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Expertise

All about home decor sewing, with many tips and trick on how to make a finished project look like a professional was hired to sew them. Specialize in "home decor" sewing. From how to measure, to how to cut and sew. Slipcovers, deocrative pillows, bedding, table accessories, drapery toppers, top treatments and more... Please do not ask me questions about clothing or trouble shooting sewing machines. I appreciate if you ask about home decor sewing.

Experience in the area

Started sewing at the young age of 10 years. In 1986 opened up my own Designer Sewing Workroom, in 1998 started teaching workshops and classes to others in my Industry. In 1998 established Slipcover America Inc, produced 3 DVDs and 3 CDS. I have traveled to the American Sewing Guild Conferences and various Sewing Expos in both the US and Canada, as a speaker, teaching and instructor. Also was on staff at the CHF Drapery School in North Carolina as the Slipcover Instructor. Continue to speak at special engagements at Fabric and Sewing stores throughout the country. In 2006 established Sonoran Sewing, in 2008 www.HomeFashionsU.com with an associate Claudia Buchanan in Arizona where we do specialized in "home decor" sewing workshops and retreats throughout the year.

Organizations

Slipcover Network Drapery Pro Workroom Association of America Window Coverings Association of America American Sewing Guild

Publications

Sew What Magazine (trade) Window Coverings Magazine (trade) Sew News Magazine Drapery and Window Coverings Mary Engelbreit Home Companion Magazine St Louis Home and Garden

Education/Credentials

College degree in Photo Journalism, Chaffey Community College in Cucamong, CA. Years of continual education through conference and workshops dealing with the sewing industry.

Something interesting about this subject that others may not know:

Slipcovers can revive old and tired furniture.

Average Ratings

Recent Reviews from Users

Read More Comments

    K = Knowledgeability    C = Clarity of Response    P = Politeness
UserDateKCPComments
Shelley09/09/111010Of course! Your answer completely cleared up .....
Pam06/14/111010Thanks
Martha Morris05/13/11101010Thank you so much. I had not .....
Michelle04/17/11101010Karen was very prompt in her response .....
Tracy06/27/10101010 

Recent Answers from Karen Erickson

2011-11-06 Making a Flounce Valance:

Good morning,     I would very much like to answer your question but not seeing what you are writing about is difficult.  It there anyway you can send me a photo of what you are writing about?    always

2011-09-08 lined pinch pleated drapes:

That is a great question Shelley.    I don't think you will find lining the same width as the decorator fabric, it is not made this way. Usually when you make pinch pleated draperies you will have a side

2011-05-25 Apply braid trim to taffeta valence:

I really was hoping you would attach a photo, so I can see the problem.    When we have trouble like this with braid and fabric we simply use Sealah tape.  You tape the 2 sides pressure sensitive tape

2011-05-24 Apply braid trim to taffeta valence:

Good morning I hope I can help.    Is there anyway you can send me a photo of the problem?    Taffeta Valance? Is it lined?    Did you make this, or was it bought from the store.    Give me a little more

2011-05-12 Valance and heavy cording:

Thanks for the drawing. I think I am understanding the issue. I had hoped to see the cord that was attached.    The cord has to be undone, so it can be laid flat on the edges.      Does the cord attached

 

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