Business name: Sonjia’s Designs.
Owner: Sonjia Donham.
Address: In home studio, Vancouver.
What the business does: Designs, makes and sells large, functional throws, approximately 54 inches by 70 inches. The hefty throws feature faux fur on one side and woven jacquards, chenille or embroidered fabrics on the reverse. There are only a limited number of throws made with any one fabric.
How has the economy affected your business: The business hasn’t been hurt that much because it sells a speciality item that is not mass produced. Donham considers her work as art, something to invest in and keep.
Greatest challenge: Finding the perfect textile design to coordinate with faux fur to meet product standards. Many fabrics or fringes for sale are not the quality required. Donham recently found some fringe made in Spain and purchased hundreds of yards, which can be dyed to the exact color she needs.
What’s ahead: Expanding the business in a slow but deliberate pace, offering more items, such as pillows, coverlets and custom work. Donham looks forward to working with interior designers as well.
