Pillows & Cushions VI Embroidery Project

Outdoor furniture cushions are a favorite embellishment item for vacation homes. In many cases, vacation homes are named- much like a boat- especially beach cottages. As a result, the owner likes to decorate using the cottage name. You’ll find it sandblasted into a wooden sign attached at the front of the house, embroidered on towels, and even sewn onto the outdoor furniture cushions. People are proud of their getaway and like to let others know, hence the desire to name it and show it off (bragging rights). But for others there is a more practical reason – marketing. Many vacation homes are rented out seasonally to help pay for their existence. The reason for naming the house is to give it an identity that can be remembered. It’s much easier to call a realtor and say I want to rent Sand Castle II, than it is to say I want to rent that white two story house over on boardwalk avenue. (There are probably quite a few houses that fit that description.) Typical of such structures, you find lots of heavily cushioned furniture on the porches and decks. Perfect little billboards just waiting to be embellished.

Since these pillows and cushions will require laundering due to exposure to the elements, most of them have zippers for easy removal of the covers. But that’s not all. You still may have to do the manual unstitch/restitch routine. Regardless, most of these items will receive text only. And since it’s outdoor stuff, use polyester thread to help resist the ravages of nature, wet bathing suits, and frequent trips through the washing machine.

MARKETING TIP – Team up with realtors to promote this to new vacation homeowners. Also offer the service through local furniture dealers who specialize in outdoor furniture.