Hello,

I hope this finds you well!

It’s been a little while since my last newsletter—though I like to think of it as part of the charm. Rather than sticking to a strict schedule, I send these updates when inspiration strikes or when there’s something truly exciting to share.

And today, I’ve got plenty to tell you!

Discover the Joy of Slow Stitching

Have you ever started a project without a plan—just to see where your creativity takes you?

That’s the heart of slow stitching. It’s not about following a chart or sticking to a plan. It’s about stepping into the unknown, stitching with scraps and threads that call to you, and creating something uniquely your own.

I recently shared my thoughts on slow stitching with a friend who asked if it meant sewing in slow motion (yes, really!). It gave me a chance to explain how this art form is a beautiful blend of creativity, mindfulness, and even sustainability.

From meditative stitches to playful fabric pairings, slow stitching is all about the process, not the outcome. Ready to learn more and see how I approach this wonderfully freeing craft?

Explore my guide to slow stitching here... what-is-slow-stitching.html

Play and Experiment with Embroidery Stitch Samplers

Are you ever hesitant to start stitching, worried about getting it wrong?

An embroidery stitch sampler might just be the creative nudge you need. Think of it as your stitching playground—a safe space to explore stitches, try new techniques, and even make a few (charming) mistakes.

Samplers have a rich history, but today they’re all about personal discovery. My first attempt was far from perfect, but it became something I cherished—not for its neatness, but for the freedom it represented.

Curious how a sampler can be a personal stitch library, a design inspiration, or even a little slice of stress relief?

Check out my guide to embroidery stitch samplers here... embroidery-stitch-sampler.html

My Unexpected Fabric Haul

Our village Whats App group is a treasure trove for sustainable finds, but I didn’t expect to strike gold when I spotted a post about fabric sample books up for grabs.

It had been three days since the offer, and I thought I’d missed my chance. Thankfully, my luck was in.

When I arrived to see what was available, I was blown away—book after book filled with fabric samples, some worth over £100 per metre!

While some fabrics were a bit heavy for my usual projects, there was more than enough to get my creativity buzzing. I nearly filled the back of the car with books containing samples of all sizes—from petite 6-inch squares to hefty 20 x 40-inch pieces.

The challenge?

Extracting the fabric from the books. Armed with tools to pry out staples (and a bit of elbow grease), I’ve been slowly adding to my stash. My creative cupboard is now brimming with possibilities—and I can’t wait to share how I use them in future projects.

My next task is removing the sticky paper backing from the free fabric samples. It comes away easily on some pieces, but others are more difficult. If you have any ideas for tackling this huge task I am all ears!

Whether you’re stitching, sorting through your own fabric stash, or just enjoying a moment of calm this festive season, I’d love to hear what you’re up to. Feel free to reply and share your latest projects or ask any questions—I always enjoy hearing from you.

Until next time, happy stitching and enjoy the holidays.

Carol

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