Refresh your stitching with a wealth of inspiration!

Spring is a time of renewal and refreshment. As we emerge from winter, it’s often a good time to give our workboxes, stitching corners and materials stacks a ‘spring clean’. However, that doesn’t always mean throwing unwanted items away! Why would we do that, when so many fabrics, threads and embellishments could be used instead to give new life to our projects?

In that spirit, we have the perfect ‘upcycling’ project for you in this issue, as Maria Livesey shares how to use old denim fabric as well as a selection of fabric scraps to make the prettiest purse. No two purses will look alike as all of you will have different fabrics to use – I can’t wait to see the various results! Plus, Jay Hooper’s smocking cushion makes a great way of using up any leftover threads you may have already at home.

The rest of the issue is bursting with ideas. Alex Law’s crewelwork quetzal bird is a riot of colour. Our cover star, Joyce Wong’s silk-shaded hedgehog will prove hard to resist. You can get set for Easter, with Catriona Patience’s delightful needle-felted egg decoration. Chris Yates’ leaf wall hanging combines gelli printing with hand stitching to great effect. Plus, Loëtitia Gibier’s water dragon is a goldwork triumph!

PLUS! We chat to Caroline Hyde-Brown about her love of foraging to inform her textile work.

The best inspiration and advice for every stitcher! Make the art of beautiful embroidery easy - get your copy today!