Bespoke Upholstery and Textile Creations
01 welcome
Welcome to Sweet One Designs!
As a seasoned author, editor, and English educator, I’ve always had a deep appreciation for the art of self-expression. Today, I still love to tell stories — through fabric! I strive to bring narratives to life not only with words, but also with the colors, textures, and patterns of my designs.
I believe that home decor can be more than just functional; it should be an extension of your personality — a reflection of who you are and what makes you happy.
The heart of Sweet One Designs is in upholstering antique seating and crafting custom-made fabric pieces — such as window treatments and pillows — with special attention to both function and form.
As my client, you and I will work closely together to discuss how your furniture and fabric designs will enhance your home. Then we’ll dive into the details. What colors, textures, and patterns bring you joy? What story does the piece already tell, and how will you weave your own history into it?
Thank you for connecting with me! I'm excited to work with you as we celebrate the joy of playful fabric pairings; the beauty of color; and the art of making your furniture uniquely yours.
02 representative work
03 my story
I grew up watching my mother at her Singer sewing machine, where she made clothes for me and my sister; repaired my worn stuffed animals; and learned to quilt with all her leftover fabric scraps.
On forays to the Piece Goods Shop, where Mom purchased her Simplicity, McCalls, and Butterick patterns, I’d hide inside the kiosks that held dozens of fabric bolts. After buying her wares, she would find me there, rubbing my cheek with the softest material I could find.
I grew to be a defiant pre-teen and declared to my mother that I would never learn to sew. “That’s so boring,” I told her. “I’ll find my own thing to do.” She pressed her lips together, nodded — tolerant, but all-knowing — and didn’t say a word. And that was that, until some 40 years later, after I had established a successful career as an educator and author.
A few summers ago, I decided to dream up a new, exciting plan for a class research project, which had run its course. What would be interesting and relevant to my students? A genealogy! I applied for and received a grant through Ancestry.com to use its databases at our school. To guide my students along, I researched and wrote my own family history. And what I discovered taught me something about me that I’d never known.
I learned that I have textiles in my blood.
In the early to mid-1900s, my maternal great-great grandmother, Chaia, tended sheep for wool, dyed it, and sold it in the market square near her home in Kletsk, Belarus. Her customers used that colorful wool to make their clothing.
At the time, the Jewish people — my family included — endured anti-Semitic atrocities called the pogroms: violent mob attacks aimed directly at Jews. These acts of aggression, often backed with government and police support, were marked by damage to property, as well as rape and murder.
Chaia and her husband, Harry, bravely said goodbye to their children, who emigrated to safety in the United States. Their son, my great-grandfather, Sam, started his life anew in a ghetto of New York City as a sewing machine operator — the only work he’d ever known.
According to the documents I found, it is most likely that Chaia and Harry perished in a massacre at the hand of the Nazis in October of 1941 — in the same market square where she sold her wool.
Doing that research gave me a new sense of pride for my heritage. My family and I are alive today because of the courage, determination, and strength of my ancestors, who risked their lives and livelihoods to save generations of children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren that would succeed them — many of whom they would never meet.
Sweet One Designs was borne of that pride of family. It is my connection to my ancestors — my way to keep their memory alive.
03 frequently asked questions
How does chair upholstery work?
Chair upholstering involves removing the old fabric, and as necessary, making minor repairs; replacing the padding; and then applying new fabric. Want to know more? Just call 941-779-5421, or email nadiawatts@yahoo.com.
Is upholstery just another word for restoration?
No. They're two distinct processes, although they share the goal of renewing or enhancing the appearance and functionality of furniture. Upholstery focuses specifically on the fabric and padding of furniture. Restoration, on the other hand, is a more comprehensive process that addresses both cosmetic and structural aspects of a piece. I am comfortable making minor repairs but do not work with damaged pieces.
What types of chairs do you upholster?
I specialize in working with wood-framed vintage and antique chairs. Contact me at 941-779-5421 or nadiawatts@yahoo.com to discuss your specific project.
How much does chair upholstery cost?
The cost of upholstery depends on multiple factors, including the chair's size and design; the type of fabric you choose; and the extent of repair your chair needs. I am comfortable making minor repairs but do not work with damaged pieces.
How do I get started?
Schedule a consultation by email at nadiawatts@yahoo.com, by phone, 941-779-5421, or through social media (see links below).
Do you provide fabric options, or do I need to provide my own?
The sky is the limit! We’ll work together to find just the right fabric, or you can provide your own.
What is the typical turnaround time for your work?
The turnaround time varies depending on the complexity of the project and my current workload. I will provide an estimated completion date during our consultation.
What is your guarantee for your work?
If you encounter any issues with my work, please contact me, and I will address the problem.
Is there a deposit required to start my project?
Yes, I typically require a deposit of half the price of the estimate to secure your project and cover initial expenses.
Do you provide free estimates?
Of course! To schedule a consultation, call 941-779-5421, or email nadiawatts@yahoo.com.
04 contact
Ready to get started?
941-779-5421 (text/call)
Serving the areas of Thomasville, GA; Valdosta, GA; and Tallahassee, FL