...continued... ages. You may also want to investigate performing an internship with a professional designer in your area to get some hands-on knowledge about the business. Be sure to select a designer whose style you admire. And finally, keep in mind that design is a business, not a hobby. It's fun to shop, but the majority of your time will be spent managing budgets, tradespeople and time lines on behalf of your clients. Attention to detail and great organizational skills are imperative for any successful designer.

• How do I find a great contractor or trades person?
• Word of mouth recommendations are a great resource to help you find the right person for the job. Be sure to ask for (and check) references, demand to see a certificate of insurance and professional credentials. Don't hesitate to ask for anything that will make you feel more comfortable making this important decision - after all, it's your hard-earned dollars that are paying for the improvements. To be sure your job gets finished in a timely and professional manner be sure to get a proper quote (not an estimate), and negotiate a pre-determined hold back to be paid in full once the work is complete (but never before).

• Can Sarah really do all the things we see her doing on TV?
• Well, I don't renovate the entire house myself with a hammer and nails, but I definitely pitch in and do whatever I can to help. Over the years I've been known to tackle the following projects: sewing, painting, wallpapering, tiling, laying patio brick, general carpentry, basic cabinetry making, slip covering furniture, decoupage, furniture refinishing, mural painting, lamp wiring...and let's not forget dusting, cleaning, vacuuming and ironing! No one ever said being on TV was glamourous every day!

• How can I get a VHS or DVD copy of an episode?
• Please give us a call at 1-866-925-2500, or in the Toronto area 416-964-3500.