Words: Zena le Roux | Images: Supplied
Paint Patterns breathes new life into old furniture by restoring the piece and painting it in a funky way. A very ordinary piece can transform into a farm-style or modern classic just by painting it. Owner Karen Rademeyer tells us more.
How did your business start?
I always loved painting and saw an opportunity to turn my passion into a business. Slowly, I learned the techniques and through practise, I really got good enough to start my own business in November 2016. I called it Paint Patterns to distinguish myself from the usual paint contractor. Although we do the traditional paint techniques, we also paint all kinds of stencils and patterns onto surfaces and furniture.
Why did you choose this area to set up shop?
Although I’m based in Villieria, the location isn’t really important as my job requires house calls. I visit the house, see what needs to be done, then either go back and paint the wall in situ, or take the furniture away and return it restored, painted and complete.
How did you find your premises?
We’ve been living here for many years and working from home cuts costs, as there’s no extra rent to be paid. If I paint a piece of furniture, I can literally just roll out of bed, have a cup of coffee and I’m already at work! Also, fewer overheads make for more profit.
Why are they ideally suited to your business?
A big airy space to sand, paint and keep furniture safe is all we really need. With the internet and mobile phones, your home can easily become your office.
Who are your neighbours?
Villieria is in the Moot area. Moot has many home-run businesses, so it feels like a community. People are friendly and there are many shop-owners who know you by name. Within a five-minute driving radius, I have access to everything from groceries to panel beating.
What are the shop rental/sales prices like in this area?
Rentals are reasonable. The Moot area is a popular place to live and work. It’s safe, neat and conservative and all of these factors have led it to become really popular. Products and services, in general, are more affordable in Villieria than in the East of Pretoria.
How many people visit your business each day?
More or less three people make use of my services per week.
Do you have any expansion plans?
We would love to have a few more people to help with the basic painting, but for now we’re still enjoying the hands-on approach and would like to keep it small.
Do you operate online as well?
Yes, Facebook (@PaintPatterns) is a great place to showcase our work.
What’s your most popular service?
What’s trending at the moment is to restore dark-stained wooden furniture to a more natural wooden look. Also, furniture that combines wooden surfaces with painted surfaces is all the rage. Geometric designs painted on walls are also very popular.
Paint Patterns
082 751 8902
facebook.com/PaintPatterns
