Emma Tiffan

‘I've been enjoying Inspirations magazines for years, as my mother has been a longtime admirer and subscriber. She taught me to embroider when I was young, and I recently completed a small floral embroidery for her for Christmas this year (I'll finally have a gift done on time!).

It is inspired by Jacobean Crewelwork, though it is done in stranded cotton. It is still in the hoop, and my final step is to find a frame for it.’

What a gorgeous gift Emma, your mum is certainly one lucky lady. We love your design which is very eye-catching, and your stitching is so precise - you were taught well. We hope your mum loves her gift and we’re so pleased you chose to share this with us.

Ann Baseden

‘Seeing the Heartfelt project in a recent newsletter jogged my memory. Many moons ago now I made a large abstract piece of felt - which in itself is unusual for me as I don’t really like abstract pieces.

It is basically a large piece of black felt supporting a multicoloured gossamer piece, embellished with beads, peacock feathers and heart shaped and other glass pieces from my jewellery stash, and of course it’s called ‘Heart Felt’.

It was sold at the event where it was exhibited, but every time I hear someone say the phrase I remember it with affection.’

Ann, what a fun project to undertake. Your combination of abstract art and embroidery is very unique and creates a visually engaging piece, particularly with the range of embellishments you’ve incorporated. This is certainly a piece to remember fondly.

Margaret Incher

‘My name is Margaret and I meet weekly with a group of likeminded friends. We solve many local and international issues in between stitching and having a cuppa.

These ‘before’ & ‘after’ photos are of a pair of footstools that sat in my garage for years. They belonged to my mother-in-law. I believe they are quite old. I embroidered new covers for them and now they live happily inside.’

What a great project Margaret, the perfect way to upcycle old furniture. Your design is vibrant, your stitching is excellent and this is a terrific way to incorporate and display your embroidery in your home. Keep up the excellent work.

Have you stitched a design for the person who taught you to stitch? Do you enjoy creating abstract pieces? Or have you upcycled an old piece of furniture or home décor with embroidery?

Whatever you are stitching, we’d love to see it! Email photos of what you’ve created with needle and thread along with a few details about your stitching journey to news@inspirationsstudios.com