Economic hardship may be causing such national home decor dealers as Linens 'n Things to fold, but one local custom shop still can decorate the town. Designs & Interiors by The Upholstery Shop seems to have what it takes to fare well in tough times a true ability and passion to sell a craft.

For 37 years, Jeff Colon watched his father's upholstery business burgeon and then successfully introduce an interior-design trade 15 years ago. Colon is a tradesman in many ways, having learned the family business and eventually risen to the helm with his brother, Eddie, to drive a well-oiled shop.

Unlike at chain retailers, the entire process happens here from fabric selection to antique restoration. Customers can walk through the propped door to see a plethora of fabrics and materials scattered, yet organized, throughout the quaint showroom.

Inside, a wall is emblazoned with Colon's hand-picked swab collection. A pile of black, brown and tan leather fabric sheets lay in a heap on the floor. Bolts of fabric thick enough to cover jumbo sofas lean on each other in a back room. Sewing machines sound off from the workshop, and voices of customers mingle. One man, saying, They don't make 'em like they used to, has come here in search of strong fabric for his kitchen chairs. He's pleased with what he finds.

In the middle of it all is Colon. More than a tradesman, he is also a jack-of-all-trades, taking phone calls, answering fabric inquiries and passing out business cards because, as he puts it, The customer comes first.

It's clear he takes pride in his collection, such as the Indian silk. Other sources of pride are the upholstery weight fabrics that have a higher thread count, a tighter weave and a durability and cleanability. Multipurpose fabric, meanwhile, is a lighter weight, cotton print that could be used for bedding, curtains and couches.

Design and personalization are one reason to visit. Money is another. Many homeowners purchased good quality furniture decades ago and just want an upgrade. Colon says, why get rid of it? Just reupholster. It's cheaper than buying new furniture sets. With 500 fabrics to choose from -- 108 of which he personally selected -- you'll find something to suit you.