Q: I have an Ikea corner couch.  The slipcovers are white and want to have them dyed.  Have tried to research where to have this done without results. Can you advise me of anywhere I can have this done?

A: If you had looking in my Smart Shopping Montreal book, you would have found an answer on page 156: Nettoyerur Vitalizing Cleaners, 921 Mont-Royal est. Here’s what I wrote:” Places to dye fabric are hard to find. This one will only work on 100% cotton garments like jeans, sweaters, shirts and coats. If there are any discolorations in the fabric, the only color that will dye evenly is black. Be aware that some threads won’t take the dye and there also might be a teeny bit of shrinkage.”

If that doesn’t work, here’s what a fan had to say about a master craftsman from my Smart Shopping Montreal book who makes new slipcovers:

“We contacted Mr. Colin Hynes of Four Season Slip Covers in St-Lambert (450-465-0650). He came and was undaunted by the behemoth. He had fabric samples, one of which suited us perfectly, he gave us two estimates according to how he would attack the project, he did not try and influence us toward the more expensive one, and, generally speaking, I was impressed with his professionalism. When he returned to put the cover on the couch it was a pleasure to watch him because he is a true craftsman, and craftsmen are hard to find nowadays. The couch again reigns supreme in our living room and is probably good for another 30 years.

The words that come to mind when I think of Mr Hynes is professional, a craftsman, integrity.

And so we are grateful to you for the information you published in your Smart Shopping book and site.”

Tel: 450-465-0650