What does 2014 mean for you?

Today is the last day in 2013, and as the last day everyone is spending much of their time reflecting on how the year ended up going for them. We had a successful year providing our customers with outstanding products and services. Now is the time to think about what 2014 means for you, your business, your family and every other aspect in your life. Here are some things that we will be focusing on during the next year.

1. Organic cotton. Cotton made from non genetically modified plants, there are no chemicals used in organic cotton. We use organic cotton that is approved by the USDA as it provides many advantages to our customers. Organic cotton has no chemical use, so there is a long-term prevention of pests, it does not irritate the skin and it protects the water and air quality. We can mix organic cotton with other fills to create a comfortable soft product for you.

2. Kapok. Used to fill pillows, kapok is growing in popularity because it is obtained from a tree called Ceiba pentandra. This tree has hundreds of seedpods filled with seeds that are a silky cotton. You might also hear it called silk cotton or Java cotton as it is moisture-resistant, resilient and buoyant. Although we use it to stuff pillows, mattresses and upholstery, it is also often used in life preserves and sleeping bags.

3. Down alternative. A synthetic or natural filling material, we use down alternative to fill many of our soft products because it is a safe alternative to feathers. Read more about down alternative.

4. Tencel. This environmentally friendly fiber is a biodegradable material made from wood pulp cellulose. It tends to be very durable, soft and versatile. Tencel is often compared to rayon for the look and feel, however you can get a wide variety of textures and it can be blended with other fibers.


These four products are offered to our customers to provide them with a variety of materials. At American Down and Feather we strive to stay on top of the products that soft product manufacturers are using and we are always looking for environmentally safe materials perfect for you.

Happy Holidays from American Down and Feather!

This time of year people are hopeful to make great changes for the next year. American Down and Feather is thankful for all of our loyal customers that have provided us with outstanding support! We couldn't be where we are today without any of you. Take time this holiday season to tell your loved ones how much you appreciate them and dedicate your time to helping others. Whether it is with a simple helping hand, a donation or just providing a funny joke to someone who is having a rough day.

2014 will be a great year for us as we expand to include an online retail store, making it easy for our customers to make online purchases. We will also be hosting demonstration events throughout the Denver area and working to grow our online presence.

American Down and Feather will also strive to provide you with even more products that you love, from organic cotton to ground natural latex and so much more! We look forward to helping you find the soft products that are perfect for your home and your lifestyle.

As we close on 2013, remember that a new year means new beginnings. Shoot for the stars and make the changes that you have been striving for all these years! Make 2014 your year. We know 2014 will be ours! Again, thank you for all that you have done for us at American Down and Feather!

5 Tips for Improving your Quality of Sleep

One night of good sleep can make for a huge difference in how the rest of your week goes. At the end of a long week, one thing you might truly desire is a good night of rest. Here are five tips for improving your quality of sleep and ensuring you get a good night of rest.

1. Keep a consistent schedule. Consistency is highly important when it comes to your sleep schedule, as your body is more prone to get into a routine and stick to it. Going to bed at the same time and get up in the morning at the same time sets your internal clock.

2. Go to sleep when you are tired. If you find yourself struggling to fall asleep after 20 minutes of getting into bed, get up and do something relaxing. You will find yourself feeling more tired if you get up instead of laying in bed trying to fall asleep.

3. Make your bedroom sleep-inducing. Everybody has a different concept of what helps them to fall asleep, but a quiet, dark and cool environment will help to promote a comfortable atmosphere. Try to lower the amount of outside noise, use dark shades to block out light and keep the temperature between 60 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit. Avoid having computers, televisions and any work materials outside of the room.

4. Avoid any alcohol, nicotine and caffeine. All of these act as a stimulant to keep you awake, so avoid them for four to six hours before bedtime. Just by watching what you eat and drink before going to bed you are going to greatly improve your quality of sleep.

5. Get into a bedtime ritual. Do whatever it takes to make your body comfortable, such as a warm bath, reading or listening to soft music. By relaxing before bed you are promoting better sleep, easing your body from wakefulness and drowsiness. 

With these five tips you are going to be able to improve your quality of sleep and benefit more fully from a good night of sleep. By getting into a routine, avoiding certain foods and beverages, making your bedroom comfortable, sleeping when you are tired and getting into a ritual you are going to feel more refreshed every morning.

Give The Gift of Comfort

Have you finished (or even started) your Christmas shopping yet? At American Down and Feather, we are busy making all of your soft product needs. Whether you have specific bedding needs, hospitality, upholstery or designer workroom trades, we will work with you to get your specialized down and feather products completed. They make the perfect Christmas gifts!

Do you need bulk soft products? We offer a wide variety of bulk options, giving you a great array of products with the size and comfort that you desire.

Need a smaller order? American Down and Feather does that as well! We do not have any product number limits, working to be flexible for your needs. Whether you desire throw pillows, bedding, cushions or upholstery supplies you can provide your loved one with a beautiful down and feather product.

Maybe you need to repair your custom throw pillows before your guests arrive for the holidays. We are able to repair and fill your down comforters and product shells. With quality polyester fibers, we are capable of blowing over 1200 pounds an hour of blowable fiber. Leaks, fill, size change and new covers are also easily fixed. We will clean all products before work is done on any of your soft products.


This year you do not have to be stressed out over the holidays! Quality down and feather soft products make for great Christmas presents. Call us today at 1.866.601.3696 to discuss what you are looking for and what we can provide you with.

Benefits of Organic Throw PIllows

Throw pillows are perfect for adding a comfortable and aesthetically pleasing aspect in any room of your home. They're great for taking naps on, providing an arm rest, and are easy to store away when you have too many of them. Organic throw pillows have plenty of benefits to them. So what are the benefits of organic throw pillows?

 1. The materials used are always going to be economically friendly, providing you with a restful mind knowing that there are no materials that are harmful to the environment.
2. The materials are often used from natural plants and fibers, including things such as hemp, bamboo, cotton, soy silk, etc. Since these are used without chemical and pesticides, they are safer for you as well as the environment. They also include non-toxic dyes.
3. Organic throw pillows are 100 percent hypoallergenic, providing comfort when it comes to your health. This is perfect for a newborn as you are unsure if they have certain allergies, and can be allergic to standard cotton or nylon materials.
4. There are many styles to choose from because of the ability to blend the materials together. Some examples are jersey-knit bedding, flannel, sateen, silk blends and percale bedding. Your throw pillows can also have these types of styles.
5. Organic throw pillows are very comfortable and long-lasting. They tend to be higher in price because of the materials used, but they also have a long life so they are more affordable.
6. They are easy to clean, following the tag on the pillow to ensure you clean it properly so that it is able to stay fluffy and comfortable for you and all of your guests.

The benefits of organic throw pillows are numerous, providing you with a great addition to your home. No couch is complete without an organic, beautifully made throw pillow.

The Link Between Turkey and Sleepiness

This Thanksgiving after you have stuffed yourself full of turkey, cranberries, potatoes and pie, you'll feel sleepy and the need to go take a nap. Every year people wonder what it is that makes you sleepy after eating turkey. Here are the facts about why turkey makes you tired.

Tryptophan is the amino acid in turkey that many have been taught to believe is what makes you tired. This ingredient helps the body to produce serotonin, a calming chemical in the brain that makes it easier for you to sleep. However, after scientists studied tryptophan, they found that it works best on an empty stomach. Even then, only half of the tryptophan from the turkey reaches the brain. This means that it really is not going to produce a sleepiness-effect more than any of the other food you are going to eat on Thanksgiving.

Your whole traditional Thanksgiving meal is high in carbohydrates, which is going to make your body work harder in order to process all of that pie, mashed potatoes and stuffing. Add in the alcohol you might be sipping on as you cook food and eat your meal, you will get a nice sedative effect in place.

It isn't just turkey that makes you tired. It is what you eat, how much you eat, and the atmosphere around you that makes you tired in the long run. The holidays are a busy time of year, causing you to generally feel tired. Eating foods that are harder to process and overeating are also going to cause you to be tired and go for that much needed nap.

Instead of blaming the turkey on sleepiness, now you can blame the whole season and what is brought with Thanksgiving.

Why Memory Foam Bedding?

Purchasing a bed is an important process and decision. You don't want to spend thousands of dollars on a bed only to discover that it is uncomfortable and not right for you. When it comes down to it there are a lot of mattress types to choose from. Memory foam is one of the popular choices. Why do so many people choose memory foam bedding?

1. In response to the heat and pressure from your body, memory foam evenly distributes body weight by forming to your body. This causes a different type of comfort as you will not deal with springs from other types of mattresses, a bed being too soft or too firm.
2. Memory foam is made up of a material called viscoelastic, which is highly absorbent and soft. The same material is used in helmets, shoes, medical products and other products that require a a dense material.
3. Memory foam is denser than ordinary foam. This makes it heavier but more supportive, offering you the softness you desire with the supportiveness of a firm mattress.
4. The material retains heat, which is beneficial for those who suffer from pain as it is known to alleviate the pain.
5. It is great for any sleep position as it will form to your body, offering you the support you need.

Memory foam bedding is beneficial for many people with different needs. Whether you suffer from pain, need a mattress that supports your body without being uncomfortable, or you just want to try out a new mattress style, there are a variety of different memory foam bedding that will give you exactly what you need.

How to Pick the Right Pillow

            There is nothing better than a great night's sleep. After a long day the last thing you want to do is lay your head on a flat-as-a-pancake pillow or a pillow that is simply not right for you. Here are some guidelines for picking the right pillow:

1.  Your sleep position matters A LOT. Your pillow should support your sleeping position, keeping your head in line with your back and spine. If you sleep on your side, you need a firmer pillow so that it supports your neck and head. If you sleep on your back you need more cushion, and if you sleep on your stomach you need a soft pillow so you do not strain your neck. Picking the right pillow is going to help you stay comfortable throughout the entire night.

2. A lot of people spend their night shifting from different positions. That being said, find a pillow that is comfortable for you. Keep in mind that your spine and back should be in line with your head, but also find something that is going to make you the most comfortable. Maybe that means having six different pillows, all different to provide you with the support that is necessary.

3. Know the different fills. Many pillows use down feathers, synthetic fibers or foam. These are the typical fills used that provide a wide variety of different firmness levels. Be aware that some feathers can cause allergic reactions. Different types of down feathers can be more expensive as well, but they tend to last longer and be more comfortable. Synthetic and polyester fiber pillows tend to be more cost-friendly.

4. Consider when it's time to get a new pillow. One good, efficient way to test when it is time for a new pillow is to fold the pillow in half and see if it unfolds on its own. If it unfolds on its own you can get by with the pillow for awhile longer, but if it does not unfold it is time for a new pillow.

Picking the right pillow is beneficial in getting a great night of sleep. By knowing the type of pillow you need you will know what it's like to get a full night of sleep.

What is Our Down and Feather Cleaning Process?

At American Down and Feather we pride ourselves in taking our time with the cleaning process. The down and feather cleaning process is something that we take seriously, understanding that our customers desire products that are hypoallergenic, environmentally friendly and FDA approved.

A majority of all people that say they are allergic to a certain type of down or feather are not actually allergic. The reason for that stuffy nose and allergy symptoms could simply be because the material inside of the pillow, cushion, or other soft product was not properly cleaned before it was distributed to the customer.

We have an entire down and feather cleaning process. The down and feather in your product goes through the cleaning stages completely, using environmentally friendly cleaning solutions multiple times to ensure the down and feather meets our high standards.

Even though we thoroughly clean our soft products it is still recommended that you replace your pillows every two years. The bacteria on your skin and the environmental dust and mites that form on pillows gather every night, which can often be the cause of your allergic reactions. Pillow protectors can also help prevent mold and bacteria from growing on the pillow, as well as washing your pillowcases often, preferably once a week.

American Down and Feather provides you with the cleanest soft products possible, ensuring they are fully cleaned and prepared before we distribute them. All of our material is eco-friendly, cleansed and sanitized to provide you with a high resilient feel. Contact us to discuss the down and feather cleaning process more thoroughly.

Down and Down Alternative

Have you ever bought a pillow or a cushion only to ask yourself, “what kind of down is in this?” There is a difference between down and down alternative; it all depends on how much you are willing to spend on the material and how comfortable you want the soft product to be. Here are some of the differences between real down and down alternative.

Down is great for being naturally insulating without being heavy – perfect for comforters and outdoors clothing. It is also ideal for pillows because they are soft and very comfortable, something that is not common with down alternatives.

With a variety of types, down provides you with different levels of comfort, weight and warmth. Pillows that are made with down tend to last longer because it is easy to fluff them up and get them back to their previous condition. However, you do have to have down materials dry-cleaned so that it can stay in pristine condition.

Down alternatives are cheaper than the feather down. It might be a good alternative for people that suffer from allergies because they are filled with cotton, polyester or tweed. However, they do not last as long as down and tend to get flat very quickly and you cannot fluff them up the same way you can with a down soft product.

You are able to wash and dry down alternative in regular washer and dryers, giving you an easier cleaning solution for the product. People that need support in their neck or back can benefit greater from down alternative because it offers better support than down does.

Knowing the differences between down and down alternative can be what solves those restless nights and help you to sleep more comfortably. We offer a wide variety of options for all of your soft product needs!

150" Poly Silk Wrapped, High Resilient, Medium Density Foam Cushion

Today we delivered a 150" high quality cushion to Cloth Constructions in Boulder, Colorado -www.clothconstructions.com. This is the last of four giant cushions we have custom-made for them.  After final upholstering, the cushions are being installed as window seat across the back of a beautifully constructed newer home in the Boulder area.

Custom manufactured in our Henderson, Colorado factory, the cushions are made of medium density high resilient foam for the core, wrapped in 100% cotton ticking filled with Poly Silk down alternative fiber.

Timeless Simplicity

Inside beautiful…

By Paul Terlizzi

Annie Morris

annie@morris-design.com

970-963-8828

Annie Morris didn’t figure on becoming a Home Stylist in addition to her more than full-time work at Morris Design, a creative agency located in Basalt, Colorado that she runs with her husband Alan Morris.  And more than anything, her work as a home stylist can be better described as creating beautiful and comfortable home environments for her clients from the exterior gardens to the tissue box covers and jar of pink sea salt tucked away in the cupboard. 

Annie studied fashion and began her career in New York merchandising and sourcing apparel and accessories for major retailers before moving to Basalt, Colorado with her husband and family to embark on a new career in Advertising, Design, and Sourcing unique Promotional items for their clients.  She has a natural affinity for the selection of fabrics having travelled throughout the world searching for unique and beautiful cloths and materials for wearables.  She has an amazing eye for details; nothing escapes her vision when she has the opportunity to create.  Annie and Alan recently sold their family home in Basalt and their realtor noticed that the value of their property was in the details and he asked her “Annie can you make this house a home?”  Annie jumped right in with plans from an architect and began working with the contractor on every detail of what was to become this man’s… a home for him and three young sons’.

Annie is working on her next project transforming the interior space of a two-bedroom condominium for an investor group as part of a team in the concept phase of a renovation project. Of course she is still working full-time at the agency currently sourcing a unique cork cosmetic bag for a local golf club’s member’s gift bag.

“I take every project I do very personally, my clients become part of my life” She is in constant communication with her clients, is available any time of day or night and on weekends. 

Annie has incredible vision.  When approaching a project, she can “see” the results before beginning the search for every last detail.  This makes the sourcing of decorative items and finishing touches far reaching because her inspiration is coming from within rather than from printed media or established decorator lines.  Annie admits…“I tend to chose items I love and things that speak to me”.

“I am fanatical about schedules and budgets” says Annie; she literally lives and breathes the project.  Nothing waits until the last minute and she can stay within a budget because of her creativity and vast knowledge of sourcing.  “I am the gatekeeper.  I keep everyone on task and on budget” she says with a coy smile.

“I make extensive use of the internet to source and to illustrate to my clients what I am envisioning for their space”.  In the condo remodel, Annie wanted to re-use the “dated” globe light fixtures from throughout the 1970’s built property and put them in the kitchen.  Her clients could not “see” this until Annie, while sourcing lighting for the rest of the house came across a kitchen design featuring the “vintage” light fixtures.  That’s all it took to communicate her vision to her clients who now love the design.

annie@morris-design.com

970-963-8828

To find out more about Annie Morris, visit her page on LinkedIn, check out www.Morris-design.com, or give here a call.

Material Things

Inside beautiful…

By Paul Terlizzi

Wendy Lami

wendy@wendylami.com
www.Wendylami.com
303-679-1587

Summarize the business…

Offering quality, creative, design solutions from window coverings, bedding, pillows, and most things fabricated for the home. Wendy has a broad range of clientele and strives to provide her clients with one on one attention, and the latest fabrics and technology. She is also a Hunter Douglas Alliance Dealer.

How things came to be as they are…and what goes on day to day
Wendy studied Fine Art and Fashion in college. She has been sewing since she was a teen, starting with clothing – and eventually designing and sewing home goods. Friends and family took notice and began hiring her to design and fabricate creative “Material Things” for their homes. Word of mouth spread and along with the boldness to knock on doors of well known interior designers.  She has also showcased her work in several Parade of Homes. Today Wendy works with both Interior Designers and the General Public.

What is your greatest accomplishment or honor…
The repeat business of her clientele is her greatest honor. She also enjoys travelling out of Colorado to work on her client’s second and third homes.

What makes it convenient for clients to work with you…
Located just 30 minutes from Central Denver in beautiful Evergreen, Colorado.  She frequently visits the design district to shop for clients needs. Wendy is available to her clients at all times; including weekends if that is what it takes!  Starting with an initial consultation and then step by step she is involved with all design decisions – from measuring to all installations. Wendy is very visible and hands on with every aspect of each project.

Specifically what do you do and what is your unique point of view…
Wendy’s design offerings include… Drapes, Bedding, Cushions, and Pillows. She has extensive knowledge in Fabrics and Color, and Drapery Hardware, and Hunter Douglas Products. Wendy has the experience and knowledge to really know what works for a particular environment.

Anything special about your creative approach…
“I am able to shift gears to accommodate the clients taste and concerns” says Wendy.
She approaches her work with an open mind and loves the challenge of working with different and varied styles. And with regard to window treatments Wendy tells…”I work very closely with my installer from the beginning or concept stage of the project.  I consult with him on the most challenging aspects of window intricacies”.

Going above and beyond for clients…
As a member of iDEA, Evergreen and Conifer’s association of home improvement professionals, Wendy collaborates with her client’s home improvement professionals or can bring in the right team of experts and craftsmen for any home decorating project.

Contact Information

To find out more about Wendy Lami Designs, visit her website at www.WendyLami.com, send her an e-mail at wendy@wendylami.com, or call 303-679-1587 to set up a consultation.