Page Turners

Page Turners

You all know by now I am an ardent bibliophile. Even the history of print, bookmaking, and illustration is appealing because there’s nothing like a good, old-fashioned page-turner – it’s like joining the dots throughout the ages. Recently on my...
Embroidery, Nature and Process

Embroidery, Nature and Process

I’m beginning research for another Stitch Safari episode and came across Louise Gardiner’s Cape of Empowerment. If you’re at all interested in connecting natural inspiration with your embroidery, then keep reading. The Cape of Empowerment was...
The Value of Monochrome

The Value of Monochrome

Monochrome:  a photograph, picture or design executed in black and white or varying tones of only one colour. This would be one of my favourite colour schemes. It’s so easy to use and creates huge visual interest if used correctly. One colour – it’s...
Forgotten Treasure

Forgotten Treasure

Finally, I’ve had time to go through my workroom since moving last year. Unfortunately, this sort of work attracts a short attention span – I’d much rather be stitching, but I am consistent so after a few days I hope to have everything returned to...
Creative Block?  Not Here

Creative Block? Not Here

Imagination is a spectacular thing. Unless we continually work to unleash the possibilities of our imagination then it may be all for naught. How do we let loose those ideas to continually inspire new work? By simply doing. All the time – and never stopping....
Close Down to See

Close Down to See

Paul Gauguin once said, ‘Shut your eyes in order to see.’ Forays into our artwork often require a shutdown at some point. Turn off the computer screens, close those reference books and sketchbooks – it’s time for some old-fashioned...