Studio

My studio is located in the basement of my home and was designed and expertly completed by my husband, Dale. It took over a year to plan and execute the construction of the entire 1,000 sq ft. My studio claims about half of the space to include a sewing/design area (14′x 22′), computer desk area (8′x 8′), several closets and a sitting area.

Two kitchen “islands” (4′x8″) placed back to back serve as a cutting table. Six 6′ white storage cabinets along one wall hold fabrics and books. Both tables and cabinets were purchased at Ikea.

The sewing table is a simple design also constructed by Dale. A sheet of Melamine is applied to the surface of 4′x8′x1″ sheet of plywood which serves as the table top which rests on 2 base cabinets. A cut out (the exact size and shape of my sewing machine and table) sits on a platform that is attached under the cut out area which is the exact depth of the machine. This places the sewing machine bed level with the surface.

I use the wooden drafting table mostly for designing. There is never enough table top space! This table is wonderful. I bought it second hand from a retired architect.

The ironing board is moved to where ever I need it. I have plans to make a “big board” in the near future.

My sewing machine, a Bernina Quilters Edition 153, is a wonderful machine. The chair I use can be raised and lowered which I use to adjust the height for my arms to be a 90 degree angle. This saves my neck and shoulders from strain and headaches.

This sewing machine has a full spectrum light which is a nice bonus. I also have installed full spectrum flood lights in the studio main work area, which made a huge improvement in my color selections.
These lights are expensive, and I searched for quite a while and was thrilled to find this company, BuyLighting.com, which I highly recommend.

The design wall is a “must have”, I use it all the time. The wall is made of two 4′ x 8′x 2″ sheets of homosote which I covered with flannel. I chose a light tan color to provide a neutral background and not interfere with visualizing. I purchased the homosote at Lowes Home Improvement. This material is used for insulation in home building. It is very light weight and I didn’t have to attach it to the wall because it fit tight enough to stand in place.

I store my fabrics in plastic boxes that are grouped by color, style, favorites and projects.

I love Japanese fabrics and I incorporate a bit of this fabric in everything I make.

I must give all the credit to my husband for this wonderful studio. He worked diligently on this project for about 1 year. He did most of the work himself. He did a fabulous job.
I love my studio!