You may remember a while back I featured Stone Textile, and now Elizabeth Mollen is back for ‘The Interview Series.’ Lately interior decorating is on the brain every other minute as we finish up our (not so new anymore) loft. I get major inspiration from Stone Textile, whether it’s from the blog or the uber stylish pillows, blankets, and accessories. Stone Textile’s newest collection launched on Tuesday, and I absolutely love it. Elizabeth is sweet, inspiring, and has quite the business going. Let’s learn more about her, along with her hot home decor company.
FPTP: How would you describe Stone Textile?
EM: Stone Textile products have a level of elegance and simplicity that complement an environment, enhance the table, and add a bit of attitude to life. Our customers take the time and enjoy styling their space as much as they like styling their everyday looks.
FPTP: What inspired you to start Stone Textile?
EM: After working in the fashion industry, as a designer and production manager, for many years, the switch to interiors was seamless. I have always loved styling peoples homes and wanted to still work closely with interesting materials and textiles. I still love fashion, but do think the interior industry is a better fit for me.
FPTP: What are the biggest challenges you face running your own company?
EM: Running a small business has many challenges. It is not easy. Since I do not have a large team, it is hard for me to turn off and step away from my work.
FPTP: What are the biggest rewards from running your own company?
EM: Even though working for yourself has its challenges, I do have the luxury of making my own schedule. I don’t think I can ever go back! As a product designer, it is rewarding when my clients and customers send me pictures of their Stone Textile pieces in their home. I love seeing how people use our pillows. As a decorator, I enjoy working closely with my clients to create one of a kind environments–it is rewarding when they tell me that the love coming home each day to their newly designed space. You can learn more about my new Edesign feature here: www.interiorsbystonetextile.
FPTP: What advice would you give to an aspiring designer/interior designer?
EM: Pay your dues–intern! I was a design intern starting at the age of 18. Real world experience and learning from others has helped me get to where I am today.
FPTP: Favorite Twitter account you follow?
EM: on duty: all of the design magazines + blogs @elledecor @domaine @domino @rue @lonny etc., off duty: my cousin Jenny Mollen is hilarious @jennyandteets
FPTP: Favorite Instagram account you follow?
EM: I think I may follow too many! Right now I love @styledotcom for their fashion week updates and @vogueliving for interior inspiration.
FPTP: What inspires you on a daily basis?
EM: I am always inspired by current and vintage fashion trends, architecture, and furniture and art from the 50’s, 60’s, and 70’s.
FPTP: If you’re not designing or working on Stone Textile, what are you doing?
EM: I wish I had more free time but — Trying the latest new restaurant or lounge in Austin with my husband, playing with my Labradoodle, Toby, or treasure hunting with my designer friends at antique fairs + estate sales.
The new Stone Textile Scale Collection launched this week. For this collection Mollen used some really interesting materials like studded leather and hand dyed lamb skin. The collection was inspired by a vacation she took to the beaches of Thailand. The collection is now available on Stone Textile’s website www.stonetextilestudio.com
Make sure to follow Stone Textile on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook for fabulous photos and updates.