Where is Jo Ellen Designs located?
Jo Ellen Designs is located on the marvelous coast of Maine in the picturesque harbortown of Camden, well known and loved by sailing, shopping and outdoor enthusiasts the world over. Our downtown studio-storefront is open year round in the former Knox Woolen Mill, recently renovated for fine dining, shopping, living, and site of the local farmer's market every Saturday! Our location offers many opportunities for easy access from just about anywhere in the world:
- 90 miles from Portland International Jetport (PWM)
- 70 miles from Bangor International Airport (BGR)
- 10 miles from Knox County Airport (RKD)
- 50 Feet from your Yacht
How are hand-hooked rugs made?
Each initial rug design is enlarged and printed on the backside of a cotton canvas that measures slightly larger than the rug's final dimensions. To begin, a strand of 100% wool yarn is poked through the canvas to create a loop. The canvas is then filled by the design's various colors loop by loop. Latex is applied to hold the loops in place and this reverse side is then covered entirely by cotton backing for wear. The edges are turned under for finishing.
How does the hand hooking process affect my pillow or rug?
Because all product is handcrafted, there may be slight variations in color, texture and finish. We do not consider these variances to be flaws, but rather an indication of our products uniqueness.
Why wool?
Because of its fiber structure wool does not soil easily or spot with grease and oil. It tends to keep soils on the top of the pile where they are easily vacuumed away. Wool is naturally flame retardant, an excellent insulator, and even water repellent to a degree. Wool is very durable and flexible. In contrast to cotton fibers that break after 3,000 bends, and rayon fibers that break after just 75, wool can withstand being bent 20,000 times without breaking.
How do I care for my rug?
If you find a yarn end sticking up from the pile, this does not indicate a flaw – it is where a color change has occurred and the end of one yarn stops and another begins. Do not pull it. Instead just clip it off even with the loops surrounding it. Your rug will last for years simply with regular vacuuming (without a beater bar). Blot any spills up immediately. Spots should be treated with mild solutions and wool cleaners. Do not dry clean. We recommend professional rug cleaning. For more detailed spill, stain and general care istructions click here.
What is the Designs for Good! program?
Click here to find out, or email jessica@joellendesigns.com.
Do you sell other home goods at your store in Camden?
The mother-daughter duo of Jo Ellen and Jessica Stammen have selected a discerning collection of furniture, home accents and unique objects that compliment the whimsical yet sophisticated design aesthetic of Jo Ellen Designs rugs and pillows. Browse our store page for a partial listing of offerings and visit our blog for recent additions. For more of Jessica's paintings visit www.jessicastammen.com
