The Inside Scoop on Drawer Linings

You could say Suzy and Elaine Rabuchin live by the motto, “It’s what’s inside that counts.” The duo run Formal Drawer, a Santa Monica-based company that lines drawers, closets and other cubbyholes with everything from plush velvet to luxe moire.

“It may sound extravagant but it protects your drawers, and the linings make it easier to keep [drawers] clean because you can scrub most of the fabrics,” says Suzy, who started the business in 1980 (daughter-in-law Elaine joined her later).

Offering hundreds of textile choices, the pair can line almost any storage space. After taking precise measurements, they get to work covering thin pieces of chipboard with a chosen fabric. The side pieces are then attached in the drawer using double-sided tape. The bottom linings are removable for easy cleaning. The soft linings protect undergarments and hosiery from snags. Men’s drawers are often lined with a more masculine suede cloth, with partitions to separate accessories. “Sometimes the guys have these great big cowboy belts that they want to protect,” Suzy notes.

They also create jewelry trays covered in suede or velvet and drawer compartments (sometimes in Lucite) to organize smaller articles. “We take those million little things you have lying around--hair clips, cuff links, brushes,” Suzy says, “and give them proper homes “

Their clients include local film execs and range from coast to coast. “We love seeing the reactions on people’s faces when we’re done,” Suzy says.

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(310) 458-2469;www.formaldrawer.com.