Top nine makes of 2023
In 2023, I got such a lot of pleasure from exploring my creativity through my passion for textile crafts.
I started the year by decorating my spare bedroom and found a gorgeous burnt orange velvet chair which fit beautifully with my colour scheme. Obviously I needed to stitch a bespoke cushion so I turned to Bargello needlepoint as it’s quick, easy and boldly impactful. I was able to incorporate all the colours from my decor to create this beautiful cushion which I edged and backed with a piece of vintage Harris Tweed. I’ve added Bargello needlepoint to the workshop roster for 2024 as it’s so much fun. Click on the cushion image above and it will take you straight to the eventbrite page.
Weaving, with its intricate patterns and textures, gave me so much joy last year. I borrowed a tapestry loom frame from my stitching buddy Karl Macrae at the end of January and I was captivated. I’ve always loved weaving but hadn’t made many tapestries. I was inspired to create more, reflecting my adventures and favourite places. If you want to learn how to make stunning wall hangings to adorn your living space why not come along to the wonderful weaving workshop, and if that’s too much like hard work, you can buy mine on Etsy.
One of the greatest joys of 2023 was falling back in love with spinning which gave me the opportunity to create my own yarns, combining colours and fibres to bring new life and texture to my weaving projects. I spun so much yarn that it would take a lifetime for me to use it all so I added some on Etsy as well for allthe budding weavers or knitters who want just a little bit of fancy yarn.
The timeless art of stitching continues to steal my heart. One project became a testament to my patience and dedication as I took on the challenge of upholstering my favourite chair with hexagons. Each piece was stitched on to the chair by hand, and many of the patches were fabrics I had made myself by weaving, knitting or wet-felting. I even embroidered a couple of patches and made some with Bargello needlepoint too. It turned into a family affair when I came across knitting that both my daughter and son had done and was able to incorporate those too. Every piece has a story, just one of the reasons why I love patchwork so much.
I enjoy looking back each year and reflecting on all the things I’ve made my passion and love for textiles woven into every stitch. Naturally I have a pile of WIPS (works in progress) too, which may well feature in the 2024 round up.