I thought I would share my thoughts, inspirations, processes and likes in the form of an interview. This was really fun to do, as I created the questions then sat with my boys, who acted as the “interviewer” and I answered them. I have to say, it felt a bit weird being interviewed by your our children and having to write your own answers down, but the results make for a fun read!

How did you first get started designing cross stitch patterns? What inspired you to pursue this as a career?

I started designing about 10 years ago, first it was basic patterns to stitch either by embroidery or cross stitch, then I played about with crocheted items and after that for a short while I designed company logos, but none really grabbed me. It was after meeting an old friend after several years apart, that the idea of using technology to design patterns rather than pencil and paper was suggested, that was the start for me into the realms of creating cross stitch patterns. I’ve always loved textiles and handcrafts, and cross stitch really appealed to me, as I have always found it to be a relaxing, immersive, yet thoughtful and creative hobby. After making some patterns for friends and family, I realised I had a knack for design and decided to try selling my patterns professionally. It’s allowed me to turn my artistic passion into a career.

Walk me through your process for creating a new cross stitch pattern from start to finish. How do you come up with the ideas and motifs?

When coming up with a new design, I usually start by sketching out some rough ideas that inspire me. I prefer nature themes like flowers, landscapes or animals, but will try my hand at almost anything. I used to then move to charting out the pattern on graph paper, thinking about the placement of different elements and where I want to use different stitches or threads to create texture, which took hours and could end up with many restarts. Now, with computer softwares being so good, I can use my PC and printer to scan in my design, develop it, improve colours etc before converting it to a pattern via the software. This is still a trial and error process, to ensure the details are maintained etc. I then work through my checklist – my colours and stitches are working well, the layout and positioning, cloth count and more, before finalising the pattern. The whole process from concept to completed pattern can take a few days to weeks and then there are always those ideas and designs that no matter how hard your try, where never destined to be sewn in cross stitch.

What tools and techniques do you use when designing a new pattern? Do you use any software or is it more hand-drafted?

I used create all my patterns by hand rather than using a computer program. Now, as the softwares have improved so much, I use my PC, but I still do a huge amount of editing, I never rely purely on what the software gives me.

What do you enjoy most about designing cross stitch patterns? What are some of the challenges you face?

I find the design process very rewarding creatively. I love seeing a pattern go from my imagination to an actual stitched piece of art. It’s always fun when customers share photos of my designs they’ve stitched up themselves. The tricky bit is keeping patterns fresh and unique while still appealing to stitchers. Coming up with new ideas can also be challenging!

What advice would you give to someone looking to get into cross stitch pattern design? Are there any skills you’d recommend aspiring designers learn or practice?

My advice to new designers would be to study the types of patterns selling well so you understand what stitchers enjoy making. Practice all the basic stitches until you can confidently employ them in designs. Look at historical embroidery, nature, iconic art or whatever inspires you for design ideas. And most importantly, just keep creating and building up your portfolio, even if it’s just for yourself initially. Your skills will grow with time and practice.

How important is understanding historical embroidery techniques to your work as a modern cross stitch designer?

Understanding traditional embroidery has certainly informed my work, but I don’t feel limited by the old rules. I enjoy dreaming up innovative patterns and combining classic techniques with contemporary elements and colours. Blending the best of past and present is so gratifying and I think it is how this ancient craft has continued to thrive.

Do you have a particular time period or style that inspires your designs? For example, traditional folk motifs, art deco patterns, etc.

My childhood love of the countryside is definitely an inspiration for bucolic scenes of cottages and meadows and wide open landscapes. I also enjoy the freedom of Art Nouveau styles and modern art techniques, sometimes incorporating them into designs of all sorts from wildlife to pop culture. I’m always keen to expand my repertoire and explore modern influences too. I also like to remember the traditional and allow those values to be reflected in a pattern, so some of my favourite patterns are based on real life representations of wildlife. Variety keeps me energised as a designer!

^{All the included images are available patterns either via my web store or my Etsy store}

References

The Cross Stitch Guild – Threads of History. https://www.thecrossstitchguild.com/cross-stitch-basics/stitchers-study/threads-of-history

The Complete Photo Guide to Needlework by Linda Wyszynski – A how-to guide covering basic embroidery stitches and techniques. Useful reference for readers interested in learning cross stitch fundamentals.

Cross Stitch Motif Series by various authors (e.g. Jane Greenoff) – These books offer hundreds of cross stitch border and motif ideas grouped by themes like floral, seasonal, animals etc. Great visual inspiration.

Art of Cross Stitch by STATUSrani Manick – Showcases the work of leading modern designers pushing creative boundaries with cross stitch. Examples of innovative contemporary patterns.

Antique Needlework Tools and Embroideries by Nerylla Taunton – Details historical embroidery methods and materials. Valuable resource for understanding origins of cross stitch.