Modus operandi: "I comb the thrift stores, garage sales, estate sales, curbs, Dumpsters to salvage interesting vintage textiles, furniture, crafts, sewing notions, scarves, clothing, neckties, belts, etc. and cart them home. These things are eventually combined in ways that I can only describe as 'what looks right to me.'"
Got started: "I have always been interested in using only reclaimed, formerly used materials and in unconventional ways. For instance, with an upholstered piece, I don't care about restoring it to its original state, I'd rather surprise it with something unexpected.
Background: Degree in studio arts from the University of Alabama in Birmingham. "Worked for some time in the graphic arts field. Dumped that to raise a couple of kids. During those years at home, to stave off insanity, I started to combine my interests in design, sculpture, vintage wares, sewing." Self-taught upholsterer.
Family: Husband Ken, daughters Lydia and Norah and "a grumpy Westie named Charly."
Favorite material: "I use a lot of obis. I find them at Ragstock."
Aesthetic: The '40s, the '50s. Clean lines.
Studio: Second-floor corner of her Linden Hills home.
Studio decor: 117 vintage scarves and sashes "paper" the walls.
