DRAPERY WORKROOM: Your First Hire

All too often drapery workrooms need help but are hesitant to take on the responsibility of hiring someone. I encourage you to approach hiring with an open mind and consider that it doesn't have to be an all-or-nothing decision. Begin by seeking part-time help and structure the position in a way that suits your needs, with the flexibility to make adjustments as necessary.

Two Are Better Than One

In a custom drapery workroom, several tasks require or greatly benefit from collaboration. Plan to batch these two-person tasks on days when you have help: unwrapping fabric, lifting bolts onto rollers, inspecting & storing fabric, tabling, cutting, and other physically demanding tasks. I can recall doing all my tabling and cutting for the week on a single day with my part-time workroom helper.

“Plan to batch two-person tasks on days when you have help.”

Mistakes I Made

Reflecting on my experience running a custom drapery workroom, a significant mistake I made was neglecting to establish personal boundaries for work hours. I found myself reacting to the demands of work and adjusting my personal life accordingly. If certain aspects of your life are precious to you, safeguard them by setting clear expectations from the beginning. Hiring should ideally help you protect what is most important each day.

“Hiring should help you protect what is most important each day.”

Hope Arbery

QUIPA Founder