Michelle's designs on textiles

A GRADUATE from Huddersfield University is helping to bring West Yorkshire's wool industry into the 21st century.

"I take influence from a wide range of sources including films, news, weather and museums. I translate trends into moods and colour boards which I then apply to carpet design."I am as passionate now, if not more so, as when I first graduated in surface pattern design - and what better way to fulfil this passion by visualising ideas and translating them for clients using such a fabulous natural fabric to produce quality products in such a well-established industry?""I had to learn the whole manufacturing process from start to finish - from processing the raw wool to fitting the final product. I'd never worked with a material such as wool, which dictates and restricts the design process due to the processes and complexity of production. It was an exciting new challenge for me."* KEEPING BUSY: Graduate Michelle Clitherow, of Dewsbury-based Calderdale Carpets, is constantly researching new ideas for designsEntering her final year at university, she continued to work freelance for a prestigious London clothing company where she applied her pattern design knowledge. Despite being offered a job in fashion upon graduation, Michelle realised her goal was to work in interior design.CAPTION(S):Michelle said: "When I first got the job, I was slightly nervous about working with a natural, raw material that was completely new to me.And Richmond-born Michelle has made a name for herself in the industry in a short space of time with her bright ideas and creative thinking.Said Michelle: "I am constantly researching my next design, whether at work, on the train or out and about. I never stop, inspiration is all around me."Our clients, who are predominantly in the hotel and leisure industry as well as interior designers and architects, love the fact that we are unique in providing bespoke innovative design and production of quality carpets here in the UK, but we never forget the importance of using traditional methods and locally-sourced materials."In her role at Calderdale Carpets, she is helping the industry shake off its old-fashioned image and combine creativity and cutting edge design with traditional manufacturing methods.Greg Bedford, managing director of Calderdale Carpets, said he was thrilled with the experience Michelle had brought to the company - complementing its excellent in-house creative design team.Calderdale Carpets is part of the Heavy Woollen District - so-called due to the area's history of manufacturing of wool for carpets, clothing and blankets.During her year-long work placement, Michelle gained experience in adult fashion, children's clothing design, interiors, wallpaper, glass and graphic design projects. She even taught design to students at Queen Elizabeth College in Richmond.The firm manufactures quality wool carpets and flooring entirely from local materials - mainly for the hotel, leisure and hospitality industry."Our focus is on cutting edge design and quality so we've expanded nationally and taken on the London market," she said."I quickly realised that I could apply my creativity and knowledge to carpet manufacturing and be part of a fast growing industry where design and vision were becoming equally as important as quality and traditional manufacturing."Michelle and the team produce top-quality, fantastically creative designs, quickly and consistently," he said. "All of them are big on ideas, which they express so well and are great at translating clients' visions easily into paper, on screen and into wool and yarn."In early 2009 Michelle began working in the design studio at Calderdale Carpets.Two years on and Michelle now manages Calderdale Carpets' clients in London."My placement experiences gave me exposure to the world of interiors and I loved it. Whereas other students on my course were keen to break into fashion, I had a keen interest and pull towards interiors," she said.Michelle Clitherow, 25, who gained a first class honours degree in fashion and interiors at Huddersfield in 2009, manages the London sales and design operations for Dewsbury-based Calderdale Carpets.

* KEEPING BUSY: Graduate Michelle Clitherow, of Dewsbury-based Calderdale Carpets, is constantly researching new ideas for designs

Caesarstone® Launches its New Interactive iPhone Application

The new application, featuring Caesarstone’s quartz surfaces collections, is built to inspire and assist in designing any interior space. It is intended for the use of both Consumers, looking for creative ideas and information while renovating their homes, and Architects and Designers using it as part of their professional tool kit.

“Caesarstone” is free and can be downloaded for iPhone users at the Apple store. More information is available on the Caesarstone website, Facebook page, and YouTube channel.The power of ‘’Caesarstone’’ comes from its ability to inspire with its design modules and vast gallery, while providing the most up to date "where to buy" information – all in a simple, on the go solution.D. Gallery – showcasing preferred images of kitchens, bathrooms, and worldwide commercial projects display application.“We are pleased to be launching this kind of technologically innovative solution,” Said Eli Feiglin, Caesarstone marketing VP. “These days, everyone wants to bring out their individuality and dreams while remodeling, building or expanding a home. Our company’s goal is to do just that, help people express themselves. This original application is another touch point to enhance our brand promise and communicate with our audiences. We look forward to developing further tools for iPad, and Android users as well.”TEL AVIV, Israel -- Caesarstone Ltd., the pioneer and leading manufacturer of Caesarstone quartz surfaces, today announced it has launched its first iPhone application called “Caesarstone”. The application is available in four languages, English, French, Spanish, and Hebrew, and will be used in over 30 worldwide countries. Available today on the apple iPhone App store, the application includes interactive features that will be valuable for a wide group of audience in the home décor industry.Founded in 1987 near the ancient Roman city of Caesarea, Caesarstone manufactures high-quality, quartz surface slabs for a variety of uses and applications, such as bathroom vanities, flooring, quartz countertops for kitchens and more. A quartz surface pioneer and global leader, Caesarstone creates surface slabs that are easy to transport, fabricate, install and maintain. They are scratch resistant, heat resistant, non porous, and maintain their lush for years. With an international distribution network, Caesarstone’s quartz surfaces are readily available worldwide at strategic global locations, and accompanied by a comprehensive warranty and service. Today Caesarstone is constantly focused on maintaining innovation and high quality product while enhancing its commitment to the environment.About CaesarstoneE. My Notebook - Save favorite colors and designs to the notebook to compare, review and share on facebook.www.caesarstone.comWhen connected to the iPhone, users will be able to take full advantage of the various “Caesarstone” features, some of which include:C. Camera - providing users the ability to photograph any image and find its closes match with the available Caesarstone color collection.A. An Interactive Design Module - a ‘drag and drop’ feature, allowing users to match Caesarstone vast range of colors with a selection of cabinet shades, creating different kitchen and bathrooms designs.

Founded in 1987 near the ancient Roman city of Caesarea, Caesarstone manufactures high-quality, quartz surface slabs for a variety of uses and applications, such as bathroom vanities, flooring, quartz countertops for kitchens and more. A quartz surface pioneer and global leader, Caesarstone creates surface slabs that are easy to transport, fabricate, install and maintain. They are scratch resistant, heat resistant, non porous, and maintain their lush for years. With an international distribution network, Caesarstone’s quartz surfaces are readily available worldwide at strategic global locations, and accompanied by a comprehensive warranty and service. Today Caesarstone is constantly focused on maintaining innovation and high quality product while enhancing its commitment to the environment.

Caesarstone® Launches its New Interactive iPhone Application

The new application, featuring Caesarstone’s quartz surfaces collections, is built to inspire and assist in designing any interior space. It is intended for the use of both Consumers, looking for creative ideas and information while renovating their homes, and Architects and Designers using it as part of their professional tool kit.

D. Gallery – showcasing preferred images of kitchens, bathrooms, and worldwide commercial projects display application.Founded in 1987 near the ancient Roman city of Caesarea, Caesarstone manufactures high-quality, quartz surface slabs for a variety of uses and applications, such as bathroom vanities, flooring, quartz countertops for kitchens and more. A quartz surface pioneer and global leader, Caesarstone creates surface slabs that are easy to transport, fabricate, install and maintain. They are scratch resistant, heat resistant, non porous, and maintain their lush for years. With an international distribution network, Caesarstone’s quartz surfaces are readily available worldwide at strategic global locations, and accompanied by a comprehensive warranty and service. Today Caesarstone is constantly focused on maintaining innovation and high quality product while enhancing its commitment to the environment.A. An Interactive Design Module - a ‘drag and drop’ feature, allowing users to match Caesarstone vast range of colors with a selection of cabinet shades, creating different kitchen and bathrooms designs.www.caesarstone.comTEL AVIV, Israel -- Caesarstone Ltd., the pioneer and leading manufacturer of Caesarstone quartz surfaces, today announced it has launched its first iPhone application called “Caesarstone”. The application is available in four languages, English, French, Spanish, and Hebrew, and will be used in over 30 worldwide countries. Available today on the apple iPhone App store, the application includes interactive features that will be valuable for a wide group of audience in the home décor industry.“We are pleased to be launching this kind of technologically innovative solution,” Said Eli Feiglin, Caesarstone marketing VP. “These days, everyone wants to bring out their individuality and dreams while remodeling, building or expanding a home. Our company’s goal is to do just that, help people express themselves. This original application is another touch point to enhance our brand promise and communicate with our audiences. We look forward to developing further tools for iPad, and Android users as well.”About CaesarstoneThe power of ‘’Caesarstone’’ comes from its ability to inspire with its design modules and vast gallery, while providing the most up to date "where to buy" information – all in a simple, on the go solution.C. Camera - providing users the ability to photograph any image and find its closes match with the available Caesarstone color collection.B. A Where to buy/view – an inclusive list, location based, of showroom locations and dealers, with up to date displays of current exhibits, along with access to Google Map for directions.“Caesarstone” is free and can be downloaded for iPhone users at the Apple store. More information is available on the Caesarstone website, Facebook page, and YouTube channel.E. My Notebook - Save favorite colors and designs to the notebook to compare, review and share on facebook.

Founded in 1987 near the ancient Roman city of Caesarea, Caesarstone manufactures high-quality, quartz surface slabs for a variety of uses and applications, such as bathroom vanities, flooring, quartz countertops for kitchens and more. A quartz surface pioneer and global leader, Caesarstone creates surface slabs that are easy to transport, fabricate, install and maintain. They are scratch resistant, heat resistant, non porous, and maintain their lush for years. With an international distribution network, Caesarstone’s quartz surfaces are readily available worldwide at strategic global locations, and accompanied by a comprehensive warranty and service. Today Caesarstone is constantly focused on maintaining innovation and high quality product while enhancing its commitment to the environment.

Christmas Gift Ideas: Interior D�cor Presents

Choosing a gift for someone to display in their home can be frustrating. On the other hand, if you're shopping for a friend or family member, you can give a present that will be appreciated.

1. Double check your friend's color scheme. Your gift doesn't have to match perfectly to blend in.Copyright © Jeanette J. Fisher.If you give thought to your gift with these interior decorating tips, you will make your friend happy.When to Not Give Home D�cor Presents4. Find an old snapshot of you two from the past. Get the picture touched up professionally and frame it in a frame that blends in with her home decorations.Perhaps you know your friend collects figurines like I do. Because of my last name, I started collecting fish years ago. However, I collect tiny glass antique fish, about one inch tall. The large wooden fish my mother gave me just doesn't fit my interior d�cor.3. Make something yourself that has meaning to you both. For instance, make a stained glass icon to reflect light in her bathroom window.2. Make sure her home isn't too crowded with many small decorating items. Many small accessories make a home feel cluttered.How to Give Home D�cor PresentsIf you have been to your friend's home and know she needs to complete her home decorating with accessories, here are some gift ideas:5. Give your friend a huge candle dressed up with pearls, sequins, or seashells with a base that matches her style. For instance, if she loves silver, crystal, ceramics, or brass, choose that material.

Copyright © Jeanette J. Fisher.

Author: Jeanette Joy Fisher

The Origins Of Japanese Door Curtains

A Japanese door curtain, or Noren as it is called by the Japanese, is great if you want to add a ZEN accent to your home's interior. What�s more, it could help with the design of your home according to the principles of Feng Shui. Harmful energy is likely to be blocked by door curtains, according to the principles of this ancient decorating art. It can also turn out to be a solution to difficult Feng Shui situations, especially when remodeling is out of question.

a) Prime the inside and outside of the shed.* The use of spotlights would further enhance the area and give it a different appearance.

Other traditional designs that can often be found on the Japanese Noren include Koi fish, waves, waterfalls, bamboo or dragons. If you are willing to incorporate Noren door curtains into your home's interior, it would be good to familiarize yourself with the Feng Shui principles. Only then will you be able to achieve the desired effect not only in terms of visual design, but also in shaping your interior according to the ancient Japanese rules.

Author: Jim Sauerwegg

Backyard Ideas: Convert Your Old Shed Into Your Favorite Getaway

Do you have an old shed sitting in your backyard that has seen better days? Has it past its life expectancy? Has the original paint job made way for a more prominent color called rust? Well, if you have answered yes to just one of these question, I would like to share a weekend project with you that will turn that old shed into your favorite getaway.

* Using the horizontal patterns for walls would make it appear more spacious.Unfortunately, this project will cost you a little money. But, to your surprise, you can accomplish your goals for under $200 depending on how many of these items you already have.g) Add your table and chairs inside the shed* A basement should be constructed at a position where some sunlight can easily enter the space. This keeps the area ventilated and also gives ample amount of natural light to the room.Do not be afraid to mix and match the colors of your pots. Purchase bright colors that catch the eye from a distance and have interesting detailing on them. Do not go for plain and boring. You are trying to create the WOW factor and playing it safe is the last thing you want to do. Now is the time to take advantage of the use of color.The first thing on the agenda to do is clean out that old shed. Get rid of everything. You need to start with a clean slate. The best way to tackle this task is to find a new home for these items and instead of stock piling everything over to the side, go ahead and place them in their new permanent storage location. This will prevent you from having to do a lot of extra work later on. Besides, when you finish creating your new backyard getaway, you don�t want your old storage items blocking your view.Be careful to purchase paint that the manufacturer has created specifically for the material your shed is made from. If your shed is made from metal, you will need a paint designed to cover metal. If your shed is made from wood, you will need a paint designed to cover wood. No matter what your shed is made from, you will need to purchase exterior paint and not paint created for interior surfaces.There is an old legend about a priest from this temple and his cat that had the ability to bring good fortune to his owner and the temple. A feudal lord named Naotaka was passing by the temple and noticed the cat that began backoning him inside. The lord and his people decided to stop there and rest. When a thunderstorm broke, the lord was safe in the temple. In order to express his appreciation, Naotaka started paying tribute to the temple. Nowadays, a picture of the cat with a paw raised in the air can be found in many places and on countless products including Noren door curtains.c) Lay your flooring material.* As basement is the lowest part of a home, it must have water proof roofing and flooring. This prevents the room against a number of water leaking problems.4)Purchase decorative pots to house your large potted plants. The larger the pots the better. Keep in mind that your potted plants need room to grow so buy large, very large pots. Make sure they can withstand the changes in the outside climate. If you live in one of the northern states, your pots must be able to withstand extreme cold. If you live in one of the southern states, your pots must be able to endure heat waves.There are a number of original Japanese door curtain design ideas available on the market. Depending on the Feng Shui effect that you want to achieve an appropriate design should be chosen. All sorts of prosperity designs are a common option among the non-Japanese. A common symbol that appears on a lot of Noren curtains is the Wealth Cat. The Beckoning Cat, as it is often called, is believed to attract good luck to the property owners as well as attract customers into a shop. This symbol originates from Tokyo�s Gotokuji temple, where a shrine dedicated to it was built centuries ago.h) Place your outdoor hanging candle lantern within close proximity of your table* The best uses of the basement can be made by converting it into a living room or a mini home theater system.* To give a spacious feel to the basement, it is suggested to use light pastel colors like white, pink and other bright tones.f) Install the outdoor wall candle lanterns (one on each side of the entryway) at least 12 inches from the doorway.People have been found adding some room plants to this part of the home so as to keep it clean, green and ventilated. Apart from this, a homeowner can also use the basement for storage purposes. It is not necessary that it needs to be a different room. A basement itself serves the purpose of storing room. This part can be used to dumb all junk items and keep the rest of the home de-cluttered.7)You are going to need a small table and two chairs. These are items you may already own. If you must purchase them, be sure to consider the inside space of your shed. There is only so much space inside a shed. You do not want to purchase a table and chair set that is too large.b) Paint the inside and outside of the shed.Other traditional designs that can often be found on the Japanese Noren include Koi fish, waves, waterfalls, bamboo or dragons. If you are willing to incorporate Noren door curtains into your home's interior, it would be good to familiarize yourself with the Feng Shui principles. Only then will you be able to achieve the desired effect not only in terms of visual design, but also in shaping your interior according to the ancient Japanese rules.Be sure to carefully measure the distance from the ground to the height where you will be drilling a hole for the screws that will hold the candle lantern up on the wall. You want both wall candle lanterns to be of equal height and distance from the doorway. Repeat the measurement that was used on the left side to the right side of the entryway.* Diffused light conditions can be given with different types of low power bulbs. This gives an ambient and relaxed environment to the place.i) If your shed has electricity, place a nice table lamp on the table. If your shed does not have electricity, consider purchasing additional candle wall sconces or a candle chandelier from The Candle Lantern Shop and install them within the shed.One word of advice, GET AN EARLY START! This is without a doubt a weekend project. The earlier in the day you start, the better time management you will have.This is the time to choose a bright color to paint your shed. Choose a color that will draw the eye of your guest to the shed. Do not be afraid to use color. Your best option is to pick a color that will contrast against the color of your planting material.* Avoid using darker shades like red, black etc, as they make the place look more small and congested.6)Purchase flooring for your new shed. This is optional and should only be purchased if your budget allows. If your shed is already sitting on a concrete slab you could lay decorative tile down, stain it, or have it resurfaced and stamped. There are many decorative styles your concrete slab can be stamped in. However, this is a job for a professional and by far the most expensive method I have mentioned. If your shed is sitting on the ground, indoor/outdoor carpet might be a good option.e) Fill in the spaces between the potted plants with the additional plant material you have purchased. The more flowering plants you install the better. You are trying to create a focal point using the color from the flowering plants and contrast created by the large scale of the potted plants.Purchase all the items you will need:3)An alternative to the 6 potted plants would be to purchase climbing roses or one of your other favorite vines. Plant them in the ground and allow them to climb up both sides of the shed. Either a store bought trellis or a trellis you have created from scratch would be ideal for achieving the desired effect.As you can see, converting your old shed into your favorite getaway can be accomplished within ten easy steps. So, the next time you look out your kitchen window and see that old garden shed of an eye sore, do not get dismayed. Go to your local garden center, pick up a few items, and transform that worn down shed into a refurbished oasis.

As you can see, converting your old shed into your favorite getaway can be accomplished within ten easy steps. So, the next time you look out your kitchen window and see that old garden shed of an eye sore, do not get dismayed. Go to your local garden center, pick up a few items, and transform that worn down shed into a refurbished oasis.

Author: Shirley Kelly

Basement Interiors Ideas And Themes

Having a basement at home can be utilized in a number of ways and all it needs is some careful designing and utilizing the accessories in the right manner. A home can be made to look more beautiful with a simple basement and a small sized basement can work wonders to the home.

Placement of the wall candle lanterns is extremely important. You do not want to be more than 12 inches from the entryway because the candles are open flame and will cause a safety hazard. You do not want to be too far away from the entryway either. After all, the idea is to provide a lighting source for safe entry into the shed during the evening hours.1)You are going to have to paint the shed in order to breathe new life into it. Buy a gallon of GOOD primer and a gallon of EXCELLENT exterior paint. The qualities of these two items are vital for establishing longevity of your paint job. This is not the area where you want to try a save a few bucks. If you do it right today, your shed will still look like a great backyard getaway and be just as inviting fifteen years from now.* As this part of the home is going to have less of light, so effective and efficient lighting schemes must be chosen.k) Take a step back and look at what you have created. Add any additional accessories you may need to help create a warm and welcoming environment. Look at the shed as though it is an outside �garden room.� Because accessories will be protected from the weather, consider items from around the house that will help you transform the shed into a place that is calm, soothing, and inviting. You want this to be a place that you will enjoy having your morning coffee or reading a good book or just a place to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life.* One best way to make the best use of a basement is to always have it adjoining to some bigger room like a living room. This would help it appear spacious and also it can be converted to a guest room, as well.With most of the people feeling bad about less space at their place, interior decorators and other architects always try using even the smallest corner of the home to make it appear beautiful. This helps to give it a better feel and satisfies the need of a bigger home.d) Place your potted plants on both sides and in the front of the shed. Begin by placing one potted plant on each side of the entryway. Be sure they are centered and attractively invites your guests in. Then place two on the left side of the shed and two on the right side of the shed.Tips to have a spacious basement5)Purchase additional planting material to fill in the gaps between the large potted plants. These should be plants that are planted directly into the ground. Plant as much flowering plants as you can squeeze into this space. The idea here is to create a lush garden along both sides of the shed. Do not worry about over-crowding, as the plants out grow the space you can dig them up and plant them somewhere else in the yard. You want your garden shed getaway to have that mature look today, not two years from now.j) Add a small potted plant here and there to bring the outside in. Fill a decorative pot with a mixture of colorful flowering plants. This is a great way to add seasonal color.Now it is time to convert that old shed into your backyard getaway2)Purchase 6 LARGE potted plants. These will be used to create a lush garden appeal as well as draw the eye of the visitor to your shed. Try and purchase plants that are, or will be in a very short amount of time, at least five feet tall (including the pot). They should have a look of maturity, be lush and full in nature, and very healthy. DO NOT purchase trees. They will grow to be too tall and eventually overpower the space. You want to create something that is at eye level. Some suggestions are flowering plants or palms.* Another important aspect to be considered for a spacious basement is that never to include several accessories and equipments. This makes the place look more cluttered and consumes the required space.* It is also recommended that rather than separating a basement from rest of the home with a solid wood door, it is good to leave it open or else use a glass and slider door as this gives a less closed look to the basement

People have been found adding some room plants to this part of the home so as to keep it clean, green and ventilated. Apart from this, a homeowner can also use the basement for storage purposes. It is not necessary that it needs to be a different room. A basement itself serves the purpose of storing room. This part can be used to dumb all junk items and keep the rest of the home de-cluttered.

Author: Savs Foster