Good morning, my friends, and welcome to A Stitcher’s Christmas, 2020, installment #3!
Today, it’s straight out of Italy – specifically, two beautiful gifts from the publishers of the embroidery magazine Giuliana Ricama, which is available in both an Italian and an English edition. I wrote about the magazine a while back, if you’d like to learn more about it.
I’m also going to announce the winner of installment #2 at the end of today’s article, so please venture on to the very end to see if you get to enjoy one of Di van Niekerk’s gifts this Christmas!
Today’s give-away is a two part give-away!
The first name drawn will receive a year’s subscription to Giuliana Ricama.
Giuliana Ricama is a beautiful magazine, loaded with great embroidery projects, instructions, and articles. While many of the projects focus on gorgeous needlework projects from Italian designers – projects that include needlelace and whitework, Assisi work, and many other embroidery techniques that have their roots in Italy – there’s also a nice balance of contributions that are trendy and contemporary. I love the magazine because of its uniquely Italian flare, but there’s something in it for everyone!
The second name drawn will receive a lovely kit from the magazine.
The kit includes everything you need to work this simple design that focuses on Mountmellick techniques with a slight twist, as the ground fabric is natural linen, rather than cotton sateen. You’ll find fabric (pre-printed), thread, and instructions in the kit.
This is a perfect kit for beginners and beyond. It’s a great way to learn some new textural stitches and create a simple and elegant piece that can be finished in any way you want!
Give-Away Guidelines
If you’d like to participate in today’s give-away, please follow these guidelines!
This give-away has ended. Thanks for participating! You can find the winners listed in the article on December 7th.
1. Please leave your comment below, on this article on Needle ‘n Thread. If you are reading this in the newsletter, you can reach the comment form directly by following this link. Comments left on any other post on Needle ‘n Thread or sent by email are not eligible. Please do not leave your comment as a reply to someone else’s. Replies cannot be included in the count. If you are unsure how to post a comment without replying to someone else, please just click the link provided above to go to the comment form. Thanks!
2. Make sure you leave a recognizable name or nickname on the “name” line on the comment form. Anonymous comments don’t count. Please do not leave personal information like email addresses, mailing addresses, or phone numbers in the “comment” part of the form. When you do, I have to go in and edit that information out – unless you want spam, or strangers picking up your phone number, email address, mailing address (which you don’t, I’m sure!).
…but please do make sure that your email address is entered correctly on the “email” line of the form. This is not visible to anyone but me, and it is not used for anything except the purposes of this give-away (if you win, I need to be able to contact you).
3. You may only enter once.
3. In your comment, please answer the following:
Whether you’re a seasoned stitcher or even just a recent newbie, if there were anything you could do differently about your needlework journey so far, what would it be?
4. Leave your comment by 5:00 am Central Standard Time, Monday, December 7th. The winner will be randomly drawn and announced on Monday morning, when the next give-away in the series takes place. I will also contact the winners by email.
Please note that your comment may not appear right away on the website. I review all the comments that go on the website, to keep unseemly content off the website. If your comment does not show up immediately, please don’t fret. It will show up as soon as I have a chance to moderate comments.
Silk Ribbon Winners!
The winners of Wednesday’s give-away – which include a ribbon embroidery book for each, a full kit for the first winner, and a ribbon pack for the second winner, all courtesy of Di van Niekerk – are listed below.
Liz F – who loves working with silk ribbon for the ease with which it stitches, the overall dimensional effect and the natural appearance of the finished work – will receive the Di’s book, Little Flowers and the kit for Tea in the Garden.
Maryanne Wilson – who loves the richness silk ribbon gives to completed work – will receive the book and Di’s ribbon sampler pack Lady in Red.
Thanks to all for participating! Keep your eyes out for lots more beautiful give-aways in the days ahead!
Hi Mary!
I started about a year ago, and have taught myself using your website! The only thing I’d change about my journey so far, is to give myself more slack! Stitches can be unpicked, and it’s not the end of the world to re-do something. Thank you for your website, and I hope to be as good as you one day.
Hello,
The one thing I would have done differently is to have built more regularly scheduled time in my day to devote to stitching. It’s not too late to do so, but I wish I would have done it sooner!
…if there were anything you could do differently about your needlework journey so far, what would it be?
I would like to be more adventurous. I am very good at following directions, but I wish I were more creative. I think I am afraid of “messing up” or wasting materials, so I am more likely to do things where I know what the result will be rather than trying things because “why not?”.
For years when I was working, I felt I didn’t have time to embroider. I always had papers to grade, homework to oversee, etc. I wish I had made more time for hand sewing; it would have been good therapy.
I would have taken pictures of all my projects from the beginning. I do document now but it never occurred to me at the beginning.
Thank you!
I wish I were more proficient and had more time.
I wish I had more time to just practice new stitches!
Were I to start my stitching journey again I would tell myself to play more and worry less! I still get stuck in a perfectionism that inhibits my fun and even what little artistry I may have. Thanks for all you do Mary!
G’day Mary,
I’ve been a hoarder and find myself buying up everything and anything to do with what my latest interest is. With hindsight I realise I’d be better to buy more discriminately the things I need for a project at the time rather than what I think I’ll want further along.
Cheers, and thank you,
Kath Grabham
I did counted cross stitch for many years, but the last couple years I have been working on and learning new embroidery skills.
Ha! I would be much more organized if I were just starting to stitch! As it is, I’m just too busy to stop and ‘live’ it at the moment. Merry Christmas!
Starting over, I would give myself permission to not try and finish every project that I start. I spent too much time on techniques that I really didn’t enjoy, and knew that they were not my cup of tea. But, if I left projects unfinished? Oh, the guilt! No more! I feel released from the guilt … they were interesting , fun while they lasted, provided education and transferable skills but sometimes well, it’s just time to move on. I now also allow myself to not finish novels!
I love your articles they are so informative. I am a newbie at stitching and love to see all the lovely stitches. I wish I had the patience to see the lovely designs come to life. That is what I will be working on, patience to see the designs I work on come to life.
I think the one thing I would do differently if I had a needlework life redo would be to take all of the opportunities that were available to me and not put things off for a later more convenient time.
Sue T.
Thank you for your beautiful posts! My dream as a teenager was to go to the Royal School of Needlework, execute intricate embroideries, and perhaps work as a conservator. Life happened… more than 50 years of it, but I have picked up needle and thread again, and your words, projects, and pictures have been a wonderful inspiration.
I’m new at beading and embellishing. It would be wonderful to win! The project looks amazing!
The best of the season to all!!
If I could restart my stitching journey, I would have taken pictures and documented the pieces I completed. I made many pieces as gifts for others and never took pictures or kept any other record of them. I also would have branched out earlier to explore new techniques sooner. I, like many, started out with counted cross stitch and stuck with that for many years. It was after several years of stitching that I took the plunge and started taking classes in new techniques. I love them all! I love expanding my repertoire of stitches, and wish I could have started on that earlier.
I would love to expand my knowledge further into some of the Italian techniques.
Whether you’re a seasoned stitcher or even just a recent newbie, if there were anything you could do differently about your needlework journey so far, what would it be?
I would have started sooner and learned from my grandma when she was still alive, she did such lovely embroidery and crochet, and I didn’t really get interested in either until after she was gone.
Invest in good light early. I limped along for too long with just a table lamp.
I would have liked to devote more time to my stitching.
I would have liked to have started learning different types of embroidery earlier in my journey. Like many people in my age group, back in the day I did some crewel and needlepoint, then it became almost all cross-stitch. Eventually I started doing silk gauze embroidery, punchneedle and a few other things. Now I’m doing stumpwork and goldwork. If I had it do do differently, I would have expanded into those other types of needlework (and more) years ago.
I would love to give myself the freedom to embroider without my demon of perfectionism holding me back.
I’m a newbie at stitching, and I wish I had tried stitching while I was still a newbie at life!
If I could start over I would organize my books, materials, and projects, and KEEP them organized!
If I had to start all over, I would not be afraid to just try something and not worry about the result.
I am curious of others’ comments!
Been stitching for five years currently with brief period of stitching in my teen and twenties. If only I had spent more time at the art over the years. And stayed focused!
wow how pretty! I absolutely luv linen of all types to stitch on! Not a beginner here but Im sure Id learn a ton from this publication. Would be a treat as I have cut back on these types of purchases. I actually think what I might do differently is stitch in hand. I learned using hoops and now I just cant shake them. Sometimes I think in hand would be faster and we all want to stitch faster I think, but then I am torn cuz I enjoy the tension hoops afford me. The other thing I would do differntly would be to map out my work. I tend to start a project and stick with it while others can have many going at the same time. But these old habits are so hard to break! ty for a chance. Good luck all
Set up my “real” studio with no more excuses and continue to learn and explore my world of embroidery.
Looking back over my needlework journey so far, I would not have tried to save on costs by buying cheap fabric, threads, etc. As in all things, you get what you pay for!
If I could go back in time, I would be more disciplined about making some time each day for embroidery.
Hi! I’d love to try something simple to start my journey into embroidery. Love you website.
I am a very seasoned needleworker. I have been fortunate enough to take many classes and attend numerous seminars.
the only thing I might change in a “fantasy” world….would be to take classes nonstop.
I am a seasoned stitcher. I have been doing so since I was a child. I would change only one thing, and that is time to stitch. I would like to take more time now to stitch as the days do not seem to be long enough. Stitching brings such peace.
So many things to do differently! Start sooner probably would have made the biggest difference! Keep at it – EVERYthing takes practice, it won’t be perfect the first time you try. Try everything – don’t assume you won’t like it til you’ve actually made an attempt
My grandmother started my “embroidery career” when I was 7. Nice little embroidery pictures encased in plastic frames as hoops – how I wish someone would bring these back! Then, in college I started embroidering on my clothes – sort of hippie days. Now that I am retired I have started again. What I wish is that all the resources available now had been available then. I am learning and re-learning but there are so many options now. So I guess I wish I had been more consistent and had learned more so that I wouldn’t be somewhere between beginner and intermediate now!!
I started my embroidery journey before the Internet or YouTube. I should have looked for an embroidery group to join for their knowledge and expertise.
I am a newbie to embroidery. In my journey so far. I have only used a few stitches that I am comfortable with. I am now starting to brach out with different stitches and wish I had the confidence to start sooner
Hi Mary,
What would I do differently in my needlework journey? That’s an easy one to answer. I wish I had begun learning and stitching embroidery years — decades — sooner!
Best,
June House
I have just taken up stitching…again. I keep coming back to it. These days the internet makes the imagination soar wildly. If I could change anything, it would be to calm myself down. I want to try too many things all at once. This ruins the very core of the stitching experience itself. Breathe. Breathe. One stitch at a time.
Hi Mary:
What would I do differently – I would devote more time to my needlework, to learn more, to enjoy the creation process more, to relax with my threads and fabrics.
Thanks for your inspiration.
I have stitched for 60+ years but find I am always learning something new.
I would have tried crewel work embroidery years ago, just loving it now I’ve finally tried it.
I would have started much earlier if I was starting my stitching journey again, but I suppose I would still have not had time when my children were young. I would have liked to have attended the Royal School of Needlework.
I would try harder to get the older women in my family to teach me. They were from France, Germany and Holland, their embroidery was beautiful. They didn’t believe that someone my age (10 in 1962) really wanted to learn old fashioned embroidery.
I would jump in head first, getting away from all the thoughts telling me that i can’t really do it as good as others.
I wish I’d learned more stitching techniques earlier in life since my thumb joints hurt so much now. I believe if I’d learned more earlier, I wouldn’t struggle through the pain and learning curve now as I attempt to master new stitching techniques and stitches. BTW, I’ve been stitching since age 5 when I learned at my grandmother’s knee!
If I could do something different for my needlework journey, it would be to have purchased a more ergonomic friendly chair to stitch in (to avoid neck and back strain). As this is something I would need to purchase in person, I will have to wait until the pandemic is over or at least until I feel safe in doing so.
After my recent experience of coton a broder color 321 bleeding on a project when washed, I would use a color catcher every time I wash ANY red thread!
Other than that, over the longer term, I would give myself permission to design more of my work. There are few surface embroidery kits out there that I like the design of, and that meet my standards – the biggie is using only natural fibers as the ground fabric. While I’ve done a little designing lately, the combination of having to transfer the design and my tendency to put too much in have been off-putting. But I’m getting better at both, needless to say 🙂
Can you tell me what is a color catcher?
If I could change anything I would have spent more time in the beginning when my eye sight sharp on tiny work. I now need magnifying to work on that!
I would diversify and try more techniques. I’m fascinated by all needlework but am very limited as to what I’ve experimented with. Her work is so beautiful! I’ve been following her on Facebook for quite some time.
I would try to add more variety to my projects, try new techniques, more new designs and stitches.
Rebecca here when I really got involved in regular stitching I bought every pattern I liked I think if I had another go around I would be more selective now knowing just how long it takes to stitch something up.
I wish I had become serious about needlework years earlier. With children and a career, I did not discover my passion until I retired. And there are so many types of needlework to try and master! So much to do and so little time left.
One thing I’d do differently is learn more types of needlework, e.g. Hardanger, Goldwork, Stumpwork.
I wish I had made more of an effort to learn and practice a wider variety of stitches. I admire those who stitch daily and constantly try to learn new stitches.
If I could change anything about my approach to needlework, it would be to have started venturing into different forms of it at an earlier time. I would love to have expanded into many of the different types of needlework when my eyes were younger and my fingers were more nimble.
What would I do differently? I would practice more with an eye to practicality. I would have a project in the car to work on while waiting. I would find more opportunities for embellishment and therefore practice. Think of small motifs in coat linings, name labels in kids clothes, small gifts like needle books, pin cushions, bookmarks or broaches. There are so many ways to practice new stitches, colors and fibers that don’t take a huge commitment of time or money that will your skills and create beauty. I wish I had appreciated the value of practice earlier in life.
I am a VERY seasoned stitcher, learning from my Mother as a young girl. I would have changed my ‘only self-taught’ life to one of have taken classes & attending educational classes of & about stitching. I did take a class in collage when I was thinking of working on cruise ships. Sadly, nothing was said about the use of doddle clothes or samplers as a teaching piece nor stitching history. So, I would made taking classes or attending conferences more important in my life.
I’m not sure I would change much about my (short) journey so far. I’ve needed the time I’ve spent so far to experiment with threads, ground fabrics, and types of embroidery to know what I really like doing.
I now regret not embroidering much during some of my working years. Thinking I didn’t have the time at that time – now I enjoy even a little bit each day and it relaxes me and gives me joy. Thank you for offering these lovely give aways!
I cross stitching many years ago. I then stopped for a long time. I remember learning to embroider with my grandmother. We embroidered pillow cases with various stitches. None of them were as intricate as your work. I wish I had learned more of the embroidery stitches that you show on your website.
Thank you!
I began my needlework journey doing crewel on burlap of all things in the early 70’s and have tried needlepoint, cross stitch, ribbon embroidery and quilting. I would not change my journey as it has brought me hours of joy.
I would take more basic classes
In my embroidery journey I wish I could remember to plan out the colors and stitches before I begin.
I wish I had tried more intricate projects and hope that my retirement will allow me to do this.
One of the things I have been concentrating on recently with regard to needlework is how to do my own finishing, something I wish I would have learned more about years ago. I could have saved myself some money!
I’m a great fan of Sue Spargo so much of my work has a “primitive” look, so I am working to develop a more “refined” style, ala Trish Burr.
I would have invested in better quality tools, threads, instruction, classes at a much younger age (70 now) but I just didn’t know what was out there, How to find it (pre-internet), couldn’t reconcile the expense and had no idea at 15 or even 20 that this would be a life long past time of Joy. Surprising I did as well as I did with so little and the Joy was always there!
I think that I would have been smart to learn how to frame my own needlework. If I had I wouldn’t have such a collection of finished projects…on the other hand I would have no empty wall space!
I have been stitching a long time. I wish I would have been more inquisitive in my early stitching days. I would like to have learned more about different types of needlework instead of just sticking to cross stitch!
As a young girl my mother taught me and my sisters the skill of embroidery,
but I was always impatient, wanting to do other things. Today as a mature woman with a passion for all things embroidery, I stuggle with certain stitches. Thanks to tutors like you, Mary, I am slowly getting there!
regards
Rina
Perhaps believe in my abilities and start publishing like so many of my friends and family urged me to instead of thinking I needed to completely master a technique … I know now that each technique has endless possibilities. So, instead of sharing and seeing my ideas being ‘taken’ without credit being given etc ( a sad reality unfortunately) … I should have shared things in a more formal manner.
A different path? I would have maintained focus on stitching. I tend to stitch like mad for a few years, then hop about to beading, painting, drawing, photography, even woodworking. Eventually I always come back to embroidery. It’s so familiar, calming and satisfying.
In my needlework journey, I wouldn’t have taken off so many years in between. I also would have tried to seek out different threads earlier. I’ve never worked with wool or silk until the past year.
I have been doing some type of stitching for a long time, but not steadily. I have begun to do more embroidery in the last two years or so, mostly cross stitch. I am embroidering things for Christmas right now. The only thing I would have done differently in my needlework journey is to have not stopped when I started working outside the home. I would be much better at it than I am now.
While I enjoy trying new techniques, I wish I had concentrated on one or two so I could attain true proficiency. There is real value in repetition, at least for me.
I would establish a practice of stitching every day.
What would I do differently? Although not in my nature, I would complete projects before jumping to new ones!! I would set up a rotation, and try to stick with it. Perhaps I will try to put this in practice in the New Year.
Looking back, the one thing I would have done better is organize threads. I must have 15 skeins of DMC #503! The design give-away is lovely in its simplicity.
I probably should have started earlier in life with much simpler designs. I have also become really good at hiding my mistakes.
I’m an want a be stitcher. I’ve stitched all my life. My Grandmother was a French tatter. Which I have no idea how to do. My Grandfathers mother was an English embroider and my fathers grandmother was an American Indian basket weaver. I have stitching in my blood but not perfection but purpose. I try to make projects that can be used and loved. I’d like to bring this idea to life. Share what I know and freely give my work to others.
Thanks for this opportunity. I am a well-seasoned needleworker. My favorites are needlepoint, embroidery and crewel. I would like to up my game with more advanced techniques.
If I could begin again on my long journey from a kit bought from a family magazine to now I would have kept a journal with what the project was, who I gave it to, a description of needlepoint or embroidery. And perhaps a photo.
If there was one thing I could have done differently about my needle working journey, it would have been to practice more often. I greatly enjoyed embroidery during my early twenties but had to shelve my projects for a few years, which then led to forgetting about this beautiful craft until rather recently. So now I am starting over from scratch with all the advantages of great online resources!
I am a beginner and eager to learn more
As a beginner with embroidery I am always looking for simple and elegant projects that help me grow. I want to develop a vocabulary of stitches that would make my work more original and precise. What I would change in my journey-I would seek out a more defined way of approaching this craft…
Paige
Hope to win
Although I am not a recent newbie, I have primarily been a self-taught stitcher by utilizing books, websites, and videos online. I finally helped start a small club of stitchers at my LQS, which promoted sharing and teaching within the group. It’s how I learned about Needle ‘n Thread! That was pre-pandemic and I miss that group —so I would go to more retreats and classes and stitching groups!
And I think we should call it “needle-play” instead of “needlework”.
I am a mediocre stitched but have been doing it off and on for years. I’d like to take more classes to get better, but with Covid, on line will have to do.
I am a medium quality stitcher. I would like to become an expert at handwork.
I always feel so inspired by the beautiful creations you show me. I learned to sew from my Mother and Grandmother as a child in the 1950s and then when I became an Adult everything was set aside for family and work. Now I have finally retired I have rediscovered my love of hand stitching. There is something so addictive about have a needle, thread and fabric in your hands and creating something that is uniquely you. The second best part is giving your creation of love to someone and watching them smile.
I have really enjoyed my stitching journey so far. I really can’t think of anything I would change. I look forward to seeing my future journey.
I have been doing needlework my whole life and feel I set my satisfaction bar too low. I wish I had found out about the many different types of needlework and ways to improve my technique much earlier. There are so many types of needlework I want to try.
I’m a newbie at all stitchery. If I’d known how much fun it is, I would’ve tried it years ago.
My journey in stitches has been many years. Many different styles candle wicking to black work. Your site has been an inspiration. The only thing I would change is to have a consistent gathering with others including my granddaughter (now 13) for stitching. She has excelled her teacher. What a joy to be apart of someone else’s journey.
If I could redo it all, I would have gone to the RSN straight out of college!
Thank you for this opportunity, Mary. I’d be thrilled to win a year’s subscription to Giuliana!
The only thing I’d change about my needlework journey would be to have rediscovered it sooner. I learned a few simple stitches as a little girl and did a few projects as a teen and young adult. Then life got really busy with work and kids. I retired after 33 years as a nurse picked up my needle again. So much information and inspiration is available online and I have enjoyed delving into the history of needlework as well. So many projects, so much I want to learn! Nina D.
Wow, what a beautiful book, Love the designs, Have a Merry Christmas.
In one word: Teach. I would have loved to have had more time to teach embroidery to children.
I wish I could have gone to ‘in person’ classes when I was in Italy. I did get to go to
Venice and watch while lovely, talented Ladies made lace. It was just magical!
As a new comer to the joys of stitching I think for me the thing I would do differently is invest in good lighting. It’s still not too late and now that I appreciate the value of good light I can make an informed choice.
On my journey and adventure with embroidery I would need to spend more time on each stitch….so I would take each stitch and practice, practice, practice til I really knew it well and then move onto the next and the next and the next…..and then when I’m done create a sampler of all the stitches.
I became a serious needlepointer about 30 years ago, and never really ventured into other areas of the needle arts. I only had so much time, and needlepoint projects are expensive from start to finish. I have few regrets (except maybe having a stash too big to ever finish in my lifetime), but I do wish I had explored other areas of embroidery just a little more. This year I started to learn gold work, and that has been a good stretch for me, and has made me read more about embroidery in general. I wish I had more time to enjoy it all and keep learning.
I am a self-taught embroiderer, pre-internet days;) I wish I had started my embroidery journey earlier, and on a more serious level!
I would have spent more time stitching when I was younger. I would have attended the RSN in my twenties, I still would love to, but health problems make it unlikely.
I need to complete more of the projects that I start. Also, I used to be very organized when it came to my stitching supplies. Would like to get back to that.
I wish I would have kept up with it throughout my life. I started as a child and as a young adult. Then as I married and got busy with family I did not do any more until about twelve years ago when a counted cross stitch store opened in town.
I’m definitely a seasoned stitcher: 45+ years and still going! If I could change anything about my stitching journey: maybe be less afraid of failing or messing something up, and therefore to have fewer long-term WIPs. I’ve always had a bit of a perfectionist streak in me – which is good in its way – but it gets in the way of finishing projects (can I just say how much I hate buttonhole/blanket stitches, they are a hot mess for me) or signing up for a class in an unfamiliar technique. Over the course of pandemic lockdown, I’ve started letting go of those fears in favour of just doing it. So I’m about to rip out/replace a messy buttonhole border on a 10-year-old project (haven’t decided on a replacement stitch yet, it has to be an edging finish of some sort) AND I just finished a goldwork class and signed up for another. I’m learning that you’re never to old to learn and how good it feels to finish-finish long-neglected projects!
What a beautiful and inspiring book!
My mom was a fan of Erica Wilson and she encouraged me to learn to embroider. I remember spending many hours on various embroidery projects. Once I got married and had children, artistic pursuits were non-existent for me. Now that I’m retired I’m trying to make up for lost time and embroidery is one of the arts I’ve returned to. I wish I’d kept it up at least a little over the past years but at least I am enjoying it again now.
I would be less hard on myself and just enjoy the pleasure of stitching right from the start.
Whether you’re a seasoned stitcher or even just a recent newbie, if there were anything you could do differently about your needlework journey so far, what would it be? My answer to your question is simple. I do a lot of stitching but I have a tendency not to finish my completed stitching into its intended form or frame it. My wish for 2021 is to complete the stitching and then complete the finishing into its final form.
I wish I had spent more time learning from my great aunt and her group of stitcher friends. I still marvel at the beautiful pieces they did individually and as a group.
I would have talked with my grand-mother about embroidery when she was doing Renaissance work and enquire about her work. She was such a good embroiderer. But then she started a dementia and could not speak and it was too late. I wish I could have worked along with her. But she died in 1987.
What would I have done differently? I’d have joined our local and national embroidery guilds sooner. They provide excellent information, mentorship, workshops, programs, and an annual Seminar with amazing teachers, designs, and classes. What a wonderful community!
Thanks for the chance to win. I think I would practice a lot more than I do.
Hi, Mary! How lovely of you to do this each year! I’ve been stitching since I was 4. The only thing I’d do differently would have chosen a different place to live so I could incorporate dying threads and fabric into my skill set! Thank you.
I started stitching as a young child both at home and at girls club. In my teens and twenties I did a lot of cross stitch. Now I’m back to embroidery and enjoying creating some of my own designs as well as stitching from patterns. I’m still enjoying the journey!
I wish I had confidence in my stitching. I always think others have so much more talent.
I am fairly new to embroidery and one thing I would change if I could would be to be able to make more time for practice and also to not focus so hard on trying for perfection , I think if I could do these two things I could relax and enjoy it more instead of getting frustrated.
That’s so beautiful. And simple!
I was a seasoned stitcher before I had my children. I have started embroidery again about a year ago, since becoming an empty nester.
If I could anything differently, I would if taught my daughter’s to embroider a young age. L Merry
You reviewed a book named Ricamo Estense a few years ago. I have been to Italy twice since that review, and I looked all over for that book. I realize I could order it online, but it was the excitement of actually purchasing it in Italy that moved me. I am in awe of Italian embroidery, and I would LOVE to win this subscription!!!
If there were anything I would do differently, I guess it would be forcing myself to split threads before stitching. I’ve tried it but never saw any difference, so I lazily continue to separate two or three strands at a time, as the situation requires.
I hope you are well and safe and happy, Mary.
What I would do differently about my needlework journey is quite simply…..spend more time with it improving my skills. With also be a quilter, there never seems like there is enough time in a day to work on everything I’d like to.
Because I am very new at anything but stamped cross stitch this is very challenging for me. I wish I could find an easier way to remember how to do the stitches that are used in some of the projects I have chosen. They are very tedious for me and trying to read from a book is not always the best. Videos are great but not always available at the time. I will continue to try and hopefully learn.
I love Italian needlework and would like to learn some of the techniques. This magazine looks beautiful, as does the project shown.
I would diversify my stitching sooner to discover other types of embroidery
I have found out that I love learning new stitches and improving old ones. If I could change my stitch journey, I would have made more time to take classes, join a guild, or looked for other sources of information and inspiration.
I wish I could wave a magic wand to finish my stash of projects. I wish I could have been more disciplined, to not start a new project until the current one is finished!
I should really make the time to explore different aspects of embroidery. I love reading about it all and looking at all the beautiful pictures, but I don’t actually try it out – I stick with what is most comfortable. There’s always hope!
I’ve been stitching since the mid-70s, and there are too many things I would have done differently, had I only known. How to pick just one? Well, I confess to having to pick two. First, I would have started stitching on linen so much earlier than the mid-90s, that’s for sure. Second, I would have looked for embroidery classes earlier, as well. I love learning new techniques, new stitches, and seeing what other people are doing. I missed a lot, but I’m trying to make up for lost time!
I have been stitching for about 45 years. I love all aspects of it. My only wish is that I had know Tricia at Thistle threads sooner in my life! I Love all of the things she does as well as all of the things that you give us on the website!
If I could do one thing to change my embroidery journey, it would be to get more formal training. I am basically self-taught but treated myself to a class the San Francisco School of Needlework and learned so much in one day.
Ooh! This is interesting- If I could do one thing differently I think it would be to get better base fabrics. I struggled a lot early on from using cheap/uneven fabrics for counted work and it really could have been easily avoided!
The main thing I would have done differently in my needlework journey is tried harder to teach my daughter earlier. She’s learning now that she’s grown, but it would have been wonderful to have taught her when she was younger, like my Momma taught me. I didn’t have the patience or know-how then. I do now!
Being neither a newbie nor a master as far as how much knowledge I have in the world of embroidery, I am very passionate about it. I realize that the more I seek to discover in this world, the more there is to learn. The world of embroidery is such a big world to explore. So, if there were anything that I could do differently about my needlework journey , I suppose it would be to shoot for the moon! ……. To be blessed with an amazing opportunity to learn all that I could from those who have mastered the art of embroidery to the highest level like “The Royal Academy of Embroidery” in England as well as to make and take the time to learn from the resources that I have available to me here and now. The ternary of the urgent is what distracts me and pulls me from my passion followed by fatigue when I need the energy to concentrate on the projects that are calling to me.
My journey , unfortunately, has become quiet stagnant but look forward to renew my enthusiasm and carve out time, once again, for this gift that can bring my soul so much joy.
Thank you Mary for all that do to give of yourself in sharing the love of embroidery with all those who share your passion .
I gave up stitching when my kids were little and was able to pick it back up a couple years ago. I wish I would have kept stitching- think of all the projects I would have completed! I had to relearn so much when I started back.
What would I change about my journey? I would take more classes and workshops from the many talented needleworkers stitching today. There is such a wealth of information now, I’m determined to take more classes in 2021!
I love learning new techniques along with finishing ideas.
Thank you
I have been stitching since a little girl, but I read your blog to learn better ways to make my stitches neater, more consistent and beautiful!!
Thank you so much for the wonderful giveaway. This magazine is so inspiring! What I’d do differently is to buy less Aida fabric (!!!) but also, to be more daring and try new techniques. Also, I would like to carve more time to practice. But Web sites like yours and Trish Burr are so helpful! Take care!
Early on I bought too much for my stash. I’m more careful now but the damage is done. 🙂
This looks like an amazing magazine. Thanks for the lovely offer.
Of course I’d love to win either of todays gifts, but my comment is not trying to influence the decision, it’s the truth. The ONE thing I would change (if I could) when I first began stitching (about 3 years ago) would be to have found your website on the first day of searching for instructions! I have learned more from reading and watching your videos on instruction then all the other information I have found. Thank you for your wonderful clear instructions and all the hard work you put into your site, shop and blog. Your talents are a gift to us learning the craft.
As a newbie to this wonderful world of embroidery I would like to be able to set aside some daytime hours for stitching and improving my skills. However as sole caregiver for my 93 year old husband and 3 fur kids, I manage only a few late night moments to work on my projects. But they are cherished, restorative moments!
I would be more organized with my stash. I love stitching more than organizing. I mean well, but get side tracked when I am looking at threads, patterns, etc. I try – but, I end up kitting a new project instead of organizing!!
The only thing I would change about my needlework journey is to start trying different techniques sooner 🙂
I’m a long time stitcher. If there were something different I wish I had done, it would be to have been more adventurous in the variety of stitches earlier on. Also, I was supposed to go to Ireland this year and the Mountmellick Museum was on my list. Obviously, Covid prevented the travel. I’d REALLY love to win that Mountmellick kit!
haha – what I would do differently is – make more time to stitch! too often my plans go awry – and I dont make up the time I lost. thx
The one thing I might change about my needlework journey so far, I wish that I had signed or marked with my initials, some of the things I’ve given away over the years.
I would like to be able to know what stitches would be best suited for an area I’m working on.
I am a seasoned hand at embroidery, I started when I was in the Navy and bored. Once my equipment was repaired, I could do anything I wanted as long as I stayed around the shop area. So, I learned to stitch. I’d like to say that I would change something about my journey such as I wish I’d started advancing my learning earlier, but really, I’ve continued to learn new techniques through the years and improved my skills, so I’m content.
i think i would do more stitching, it is a meditation of sorts for me.
I would make more time…
Thank You for sharing all your wonderful art, it always makes me smile
Take Care…You Matter…
Blessings’mary
Probably just be more confident. I have many ufos because I was displeased with my efforts. Remember to look for the joy in stitching and focus less on perfection.
I would become more organized. I have threads in several different boxes and embroidery needles with other needles. I would be able to stitch more easily if I were better organized.
Dont know that the journey would be different. While loving beautiful stitchery, I don’t make/take the time it takes to perfect new skills.
I have stitching seriously about 20 years. My biggest regret is that I didn’t do more earlier in my life and that I didn’t explore beyond counted cross stitch sooner.
What a great project ! I am ordering one.
It would have liked to have started earlier in life. I have heard other stitchers say similar comments but still grateful to have found stitching when I did.
I would sign up for an in-person embroidery workshop class. I’m self taught and need real hands on instruction. I need to improve my long and short stitch technique. I’ve only seen bits of this magazine on websites and it appears to be so special.
The only thing that I would have done differently in my embroidery journey would have been to join the local guild much earlier. I picked up embroidery as a teenager and first realized there was a local guild a few years later as a university student upon reading a newspaper article focusing on the group. It was quite a while ago so the specifics escape me. I was intrigued but intimidated. Had I had my time back I would have at least investigated it at that time. I did join much later but I do wonder at the learning opportunities missed by waiting. The guild members have a wealth of knowledge and love to share. They are also a lovely group of people. I have not regretted my decision to join even for a nanosecond.
Thank you for the giveaways, Mary. I’ve only been visiting your blog for a couple months as I look into beginning embroidery after a 30 year hiatus from a cross-stitching hobby. I didn’t enter the previous two giveaways as the skill required is beyond me, but I can handle a magazine or a beginner kit. If I could change one thing about my needlework journey it would be to make time for needlework while raising and caring for family. The information now available can overwhelm a perfectionist like me and keep me from getting back into something I used to enjoy. Your hoop wrapping guide was my first step forward…I’m looking for beginning kits now as choosing my own fabric and threads is too difficult, and the kit you are giving away is lovely.
If you would come into my home, you would instantly know that I am a stitcher. I have been stitching ever since I can remember. Since I am in my 80s, that’s a long time.
If there is anything to change about my stitching it would be this: I would like to have made more of my own designs instead of doing kits by others.
I would have found others to stitch with. I am still hoping to find a friend near me to join me on my stitching journey.
I never had anyone to teach me. I so wish I had, but 50+ years down the road, I depend on books like this! There’s always some wonderful stitch or technique to learn and use. Much love to everywhere shares their knowledge
Such a beautiful magazine and kit! I would be honored to have it join Inspirations on my bookshelf. (And I missed the deadline for #1 — the beautiful hand dyed threads!! Oh well…)
Lovely piece! I would have taken classes on more types of needlework, particularly those more common in Europe. Hopefully, when this pandemic is over, we’ll be able to travel again to have these experiences. Online classes are good but just not the whole culture immersion. ☺️
Thank you Mary. I’ve followed my heart on my needlework journey, so I don’t think I’d change anything, except maybe starting to move beyond counted work much earlier. There’s so much more to learn!
Devote more time to practice and perfecting stitches.
I don’t think I would change anything. I live it all and finding new areas to explore and refine is wonderful,
I would feel very honored to receive this gift. Your generosity is greatly appreciated. Stay well and keep safe.
Hi, Mary,
I am barely even a newbie– I am more of a wannabe stitcher.
Here’s what I would change in my stitching journey: years ago, I should have bought a decent beginner’s kit so that I could start gaining stitching skill. Instead, I have been trying to figure out how to begin. I over-think everything.
Beth
I’d love either of the giveaways today.
What I would have done differently i my journey is difficult to say, I started about age 7 , I think I would have liked to stitch more when my children were home, I didn’t make it a priority.
Wow, I will be looking into both of these publications now! Thank you!
If I could have done anything differently, it would have been to start sooner! I am not that old yet but I can already see I won’t have time to “do it all” – there’s so much to try!! 🙂
I am a newer embroiderer. If I could go back and change anything, I would do 15 minutes of embroidery practice every day. In fact, I think I’ll start that today!!
I wish that I had kept better records of pieces I’ve stitched. Even though I can see how I’ve progressed it would be nice to have a written record of the choices I made based on what I’ve learned along the way.
I’m somewhat of a seasoned stitcher and somewhat of a newbie. When I was a young teen, I did a crewel project with very little instruction and was not thrilled with it. Off and on since my 20s I did counted cross stitch, but became bored with just doing Xs and the counting was tedious, so I put it aside. Now I have discovered the many different embroidery stitches, techniques, and available threads to work with, and I feel like I have to make up for lost time! There is so much I want to try. I wish I had discovered the embroidery internet world sooner. Thank you, Mary for your site. It is such an inspiration.
If I could do anything different in my sewing life I would keep my sewing room organized much better. I hate having to buy a new ruler when I just know I have that exact ruler somewhere in there!
My stitching journey has been diverse. I don’t think I would change a thing. We all would like to accomplish more, but I remind myself that to keep everything in balance there is a devotion of time to many things.
I would be honored to receive this generous gift ..
Hummingbird in NS
Love your newsletters
Compliments of the season
If I could do anything differently, I would stop myself from deciding a project or technique is too difficult before I’ve even tried it! Just jump in and try it – who knows what will happen!
I would have joined the Embroiderer’s Guild of America earlier in my stitching journey. I have learned so much about needlework from being a member of EGA, things that I never would have discovered on my own.
I have been doing multiple embroidery techniques for over 50 years. I absolutely love learning new types of needlework styles and then designing both miniature and large-scale uses for those new skills. For the first several decades, though, I thought of embroidery and its many off-shoots as defined by the limitations of one thing, (one technique per project), whether it be wallhangings, table linens, or bed linens. Each project was fun, and, (I hope), beautiful and delicately wrought, but limited to one technique only — like embroidery, blackwork, or cutwork, or silk ribbon or tatting. Far more recently though, I’ve come to realize that I can stack techniques into a single project, which generates much more unique and challenging outcomes. I love the versatility and creative uniqueness of joining multiple techniques, especially incorporating them into my second passion, which is quiltmaking. Since this breakthrough, I’ve made numerous miniature and large crossover projects, such as wall hangings and art quilts that recipients have raved over, and I have absolutely loved the design challenges of merging and paralleling unlike fiber mediums. My wish is that I would have realized that once I had perfected each unique style, that I would have incorporated them into crossover projects much sooner in life. The renewed joy that I now have in creating unique designs and handwork has inspired me so much that I simply cannot find enough hours in each day to hand-stitch everything I can imagine. That’s why I love your blog. It reintroduces me to techniques I haven’t practiced in years, and it introduces me to so many new styles to add to my skill set. Many thanks and God bless you for sharing your technical and creative knowledge. I always look forward to reading your posts, like a chocoholic awaiting the next bite of luscious, sweet goodness.
I am only 5 months into my stitching journey. If there was anything I could do differently, it would be to have started years ago!
My journey of needlework started many years ago when I was nine and was doing embroidery stitches with an old spool of thread and a rusted needle. I came from a very long line on non sewers, and I fell in love with the stitching an older friend of my grandmother was doing when we visited her. Since then I have been teaching needlework for many years but I wish I had taken time to take classes just for myself.
I have had such a wonderful journey in my all my stitching pursuits that I can’t think of what could have made it better. Maybe organizing my stitching stash so my search for what I need would be easier. That would be nice!
The basic stitches are good, however recently branching out to use more of the decorative stitches, so my journey going forward is to continue learning and using as many stitches as possible.
I don’t know if I would have done anything differently. I’ve been stitching for about 45 years now. Maybe I should have asked my Mum for more advice about stitching growing up and learned more from her.
The changes that I would make in my embroidery would be to embellish the details with color and stitches. I am challenging myself this year to learn more stitches. Thank you again for this giveaway
What a beautiful book and two part give-away!
I always enjoy seeing your work. This looks like a wonderful book. Your videos have helped me a lot.
If I could magically live a parallel life, I would dedicate that parallel to embroidery; as I am forced to live just this one track life, it is dedicated to quilting. Fortunately, my grandmother taught me to embroider as a child so I have the skills to embellish my quilts but I’m always seeking new ways blend heavier stitching into a quilt top without distorting the piecing or compromising the fabric. Always a challenge worth pursuing.
If I had it to do over, I would discipline myself and work on a limited number of different projects at any given time. Unfortunately, that has not been the case and consequently, I have many, many, many projects in an unfinished state and I am aging rapidly! They will never be finished! However, my curiousity has been satisfied.
I think the main thing I would do differently would be to simply do more – more embroidery, more cross stitch, more of everything that involves a needle and thread. I would like to take classes so I could learn more too.
Thank you once again Mary for the chance to win beautiful things – that magazine looks amazing!
If I could go back and do something differently in my stitching journey, I wouldn’t take any shortcuts and I would go by the book! In my early stitching years I didn’t use hoops, didn’t wash or prep my fabrics, didn’t pull together supplies ahead of time because the prep work that saves you so much time later seemed like too much work. But skipping some important prep steps led to road blocks or to problems in projects. I know better now!
I did a little stitching as a young girl and have recently come back to embroidery in midlife. I’ve been inspired by so much beautiful work that stitchers around the world so generously share online and in their books. They have broadened my horizons immensely. If I could do one thing differently, it would be to take more risks–to just jump in and try something and let it be a stepping stone rather than a finished product. It is hard to have “practice” pieces when the desire to create a completed work of beauty is so strong.
I’d be much more venturesome in my use of colour and in my choice of different stitches.
I love the arts and science. I chose a career in science and still work at the USGS but I sometimes think what if I had chosen to attend a needlework school and pursue embroidery and design instead. When I was young the path seemed like it should be science and math. The decisions are so hard; I love it all. My family is always telling me to focus on one thing but that is just not who I am. I love to learn and try it all. Thank you Mary for sharing with us.
As a newbie, if I could do something differently on my needlework journey, I would have budgeted better for framing expenses. It is so worth it to have projects finished by a skilled professional.
Love needlework and handwork. I am a self taught embroiderer and am enjoying learning new techniques even though I have being doing embroidery for approximately 50 years!
I’m now 70 years old, and enjoying so much embroidery, I only wish I had started 50 years ago!!!
Hi Mary, One thing I hope to do differently than I have in the past, is to not spend so much time trying to find or match exactly the designer’s list of supplies for projects and just enjoy using my stash or easier to get supplies. I no longer am concerned about getting all the expensive overdyed silks listed in a project when stranded cottons in solid colors can still look nice. I was disappointed to find in a designer’s thread pack that the yard of overdyed silk was almost all dull grey with very little pink and blue so my project would not end up looking like the photo at all. I found out later that she cuts out areas of overdyed silks that she does not want to use and just uses the sections that have the colors she wants to get a certain effect.
I’m new to embroidery and if I could change anything about this journey, I wish I had started at a much younger age. So much to do in so little time!
I would have started much earlier in life. I’m afraid I don’t have enough years left to do all the stitching I want to do!
The thing I would do over in my journey is to get better organized and take pictures of my work.
I have been stitching for a while but I wish I had seen some of the projects in Inspiration and Giuliana earlier in my stitching. I think I would have stretched my technique to more perfection to recreate some of the projects I have recently viewed.
If I had it to do over, I would have spent more time and effort on the wonderful techniques I was introduced to early in my life by my needlework guild. But I’m not dead yet so I’m going back and trying to figure out some of those pieces!
This magazine looks very intriguing. Very interested in European needlework. According to my mom, her Italian mother crocheted many household items as well as slip bodices for her her daughters. Though unappreciated at the time, mom wishes she still had some of these hand made items.
Buon Natale!
I have done only cross stitch for many years but I want to start embroidery but can’t seem to begin. I have followed you for over a year and bought several books, the Italian ones because I really love Italian embroidery. I think I need a kit to help me begin the transition. Thanks so much for your site and newsletter.
So Lovely! It’s imperative to help keep the tradition of needlework alive – in any form – and is something we all can participate in by sharing our passion with others! Thank you Mary for sharing yours so generously with the world!
I wish I’d found this website 10 years ago when I first started looking at embroidery.
I would probably find more time to learn
If I had known about the Embroiderers’ Guild of America when I was in my 20s, I would have been in heaven. I thought I was the odd one for wanting to stitch and create. Now I know that I just had not found my people.
On my needlework journey I only wish that I had started earlier in my life to try all the different techniques. I kind of feel like I will run out of time before I have experienced at least a little bit of it all!
As I continue to pursue my passion for fiber arts, I would love to find more classes to take, to “sit at the feet of a mentor”. It is for this reason I am thrilled to find Needlenthread with its tutorials and inspiration. Thank you Mary for offering us riches of information.
I think I would have stayed with embroidery, cross stitch and needlepoint instead of getting into making quilts. I’m slowly finishing quilts I have started as I try to spend my time hand stitching instead.
Two nice giveaways. Would enjoy either. Thanks Mary!
I would invest in better lighting earlier!
I would love to explore more varieties of fibers in my work.
Patty
I would have done some serious Needlework training, I am now 71 and wish I had known of a course I could have done 30 years ago when I began my embroidery journey.
I am always looking for new techniques to learn and add to my projects. Looks like a great magazine. Thank you for the contest.
Now that is a very hard question! I have been sewing, embroidering and quilting most of my life but until I found Needle and Thread, my stitching journey was pretty stale; same old stitches, thread, projects and so on. I did a project when I was a member of The Jane Austen club at a quilt shop in Texas that included embroidery. I learned some new tips which was the catalyst for opening up my stitching journey. Needle & Thread has been monumental in exploring new ideas, materials and projects. So, many thanks to Mary and the wonderful and jam packed newsletter!
I wish I had taken pictures of my finished work and the person I gifted them to. While I have fond memories, I am pretty sure I don’t remember everyone and everything I have done.
Also wish I had joined a guild years ago, but so happy that I have found others who enjoy the art and craft of needle arts.
P. S. Purchased a subscription last year to the magazine and it is awesome. The pages are gorgeous and have several projects earmarked from its pages.
Bonjour Mary,
J’ai toujours brodé mais j’ai fait uniquement du point de croix pendant des années. Donc, ce que je ferais c’est prendre des cours pour apprendre les différentes broderies beaucoup plus tôt dans ma vie.
Je viens juste de commander les trois numéros en anglais de la revue !!! Alors, un abonnement me plairait beaucoup.
Merci Mary
I have been stitching since I was a young girl taught by my Mother and admired the talent of my Hungarian Grandmother who did many forms of needlework. When I moved into a neighborhood in the very early 80’s I was very fortunate to became friends with a neighbor who had the same interest in needlework as I and we journeyed through needlework together. The thing I would change about my journey through needlework was to try to take more classes and retreats and keep all that I have stitched instead of donating them, even though they were out of style. However I did get pleasure out of giving homemade gifts to friends and family who seemed to value my talent. I am so interested in the Guiliana Ricama magazine and excited about the English version. Enjoy your newsletter. Thanks for sharing.
More time on preparation would make each project go more smoothly with less need to undo or improvise to make up for the errors caused by poor preparation. I wish I had gotten that through my head years ago and that preparation came more naturally to me now.
I’m when I am in the mood stitcher. I would like to take time to try some other types.
I would have loved the opportunity to learn from some of the wonderfully-talented embroidery artists of today by taking many of their classes, but since that is not possible, the change I could make in my own journey is to take more care in setting up and finishing my projects. Thank you Mary!
I like embroider and I would like to practice the Italian embroidery to add to my project for 2021.
I must admit I’ve never tried Italian techniques, but have great memories of browsing through antique Italian embroidered linens in Tuscan hill towns!
Over my lifetime I have tried my hand at many of the stitching and sewing arts. I have done some things right looking back, like making silk and French lace doll clothes for my daughter when she was small. She still has them 30 years later. But I can also say I should have focused more on making lace which I love most since it would have improved my skill level, instead of doing a plethora of other things. But I simply cannot resist having a project at hand at all times…..
I think the one thing I would do differently, in hindsight, is have made my PVC pipe lap stand/frame sooner. Would’ve saved some hand cramps from holding hoops for extended time.
I’m happy with my needlepoint journey. I’ve had a lot of great experiences in classes and met great people.
In thinking back over many decades, I would have been less intimidated by the Embroiderers’ Guild of America. The word “Guild” really kept me in awe of the work they did. I should have realized that being exposed to women and men who stitched so well would have raised my level of expertise. This has happened, but later than it could have.
The thing I would like to do differently is to branch out on my type stiches. I tend to stick to the same ones that I fee comfortable with.
I love the flower design.
I would like to attend workshops in order to advance my stitching. At this time not possible but I look forward to it in the future. Liz Isam
If I had one “stitching” wish…it would be to find a better way to transfer my design ideas onto the fabric (of yes, and to be left alone to stitch to my heart’s content!)
Grazie Millie!
The part of my journey that I would have changed would be to have joined the Embroiderers’ Guild much sooner. Being a member has taught me so much, and has exposed me to a large range of beautiful techniques . Embroidery has enriched my life so much!
My only regret is that I haven’t devoted enough time to this lovely art. Seems there never is enough time for all of the wonderful things in life. You are a smart woman, to figure out a way to make a living from your art. Congratulations!
My needlework journey so far has been interesting and fun, lots of side trips to try new techniques or view new sights. I have enjoyed the journey but wish I would have spent more time on some of the side trips. But this year with the “stay at home” directives as given me time to revist some of the side trips.
I’m in love with Giuliana’s designs. Crossing my fingers that I can win a subscription or kit.
I’ve been stitching for about 60 years. I would take more chances and try new techniques. Thanks!
Mary, Firstly, I love your newsletters! Much of the needlework is way above my skill level but I am in awe of it; it’s all simply beautiful.
Most of my needlework journey has been needlepoint and, in the last few years, sashiko and kogin. For a long time I was intimidated by the more complicated forms of embroidery. I wish I’d discovered sashiko earlier in my journey for through it I have learned how to control stitch length and stitch spacing.
Thanks for the opportunity to win this lovely kit, I think I could actually handle it!
I wish I had discovered how embroidery was such a joyful experience much sooner in my life. There is so much beautiful things I want to do.
I started embroidery at 10 years old, so I’ve had a chance to try so much that I can’t think of anything I’d change.
I learned to do basic embroidery when I was very small doing flour sack towels and the like with iron on transfers, but then took a lot of years off, only coming back to it in my twenties with counted cross stitch. I finally found my true love in goldwork, needlelace and stumpwork along with other historical techniques in my thirties. I really wish I had found these much earlier.
I’ve been a (mostly) counted cross stitcher for at least 40 years. What I would do differently is – I would have started with better quality tools/supplies. As I was introduced to new designers or techniques, I would have tried them out on a small scale before jumping in with both feet and buying lots of stuff that I never went back to.
Embroidery books can be in so many languages, yet we can all understand them, just because we can follow the craft through the diagrams and the pictures. In the process we do learn the meaning of many of the words written in a different language solely because we are passionate about the art form we enjoy and practice with our needles and thread.
In my stitching journey,I really need to improve my orgainzational skills. My sewing room looks like a bomb went off, so I tend to lose things that should come to hand easily. My desk doesn’t look like that but the stitching area is a mess, and everytime I start working on sorting the knitting, from the quilting, from the different types of hand embroidery, somthing, or somebody calls my attention elsewhere and things only seem to get worse. Marie Kondo would have an apoplexy if she saw my space.
Anything I would do differently? The thing that jumps out is the pencil marks on a needlepoint piece I did. I miscounted and have several pencil lines that are not covered by the silk floss. In my naïveté, I assumed I would be able to get them out. I am terrified of destroying the work, so it sits, its gorgeous frame awaiting the day I am brave enough to attempt to soak the pencil marks out.
if I could do anything differently from my current embroidery pathway, it would be to try harder to develop better work habits! To give myself permission to have a set stitching time each week, to complete more of the projects that I undertake,to keep my supplies more organized. What I would not change is the opportunities that I have had to teach others – to awaken and help them to develop their skills in my passion.
I have been a stitcher for the past 40 years. At this point I feel I could have challenged myself more, joined the guild sooner to learn new types for embroidery. My Mom taught me stamped embroidery stitches and the store where I worked I found petit point, needlepoint and cross stitch. It wasn’t until I joined the guild I found white work, Brazilian embroidery, hardanger, temari and others.
I guess you could call me a seasoned stitcher. I have had a threaded needle in my hand for years and always excited by a new technique, a different thread and of course ideas from everyone. I tend to focus on counted stitching, but I will explore other styles as well.
Donna
Long ago my love for the stitch began by following the numbers on stamped cardboard pictures. Soon after that my grandmother began showing me how to embroider. I have been playing with needles & thread from then on. Embroidery is my favorite form of creative expression.
I have enjoyed needlework for many years but largely confined myself to needlepoint and some embroidery. I WISH I had experimented with other types of needlework, especially crewelwork and needlepainting, much much earlier because now I have so many ideas and projects in my head I will never have the time to finish them all!
I would try to be more disciplined about finishing projects that I have started! I have way too many UFOs. Some projects we all lose interest in and choose not to finish, I’ve given those away, but there are still so many I do plan to finish.
I love needlecrafts, but I wish I could be more confident and experimental in what I do.
I am a beginner in the embroidery world, practicing to gain skills for my stitches and learning new techniques. I need to spend more time practicing ! Can we make a 26 hour clock ??? :=}
If I could do something differently I would have joined my local needlework guild sooner! I have learned so much in a short period of time there. Plus the camaraderie, support, laughter, encouragement, kindness, generosity, and exposure to new ideas have taken my stitching farther than anything I would have done on my own. I suggest looking to find a guild in your area.
There is only one thing that I can think of to do differently…possibly better organize my threads, fabrics, patterns and books!
If I could go back 50 plus years I would make more time for stitching in my daily life for the calmness it brings.
I would have taken a class so I could learn from a pro in person!
Recently retired, I would have made more time for stitching while I was working. This would have been aided by setting up projects so they were easy to pick up and go when a free moment presented itself (I enjoyed your posts on project organization) something I plan to do now!
If I could change anything I would have limited my stash of projects. I would have put 4 in progress with only 5 more in stash.
I bought and subsequently gave away/sold a lot of potential projects. I don’t mind my thread or fabric or tool collection but all those canvases and kits staring at me represent a lot of wasted money and endless quilt.
Oh, this is beautiful!! Ciao!
I have been doing embroidery for around 50 years. My Mother started me on it when she gave me a stamped pair of pillow cases. My regret is that I have never really progressed beyond the stem stitch and the satin stitch. Those are all she taught me, probably the only ones that she was taught. I need to advance! Now that I’m retired, maybe it’s time.
I have been counted cross stitching for 30+ years. If I could change something it would be to explore European needlework techniques.
Such a simple but elegant design. I’ve followed you forever and learned so much. I would love to work on this design.
I have been stitching since I was six years old — that gives me 62 years of stitching. I wish that I had kept a journal of my projects as I have kept a journal of my sewing. It’s fun to look back and see what you “thought” was good and to see the changes and improvement as both you and your stitching age! Thank you, Mary.
The one thing I would do differently is try to find classes to take to better improve my needlework skills. And if I could find more time to perfect the skill, it would be wonderful!
I started this journey with my mother and printed cross stitch and then stopped as a teenager. I picked it up again right before she passed. My biggest thing I would love to change was to start it again earlier so we could have shared the beauty of it.
I think the thing I would change on my needlework journey is that I would have started earlier. Wasted too much time saying I didn’t like needlework. Now I feel like so little time left,so many things left to sew
I am a beginning to intermediate embroiderer. I only use DMC floss. I’ve only recently come across Mary Corbett and love the newsletters and help it provides. I don’t think I would do much different in my needlework journey. It is a slow and skillful process that takes time to master. That’s the way I like it.
Having been an embroiderer most of my 79 years and a member of EGA since 1981, one thing I wish I had done differently is keep a record of all the stitching I have done in the last 40 years. I see posts about keeping a needlework journal and I’m afraid it is too late to start now!
Hi Mary!
If I could do something different about my embroidery journey, it would have been to have joined the Embroiderer’s Guild of America 15 or 20 years ago, rather than just 5 years ago. It has been such a terrific and rewarding experience to have so many friends and acquaintances who share the same passion for an art and pastime that is such an integral part of my life today. Happy stitching, everyone!
Morning Mary-
I’m a recent newbi; if I could do anything different I would have started embroidery sooner in my life. I concentrated on quilting by hand. So, here I am at 69, still working part time and trying to find time to learn embroidery before my eyes get worse. Slow and steady as she goes…… the wonder and excitement of learning never stops!!! Thanks mary
I would have discovered silk threads and linen earlier. I discovered silk in 2005 and a whole new world opened up!
I would so dearly have loved to have studied at the Royal School of Needlework when I left school. Unfortunately, at the time, working class girls from the Welsh valleys had few opportunities to pursue artistic career choices, so I had to get a “proper job”, which would bring money in to the family home. I had to content myself with stitching the printed linens I was able to purchase from the small haberdashery shop in my village. This was until I discovered by chance, the first issue of Inspirations magazine. It was then I realised there were embroidery techniques beyond the surface stitched crinoline lady! Since then I’ve learned a variety of embroidery styles, my favourite being crewel work, and I now run a stitching group, teaching others how to embroider. I’ve finally reached where I wanted to be, but I still feel that I could have had many more years of glorious embroidery, if I’d learned more advanced techniques at a younger age.
I would love to be able to stitch like this! Exquisite!
I adore sewing, but if I could change anything at all, apart from tidying my stash as I go along, it would be: to be as enthusiastic in the middle of a project, as I am at the beginning, and nearing the end.
As a returning needlework stitcher, I wish there had been access to more stitchery groups. A friend introduced me to your blog and also the magazine “Inpsirations” and I eagerly read each issue.
In short, more information and ideas and friendships would have greatly enhanced my use of embroidery.
I would spend more time practicing techniques and using the best quality materials I could afford to use. It is disappointing to create projects with materials that don’t give the same beautiful results as the designer intended.
There is nothing I would do differently. I have tried every technique that has come my way. I have learned which I like and those that I prefer not to do. I quit working before I was 60 just so that I could spend my days doing what I want, of course that is stitch. I usually stitch my own ideas. I take lots of inspiration from posts on Facebook and Instagram. I have always purchased threads and fabrics etc… just because I loved the color or the way it handled. Now whenever an idea strikes I have all the supplies to just jump in. Thank you for all the inspiration and valuable information I have found on your site.
I would try harder to set a more regular time .. daily or weekly .. to embroider. And I need to break back out of the Xstitch mould!
What a fantastic question!
I Embroidered a poem for my mother-in-law for her birthday. It took me two years because of using cheap floss and not preparing the fabric. It ended up wrinkly and looking quite amateur. Insert cliché about preparation here!
I love the stitches in this kit. It would be fun to do.
If I had my stitching journey to do all over again…I would try to be less worried about perfection and let loose a bit more. Oh, and also skip ever doing cross stitch as I enjoy so many other forms of needlework so much more.
Giuliana Ricama’s work is spectacular!
I am a newbie to embroidery. I have only done embellishments on many of my applique projects. I have been very enthralled by all the beautiful pieces that can be produced with such a wealth of threads and techniques. I would love to learn more!
Sheri
Beautiful magazine, happy it comes in an English language version
My journey so far gravitates toward acquisition of many beautiful embroidery books, and studying Mary’s videos. If starting again, I would not hesitate so long to start each new project — more tactile time and less cerebral time! Even while doubting my skills, each piece turns out better than imagined. Using kits helps immensely.
I did my first embroidery project when I was 10, in 1970 but no one appreciated it as no one cared about clothes with stitches on skirts, shirts. Everyone was into modern things. I switched to knitting then and it was more useful at that time, cold winters in Poland.
Anyway, I am back to embroidery after all these years and enjoying small project but I wish I did not give up.
I often rush into a project just by looking at the finished product without devoting enough time to think about the project itself. I would spend more time researching the end project and spend time acquring/perfecting the skills needed and strive to imrpove my skill.
I’m not sure I would have done anything different. I’ve always ended up being glad that I got involved in organizations and jumped into their activities which has exposed me to many new techniques, some of which I loved. Even the things that I tried that I didn’t love, taught me not to do them again.
I would investigate the possibility of taking needlework courses from teachers in other countries and learn more about attending the RSN.
I’ve been stitching since I was about 5 or 6 years old. The idea you could draw a line and do something with it, fascinated me. I don’t do a lot of surface embroidery nowadays, and maybe that’s something I should have been working on all along? But then you find something that really resonates with your inner self, and off you go in that direction! If I had anything to do differently, it might be to not do as much stitching for others and stitch more for myself and what makes me happy.
Appears I can’t read instructions very well, I have been stitching for over 50 years, and the only thing I can think of to do differently is I would have loved taking a royal school of needlework class when my eyes were younger
Spend more time stitching!
I think I would have been better served to have mastered a technique one at a time rather than dabbling in so many without mastery.
After having letting it lapse for a while, I started my needlework again several years ago. I only wish that I had gone back to it much earlier! There is never enough time to do all that we wish to do so it would have given me the gift of more time to stitch.
I wish I had discovered the Embroiderers Guild of America (EGA) earlier in my life. The educational experience completely changed and challenged me as a stitcher. The friendships and mentoring have sustained and supported every area of my life. I really needed this type of connection and I am forever grateful for my chapter, region and national associations.
As a fairly new stitcher, I wish I would have discovered embroidery sooner in life. I began learning embroidery shortly after having my baby boy last year and it has been such a joy (but also such a challenge!) learning new stitches and working on projects in between naps and late at night. Better late then never, however! I am still so grateful for the calm and focus embroidery brings to me in the time I have to enjoy it. I also wish I had discovered Needle ‘n Thread sooner, because Mary Corbett’s instruction videos are the clearest and most thorough tutorials I have come across, and have been so useful in helping me to learn and master new stitches. Thank you, Mary!
If I could change one thing about my needlework journey, it would be to stitch more mindfully. Rather than focusing on getting it done, I wished I had savored the process more for each project.
I have been stitching for a number of years but always looking to extend my capabilities, looking for different techniques and inspirations.
If I could do something different it would be to give more time to the craft and work with unfamiliar stitches.
I would not have waited “until I knew more” to dive into intricate stumpwork techniques and metal thread embroidery! Learn and do the more advance techniques NOW before your/our eyesight goes bad from too much computer work
I wish I had had time when I was younger and my eyes were better. Right now I’m using two lamps and sew in bright sunlight. Getting older stinks, but I am far more patient and able to take the time necessary to get decent results!
Thank you Mary for your posts and inspiration!
This magazine seems to be on par with a coffee table book. Beautiful photographs of beautiful projects.
Hello
This give away for the magazine is a good idea.
Thanks.
As a seasoned stitcher and giver of gifts, I wish I had taken more pictures of my work–and made sure I had them! Too often I needed to meet a mailing deadline, so no photo was taken. At other times (pre-digital) the developed film was blurry beyond recognition. My aging memory doesn’t help either!
I should probably say I would not buy as many projects but I doubt that would be realistic!
I don’t think I would do anything different, I have enjoyed my journey into embroidery!
It’s so generous of you, Mary, to bring attention of your state-side subscribers to this “beautiful project” magazine. Many, many thanks.
Giuliana Ricama’s work is truly inspirational and I am inspired by her focus on two of my favorite things – sea shells and monograms.
While I love most types of embroidery, my secret pleasure is Italian style projects and techniques. I discovered this magazine recently and would love a subscription. I think their mission to maintain and popularized these historical Italian techniques is important to pass onto the next generation of needleworkers.
I would have started with a teacher in a live class, not online. I have yet to take an embroidery class in person. Everything I know I learned on the computer. I am sure some hands on learning would improve my stitching.
I would love to spend more time with my Mom and Grandma asking more questions and learning from them. I was blessed to be taught embroidery as a child; how wonderful it would be to share a needle with them as an adult.
I began embroidery only a few years ago, so what I’d do differently is to have learned a lot sooner!
I would spend much more time stitching instead of thinking and planning what I want to stitch. It’s fun and inspirational to see what others are doing, but I spend too much time admiring their work instead of creating my own.
I began embroidering three and a half year ago. At this time, aside from a couple of simple stitches, I scarcely knew anything about the embroidery world. So it was a great adventure for me to embark on that journey. So far, I’ve been enjoying every little step I took and every little discovery I made while travelling this landscape abundant in beauty.
I even worked out a curriculum for my theoretical and practical studies, and as of yet, I have learned Cross Stitch, Assisi Work, Colbert Embroidery, Canvaswork, just now delving into Blackwork. And, yes, I did a lot of surface embroidery, too.
Looking back at these inspired last years, I think, I wouldn’t do anything differently. In fact, there’s nothing that COULD be done differently. Everything I did was right and the best I could do at any given moment.
I only wish I could turn back the clock by 40 years. If I had already known my real purpose when I was still young enough, I would have undergone an appropriate training – tailoring, textile design or something like that.
What beautiful work and patterns! This is something that I have been looking forward to learning when I retire next month. Great job!
While I started basic embroidery and knitting at a young age, I did not learn about the various embroidery techniques until after my children had left home. If I could do anything different in my needlework journey I would have joined Embroidery Association of Canada at a younger age and gone to more Seminars.
I have tried many needlework styles but primarily just do Christmas ornaments now. I like to use designs that combine several techniques and embroidery stitches.
I learned embroidery from my grandma almost 50 years ago and the one thing I would do differently would be to have spent more time stitching with her. I am grateful that she is with me, at least in spirit, now when I stitch.
If there were anything different I could do about my needlework journey so far it would be to keep the sense of adventure and fearlessness I had when I started stitching as a child. It feels like it got lost somewhere along the way.
I would have been more patient with my beginner self, if I could change my journey.
I wish I had learned Embroidery and all the tips from a teacher level stitcher so that all the work I ever did was first rate from the beginning. I lament my lifelong learning curve, being self taught.
Merry Christmas and happy holidays to everyone!
If I could do anything differently…I wouldn’t! I have multiple chronic illnesses and embroidery has been a gift from the start. The gentle learning and immersive progress has been a lifeline. Every “mistake” has been a valuable lesson that’s lead to the next exciting project!
Cheers, Heather
What I would do different is have much better organization, better location, and better lighting & magnification. Let’s face it; we’re nearly all stash hoarders, and keeping it organized is an on-going task. Then there’s finding a dedicated space to actually embroider. Going along with a space comes good lighting and magnification.
Not a magazine I woulkd normally have come across but it ticks all the boxes for me with so much variety!
My needlework journey started at a very young age with pre printed table linens a metal hoop and DMC floss. I’ve worked most embroidery techniques over the years and enjoy it. However my motivation goes in spurts. I’ve gone years between projects or have stitched non stop and burn out. I need to develop consistency!
I think I rushed to finish too quickly. I need to take my time and get a good tension on my stitches.
Change? I spent many years only stitching kits so I was limited to what the local craft stores had on hand. I wish I had ventured out on my own earlier and hadn’t been so intimidated by projects that involved transferring patterns and a dash of my own creativity. That’s what I would do differently.
Pick me!
The only thing I can think of to do differently in my embroidery journy would be to have joined the EGA earlier – wonderous way to learn new things. But if we are talking miraculous changes… I would not have taken such a long gap in doing needlework due to life and health and while dreaming – I would have inherited my great grandmother’s button collection. The magazine looks marvelous!
Beautiful
Because of COVID I’ve starting stitching again after a break of about forty five years. Thanks for all your tutorials.
If I had but one wish, it would be fore more time to participate in my stitching journey. There never seem to be enough hours in the day, especially to stitch. I would love to spend more time thinking about my pieces before I start working on them in order to avoid having to pull stitches out. That should be a good New Year’s Resolution.
If I could change anything it would be to have started earlier and been aware of all the national associations, groups, and opportunities to learn.
I have been hand embroidering for over 50 years. I have been machine embroidering for about 20 years. I love them both for different projects. I don’t think I would do any thing different.
I would have started sooner so that I would have more time to explore all of these amazing designs.
Oh Mary, I would so like to be able to use a thimble, especially when quilting. I expect I was taught to use one when learning to sew at school as a youngster but I have never been comfortable wearing a thimble.
What I really need is… Space to stitch without little ones getting all over it!
If I could do anything different about my needlework journey, I think I would have focused more on completing projects and finishing skills. I have way too many UFO/WIP’s . Though, since I retired last year and with spending so much more time at home in 2020, I am working through many of those projects.
When she was a young girl, my grandmother did some beautiful embroided pillowcases. But I never saw her do embroidery anymore. I would like to go into the past and talk with her about it. She past away when I was 20. I am now 49 and I learn embroidery alone, with websites and books for about 5 years. If I could, I would like to learn from my grandmother.
I started my needlework journey at my grandmothers side starting with preprinted pillowcases, each summer while I was young was another lesson.
Over the years there have been many flavors of needlework, but long periods in between of nothing.
Grandmas gone now, but little did I know how connected to her I would feel when I picked up stitching again. The only change I would make is to not have stayed away so long.
I would pay more attention to s-l-o-w-i-n-g d-o-w-n. I can get caught up in a steady rhythm and then find myself speeding up – not fast, but fast enough to not properly do the stitch. And then wind up ripping it out. This has not happened lately as I now concentrate on slow progress, even if it means doing one leaf on a flower in an hour. I do not judge myself against more experienced stitchers, but now try to do my own personal best. I’m much happier!
I like working with all different threads with bright colors and all the different
stiches. I miss classes with teachers I took up north in Pa. but don’t have in
Fl. I took with Embroidery Guild of America. Thank you for your Web I go to it all the time.
If I had it to do over again, I would not put off needlework projects until I retired and ‘had more time.’ I now struggle with the light and eyesight issue – making for much slower and sometimes frustrating progress.
Like many of a certain generation, I began my journey in needlework with cross stitch at a very early age. For years I cross-stitched every day, stitching samplers, ornaments and gifts for other people. Aida was all that I used because frankly, I simply did not know there was any other type of fabric for cross stitch out there. Now when I look at my early projects, I wish that I had known about (and tried) some of the many fabulous fabric offerings or even tried my hand at using waste canvas on a fabric background. It’s not that I am anti-Aida cloth, and it does have its place, but I wish that I had a bit more fabric diversity in my earlier work. That said, I do still look back at those projects fondly as the beginning of my journey in needlework.
Thanks for the giveaway!
One thing I would do differently in my needlework journey would be to take more classes. I have learned so much in the very few I have taken, and would love to take more to improve my skills in all kinds of techniques.
Annie
I would take more time to hand embroider
If I could change my way of stitching, I would make it more versatile – usually, my needleworks are pictures that I put on walls, but I’d prefer to stitch on clothes, bags. At the moment, I’m not brave enough to start doing so.
What would I do differently? I’m not really sure. I’m just winging it at this point! I think I should have purchased my K’s Creations steel needlework stand earlier, instead of fighting so long with the inexpensive wooden floor stand from Michael’s! They even made it extra tall for me at no charge!
Looking back, I would have liked to have had kept up keeping one embroidery type project going each year. I’ve been away from the “sport” for years and starting to play again with the threads and patterns due to the influence of your blog! I love starting my day with reading your post!
I would have started my embroidery journey at a younger age.
I’m a new stitcher but at this point, I would use an embroidery hoop stand from the beginning, to take the strain off my hands.
I should have taken a class at first. I have learned so much, but the learning curve could have been shortened!
I am not an expert stitcher but I love the art of stitching.
If could (and I should) do something different, I would dare to try new things. I see amazing techniques and patterns, I keep them in Pinterest I love them and look for more, but when I take my needle, I usually go for the same old stitching form. I think I could use a coach…
And that is why I love this website!
By the way, I am writing from Costa Rica, in Central America.
Greetings!
Mary
I think I would try to be more courageous and experiment more. Sometimes the end product is a real surprise.
I am almost 72 and have been stitching since I was about 8 so I guess that makes me a seasoned stitcher!
I have had a good stitching journey, but if I could change one thing it would be to prioritize it earlier, to have more finished projects and fewer UFO’s.
Stitch more!!!
It’s been a long journey because my first memory of embroidering was when I was 7 and there has been a lot since then, many projects, many classes and I have learned a lot. The one thing I wish had done was to work all the way thru projects especially class projects. I learned so much over the years from classes and tried many new techniques but often did not follow thru with practice to truly learn the techniques. On the other hand, I did follow thru on quite a few. I have learned much just following your newsletters and watching your videos. Thank you for that.
I wish I would have set aside more time when I was younger to do my needlework. Whether I’m smocking or doing embroidery work, I seem to relax and escape into my own little world for a while.
If I had been given the chance I would have loved to be an RSN apprentice but, sadly, I was not aware the RSN even existed when I was at school. Instead I took a different route to earn a living but I always had some form of needlework on the go, and still do. Thank you Mary for the chance to win this magazine subscription, I love Italian needlework. Barbara
If I had to do things differently, I wouldn’t get so frustrated about not being perfect the first time. I tend to be a perfectionist. I need to remember that everything takes practice, practice, practice.
I would have taken an embroidery course early on in my sewing hobby.
While I am not new to embroidery, if there were anything I could do differently about my needlework journey, it would be to embrace trying and learning new techniques. I tend to hesitate to try new things.
I wish I had joined an Embroidery Group before Covid. I’m learning slowly. Mountmellick is a favorite of mine but I am still at the point where I do mostly stem stitch, french knots, chain, etc. On to Palestrina stitch!
At 47 years, I am a recent newbie on stitching, so if there is anything that I would have make different, it would be learning from my grandmother the craft. She usually made her own clothes, as well as other beautiful things, like delicate silk handbags with embroidery, silk ribbon flowers as well as delicate painting, like her mother did before. When I was a child, she gave me one of this antique beautiful and delicate bags that her mother made before she was born (I keep it as a treasure). Of course, as a child I admired all of this works, but it never occured to me to ask her to teach me.
My Grandmother started me on my stitching journey when I was four. My Christmas gift from her was a hoop, some floss and fabric. That was seventy years ago. My stitching has brought me many hours of pleasure over the years, and I’m still finding new things that I’d like to try and techniques I’d like to learn. If I were to do anything differently, I think it would be to hone my skills and learn from the experts. Wouldn’t it be wonderful to study at the RSN?
I love reading your emails and seeing all the projects. You are very talented and creative!
I honestly don’t think I would have done anything differently. I have been doing needlework since I was 4 years old. I have never lost my passion of the different types of projects, trying techniques that are new to me and sharing my passion with others. The world of needlework is vast and exciting and I love being an active part of it.
Because I have never had any formal classes that
is what I would do. Though I am greatful for the instructions found in these articles
Deanna
Needle’NThread has opened up a whole world of pleasure to me! I want to learn everything! My hands are steadier and my eyes sharper. Thank you so much.
If I could do anything about my needlework journey it would be to have a place where I can teach and share what I have learned over the years and maybe, just maybe, get some of my stash completed.
I’ve loved my needlework journey so far! And it continues… If I could change one thing I would be bolder in my choices of techniques, i.e., I would dive right in even if I thought whatever I was attempting might be too challenging. Just try it! And, I would try to always remember there is NO NEEDLEWORK POLICE!
Growing up before the internet revealed the inspiring marvels created by skilled and gifted artists in so many areas of needlework, and busy with other aspects of life, I explored little of what I was perhaps capable of. I am grateful for the time I have now to create though, so it perhaps wouldn’t be true to say I would have done anything differently – just maybe I would have done more sooner.
I wish I would have joined needlework guilds much earlier in my life. I have always learned easier following instructions and patterns, rather than having someone show me but one is exposed to so many different things in guilds. It’s also wonderful to see the creations of fellow guild members.
I wish I had chosen my projects more carefully. I did many pieces that were not of real value to me. I could have spent more time learning more about my technique or other types of embroidery.
I would make stitching a habit, not an occasion. I love textile arts but don’t practice enough. Sounds like a resolution for 2021.
I am a seasoned stitcher and I would have learned more about silk shading long ago.
I would simplify!
If I could go “back and change something”, it might be to find even more time to stitch! It’s never enough and I need to get all those good intentioned projects done.
I have done embroidery since I was a child, but I wouldn’t consider myself a “seasoned” stitcher. My mother did beautiful embroidery work. I own a quilt I received as a gift as a past Honored Queen of Job’s Daughters, a Masonic girls organization. Each block was embroidered by a member of the Bethel. It is quite a treasure. My mother did fill in blocks that were blank and also embroidered the large (12″ x 12″) center block, which is quite detailed. It’s gorgeous. I think, in my journey, as a stitcher, I would like to finish more projects. I have a few UFO’s that I set aside and revisit during these unprecedented times. I have a big embroidery machine, but much prefer handwork. The simplicity of the Mountmellick piece really appeals to me.
I would like to be more focused and not as easily distracted by social media so that I can get more accomplished.
I am returning to stitching after a bit of a hiatus. I think not worrying so much about the perfection of my stitches and viewing the entire work as a process towards improvement would benefit my stitching as a whole. Besides any stitching completed is a victory in the process of bringing more beauty and elegance into the world as well as showing others what is possible with a simple needle and thread!
I would attend more classes … there is so much to learn, so little time to do it!
I started learning to embroider when I was 8 or 9 – don’t remember precisely. Mostly stem stitch and lazy daisy and wonky cross stitch. My Aunt Martha taught me to make a French knot. Then, in the late 1980s I did counted cross stitch – I would call myself an intrepid beginner, as I haven’t done much textural stitching. I’m pretty satisfied with where I am at present in terms of stitching: strong basics, willingness to learn something new.
Devote more time to it!
This magazine is very nice as I did send for a copy to see what it was like.
As for my stitching journey I would say try something new that you have never done before but have seen in a magazine or that a friend has done that you fall in love with and that you would like to achieve and just go for it. It is never too late to try a new skill and unless you push the boundaries you will never know how talented you are!
Oooh, this subscription would be so fun to share with my embroidery class. We make a block a month with a new stitch to learn and practice. This would so expand our stitches and projects!
I don’t think I’d do anything differently. My journey is ongoing. I love stitching. I learned embroidery from my Bohemian grandma and my Italian great grandma Nana! Oh such great memories so you probably can tell I’m excited. Italy! I haven’t got there yet! I remember getting your email about the magazine and the kit is great. I love trying new things. Too bad I have to sleep, I need more stitching time. Chris Schaudel
Would love to stitch on a fine piece of linen!
I would like to have limited my purchases of embroidery books, fabrics, threads, tools, etc. My major problem is learning a little about a technique and deciding “I want to do that!” Then buying everything I need to do it.
I have full bookshelves and a closet full of fabric. Even if I live to be 120, I’ll never get to use it all. 🙂
A few months ago I ordered the first English edition and it was breathtaking, so yes I would love to participate in this give-away. Good luck to everyone
This is so pretty. Thank you for the opportunity to win
I would like a dedicated space with lots of light that could be left set up. More free time for stitching too.
If I could change anything about my needlework journey I would probably want to spend more time doing what I love most which is needlework. I would try to learn new techniques every day.
I would have tried different threads and different stitches much sooner. I began as a cross stitcher and I still love it, but the stitches and materials you showcase are so beautiful. I wish I had known about them sooner.
I would be more adventurous in my stitching, trying different colors or threads.
If I had the opportunity to start my needlework journey again, I would do two things: first, I’d take the courses at the Royal School of Needlework to ensure I was doing my stitches right (plus I do love a certificate!), and secondly, I’d learn to draw. Though I love the inspiration the places like your blog, Inspirations, Hazel Blomkamp, and Giuliana give me, I long to use what I’ve learned to create my own designs.
If I change my path, it would to be more adventuresome–to worry less about how “good” things look and focus more on how to express the image using materials that best suit the image, not my skill set.
I would not do anything differently I am really enjoying where I am.
i think if there was anything different i would do, it would be to have attended the Royal School of Needlework many years ago and started working on a certificate.
thanks so much.
I am a seasoned stitcher, started at age twelve. In the Army I picked up a kit and fell back in love I wish I discovered other types of embroidery sooner!
I’ve been “stitching” for a very long time and realize now that my journey would have been quite different if I’d researched designers, techniques and stitching supplies (fabrics, threads etc.) at an earlier point. Looking at what’s available now, the scope of projects and their possibilities is positively amazing. A whole new world is out there!
My mother taught me embroidery when I was just a child. I wish I had stuck with it all along rather than rediscovering it recently!
I’m a beginnger/intermediate stitcher. I put down my needlework a few years ago but have recently taken it up again. I love your website and have used it especially when I needed to check how to do a stitch. The only thing I’d do different is never to have stopped doing it.
sue
I bought the very first English edition of Guiliana Ricamo and loved it. Now I have just ordered a copy of Guiliana’s book, Il Reticello. As you’ve probably guessed, I want to learn these techniques.
If there was one thing l could change it would be permission to sit and stitch for a little bit each and every day!
At 68 I am still floundering in the dark. I get there in the end but how I wish I had gone for proper one to one lessons!
such beautiful work
I wish I had stayed engaged with a needlework group at the same time that I took up quilting 30 years ago, instead of just coming back to it now when my eyesight’s no longer so good.
What would I have done differently? … added more choices to my stash, taken more classes, tried more techniques…put more of my ideas on paper…the list goes on.
What to do differently? Win the lottery so I could quit working much earlier than I did. I’ve had a wonderful time as a member of the Embroidery Guild of America, taking classes, learning from fellow members, being inspired by all their embroidery and trying many styles. That part needs no changing.
Whether you’re a seasoned stitcher or even just a recent newbie, if there were anything you could do differently about your needlework journey so far, what would it be?
That’s easy! I would have gotten away from counted cross stitch earlier than I did. Filling in little squares with Xs is relaxing and satisfying, but the end result isn’t as lovely as other forms of embroidery. My first departure was Hardanger, suggested on an old usenet group when I posted I was bored. It was scary cutting those threads, but the end result was worth it. Now I am enjoying all kinds of needlework.
I would not spend so much time on instagram and more on embroidery!
RedFish
what a gorgeous giveaway!
I look forward to all your articles, this one is no exception, I find out things l would never otherwise now about.
I love little projects. I feel there is an ending point. Sometimes you think I cpuld adding forever!
I love little projects. I feel there is an ending point. Sometimes you think, I could be adding stitches forever!
I would try very hard to do 10 minutes of basic stitching everyday to improve my stitches.
I wish I was a faster stitcher. I’m so slow in finishing projects.
If I would have anything stitching related to do over it would be a better organization of needles. I have needles everywhere and explanations of use everywhere also. Some day I hope to be more organized.
I adore the projects in Giuliana Ricama! If there was one thing I would do differently about my stitching journey, it would be to have more time. I have so many projects I want to do and so many techniques I want to learn…….sigh…. 🙂
The first thing that came to mind when I read your question: I would still have my first embroidery–a sampler. My mother gave me a printed sampler, some thread, a wooden hoop, a needle and then showed me how to do a stitch as I needed it. My favorite stitches are those I learned then. I have no idea what happened to the sampler. My guess is that it was lost in a family move.
I have been crafting many years, but after my divorce there were too many years when I did nothing. If I had the chance to change that, I would be sure do pick up my stitching every day, even when life felt bleak. It lifts the spirits, and I needed that.
Now that my life is settled and calm again, I love making things for my kids and grandkids.
I love Italian textile and the embroidery- from ecclesiastical to modern. I hoped to make a trip to Italy for my retirement but maybe in 2022. Meanwhile I would love to be the recipient of either. Thanks Mary.
This is a tough one; what would I do differently. I would have made more time for stitching by being sure to include stitching sessions on my regular calendar. I always said I would do more stitching when I retired but I missed a lot of stitching time until then.
I love single color threading like black work and red work, wanting to try “white work” also
I wish I could find more time in the day to stitch.
If I could go back I would change nothing. Stitching has helped me survive 9 back surgeries and being confined to bed for a year following the first surgery. It has been my constant companion thru life of good and bad and has made me appreciate what a gift I was given when I learned at age 5 from my Mother and Grandmother.
Thanks for the giveaways and your immense knowledge.
I would document needlework more, especially some older ones done by family members no longer with me.
I would try to complete stitching projects as they are purchased or offered in a chapter program rather than setting them aside for later, which never comes because there are always more. My stash is too large for me to get to because of my advancing age.
If I could go back and change one thing about my stitchers journey it would be to lose the trepidation and self doubt. Jump right in and give it a try rather than think “that’s too advanced for me, I need to start with easier projects first”. What’s the worst that can happen? I waste some fabric and floss and learn from the experience.
I have, indeed, stitched since the Hungarian grandmother got me started at age 5. Always, always loved it! Made a lot of simple, silly stuff (I remember “quilt squares” embroidered with monkeys that were to go in my “hope chest” — wonder what happened to those??!!). Up to my hippie bell bottoms – and then the cross-stitch era happened. Did a lot of that, branching into all-things-counted (blackwork, hardanger, schwalm, etc.). And on into surface stitching of all sorts, as well. On into stumpwork, goldwork, and 17th century stuff. Often I have projects going that include ALL these things, since I enjoy it all. Can never get enough! It is my escape route!
I wish I was more ruthless about abandoning projects I don’t like, and will never finish. Maybe I could say should never finish. Because sometimes I find myself finishing things I don’t like and not having time for those I do.
I would be more adventurous in trying new stitches
I have been stitching for more than 50 years. I have enjoyed cross stitch, Hardanger, beading, and needlepoint. I wish I had had the time to study some of the other stitching methods like stump work, Italian embroidery and other methods etc. There were so many teachers that I missed taking classes from.
I don’t have any regrets about my stitching, but I wish I had more time to spend on it.
I wish I had taken photos of finished projects, because almost all were given as gifts. I still have the first piece I worked on under the tutelage of my Dad. It is a heavy piece of linen stamped with a design. I evidently had a handful of crayon bright colors and black that made their way into my clumsy first stitches. The rest of the embroidery is spread far and wide. It would be fun to see everything together, and to remember what I was thinking as I stitched.
As a seasoned stitcher, the one thing I would change about my stitching journey is to not fell so guilty about taking time out of my busy schedule for needlework. There were periods of time when I felt like I had to justify to others and to myself why I should be spending my time stitching, not accepting the fact that it was a way of caring for my own needs. That doesn’t bother me now that I am retired.
My #1 regret is that I didn’t keep a journal of my projects: the title of the project, its designer, fabric used (maybe even a snip of the fabric), list of floss or other fibers, disposition (kept, gifted, commissioned piece, etc), and a comment about the piece and/or what was going on in my life at the time.
– Nancy (“Stitch Princess”)
I would continue to use various stitches in different ways. Basic stitches are the same, and can be used in many different combinations, but, sometimes they can be tweaked. I like to “discover” a new stitch in this way. I do wish that we could meet in small stitching groups again.
If I could’ve done something different in my journey, I think I would’ve combined more of the embroidery with the quilting. I use to feel torn on which to work with. Now I take my embroidery and make quilts with it.
If I could do something differently it would be to somehow find more time to stitch. Stitching is so calming and relaxing.
I’ve been stitching since grade school – and we aren’t going to think about how many years that is! – and I wish I started paying more attention to the back of my work much sooner.
If I could do something differently: I would like to turn my focus entirely to whitework and needle-lace. (this is difficult because there is so much to still learn with colored threads and so many possible projects it seems I should try before I completely turn my focus, but if I could move forward and turn entirely to whitework and needle-lace, without feeling guilty of what I’ve left behind, that’s what I would do. If I could, I would combine this with focused travel: first to Ireland to learn the Irish traditions from experts there, then on to Bruges/Belgium–there is a little school there that teaches Bruges / Belgium needle-lace, then on to England to RSN for a class there on whitework and then . . . I am sure there is someplace in France (does anyone know of a venue / small needlework school in France where visitors can take a class or two on Whitework and needle lace in a French tradition, ie., Alencon lace?) and finally to Italy, with so many wonderful traditions, as Mary’s contest points out here. I love how Guiliana Ricama combines Irish Mountmellick WW with linen. I would combine my love for needlelace and whitework with this travel, and write a book about that experience. In the meantime, I try to improve my skills by reading about the different traditions, with help on technique through Mary’s website. One day I want to write a book that celebrates the role of whitework and needle lace in the lives of Irish women. My grandmother (b. 1887) was a great needle-woman, from Galway, and her ancestors survived the great Hunger (in the 1840s) in part because of their valuable needlework skills. The whole family was taught, even husbands, sons and friends. This “cottage industry” was how they survived. Their work (which included Knitting, Irish crochet lace, and weaving) was in demand from upper classes in England and France and America. My hobby with needle and thread is the way I pay tribute to my ancestors.
I am an experienced but not expert stitcher. I learned the basics starting at about eight years old, I embroider now and them ( actually have several Pandemic embroidery projects finished). I wish I had been more consistent through the years, and worked to inprove my skills more diligently.
I definitely would tell myself to be braver at an earlier point in my stitching. I have learned so much by trying and failing and eventually trying and winning. There are so many interesting stitches and techniques!
Linda
I would love to have the time to totally organize my sewing materials in the sewing room.
I am usually working on several projects at a time and I keep getting out more and more.
Not being organized slows me down as I am constantly searching for what I need for that moment.
I would practice more. Expand the stitches I know and stay relaxed.
If I could go back and do my stitching journey over, I’d not have strayed from hand embroidery for so long. I really enjoyed it and learned when I was very young. I got distracted and tried machine embroidery with it’s speed and accuracy but it was more stressful than hand stitching and required so much time spent minding the machine. Now I’ve found my way back to more satisfaction in hand applique and embroidery and using the beautiful threads and embellishments I’ve collected.
I first did embroidery as a teen then began a life of college, family and career. Now, many many years later I have picked up on my embroidery journey again. How I wish there had not been such a long lapse.
I would have started studying the different stitches a lot sooner. Doing more crazy quilts and landscapes. Using a lot of different types of threads.
I’ve been enjoying embroidery for a few years and, of course, there are several things I would do differently! Most of all, I would be more organized! It’s a constant struggle to keep notes, ideas, threads, projects, etc. easily find-able, though it can be fun to go through everything to find what I’m looking for. As we’ve been enjoying more takeout meals during 2020, one terrific benefit (besides less cooking) are the plastic containers of various sizes many local restaurants use. Thoroughly washed, they make great storage for a hoop, threads, a few sketches or diagrams, and my little needle book and small scissors. I’ll continue my resolve towards organization.
I have been retired some time. I wish I had started projects when I discovered them, instead of “when I retire I’ll “. I could have had all those joyful experiences then. It would be wonderful to win these magazine. There are not many quality magazines available.
I would not purchase a lot of things that didn’t work well, like the magnifier that hangs around your neck, and just buy the goggle magnifiers.
I am an intermediate stitcher. I discovered embroidery in 2015, and I have been hooked ever since. I am always interested in tools that will stretch both my imagination and skill set. The projects in the magazine look amazing! If I could change anything about my stitching journey so far, it would be to embrace the mistakes instead of stressing out over them. The mistakes help me learn. I can look back on my earlier projects, and see how much progress I have made.
If could change anything, it would be to NOT collect all of the DMC colors. I have wasted a lot of money purchasing each and every color. Now that I have them, I find that there are a number that are no longer in fashion. If I had it to do over, I would buy a supply of blanc, B2500, 3865, 310, and ecru. The rest would be purchased as needed, when needed.
I’d like to have a better understanding of the “ground fabrics” before I start so there are fewer surprises.
I like to try and to do a lot of different techniques in stitching. I think what I most would change is in organizing my workspace, that is, compartmentalizing the storage space to keep the tools and materials in more convenient spaces. The whitework and needlelace featured in the book and kit look intriquing.
I would like more variety of threads to use in stitching.
If there’s anything I would do different in my stitching journey it would be to take more classes of all kinds of needlework. Back when I was working full time I was limited in the time I could get away for in-person classes, & of course, that was way before online classes were available! I’m so glad that now we are able to get some of these wonderful designer classes online to keep on experiencing new & varied techniques & designs while we’re waiting to be able to take classes in person again!
I have been stitching for a llllooooonnnngggg time, but the samples look like new techniques that I would love to try.
Whether you’re a seasoned stitcher or even just a recent newbie, if there were anything you could do differently about your needlework journey so far, what would it be?
I would convince myself that stitching is a valid and worthwhile way to use my time. I lose so much by putting almost everything before time to stitch- housework, admin., extra work – almost anything.
Why can’t I believe that time spent doing what I really love is worth spending, even if the product is something many people would see as pointless? It is a mindset that I would give much to be rid of. Others enjoy the lovely pleasure of ‘playing’ in order to learn and improve without apparent guilt… I wish I were one of them.
And now I have written this, I am going to really try. My 2021 New Year resolution! (thank you, Mary, for giving me the opportunity to think about it!)
Oh daisies are one of my favorites! I even had them at my wedding. How wonderful it would be to be the lucky one to win.
As I consider my needlework journey, I wish I had subscribed to Needle ‘N Thread earlier. Your how-to videos, tips, and blog have benefited me greatly. And I love the connection with you and the other stitchers. Thank you Mary!
I just started really organizing my stash do I can easily see what I have. I should have done it years ago
I was mostly self taught and in recent years have taken some classes. They have been wonderful! I’ve learned about stitching history, new techniques and asked lots of questions. I should have reached out more when I was younger.
Oh how I wish I had studied embroidery seriously in my youth. My grandmother and Domestic science classes at school more than 60 years ago were my introduction to needle and thread and I have snatched time to indulge ever since. I love the calming effect of traditional counted thread work, its intracasies and the pure mathematical satisfaction it gives. If chosen, I would share the world of Guiliana Ricama with my fellow stitchers in my Embroidery Guild .
Mary you are an amazing talented artist and I stop and read each of your emails to learn how to become a better stitcher!
What I would do differently in my journey stitching is always use the best hoop I have for the project and practice using a laying tool so my stitches lie flatter.
What would I do differently? Get started sooner! I was so involved watching how-to videos that I didn’t get going soon enough on my own project!
I am an experienced stitcher. The one thing I would do differently in my journey is find the Embroidery Guild of America a lot sooner than I did. I would have taken advantage of the many opportunities they have to offer and I would have learned many things to improve my early stitching.
I have stitched off and on since I was 7 years old. Sometimes I took long breaks from stitching depending on life circumstances. I regret this now as even a small amount of stitching is better than none! I am busy making up for lost time and trying new techniques as well.
In 2008, I went to BAtB in Australia. It was so amazing! If I could change anything, I would have done that kind of traveling earlier in life, so I could have known some of the things I learned there much sooner.
If I could I could do one thing different on my needlework journey. I would love to take on of those splashy needlework trips.
I would love to go to the Victoria and Albert. See medieval tapestries. Visit the Royal School of Needle Art. You get the idea.
Over the years I do wish I had finished each project before I had started another
I would have started my needlework journey earlier!
I’ve always loved sewing but for many decades never picked up a needle; the excuse was no time. Years of joy have been foregone. Thrusting that lack of time thought aside and some simple kits or even reading about stitching would have been the answer. A journey has to start to be a journey. Having started now, there’s no stopping. I use Mary’s tip of doing things in chunks and set my alarm if I only have bits of time. Now off to cook dinner, and stitch as the saucepans boil…
If I could do something over again, I would have shown more interest and been more focused when my dear Grandmother tried to teach me embroidery stitches.
The only thing I would do different would have been to seek out teachers to learn better ways to embroidery at a much younger age!
I would have loved the opportunity to attend some masterclasses and even to attend a convention. I have so much to learn…….
Whether you’re a seasoned stitcher or even just a recent newbie, if there were anything you could do differently about your needlework journey so far, what would it be? – being more diligent about finishing projects and putting the ones that are stitched into a final capable for display version. I have a large number of projects that are stitched but not available to be viewed
I can’t think of anything I’d do differently, I just wish I could spend more time embroidering!
I wish I had not gone off into other things and left my stitching behind years ago. I wish I had continued doing it rather than getting distracted by other things and “life”… But- I am back at it and loving every minute of it. 😀
What lovely prizes to possibly are offered in these drawings! They are just what one needs for encouragement and something to perhaps look forward to these dark days of Pandemic— and unsureness in our present isolation and depressing news!!
I would like to schedule more time for stitching on my many embroidery projects. There is nothing like an afternoon of focusing on one’s stitching!
I am a newby. I wish I could get my stitches to be more even
I’ve been embroidering for over 50 years. What would I do differently? I would have stitched more. When I’ve designed my own things, I often felt that I didn’t do enough, that there needed to be ‘more’ to my designs. I would do more.
What would I do differently in my stitching up to now?
I would take more classes, and spend more time on Italian needlework. I took a class in caselguidi about 10 years ago and fell in love with Italian style needlework. My favorite type of lace is reticella and I have seriously thought about learning Italian to be able to read books from Italy.
Thanks for this chance to get this Italian prize. I appreciate it!
I really, really need to become more adventurous in my stitching!
I didn’t much care for embroidery when I was younger. Now I wish I had paid more attention to my grandmother. She had some wonderful skills and not just in needlework.
Thank you, Mary for your continued assistance in my needlework travels.
Absolutely stunning work! Thank you for sharing.
If I could change something, I would start stitching earlier in my life and dedicate more time and energy!
Thank you, Antonelle
If I could do something differently, I would design more of my own designs. Also find a good remedy for the arthritis in my hands!
I’ve been doing basic hand embroirery for years, but want to branch out and do something more.
The one thing I would like to change is to set aside a time for stitching rather than just fitting it in here and there! Focus and relax with a project and let the fun begin! Cheers!
I would like to perfect my skill in one method of applying the design to cloth. I tend to rush this part. I like to get to the good part of actually doing the needlework. This year I have realized that I enjoy doing all styles of needlework. This has led me to focus on a few styles to increase my skill. Since joining your site, I have learned more than I ever did in a class or seminar. Thank you. Dawn
I am a seasoned embroiderer and I would have taken more classes along the way. So many stitches and so little time!
I love the simplicity of this design and the white-on-naturalish colours. The magazine sounds intriguing.
I wish I’d never worked the first tapestry project I was given. I didn’t much like it at the time and recently I realised I loathe it. I think I loathe the memory of not liking it rather than the actual result. I just found the subject matter altogether too blood-thirsty. (I don’t remember how old I was, but I was pretty young.) It shows a fox killing a goose with blood spurting out. (The blood looks weird because we didn’t have red, so my mother had me use orange.)
I would buy the best quality basic tools that I could afford, eg needles, pins, scissors (both large for cutting fabric and embroidery scissors), thread, etc. I really think the basics are important. Try not to buy cheap, just because you need it immediately. Not worth it!
I have been stitching for over 50 years. I wish I had taken classes earlier in my life. I learned by teaching myself via pamphlets my grandmother had. I have only taken a class or two in the last three years, and my skills have improved incredibly.
Naomi
I find a project I love and enjoy stitching it. When the stitching is finished, I put it away. I would like to learn how to finish the project skillfully. So many UFO’s!
What would I do differently?…. give myself permission to try different threads and techniques sooner; not feel guilty about “wasting” materials and let unfinished projects be part of the learning process
I would have begun my study of historic needlework much earlier in my life and pursued a career in textile restoration with an eye toward museum work.
Dear Mary,
Thanks for your wonderful Christmas giveaways! I think I would have to say I wish I had carved out more time so I would be more experienced! Hmmmm, perhaps I’m saying I wish I would not waste so much time, then I would get to do more of the things I love???
To quote Katherine Paterson, “a dream without a plan is just a wish”.
I’m a recently-returned-to-stitching-after-retiring stitcher. I wish I would have chosen a less stressful, less time consuming profession so that I could have cross-stitched more and learned more about other forms of needlework (and tried them) before I retired. There are too few hours in the day, to accomplish every project that calls to me.
Laurie F.
Focus, focus, focus and not get distracted by others.
What would I have done differently in my needle work journey? Worked from kits much less! I should have spent more time on free-form creations! 🙂
I have enjoyed my journey immensely and enjoyed the different ways I have evolved so I don’t think I would change anything!
I wish i wouldn’t have stopped embroidery for so many years. Id be soooo much better at it now!
Hi, Mary!
I wish that I had kept a project journal from the very beginning–with pictures! I would love to see how many projects I’ve finished, to whom I’ve given them, & how my skills have improved since I began embroidering.
Thanks, & happy stitching!
What an easy topic to address. Many, MANY times I’ve kicked myself for not taking my stitching more seriously when I was younger. I tell myself that the resources (books, libraries, internet, talented people) were not available to me. Once I went to college, my love of traditional needlework was viewed by my fellow students as ridiculous and passé. And, like the fool I was, I allowed myself to be influenced by “the others”. I thought quilting was old fashioned. Red work so bland. Who crochets? Knitting, are you crazy? Embroidered blouses?…Really?…How “un-women’s-lib”. So I abandoned my favorite past-time for things like jogging and computers and anything “yuppie”.
What a dunce I was. If I had it all to do over again, I would ignore the nay-sayers and stick to that which I loved. Then, perhaps, I would have gained far more skill than I have. It wasn’t until I discovered the Embroiderers’ Guild of America that I encountered like-minded people. After that, it was “Katy, bar the door,” and I’ve been stitching and learning and enjoying needlework more than I ever dreamed possible. I’ve studied in England, France, Italy, and Hungary. I’ve learned from experts in the US. I’ve taught in Europe and up and down the US East Coast.
And every day I try to learn “something” new…to make up for lost time and lost opportunities.
Hi Mary,
Thank you for organizing the Twelve Days of Christmas. If I could have done anything differently in my needlework, I would have been more creative, rather than relying on kits.
I would have started this journey much earlier. I don’t have many years left to indulge in the joys of embroidery.
I just recently wanted to get back into embroidery, it’s been about 20 years. I started my journey with needlepoint, went onto cross stitch then counted thread-work. I’ve always loved the floral crewel stitching, especially those leaning towards the Jacobean. Giuliana Ricama looks like an amazing way to restart my journey.
What I would do differently is to finish a project I start before beginning a new one. I have so many different interests in embroidery that when I see a fascinating project I want to do it right away!
What would I do differently? Taken more classes. Studied historical needlework sooner and more seriously. Asked more questions. Joined a guild. Learned more techniques.
Oh boy — I guess it would be to have spent more time perfecting my craft while my eyes were still young. Those days were filled with children and work and life so … Still, having honed one’s skills when one doesn’t need magnification would surely help once one does need magnification. Gorgeous offerings!
I would call myself a seasoned stitcher in need of refresher courses – I just wish I hadn’t taken the 25 year hiatus between then and now. LOL You know the drill – kids growing up, running a business, and life, I suppose.
Thank you for keeping the passion of needlework alive and well!
I would spend more time learning more difficult techniques like stumpwork or pulled thread embroidery.
I am a seasoned stitcher. I have spent most of my stitching time doing cross stitch. I have done crewel work, long and short, and some crazy quilting, but not that often. I wish I would spend more time doing other needlework instead of cross stitch. Maybe in the coming year.
Wish I had stitched more before my arthritis got worse. I still stitch but only very short times.
Would love the magazine or the kit. Lovely
If there was anything that I could change it would be… well, two things. The first one is to learn from my Grandma McConahay as she would have enjoyed teaching me and she could have given me a wonderful base of knowledge. The second is something that I can do something about and that is make more time for leaning and growing in my needlework.
Great question! I would learn to use a sewing machine early on so that I would be able to neaten edges quickly before embroidering, and I would be confident in finishing items that I’ve embroidered. There are so many uses for a machine with our hand embroidery!
I have had a few chances to see this wonderful magazine in person and would love the chance to win. One of the things i wish i had done in my needlework journey is to start exploring different techniques and styles much earlier in my life. Just imagine all the extra years I could have spend focused on all the wonderfully different techniques that exist.
My needlework journey had been dependent on family and tradition. I really think we need to concentrate on the new virtual perspective with lessons, seminars, you tube, etc that have emerged this year. I’ve been able to take more classes and learn more this year than in my previous 50 years of stitching and have meet more stitchers also.
I wish I had sought out a stitching group/EGA chapter sooner. The knowledge of the group members is so valuable.
The only change that would definitely be made would be to start this engine for the trip much, much earlier! Life, family, work and other ‘distractions’ got in the way for way too much time before the world of embroidery was able to assume its rightful place in my world. The simple act of needle and thread through fabric is the passport to another destination, and magazines such as Guiliana Ricamo is one of the keys.
Being an intermediate (low end of the scale!) stitcher who has taken on natural dyes including the magical indigo, I would like to venture into putting the color on all of my threads and yarns. Like icing on the cupcake.
Would love to receive the Stitcher’s Christmas Magazine. I’ve been stitching since I’m at least 8 yrs old, learned from my mother and grandmother. I was born in Louisiana from a French community, this was how we lived,
stitching was part of our lives from making clothes from flour sacks to embroidery of pillow cases and etc.
Thanks,
Teri
If I could change anything, I would be less critical of my own efforts and focus more on simply enjoying the work and the results. I feel like stitching kitchen towels is helping me move in this direction. Thanks for your various delightful and affordable pre-printed towels sets Mary!
This is on my Christmas wish list.
What I would do differently –
1. I wish that I had taken a course on colour;
2. that I had looked for a Guild to belong to (I just recently joined a local Guild); and,
3. that I had realized the huge number of courses available. I just recently took the Humbly Magnificent Couching Stitch from Natalie Dupuis (Sew by Hand) and I learned so much.
But I am so happy that I have a huge stash of embroidery to work on while at home and that we have access to a wide world of embroidery sites and sources of materials.
What I’d have done differently? I’d have made sure to expand my horizons sooner! I’ve done counted cross stitching with & without embellishments (beads, ribbon, e.t.c) for decades. But I should have ventured into learning different embroidery stitches a long time ago! I’ve missed so much! I also would have spent the time needed to learn ribbon embroidery, so that I could do it beautifully!
I’ve been stitching intermittently since 2008–I first learned how to stitch from needle n’ thread, as it turns out, so that I could embroider some communion linens for my church. In the meantime, I’ve been a bit sporadic, and the thing I think I would change would have been to focus more on needlework techniques regularly. I have gone in spurts: several months of stitching, and then a year or so of quilting or other crafting activities, and then another needlework project (or picking up one that has been unfinished for some time) and back and forth. It took me 8 years to finish a hardanger runner, because I’d only work on it for a few weeks at a time, with long gaps between. On the other hand, I don’t regret taking up quilting…
I have been stitching for years, but very simple designs. If I was to do any thing differently it would to be more creative and willing to try new things. This subscription could be a really great starting point.
Merry Christmas
Hi, Mary,
Thank you for A Stitcher’s Christmas, 2020.
What would I do differently on my needlework journey? I would have started sooner!
Thank you for the chance to win a subscription to Giuliana Ricama or a kit from the magazine. My fingers are crossed!
I would set aside time each day for me to work on my stitching. Embroidery and counted cross-stitching gives me such pleasure I am not sure why I neglect it and myself sometimes.
I wish that I had begun earlier – back when my Mum was alive. She had embroidered in her teens and early twenties and stopped when her children were born. I would have loved to have shared what has become a passion in my retirement. I think of her often when I sew. The unbroken thread indeed. Does my daughter embroider? Of course not! …but maybe when I go ( no time soon I hope!) she’ll be tempted to pick up a needle and sew and remember.
I did a little embroidery in the late ’60s & early ’70s – learned a few simple stitches from my Grandma in order to repair my favorite jeans, along with so many other girls. I did go on to do some crewel kits, including a big “Tree of Life” for that very same beloved Grandma, but stopped when my babies started arriving. Those “babies” are now from 28 to 43! I restarted embroidering this year to make grocery bags for my husband – replace plastic! plus, all those beautiful colors… 5 of them are now done and I’m ready to move on.
I would have done so much better this year if I had researched *every* stitch, floss, equipment, and storage technique on your wonderful Needle N Thread site before doing anything! So many poor stitch results until I watched your videos! (they are even better than my Grandma’s instruction, God Bless her).
Thank you, Ms Mary Corbet, for all of your expertise and encouragement for us. You really are the best!
Although I consider myself a newbee, I have managed to stitch many projects from Trish Burr Whitework book. It’s a gorgeous book and worth every penny.
I would have loved to follow individual course at the beginning, but because of the pandemic, I could not. But that was not going to stop me. When we go back to our ”normal life”, I will find a tutor and will show him/her my work and I can get feedback on it.
The Giuliana Ricama giveaway is a fantastic gift that I would looooooooooooooooooove to win. I lost my spouse last year and been alone since. With the pandemic, it makes it tough on my moral. So I started stitching and it has given me a purpose to get up in the morning. I can envision myself sitting at night going through the magazine, and studying the different projects. Thank you Mary for this opportunity
I am a newbie, and if I were to change anything it would be to make time to practice more.
It would be lovely to win this for my birthday.
Thanks for the opportunity. Merry Christmas
When I read your review of this book it went straight onto my wishlist. I love doing whitework and this book is just what I need. The kit would be the icing on the cake for me.
As a long time stitcher, mostly cross stitch I am looking for new ways to expand my stitching with new threads and techniques. I love adding beads, mini buttons etc to make a piece pop!
Thank you for giving us the opportunity to see, try, and delight in so many varied aspects of embroider; your technique guides are brilliant.
I love this little kit because I can already see bits where I am asking myself, ‘how was this done?’.
The joy of learning more about a favourite pastime.
Ohhh. lovely I’ve always wanted to go to Italy but am prevented by my circumstances. The subscription would make a nice substitute. Thank you for your nice site and messages.
As a seasoned (kinda salty) stitcher, I would go back and join EGA when I was in my twenties or thirties. I have learned so much from my even more experienced sisters in our local chapter, and the classes I have taken have been wonderful!
Hi there! If there were one thing I could do differently, it would have been to start branching out in the types of embroidery and needlework that I tried earlier on. I spent a lot of years focusing on cross-stitch and came “late” to surface embroidery and other techniques. I feel like I would have really enjoyed getting into these areas earlier on (mountmellick is a perfect example)!
I would have found and EGA chapter when I was young. I missed many years of learning and fellowship.
If I could do anything different in my needlework journey it would probably be to have more classes when I was younger. I have learned a lot by being self taught, but I have also learned and expanded my horizons by being in the Embroiders Guild of America.
Whether you’re a seasoned stitcher or even just a recent newbie, if there were anything you could do differently about your needlework journey so far, what would it be?
I wish I had spent more time when I was younger learning better technique, rather than just winging it. I thought at the time I would have plenty of time when I was older. Now that I’m older, I still don’t have the time and my technique is still poor!
I have enjoyed embroidery from childhood through many years and many self-taught and patient instruction. Had to wait until a couple of decades ago to experience Mountmellick and think it might be more fun on linen of this prize drawing. Hope my time for stitching has not run out as I wouldn’t have lived life differently (even those frustrations of seed bead peyote stitch lessons).
Dear Ms. Corbet,
I am almost 72 and have never been happy with my stem stitch since I first worked it over 60 years ago. All the women in my family learned to embroider as children. I embroidered flowers on my clothes in the Hippie days of the early 70’s. I managed to finish a couple tablecloths in my 20’s but I never saw the true art of it until I found your blog. I only embroider now when my sewing needs a little touch. For example a felt bunny needs an eye and couple flowers. I learn something from you so often and I’m grateful. Please enter me in the Stitcher’s Christmas #3.
I’ve been enjoying a variety of needlework techniques for more than 50 years. I followed the trends for stamped embroidery, crewel, counted cross stitch, until I veered off into sewing my own clothing, knitting and quilting – adding embroidery embellishments to these, too. Since I retired 3 years ago, I’ve begun to come back to the enjoyment of slow hand stitching and have been investigating some new (to me) techniques and am fascinated by the explosion of creative designs and threads available! If I could change anything about my journey it would be two things 1) to have tried needlepoint somewhere along the way – I don’t know why I studiously avoided it and 2) (selfishly) to have not made so many wedding samplers for friends who ultimately got divorced (where do those samplers go after a divorce?) and to be able to retrieve the many items I made for ungrateful family and friends, so I could enjoy them myself. There – I said it, now I feel better!
I do mostly cross stitch and some simple outline stitching. I would like to expand my stitchwork repertoire and learn goldwork.
Fairly seasoned but, still willing to learn. Do over- more classes
Thank you Mary for another give away.
If I could do something different about my needlework journey, it would be to have spent more time with it. I’ve had to work so many hours during my lifetime that I had to give it up. I credit my co-workers for getting me to rediscover my love of it. If I had more time, I could expand my skill set to additional techniques.
I wish I had asked my grandmothers more about it. They both did embroidery, and I have some of their work.
I would like to add more embroidery to embellish my quilts. For applique quilts, embroidery gives it so much more dimension and pop.
I am not a newbie, but not very advanced. Started with crewel, now doing cross stitch. I think if I could changed anything I would stick to one form of needlework and get to be “advanced”…LOL
Thank you
I first began doing embroidery when I was in my early 20’s, but was discouraged by my not being a neat stitcher. I wish I had been more daring and less intimidated by fear of failing. Now in my 70’s I want to try everything.
I wish I had done more intricate embroidery when I was younger and my eyes were better!
What a joy to embroider. I wished I had begun sooner so with more practise I maybe could have become an expert!. Joy to begin and a joy to finish and a delight , if a gift, to see it later and be pleased and amazed that I had embroidered it.
Whether you’re a seasoned stitcher or even just a recent newbie, if there were anything you could do differently about your needlework journey so far, what would it be?
I have been embroidering and doing a variety of other crafts for over 60 years and I love to create. I used to design clothing, which I don’t do anymore.
I would to have more time to embroider all the things dancing in my head! Running 3 online businesses, I love to take out time to create Hungarian embroidered hearts, shoes and clothing, crochet and a host of other crafts.
Thank you for the opportunity.
If I could do something differently? I’d make sure to set aside regular time for practicing needlecraft and exploring the wonderful diversity of this fascinating artform. I love the meditative focus; the sense of achievement that comes from creating; and the insights and connection with the cultures and histories behind the designs and styles. I allowed the busy-ness of life to push needlecraft aside for decades, returning to it only recently – I wouldn’t let that happen again!
I have mainly been a cross stitcher for most of my life. If I could do things differently I would have done more embroidery when I was being taught by my great grandmother. Cross stitching was easier to me and I stopped embroidery and now I find it hard to pick it back up.
Oh, this question is easy! I hadn’t done embroidery in more than a decade before this spring, and while it’s been an enormous help and comfort while I’m stuck at home I can’t WAIT for when I’ll be able to go to needlework shops in person and see threads and such before I buy. I’ve always been the kind of person who wants to get some recommendations on things and then wander around stores poking my nose into everything, and it’s been frustrating having to just order colors based on internet pictures and hope that I’m getting a good sense of what shades they are as I’ve started to work on my own pieces instead of just ones others have designed, or when I want to do color alterations to a pattern.
Ciao! I’m studying Italian so what fun to combine language with needlework. I would make time to do needlework every week if I had it to do over. I learned to embroidery as a young girl, but just left it for vacations and downtime. I will be implementing this change. Mille grazie!
One thing I would do differently is to have taken some classes many years ago to improve my needlework technique and learn best way to execute stitches properly. Trying to learn from diagrams in books doesn’t always work well for me. The current availability of online videos really helps, particularly so during the past year of Covid restrictions.
The change I would make in my stitching journey would be to start off with quality materials and supplies. I spent too many years frustrated with my results—to learn that better materials made all the difference.
I am a newcomer to stitching although I have been following the on line course run by Sue Stone, here in the UK. I so enjoy all the content in your emails and have learnt so much from you.
I rarely comment , but felt I wanted to say how much I appreciate the way you share so much expertise and that I devour every article you put out is this way. That you so much. Kind regards
Barbara Every (based in the UK)
I like to stitch since I was a child. At school I was slow with all the hand made things. But it did not stop me liking to do all things needle or craft. But as adult I should have joined a group earlier. Stitching together is so much more fun.
The one thing I would change about my embroidery journey is that I wish I had continued my journey from my childhood, not stopping along the way and picking it back up as I got older.
I wish I had learned more about finishing techniques for small stitched pieces earlier in my needlework journey.
I wish I could have had more time when I was younger to study and develop my needlework more. I’m not bad, but I would love to be much, much better and more creative!
I would have bought more kits earlier on. Sourcing the materials can be time-consuming an frustrating, so having everything ready to go is definitely worth the extra money!
My needlework journey would need to summon more patience. My patience with cross stitching is excellent, I can wait till the end of the project to enjoy the journey. But with other stitching, my patience wanes, I want the finish it now
The only thing I would change about my needlework journey is to have done more of it!
I would not change my needlework journey because as I have experimented with different mediums over the years my work has improved!
I am a seasoned needle worker in some techniques, but I would like to expand my skills to enjoy learning new techniques.
I would love to have been able to share stitching time with both my Mum and Nan for longer.
Since I’m of Italian heritage, this looks like a fun prize to put in for. I used to get an Italian needle work magazine in order to keep up my reading skills but it went the way of all things in preference to raising a family.
What would I do differently than I have done on my needlework journey, I think I would have pursued the EGA master craftsman program in Crewel and surface embroidery instead of giving up on it. As much teaching as I have done in spite of not finishing it, I may have been a bit more professional.
I want to explore using more fibers and threads in my work.
I probably wouldn’t do much different, because I stitched whenever family or job time allowed. I also took advantage of all the educational opportunities that the EGA offered that I could afford . And I thank God for all the years he has given me to work on my stash ! Thanks, Mary
The ONE item I would do differently during this stitching journey of mine, if it were possible, would be to travel in order to learn directly from some amazing needlework teachers! And maybe, out of the dire COVID situation, as we do more online group gatherings, a portion of my wish will become possible, as far as learning from those amazing teachers – without the travel portion…
The one thing I would do differently in my journey is to not be afraid to try new types of stitching. I was afraid of Hardanger for years because I thought it was too hard to do. I finally tried it, to find I love it and it is actually much easier to do than I thought it was.
Issues of this magazine are luscious, full of beautiful photographs and I am eager to learn more about Italian needlework.
I have done counted cross stitch since 1985. I wish I had know of guilds and stitching groups, classes, etc. sooner. I have learned so much from the shared experiences these groups provide. I now do counted canvas and a little Hardanger as a result. I’m currently a member of EGA, ANG, CyberPointers and two local groups that get together to stitch once a month (in normal times of course). Due to the pandemic I found FiberTalk. I’ve learned so much from the various teachers and designers featured on FiberTalk, as well as from Gary, Vonna, Beth, and several guest co-hosts.
I love your newsletter/blog, Mary. I have followed some of your tutorials and bought new tools on your recommendation. I am a FAN!
What a lovely magazine! I love that it is also printed in English, thank you for the introduction. I’m a newbie to embroidery and if I changed anything it would be to devote more time to the craft.
I wouldn’t change a thing about my embroidery stitching episodes. I have made mistakes along the way, but have learned from those mistakes.
I have always enjoyed my embroidery journey. I wish I had had the grandmother and mother teachers. But I am very thankful of all of the instructional magazines and now the online teachers that have been available.
Such a clean look to very intricate embroidery. Lovely!
My needlework journey started at the knee of my grandmother as she started me embroidering tea towels with a printed design. She also taught me knitting and crocheting. I was fortunate to have access to a sewing machine which my mother purchased and supported my receiving classes from Singer at their studios in downtown Brooklyn. The background of hand skills and machine skills has given me a knowledge base and appreciation of creating using both tools. The desire to enhance my skills led me to attend F.I.T. in NYC in their Fashion Design Diploma Program. Since then I have had been fortunate to have access to online classes. My wish has been that I could have traveled to attend the RSN in the UK. The graduates of that program have had the privilege of having hands-on instruction from the finest instructors. I would truly have had a dream realized if I could have been enrolled.
The only thing I would do differently is I wish I had started quilting/ embroidery 60 years earlier! Now in my 80’s I have enough fabric, thread, floss, ribbon etc. to last for another 80 years. I doubt that I’ll reach that goal.
I’ve been doing some sort of embroidery since I was 6 and have tried many different types. So, I guess that I wouldn’t do anything differently but will need quite a few more years to continue trying new things.
Have more Patience!
If I could do over my journey in needlework I would carve out a larger block of time to work on it and not make as many things for other people. I love making things for others but you have to know when to limit it which apparantly I haven’t.
Italian Giuliana Ricama and Mountmellick whitework adds an elegance to the couture linen garments that I sew for myself. I love the simplicity of their designs. I’ve started stitching framed stitchings for loved ones. This magazine would give me new ideas to stitch now that I am retired and have more free time. Thank you for this giveaway.
To make my needlework journey easier, I would have invested in a good light years earlier. The difference stitching at night with a BlueMax light to regular/Ott lights is amazing!
There are a few things I would change in my earlier years of making needlework. First would be making an organized plan to build a ‘stash’ of the threads I use the most along with threads that are less common (fine white-work threads). And I’d do the same with needlework fabrics. Next, I’d have a designated space set-up that was ergonomically planned (currently is here and there).
If I could change my needlework journey I would be easier on myself for mistakes. Perfect is not a requirement for needlework. Sometimes the mistakes make a more meaningful piece.
I used to do embroidery and crewel work when I was a teenager and a young adult, but started doing counted cross stitch instead. I’ve been doing it for the last 40 years, but reading your newsletter has really tempted me to go back to embroidery. Your work is stunning and so very life-like.
I would have joined EGA and ANG ealier
I would not hold back on trying new things or finishing things because of not being sure of how to do it…if I was starting over I’d just go for it and look things up if I needed to know it! And then just do it. Yes, I’d work to get over my perfectionism so that I could enjoy just doing projects 🙂
I love this magazine! I have a subscription and I love the instructions for reticello, etc. So helpful.
I wish I had understood the amount of time some projects were going to take to completion. I generally jump in with enthusiasm and loads of supplies, without considering/appreciating the amount of time the detail is going to consume. I still finished the projects, albeit much further down the timeline.
I would probably consider myself a seasoned stitcher, starting my journey in primary school. What I would like to do differently is be a little more creative and maybe create some original designs.
I consider myself a newbie because I haven’t done a lot of needlework in my lifetime though it’s been well over 40 yrs since my first piece as a child. So…what would I do different? Id’ do more…sew more.
If there were something that I could do differently in my journey in needlework it would be to have started when I was much younger. Though I have always enjoyed embroidery and occasionally dabbled in tiny projects (initials on my daughters cotton hoodies in elementary grades) I didn’t get serious until my late 40’s. There is so much I want to do but I have arthritis in both hands from many years typing as an Administrative Assistant. My eyesight is not great either and I wear tri-focals now at 57. If I had pain free hands and great eyesight at this age I would embroider everything!
I would love to try this magazine out, it looks beautiful. I am a seasoned stitcher I have loved my journey if I could change one thing I would have applied for the RSN Apprenticeship to qualify as a Hand Embroiderer when the course was available and I was much younger!
Love the Italian magazines. A friend just subscribed to it. Beautiful projects.
JIF
If there is anything I could do differently about my needlework journey so far, it would be to have been more consistent. I took my first embroidery stitches when I was 8, stitching a wool embroidery sampler pin cushion that I still use today. I’m 59 now. Imagine how good, and how fearless, I’d be now if I’d worked on it consistently! Better late than never tho!
These are both beautiful prizes. Fingers crossed
I believe I am getting this first magazine as a Christmas gift and I can’t wait!
Gail
The one thing I would do differently is to keep embroidery journals. I know that my skills have improved greatly over the years and it would have been nice to have that documented in a series of journals filled with my work. Even though I haven’t really done it before, I plan to start at the beginning of next year.
I drool over those Giuliana Ricama magazines!!! I think if there were anything I would change about my needlework journey so far, it would be to use a better backing fabric on my projects. I never learned eons ago about using the muslin or cotton fabric behind the main fabric. This year, after studying and researching successful projects of others, I’ve learned and began to implement this and other techniques.
Huh, that’s a good question. I think for a long time I only knew about cross-stitch, and I only branched out about 15 years ago. I wish I’d done that a bit earlier, and that I hadn’t put off certain projects for so long.
Love your newsletters. The Giuliano magazine looks beautiful
I have been stitching for over 40 years. The only thing I would change about my needlework journey would be to better organize my projects. I loose track of what I have sometimes
Delightful looking magazine. Would be a real treasure to read, and glean new ideas
If I were to do something different in my needlework journey I would have started using vintage items much earlier in my works.
If I were to change anything it would be to have found more time for stitching. Thank You for the opportunity to win a kit.
I would take more time learning how to transfer patterns correctly,so that the embroidery goes more smoothly.
I think if I could have a do-over in my stitching life, I would have been a bit more daring in my projects and not stuck with all the “kits” I did years ago. I would have tried to design my own embroidery designs and for sure would have moved on from dish towels sooner! Pictures have been fun, but I wish I’d done other projects that weren’t just wall art. I have accumulated a lot of supplies, I wish I had and would use them up! Does anyone else have sewing supplies hoarding tendencies?
I have to push myself to come out of my comfort zone, I steer towards easy, perhaps any of these projects would give me the mojo to try something a little different
I would have started making a journal when I was a girl documenting with words and pictures all of the pieces I stitched. I would include information about the ground fabric, fibers used, source of project, framer and if passed on who received it.
I wish I had become more adventurous with stitches and fiber a lot sooner. It’s only the last couple of years I have begun to experiment with overdyed floss, beads, and couching. I’m STILL afraid of some of the more complex stitches but I’m finally getting to the stage in life where I figure I should just dive in. It’s my work and if I like it, that should be all that matters.
If I could do something different it would be to take stitching classes with a very nice lady I met about 10 years ago and has since passed. She was so good at stitching, giving you tricks, like the fact that the needle has to different eye sides! Who would have known this without classes! I only learned to cross-stitch on my own so a bit of knowledge from experienced stitchers would be of great help for me. I sometimes don’t know how to make things look much better than what I stitch. Experience from others is key to your stitching AND personal growth, too.
I can’t think of anything I would change about my needlework journey. I’m happy with what I’ve done.
I would not be near as worried about doing things the “right” way, instead focusing on the way it works for me. As a left handed stitcher I have been frustrated many times by well meaning persons insisting that their way was the right way. It doesn’t always work for lefties.
My needle work journey would have started much earlier if I could do things differently. You can learn so much just by the process of putting needle to thread.
The thing that I would do is most definately to practice more, take every available minute to pick up embroidery and put a stitch or two in, also work new stitches rather than working the ones I am most comfortable with
If I’d change anything it would be to branch out sooner and more often. I got stuck in one technique and would get real comfortable. Now I tend to do an old favorite technique along side a new one.
I would have stitched more regularly through the years….that’s time I can’t get back!
Thank you for the opportunity to win!
I am definitely a “Seasoned Stitcher”. The titles just keep getting more frequent. I love stitching and am trying to get more projects done. Thanks Mary.
“Whether you’re a seasoned stitcher or even just a recent newbie, if there were anything you could do differently about your needlework journey so far, what would it be?”
I’ve been a quilter for over 20 years. I began needlework such as hand and crewel embroidery about a year ago. I have come to love this type of needlework and if I had to do it again, what I would do differently, is become familiar with and attempt to learn and stitch at least 3 types of needlework 15 years sooner. It’s important so this art isn’t lost!
What a lovely magazine. In these times a magazine is so loved. Like a dear friend coming for a visit. It can be read over and over while I dream. Being quite old my stitching is limited but not my dreaming.
I would take smaller projects, sometimes in the beginning they were to advanced for my skills and I am not very pleased with the outcome even I put many hours on them.
If there was anything I could do differently about my needlework journey, it would probably be sticking with one new kind of embroidery for a longer period of time. I wish I had learned more about the intricacies and practiced the harder parts so I truly felt I knew the embroidery technique. Jack of all trades, Master of none?
I’d love to take a real class on crewel. I’ve worked from books and YouTube but nothing replaces the interactions in a class setting.
I’m still a bit of a newbie, but what I have wished is that I had a readily available expert to ask questions — more than the amazing website you have developed. You are a wonderful mentor/instructor with so much detailed information — yet, it would be so helpful to show my work to someone and receive specific advice for that piece.
Not to downplay your website — without your virtual input, my stitching might never have ‘taken off’!
What amazing gifts! If I could do anything differently, I would definitely learn more techniques through in-person teaching. I have taught myself a lot of bad habits over the years and I find it much easier to learn in-person from others.
If I could change one thing about my experience with needlework, it would be to have paid more attention to my mother when she tried to teach me as a child!
I wish I had kept a photographic diary of all the stitch work I have done – not for a record but as a reminder of all the emotional connections to the pieces I have given away in my lifetime.
I have and am enjoying my stitching journey very much. I have stitched for family and friends over the years and have kept some. I have one regret, “I should have kept a better log or diary of things I have stitched over the years”. Ana-Maria
I took several years off from handwork while I was working full time, and now find that it is harder for me to see and follow the more difficult designs I would like to do. I wish I had taken the time for myself when I was younger to learn more stitches and techniques. Still I love the projects I do!
I can’t think of anything I would have done differently, but I do wish that I’d discovered your blog and the vast resources of your website earlier on!
I’m a curious embroiderer! I like to experiment, know different techniques, I like to be able to practice embroidery in all its dimensions and varieties. So I guess I wouldn’t change anything for now because I’m always looking for news!!!
Reflecting on my journey with needlework I think it’s been as it needed to be – my interest and activity has waxed and waned with life’s events and it’s always been there to go to when time allowed or need arose…a perfect thread running through many years, and hopefully many more to come.
Love the kit – it’s beautiful! If all of the projects in the magazine are this awesome, I’d be sewing all the time!
I am a seasoned stitcher.
Yes there are plenty of things I can do about my needlework journey so far and I am doing them: First I want to further develop my skills so I am reading books, watching YouTube and reading blogs. Second, I want to get better organized. When I want to start a project I want it all together, everything I need so I don’t have to go searching for thread or needles, etc. Finally, I want to actually practice difficult needlework so I can build my skills.
I have little patience, so finishing a project used to be my primary goal. I had too many things that I started but never finished, usually because I got bored and let other things take priority. Now, I still want to finish, but the process of completion is more important. I have been reading lots of books on stitching, not so much for the “how to” as for insight into the character of the people who have written them.
I love the simple flower kit, plain but striking
Please put me in the hat for this magazine. I am am enthusiastic stitch novice trying out lots of techniques. So far I think needle painting is my favourite, closely followed by stump work, but I really want to try white work…..maybe when the puppy stops trying to help me stitch.
I a seasoned stitcher and love embroidery. I wish I had someone look over my shoulder while I stitch and tell me how I could improve.
I would have branched out from canvas work to embroidery/goldwork/stumpwork decades ago.
I really think the biggest change I’d like to make is to be able to devout much more time to stitching, as well as more time to learn new techniques and new stitches. I’ve have followed your newsletter for years now and I so appreciate all of you knowledge and that you share with all of us!
I wish I had looked into more formal education for embroidery when I was younger. Either an art based degree, joining a Guild or even the Royal School of Needlework. Of course I can still do that now, but time and financial commitments get in the way.
There is not much I would do differently. I love everything about my stitching. My piles of fabric, my messy stash of threads, the hundreds of different needles I have grabbed from here and there. I love the personality of each and every pair of scissors. Best of all are my projects, my WIPs and all the ideas I still have in my head.
What would I do differently? Give it more time, more space and share it more with friends.
And of course have less WIPs!.
What I would do differently- Start an organizing system much earlier than I did so I wouldnm’t be so disorganized nos.
The article was wonderful. My favorite type of embroidery is Italian in all of its various forms. I have stitched some, purchased some embroidery (cutwork, Assisi mostly), and while in Italy have purchased copies of the magazine. I love the magazine and have stitched some pieces from the ones I have. I regret I have been unable to purchase more copies of Ricami magazine. I would cherish having them and enjoying more pieces out of them.
If I were to do anything differently if would be to not be so judgmental about my work. When I’m working on something all I can see are imperfections. When I look at it months later none of them are noticeable and I wonder what I was thinking at the time. I am my own worst critic, but it does fade after bit. I should embrace the moment and the journey more than I do.
I would have realised the value of buying good quality needles. They make good embroidery much easier.
I started embroidery at 5 years old. By the time I started working at 16, embroidery fell out of my life. If I had it to do all over again, my wish would be to have continued on and maybe be an expert at many forms of embroidery now. As it is, I restarted embroidery when I retired at 63 and absolutely love every bit of it. It’s so very relaxing and keeps me away from the misery of Covid. I just really wish I were more skilled at it and for the pains in my wrists to go away!
Golly, what would I do differently? Since the only way I’ve learned embroidery is by reading and places like Needle n Thread, I would really like live some place else, somewhere there is an embroidery shop that also has LESSONS! I hate trying to figure out things that I am doing wrong by looking at a teeny, tiny little picture or (horrors!) no picture at all.
Hello I’ve been stitching since a child (now 53) I wouldn’t change anything however I’d be travelling to the uk to attend the RSN if I had my time over
Would love to start learning the work of Mary Corbet with this new kit.
Thank you.
I’m learning so much about threads and needles and stitches!
If I could change anything, I wish I had taken a class on textiles,
which used to be offered by Britex Fabrics in SF.
Whether you’re a seasoned stitcher or even just a recent newbie, if there were anything you could do differently about your needlework journey so far, what would it be?
I would have stayed with it throughout all these years. I lapsed through my young mother years. I’m sure my work would have been better by now.
That’s a beautiful give-away!
I would definitely have joined the local Embroiderers’ Guild 20 years earlier. The amount I have learnt and the improvement in my stitching over the last 10 years, not to mention the social aspect and friends I have made, has been huge compared to the 20 years before that. I highly recommend that everyone belong to a needlework guild or association or local group – it is sooooo very worthwhile and rewarding.
I have had an amazing journey throughout my needlework life (starting with my mother teaching me to embroider at age 6 or 7). I’ve learned many techniques, and enjoyed most of them. When I choose courses to take at a seminar, I try to find ones that will teach me a new technique, or new aspects of a technique I have started to explore already.
By the time my mother died, her favorite technique was metal thread embroidery, and she designed and worked many beautiful items. She had said that sometime when I came to visit, she should hold a mini-seminar for me in metal thread work. We kept putting it off, as we anticipated we would have many more years together–and then we didn’t. I inherited a huge stash of all kinds of threads from her, including metal threads. The next time I attended a seminar, I made sure to take a metal thread class. After all, if I didn’t like the technique, I might as well get rid of all those threads. But I did enjoy metal thread embroidery, so I kept the threads, and I’ve attended more metal thread classes. I just wish I had taken the chance to let her teach me about them. However, her stash included several UFOs, including a couple of metal thread pieces, and at least I can finish those up, making guesses at the best stitches to use to fill in the unfinished parts.
Hello Mary:
Thank you for this opportunity, if I were able to start stitching over again I would be sure and take pictures of my stitching
as it would be lovely not only to see/follow my stitching journey. As it is with anything I know practice as well as your many helpful ideas and hints Mary have made my stitching more professional.
Thankyou
Yvonne
I wish there had been in-person embroidery classes when I was younger. I didn’t get around to taking any until I was in my 50s. I cringe when I see some of my earlier work and the (now obvious) mistakes I made. I learned to stitch and knit and crochet by reading magazines.
My needlework journey has been about 65 years so far. If I could do something differently, I would spend a bit more time completing one project before very excitedly beginning a new project. I wouldn’t have a hard fast rule of one project at a time, but perhaps limit UFOs to 5 or so. Then I wouldn’t have the utterly SHAMEFUL number of projects awaiting completion.
Wow, what a wonderful giveaway.I have often looked at those magazines & wondered where I could find them. I will now hold my breath.
I have been stitching for about 10 years and have loved the journey. I wish I had started earlier and I wish I had more time to stitch. Or perhaps more correctly I would like to give myself permission to stitch more often. For half this time I had children at home but now that they are adult I still feel guilty doing the things I love! There will always be housework and chores to do!
If I could do anything differently, it would be to be willing to make mistakes and just try more than I do.
I would have started my needlework journey earlier! Although I did some basic stitching at school, which I loved, and some at home I went to a school that did not see their “gels” spending time doing “fancy work”. No, we were going to hit the glass ceiling in business, teaching and academia so stitching was not encouraged. So when I picked up a needle 20 years after school I realised the wonderful opportunities to learn SO much embroidery and have embraced as much as I can. But age creeps up quickly and I regret those “lost years” . . .
Hi, if there was one thing that I would be differently, it would be to have been more committed to the processs of learning, and being consistent in my work ethic. I love to read and dream, but do not really attempt all that many projects. Commitment and consistence are what I need. Sandi
Not have so many UFO’s
i have been stitching most of my life. i have a grandmama that taught me to do almost any kind of stitching. she started out with hand sewing(mending) then crochet, embroidery, needlepoint, garment sewing, and sewing for the home. she was a firm believer in using the best fabrics and tools and supplies ,you can afford. she also believed that home made was much better quality then store bought .she made things to last not to fall apart and then have to be replaced.. she taught me to be proud of my mended clothes, the ones that we coved the holes with embroidery and/or decorated patches. if i could change anything about my sewing life , i would study more about the history of the embroidery that i love so much.
I retired from teaching and found all this time on my hands. I went back to needlework and found that this too has changed from my hobby of the 60’s. I needed inspiration and instructions that gave me patience and guidance from your website and the various publications of today. I cannot be more pleased with my choice to get back to needlework and those who have embraced this wonderful activity.
I love to embroider, and constantly watch your videos to learn new stitching. I experiment with different colors of thread by putting colors together in my stitching. I love your site and is so helpful
I’m still sad that, due to Life Stuff, I didn’t learn about the Plymouth Jacket project until it was basically finished. I’d have loved to have been involved!
Hi Mary,
If there is anything I would change with my stitching journey it is to finish more of the projects that I have started. I’m a great starter and stitch along quite merrily but then the next project grabs my fancy and the first is put aside to be finished later. Later has now arrived and sometimes I struggle to remember what I was doing with the project especially if it was from a class from years ago.
When I was a teen, my father consistently criticized my needlework, my art, everything. I stopped doing all of it for decades, but picked it up needlework again after I separated from a husband who was a lot like my father, criticism-wise. At any rate, if I had kept up my needlework, and my art, I may have had a very different path.
I wish that I had realized that perfection isn’t al it’s cracked up to be–the journey with all its mistakes can be a joy as well.
In hindsight, I wish that I had taken photographs of my projects or at least kept a journal
I’ve been stitching for many years but what I would change would be when I actually started. Stitching would have been a great stress reliever during the nineties!
Hi Mary, What would I do differently in my needlework journey? Well, I did some embroidery as a child, but when at university and afterwards in my working life, I did virtually none, although I occasionally picked up kits or patterns that I especially liked. Now, I have time to work on them, but there are so many different techniques and things to explore! I am enjoying what I am currently working on, but inspired to try so many other things too, and only have so many hours in a day. I guess that other people must feel that way, but wish I had continued embroidering as an adult, as it brings such serenity and joy in daily life.
The one thing I wish I’d done differently in my needlework journey: stitching one project at a time. My UFOs are stashed here, there, and everywhere.
I wish I had been braver earlier. I am finding I do have some ability to be imaginative and don’t have to follow the rules!
As often as I get frustrated with putting the cart before the horse (I want to just jump in without doing any research!), I think my threadwork journey is exactly as it should be – the excitement over something new to try, the beautiful work I see others doing, the puzzlement over where to start the blackwork design. I’m right where I should be, I think!
I’ve been doing needlework on and off since I was very small. Over the years I’d have benefited from being part of some sort of stitching community; for me, it was always a very solitary endeavor. It would have been easier for me (and this is still true) to stick with learning and practicing challenging skills if I had a social connection with my embroidery work. As it was, I would get back into my stitching for a year or so, then lose interest and put it away for a few years. Repeat, repeat.
I think I am like almost every stitcher; we would all like to devote more time to the art that we are so passionate about.
I wished I had realized earlier on that it is ok to make a change in a design or kit to make a project more a reflection of me.
I think I should have challenged myself to stitch my own designs more than I have.
Thanks Mary
I have done simple hand embroidery for a couple years. If I could change one thing, it would be to have started earlier in life! I find embroidery to be very relaxing!
I have long looked at this mag on line but living in NZ it is far too expensive to subscribe as postage is “out of this world”. My most favourite embroidery is whitework and needlelace that is often a feature of this magazine. Love your newsletters and web.
Kerry
I first learnt to embroidery by my Grandmother over 50 years. If I was to do things different I would have listened more intently to her tips and tricks. But then hind sight is a great thing !
What lovely prizes! What would I do differently about my needlework journey? I didn’t start doing needlework until I was in my early 20’s. I wish I had started as a young child.
If I were to do anything differently I would have learned more about painting and drawing earlier. I didn’t realize how much the fundamentals in art training would help with embroidery.
This is a hard question. I am far, far from accomplished, but I don’t think there is anything I would do differently. I’m not sure if that is because I don’t know enough to know what I should change, or if it’s just that I stitch for my own pleasure.
I am a relative newbie… not so much in time, but in experience. I’ve been stitching for a couple of years but I am AFRAID to tackle the type of project that will take me beyond cross stitching. What I MUST do is, going forward (as NIKE says), Just Do It! I will not let another year go by without practicing different stitches and jumping in to an actual project. Even if it turns out sloppy. Even though the stitching won’t be award-winning. I know that unless I jump over this self-imposed hurdle I will never become the stitcher I long to be.
I wish that I kept a diary or journal of my journey discovering the joys of my needlework projects over the last 5 years from being a cross stitcher to learning crewelwork, threadpainting whitework, blackwork to goldwork.