Motifs by Susan O’Connor from Flowers for Elizabeth

Have you ever had the experience of explaining to someone that you are an embroiderer and in response they ask if that means you stitch monograms onto clothing etc?

Now there is nothing wrong that with assumption and for many of us monograms are a favourite type of project to stitch, but it’s interesting how monograms and motifs are often the first thing non-stitchers think of when it comes to embroidery.

It makes sense when you consider that typically a stitched monogram or motifs are some of the most public displays of our embroidery. Much of our stitched art is confined to our homes, or at best we take them to our stitch and chat sessions. It’s not often we wear our embroidery out for all to see.

That got us thinking about Susan O’Connor’s latest book Flowers for Elizabeth. The front cover is a bit of a clue as to where Susan has taken her creative endeavours in that she has designed 12 magnificent motifs that can in fact be stitched onto anything.

The book includes a complete list of threads you’ll need for each of the 12 motifs in both wool and silk, lending itself to a versatility of application.

Susan originally created a blanket, then a pinwheel, next a scissor sheath, then a needlebook. And she’ll tell you firsthand, you don’t have to stop there. Any of these motifs would look stunning stitched onto the pocket of a jacket, the bottom of a jumper or pullover, the sleeve of a shirt, the side of a tote bag or even on the edge of a beanie. The applications are endless.

For those who already have her new book Flowers for Elizabeth, next time you’re reading it take a moment to envisage all the possibilities that these motifs could be applied to. 

If you haven’t purchased the book yet, yes it includes instructions on creating one of the most spectacular blankets you’ll ever see and yes, for the purpose of finishing it shows each motif on a pinwheel, but it is so much more than that.

First and foremost, Flowers for Elizabeth is an incredible resource teaching you how to stitch 12 stunning motifs in both silk and wool for you to apply to whatever your imagination leads you to…

PS – Kits are available for each motif in Au Ver à Soie silks which include enough threads to stitch the design three times, so you can create your own set of needlework accessories or stitch the motifs in whatever artistic endeavour you choose.

PPS – We also have blank kits for the scissor sheath and needlebook to either add your favourite Flowers for Elizabeth motif or stitch your own design.

Step 1 – Purchase Project Instructions

Flowers for Elizabeth Motifs by Susan O’Connor are lovely decorative designs to stitch.

Step 2 – Purchase Ready-To-Stitch Kit

The Inspirations Ready-To-Stitch kits for Flowers for Elizabeth Pinwheels include enough threads to also stitch the motif three times.*

*Please Note: To cater for flexibility of purchase, instructions are not included with our kits. For step-by-step directions on how to create this project, please refer to the book.