How do you know?

[sofadoc]

Now, I don't have OCD, but you folks using "your" instead of "you're" is driving me crazy.

[byhammerandhand]

your write


The one that get's me is when people use apostrophe's to make plural's.  [sic]  Known as the greengrocer's apostrophe.   I also dislike interviews with sports figures, who normally just repeat junk phrases, but can't get though a single sentence without "You know..."

[JuneC]

I occasionally cringe when reading NBCNEWS or CNN with their poor grammar and spelling.  An English teacher I had in college used to "correct" and grade junk mail and other marketing materials and return them to sender with a letter grade - usually a "D" or "F" ;-))  Talk about OCD!

June

[chrisberry12]

Hi Carol,

I am Chris and I own On Island Upholstery, I live in a community that is 10-15000 nine months of the year and 150,000 three months of the year. There is only one other independent upholsterer here and many Interior designers. If you really care for your work and no one else is around then go for it!!!!. Just charge enough to make a profit. You need to charge a lot for your skill and time. Get paid for your ART! Too many people starting out do not charge enough and don't make it.  I have been upholstering since 1981 and I learned from a German craftsman. I have taught the trade. Start out small and work your way up, take your time and don't let anyone talk you into something way over your head, never pays off. If there is an upholsterer in the area, next town or city don't be afraid to contact them for help or suggestions. I have experienced that all us upholsterer's love to share our skill and art. I wish you all the best of luck in your new venture!!!

[cthomps]

Thanks for all of the replies.  If I inadvertently, used "your" instead of "you're" I am sorry.  My father and English teacher are rolling in their graves! 

I was at a dinner party on Thursday:), and I mentioned my dilemma to some friends.  The neighbor lady said she had some chairs upholstered at the Philips Center (employment education center 30 miles away) 3 years ago.  She went home and got the receipt!  $374. each, included fabric.  The chairs were almost identical to the above mentioned chairs. 

I do have a wood working shop and am ok with repairs thanks to my high school shop teacher.  Yep only two girls in the class.  I also have some folks to help if I would need it.

After a few days of contemplation, I have decided to go for it.  I cant afford to purchase fabric and furniture to learn with.  I will just have to take it when it comes and figure it out.  The pontoon I did (thanks for all of your help by the way) turned out beautiful and the customers were so satisfied they gave me a 100. tip. 

I like the suggestion to tell the customer to get some extra fabric.  I just envision them going to the rem table and picking out just enough.  No more to be had if I mess up.  If it turns out to be way too much, I will make them a couple pillows at no charge.  They will be happy. 

Now if I could just convince some of you furniture folks to do a "time standard" list, akin to what is in Marine Fabricator, I would be thrilled.  As I have stated before, I don't think it is fair to charge customers extra for learning time.  With little experience doing big projects, I have no idea how long it would take someone who knows what they are doing. 

Thanks for all of your help.  No guts, no glory! 

Sincerely,

Carol Thompson
upholsterer