What Are You Stitching?

Inspiration can come from infinite sources. From travel and history to nature or the arts. Even current events can inspire what we stitch so today’s What Are You Stitching? features some recently completed projects…

‘I started stitching from the age of seven, with a small wool canvas work of a little lamb (sadly I no longer have this) but my mother was always making clothes and rag dolls for us as young children. In 2012, I discovered the RSN online. After taking a two-day course in blackwork, I then decided to retrain on the Certificate in Technical Hand Embroidery course at the RSN, whilst working and raising my daughter.’

‘Recently I embarked on creating a truly special project to celebrate the Royal Coronation. It was important to include King Charles’ III love of wildlife, so that was the main inspiration for the design, whilst also keeping it traditional with a crown centrally and Union Jack flags.’

‘Although I learnt a lot of stitches, some of which I hadn’t heard of before I started training at the RSN, I would say that although I don’t really have a favourite stitch, long and short is among one of them, especially for filling.’

‘I find the rhythm of filling large areas quite therapeutic, I like the way by altering your angle, length and stitch direction, you can create folds in fabric for example the swags in the Union Jacks in the Coronation Embroidery, the blending of different colours also allows you to create naturalistic effects especially when stitching wild flowers.’

What a fitting way to celebrate the King’s Coronation, Madga. Your design has been thoughtfully curated and the stitching is flawless. Thank you for sharing some of your journey with needle and thread, we look forward to seeing what you stitch next!

‘I have just stitched ‘The Bobbin Tree’ by Jenny McWhinney from Inspirations issue #96.’

‘I embroidered it on linen instead of a carry bag, as was Jenny’s original design.’ 

Margaret, this is a lovely version of Jenny’s design and looks perfect in a frame. We love the addition of grass in the background and your little bumblebee, they tie everything together beautifully!

‘I made a crazy heart pillow for each of my three granddaughters when they turned 21. I also wrote a story with memories and symbolism for each section on the pillows. They were a joy to make and create.’

What wonderful gifts, Rhonda! We love all the charms that we’re sure symbolise many happy family memories. Your granddaughters will treasure these beautiful hearts.  

Have you finished any projects recently? Been inspired by current events? Or do you stitch projects for significant life events?

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