01 September 2009

The EEE Carnet d'Addresses: Seamstress

Claudine Rahkar: my lady of the magic needles

Having worked for a top antiques dealer for years, I have accumulated a rolodex bursting with movers, refinishers, caners, and upholsterers - all of which I can recommend without question. My friends have long come to me for names and sources for the obscure (like a cobalt blue glass liner for a Georgian silver salt cellar) to the essential, and now I'd like to share it with you.

There could be no better way to launch this series than with Claudine Rahkar whose skills I've been putting to the test: shower curtain, bolster pillow, seat cushions, and the latest....

this table cover which has a front flap allowing me to access all the unsightly boxes and files I've stored below. $75 plus my own material.

For some one whose ambitions far exceed her pocketbook, Claudine has been a godsend. And just how did I find the divine Claudine? Craig's list!

Claudine may look young, but her fresh bloom and apple cheeks belie her years of experience. From the age of eight, Claudine was stitching away and eventually assisted her mother in the family business of shoulder pads and bra cups in their native Trinidad. Several years ago, they set up shop in New York and once the business was Claudine's own, she embraced her love of interior design and began sewing soft furnishings - and how!

Claudine is an avowed traditionalist and describes her own decorating style as French Country. And the book she turns to again and again for inspiration?




claudinerahkar@yahoo.com

6 comments:

P.Gaye Tapp at Little Augury said...

EEE, You may never get Claudine again, but I bet her heart belongs to you. I always say anyone after mine, Not true, but I do say so for my clients. It takes a true talent to appreciate a true talent. I think this done up just about anywhere in my house would be welcome-I have things strewn about the house. That pine? door looks handsome and mellow with the butta yellow and MC alt bleu. g

Emily Evans Eerdmans said...

G - Claudine is a gem - fast, meticulous, and the price is right. I can't tell you how wonderful it is not to have to look at all the clutter that was under that table - however Mr. EEE disdainfully said he thinks it looks like an altar table. Oh well. EEE

home before dark said...

So what's wrong with little altars everywhere? Only you would have a seamstress named Claudine. No Hulga. No Rosie. No Judy. But the lovely Claudine. Kudos to her fine work.

Perhaps the two of you such launch your own line of history inspired, elegantly made soft goods.

Be extra cautious these days. You might be kidnapped for the rolodex! Or the leopard chair!

Laura Casey Interiors said...

Gorgeous! Wish I'd known about her when I was in NYC. The table skirt is beautiful and I love the pillow she is holding.

Style Court said...

Yes, gorgeous. Wonderful of you to share Emily! Your house is stunning.

soodie :: said...

EEE, so nice for you to spread the word of someone so talented and to share. Wish I lived closer because I am looking at one rumply welt on a newly upholstered chair right now. It is always a joy to visit your blog.