It takes the right tools...

Part two of my epic restoration project.  Mair Oriental Rug Services
http://www.orientalrugservices.com/about_us.htm is working on the piece for my customer.

Here is a preview of some of their tools...

 Having the right color is really important...

But so is having the correct fiber...

And it has to be from the right time period...

In this line of work you can never have enough...

Hand dyed wool...

Hand dyed silk from Tabriz...

Up next, some photos of how the work is actually done.  Stay tuned...

My next project...

I have a client I am helping restore this piece, stay tuned for details and photos from the textile restoration expert himself...

Their website is still under construction...

But I like the pieces I am able to see through their agent.  I really con't say more about Gustav Carroll Inc luckily for them sometimes it's all about who you know.

http://www.ligneagency.com/client-04.html

You will note that they are represented by the same agency as former posts Bunting and Radelow.  If you haven't checked out Kyle Bunting or Aaron Radelow do so.  If anyone is over by their store and would like to send me some literature as well as some pictures I would love to see it.

New from Fabricut...

Yesterday I met with the fine people from Fabricut (who would like you to "Think Fabricut First").  They certainly have a nice set of new pieces.  The Vignettes line has long been a staple of decorators everywhere, and the relatively recent Nuances and Expressions collections are strong additions.  As for more modestly priced goods (often below$40/yd) the Trend Fabrics line has many great pieces. Jacquelyn Smith will be getting another set under her name, and if you have any silly notions about the quality of her designs check them out you will be very pleasantly surprised.

http://www.fabricut.com/

http://www.trend-fabrics.com/

And since pictures make for better posts, here are two pictures of a few pieces you might want to consider for a more contemporary setting.

Armenian Pottery...

I will be going on a short trip to Canada soon, and it go me thinking about a prior trip I took.  Should you happen to be in Jerusalem I highly suggest you stop by and pick up some Armenian Pottery.  I visited one shop in the Arab quarter, one in the Christian quarter, two in the Armenian quarter (which were excellent), and then two others outside the old city proper.  Of them the one where I made my purchase is below.

Should you wish to get directions to the shop, or see what I bought e-mail or leave a comment.

More Beautiful Lighting...

Several years ago I met a client who asked me if I could get her "Fine Art Lamps".  It took me a few seconds to realize that it was the name of a company and not just a description.  She ended up getting two Winter Palace Collection pieces, and let me tell you they are just as stunning in real life as they are on the website.

http://www.fineartlamps.com

The page does require registration to see more details; but if you are looking for high end lighting you won't be disappointed.

Better than a Tennis Bracelet...

Chances are that you've never heard of Pierre Gole.  Back when Louie the XIV was King of France he was a Master cabinet maker. Aaron Radelow http://aaronradelow.com/ has reproduced a table that he made for the King as a present for his Mistress.  I know that pictures make for better posts, but I'm not going to ruin the surprise.  Click here:

http://aaronradelow.com/portfolio/gole-tables/gallery/


one more

http://aaronradelow.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/09/aaron_radelow_brochure1.pdf


I'll just end with "wow".