Thinking Outside the Box

One of the things I like most about being an Etsy shop owner is meeting wonderful people. A few months ago I got an email from Rosemary and she was inquiring about my tea towels. 

Her idea was to adapt my design into cafe curtains for her dining room and kitchen. At first I wondered if I could do it…it would take very precise measuring. I have always had a love-hate relationship with the skill of measuring. Not always my strong point…anyway she was so nice and encouraging that I agreed. Here they are hanging in her bay window.

She ordered the lower curtains first and then had me make the little valances later. We coordinated the linen with a beautiful toile she already had for a table runner and pillow covers.

I think Rosemary’s home is lovely and I was so thankful for her trust in me. Ordering a custom item like this is risky but I think we were both thrilled with the end result.

Suffice it to say that this project was a boost to my self-confidence when it came to custom orders. I loved helping Rosemary make her dreams for her home come true.

Almost all of the items in my Etsy shop can be customized to fit your budget and decor. There are a few one-of-a-kind vintage pieces that are ready to ship and can’t be altered. If you have an idea for your home and would like some help, just leave a comment or email me through my Etsy shop.


Thoughts from my friends...

  1. 1

    Oh my those are adorable! You did a fantastic job Ann!

  2. 2

    Those curtains are so sweet! They look so delicate, and yet so sturdy and well made. Great job!!

  3. 3

    Wow, Ann. I love the cafe curtains. Strong work.

    Fondly,
    Glenda

  4. 4

    They turned out beautifully Ann, such a great idea to make them as curtains. I know how you feel about measuring. I’m lousy at it and usually enlist my husband for the job.

  5. 5

    Oh Ann, they are just beautiful! I love all the sayings embroidered into the fabric. What a wonderful idea. I agree, I love that we get to meet so many people we would have never known otherwise. Have a great week. xxoo

  6. 6

    Ann they look fabulous!! You did a great job on them! They look so pretty in her dining room.

  7. 7

    Wonderful job Ann! They look so pretty especially with the lettering on them!

  8. 8

    Those are so cute and I love your new pillow buttons.

  9. 9

    Your did a wonderful job on those curtains!

  10. 10

    They look great in her dining room. Good for you for doing such a great job.

  11. 11

    Ann! That is just so amazing! What an incredible idea and they look so beautiful in Rosemary’s home. You did a wonderful job! :-)
    Vanessa

  12. 12

    Beautiful job!

  13. 13

    Love the curtains!! They turned out great!
    ~Cindy

  14. 14

    The curtains are beautiful and look wonderful in Rosemary’s home. As talented as you are, I wouldn’t doubt the custom orders like this one turn out great! By the way, this is Shannon from Cozy Home Scenes. I finally gave in and got a new blog like I mentioned a while back. Please be sure to drop by my new blog for a visit so you can find me before the old one closes. Have a great day Ann!

  15. 15

    Hi Ann, The curtains came out perfect! I sew too so I know what you mean about being nervous about the measuring. I love my “be grateful” pillow, too. You’re so talented.

  16. 16

    They look fabulous! What a unique twist; the text adds an encouraging thought. Have your Etsy sales been up?

  17. 17

    That’s neat, and I love your new social media buttons. Adorable.

  18. 18

    Very cute, Ann! :D

  19. 19

    Great job and a wonderful idea to be reminded of “grace” every day! I Love the new buttons and your ETSY shoppe banner! Happy Monday!

  20. 20

    Lovely work Ann!

  21. 21

    Curtains are cute, but people still use ruffled curtains? Roman shades would look nice on those windows too. A bit more modern.

  22. 22

    Love the curtains. I also love your table runner.

    Cynthia

  23. 23

    These cafe curtains are lovely! What a great idea. Your products are beautiful, and I can tell you’re a perfectionist.
    Mary Alice

  24. 24

    Love them all….turned out beautiful ! Great job!

  25. 25

    Wow Ann! Beautiful job again as always! One talented lady and your confidence doesn’t need lifting, it should already be at the top cause you are the best! Be blessed dear one!

  26. 26

    Wonderful job Ann! I love the idea and admire people who think outside the box

  27. 27

    WooHoo! Good for you! Custom orders can be a little stressful but so worth it in the end when your customer is happy and it turned out that good!

  28. 28

    I sure do like the way you “think outside the box!” The curtains are gorgeous and I’m sure your client was very pleased! :)

  29. 29
    Jane @ Cottage at the Crossroads says:

    Ann, I know Rosemary must be so delighted with her new curtains! They look fabulous in her home. And I noticed your changes to your blog immediately! Everything is looking good!

  30. 30

    They look fabulous Ann. I used to know an RN, like me, who retired from nursing and now makes custom curtains and drapes full time. She makes a very good income at it to.

  31. 31
    Brenda Kula-Pruitt says:

    Worked out perfectly, Ann.
    Brenda

  32. 32

    That design looks wonderful on Rosemary’s curtains! It’s neat that she thought of it and wonderful that you could custom make them for her. Very Nice! I’ve enjoyed visiting your Etsy shop as well… ! Everything looks so nice!
    Have a blessed day!
    Geneva

  33. 33

    Wonderful Ann! That’s really great! I’ve never had confidence to make curtains. They look fabulous in her window and I can tell they are made nicely!
    My Mom used to make curtains, even with a liner and the old fashioned hooks they used to use which required a special piece you had to sew and gather. It’s really hard to do in a home environment. I had a local professional make me a pair and I got to see her shop. It was fabulous. You’d drool… three giant working surfaces that allow large bolts to be opened up on cut etc., and three professional sewing machines.
    Your work is getting around!! You are growing!

  34. 34

    they are adorable!!! great job!!!

  35. 35

    Lovely curtains, Ann! I dread the measuring part, too! Once I get past the fear….the project usually is a breeze!

  36. 36

    Just beautiful, Ann! You are so talented. I love the words monogrammed on the lower curtains.

    xo
    Pat

    P.S. I hate measuring too! :)

  37. 37

    What an amazing and original way to dress that bay window. You did an amazing job!! I can see why your customer is so happy!

    Lynn

  38. 38

    I love them…you did a wonderful job and her window looks fabulous!!! I would be elated!!!

  39. 39

    They look perfect, Ann., and I know she loves them, too. I adore my “be grateful” towel.♥

  40. 40

    Ann,

    The curtains turned out so beautiful! You did a fabulous job.

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