’s get started with your techno journey. In this 2 hours, you will learn:
   -    How to do a presentation in a Word document, how to copy from the internet and
        paste it into a word presentation.
   -    How to organize your clients files on “My Documents”
   -    How to save emails to the file
   -    How to download pictures from your digital camera
   -    How to scan in, a picture into a word document.
   -    How to email the document to your clients.
   -    How to use the Drawing tools, fonts and size.
The next 2 hours, each student will go on line and copy and paste from websites such as Greenhousedesign.net, copy and paste into a word document.
   -    Add text, remove textbox lines, add color to textboxes, email it as an attachment.
   -    Save it to a client file.
   -    Create an invoice putting in pictures of goods and products
   -    Setting up a client file with company policies, proposals and invoices.
        Also time sheets. The business side of Design.
   -    Downloading a CD that has my company policies and websites on it.
The next two hours, you will learn:
   -    How to do a presentation in a PowerPoint document.
   -    How to Crop a picture and to work on a digital image
   -    How to print screen and crop
   -    How to use search engines to research products
   -    Creating a techno presentation using no tools, just what is available
         online without spending a dime.

Day2:
Powerful Techno Presentations that will increase your bottom line and take you a “Step above the Crowd”
The next two-three hours, you will learn:
   -    A review of yesterday and sharing of techno presentations in word.
   -    How to scan in a fabric, picture, etc and copy and paste from the internet.
   -    The introduction of all the new tools.
   -    The creation of a techno presentation in PowerPoint
   -    To include the business side of design. Copy and paste Company Policies, etc
        to make a professional presentation. Putting their logo into the presentation
        or creating a logo.
   -    The presentation of everyone’s techno presentation with a class critique
·The next two-three hours, you will learn:
   -    The benefits of Outlook and excel
   -    Introduction to Publisher and the creation of your new newsletter and calendar
   -    Q & A for an hour.

Tuition: $349

Register now: Classes fill quickly! Call 1-800-222-1415

Redesign and Color with No Regrets

Joanne Lenart-Weary

This exciting class arms you with the skills needed to start a decorating business or add new revenue streams to your existing business.  Creating a beautiful room begins with The Power of Placement and perfect color selection, this class will provide you the confidence and skills to do both with great finesse.  The Power of Placement impacts the way a room feels and looks.  You will begin with the guidelines to perfect furniture placement that honors first the client and secondly the architecture of the space.  Now it is time to address the other elements of the space, wall art, table top accessories, book shelves, mantels and even window treatment placement.  The class also will teach you the patent pending “Color with No Regrets” selection system that guarantees perfect color harmonies, EVEN if you do not have a “good color eye.”  Your learning will be a combination of hands on and class room as we believe nothing is as impactful of a learning experience as actually doing what you learned to do. Taught and developed by JoAnne Lenart-Weary, The Queen of Decorating and owner of One Day Decorating and The Decorating Academy, this is the longest running redesign class in the world and the model for several other training programs around the country.  Take the best; join us for an amazing 5+ days of learning.  Here is a look at our agenda.

Day One-9-5

Color with No Regrets-includes hands on and theory to teach you a color selection system unlike anything you have seen before.  Your new found skills will be polished throughout the week with color consultations in real homes over the course of the week.

Day Two-9-6

Redesign Fundamentals, The Power of Placement, architectural elements that impact placement, the art of accessorizing, Honoring the Power Zone of the room, creating rooms that “feel” good, and much more

Lunch

House #1-Begins with color consultation, then be prepared to lift, move and shove as you transform a room using the new principles you have learned.

Day Three-9-6

Photography tips for the non-professional, safety first, review of Day One House, “I never would have thought of that” creative ideas and tips for placement and accessorizing, shopping for the client, wholesale and retail

Lunch

House Two-Another day, another house.  Begin with a color consultation then transform a room with an extra focus on accessorizing of bookshelves, tabletops and creativity

Day Four-9-6

House #3-full day on a more involved home incorporating color, shopping, and redesign. 

Day Five- 8-4

Okay, I am good at this decorating stuff..now how do I make money?

A full day focused on business in a box- at business, marketing and presentation skills to give you business polish and success

The ++ Part

Two follow-up webinars and teleconferences when you return home to help continue to polish your skills