I’m Sheldon Padawer  - the one who translates ideas and suggestions into Artisan Design products.  I play a daily role in marketing, R&D, and production.  Education and experience are not enough to be a successful “inventor”, much less run a successful business. If not for the talents of my wife- Laura, Artisan Design would have never happened. Her education and experience in business management, and my background in architecture and engineering have allowed us to take problems, analyze them, conceptualize solutions, build prototypes, and eventually manufacture products that offer great value for the needlework community.

Laura  manages the the office and administration of Artisan Design including personnel management, bookkeeping, inventory management, and production scheduling.  She has also become skilled in many areas of production.  Laura is also a cross stitcher who understands many of the “nuances” that must be taken into account from the needleworker’s point of view.  She has been my primary collaborator in analytical, conceptual, and design development processes.  Seldom do two business associates complement each other’s talents so well.

We’ve been fortunate; we’ve come a long way from operating our tiny garage back in 1992. We’ve recently added  new, very versatile and capable equipment including a lathe and Bridgeport CNC (computer numerically controlled) mill.  Now, we have the capability to manufacture not only in wood, but also metal and plastics.    We’ve built a number of new pneumatic fixtures that make for greater precision, consistency, and productivity.  Several of our new products and some established ones are benefiting from these upgrades.  Ultimately, the product is improving, while enhanced productivity is keeping prices stable.

We ‘ve enjoyed serving needleworkers since 1992, and hope to continue for many years to come.  Next to raising our family, Artisan Design has been our most rewarding experience ever.