I never planned to become an embroiderer! 

I have been creating and making all sorts of things for as long as I can remember. Sewing clothes for my two little boys gave me the idea to study garment design and construction. The course I chose at the Danish Handicraft Guild College included a module on hand embroidery and embellishment. It only took one lesson and I was hooked. I immediately transferred my major to hand embroidery. I have never regretted that – not even for a second.

"I didn’t choose to embroider ~ Embroidery chose me."

I have tried my hands at many types of embroidery but am especially drawn to styles that involve colour, pattern and texture. Crewel embroidery, raised embroidery (stumpwork) and goldwork are among my favourites. For kits and workshops, I (try to) stay within each style, but for my own work, I happily mix everything.

"My style is best described as traditional ~ but not typical."

I find INSPIRATION in many places. I am drawn to patterns and textures everywhere I look; in landscapes and gardens; historical textiles, fabrics and garments; interior design and architecture. Stories and fairy tales are often the starting point for my raised embroidery and pictures.

COLOUR & TEXTURE bring the design to life. After choosing a colour scheme, I will start with more shades than I will need and allow my colours to work their ‘magic’ as I stitch. I use STITCHES & TECHNIQUES to create textures and patterns within a design. In a sense, I think of my stitches as tools in a similar way I imagine an artist uses different brushes and strokes in a painting. I like to see the design develop under my needle, refining my choices of colours, stitches and textures as the pattern develops.

"Once I discovered embroidery was 'my thing' it opened doors I never imagined possible."

My stitching journey so far has been nothing short of surprising. From embroidering ecclesiastical vestments, including a robe designed by Danish Queen Margrethe II, editing INSPIRATIONS magazine and having my designs published in numerous books and magazines.

The most rewarding part of my stitching life is sharing what I love by designing embroidery kits, creating stitched art and teaching both around Australia and internationally.

Who knows what it will lead to next….