My Mother Made Me a Decorator

It's Mother's Day, and I want to pay homage to my mother....who's been gone from this world far too long, but who taught me how to make "A silk purse out of a sow's ear".

We lived on a farm, and although we didn't have much money, every year for my birthday, I was allowed to choose any paint color for my room; and she and I would paint it together. Then, she taught me how to make my own bedspreads, curtains, pillows, dust ruffles. By doing so, she instilled in me a love of color and beauty.

I have been a designer for twenty years, and not a day goes by that I don't think of my Mama....who showed me it doesn't take alot of money to have beauty around you.

With the "economic downturn" many are experiencing, purchasing paint, fabrics, and possibly the services of a designer seems out of the question. I tell my clients that making expensive mistakes in designing their homes makes calling in a designer worthwhile. As to paint and fabrics, these are the least expensive ways of changing the look of your home. There's a wonderful "whoops" paint section at your local Home Depot. You can pick up a gallon of paint for five dollars...just make sure it's not outdoor paint, if you want to paint indoors. As to fabrics,

I have made beautiful duvet covers and curtains from clearance sheets bought at stores such as TJ Maxx and Marshalls. I once did a million-dollar Parade Home using Ralph Lauren sheets that I found at the Goodwill.

So, thank you, Mama, for teaching me to be frugal and yet, creative. Along with all the other wonderful things you instilled in me...the love of reading, music, animals, and good friends.

To all the Mamas out there - Happy Mother's Day!