Creative Business Insights from Emma

Who is Embellished Furnishings by Emma and where did it all begin? 

I created Embellished Furnishings at the beginning of 2024, born from the sheer love of furniture/fabrics and anything interior. However the passion of upcycling has been in my bones for ever! I've always loved old furniture, thrifting, creating and decorating, and never happier than when I have a brush in hand. I've worked in the fashion industry for over 34 years, which is where the cross over between textiles, style, shapes and interior creativity comes from.

What do you love the most about running your creative business?  

Having my own workshop at home allows me the freedom, space and time to be as creative as my mind allows. I love experimenting and sometimes actually not really knowing what the end product will end up like. Sometimes it can be trial and error, often frustrating, but mostly rewarding.

Where do you find inspiration for designing unique furniture pieces?

My friends, google and Pinterest often spark new ideas. I like to keep an eye on current trends and colours. I also shop around for unusual pieces of furniture, I look at shapes and detailing, and then I think what or where could this be used in the home.

What are your favourite paint brands and why? 

I've trialed various brands of paints and finishers. There are so many around these days, it can be a minefield. Depending on the finish I want to achieve, be it chalky or satin. My favourite go to would be Annie Sloane, Frenchic, Rustolium, or if I'm pushing the boat out,  I would opt for Little Greene or Zoffany.  The latter gives great coverage, finish and they have an extensive colour palette.

 What are some common mistakes to avoid when upcycling furniture?

Other than the obvious mistakes of NOT prepping properly and NOT allowing dry time, I try not to think of creative work as a mistake. Use it to your own advantage of learning, enjoying and just letting your mind be free.

What are the biggest challenges in reupholstering furniture?  

The biggest challenge and pitfall when it come to reupholstering would be underestimating the time, and fabrics needed. Its fairly easy to strip a chair or sofa back to basics, but its rather expensive ,challenging and very time consuming putting it all back together. There are many layers and depths underneath what we actually see. Often the client will not understand the amount of foam, polyester wadding and calico that is needed to rebuild and shape their beloved chaise lounge.  

How can someone tell if their furniture is of high enough quality to be worth upholstering?

Firstly it will depend on the actual structure of the item being re upholstered. If its really rickety and legs falling off, it can just sometimes be too costly and unachievable. If its just springs and coverings needed, then that is worth doing. You would know a quality piece of furniture if it had a name on the frame, such as Ercol or Parker Knoll.  Look for solid wood such as a hard wood.  But ultimately if you have a sentimental piece, then I personally think its always worth tyring to salvage.

Finally, what’s the one piece of advice you would give somebody wanting to start their own business? 

Just go for it, don't expect too much initially as times are difficult. Be true to your own passions and create what "you" like!