Contributor Emily Jackson, of Stuffy Muffy, shares a handpicked list of sophisticated selections for every space in your home.

If you’re after the designer look but aren’t currently working with a decorator, where is the best place to source custom pieces? I happen to think the answer lies within all the clever creators and purveyors offering their wares on Etsy. From fabric to hardware, the world is your oyster! There is some digging to be done as one can wind up in a sea of “gather” signs and doilies but fear not, I’ve stumbled upon some diamonds in the rough that I’m delighted to share below.

Children’s Wicker Chairs

By far the most popular link on my site is to these chic little seats all the way from Russia. I ordered two for my daughter’s nursery and they’re excellent quality and even come with a cushion seat. The finishes offered are natural, white, and pink; I ordered the pink which was a little too Pepto Bismol-hued for my liking so I painted on a coat of Farrow & Ball’s Lichen. I would recommend going with the natural or white tone. Of note: These took almost three months to arrive but are worth the wait if you can budget for the delay. I also had my own cushions made from a Ballard Designs blush linen which really punched up the custom feel.

Dog Beds

Any practical item that is given a place of prominence in one’s home should add, not distract from the design scheme. Enter these Good Night Dog Co. beds made from beautiful fabrics that will enhance your space while keeping any canine very comfortable. Our Westie Wally adores his small bed (26”) which is quite generous in size and looks lovely in our family room. Bonus: The slipcover is machine washable!

Pleated Lamp Shades

It’s always a treat when a little detail makes a big difference. Custom lamp shades provide a sophisticated cherry on top whether in a formal living room (think a sumptuous silk topper) or a bedroom (block printed goodness goes a long way). After seeing rave reviews about Cruel Mountain’s handiwork, I recently ordered two sconce shades in a petit tan check for my soon-to-arrive son’s nursery. This shop has plenty of options in every size you can dream up and also offers completely custom selections as well. Let there be light!

Lucite Hardware

As one of the most timeless elements to decorate with, it is always wise to add a pop of Lucite to your space. Lux Hold Ups has garnered something of a cult following amongst designers and editorial darlings alike and with one look at their wares, it’s easy to see why. From stair railings to drawer pulls, this shop offers a gleaming little something for every room and even retail outpost. I have the towel bar with satin brass hardware in our daughter’s bathroom and can attest to how fabulous these pieces are in person.

Well-Appointed Pillows

There’s no better way to zhush a sofa than with a pair of well-appointed pillows. The price tag for a couple of custom-made ones from your local workroom plus the cost of designer fabric may deter you, however. That’s where Etsy pillows come in, to assuage the sticker shock and offer a more affordable option with just as much punch. The trick is knowing how to order:

*Search Etsy for the fabric you want, choose a size that’s not too skimpy (20”, 22” or 24”), and always upgrade if there is an option to include piping or flange.

*Premium down inserts are a very important part of the finished product, too. You can find inserts at IKEA and should “overstuff” your covers by a couple of inches, i.e. a 22” inch square pillow can be filled with a 24” or 26” insert for a top notch designer look.


Here are my favorite shops to order from: The Posh Robin, Pillow Loft Home Decor, Designer Mod Home, and K Line Deco (currently taking a short break from orders).

Silk Fabric

Jacquards and Dupionis reign supreme at this silk outpost offering every color under the sun. I have ordered countless swatches from them and consequently yards of a beautiful blush hue for my dining room curtains and a rich sage to dress up some dining chairs of my sister’s. They are very responsive and professional about any shipping concerns or fabric questions which is important when you’re mulling over a design decision online.

Block Print Blankets

Versatile and easy on the purse strings, block print quilts have become a staple in my home. I use them to cover our cream sofas (dog, toddler, and husband proof), for picnics at the park, and as light summer blankets. These ship directly from India so don’t expect them too soon after placing your order but these designs are always worth the wait.

Monogrammed Linens

Personalization is just that, very personal. If you’re looking for linens such as hand towels, tissue box covers, and dinner napkins that can tout your signature style, this Etsy shop is a favorite. Their elegant designs elevate simple, everyday pieces into something you’ll be proud to have displayed in the guest bathroom.