We were thrilled to recently be the Etsy Featured Shop! Read our interview here: https://blog.etsy.com/en/featured-shop-i-heart-stitch-art/?ref=fp_featured

Welcome to iHeartStitchArt. I'm so glad you're here! For sneak peeks on upcoming products, please follow me on Instagram: @i.heart.stitch.art ... I also post updates periodically on my blog at www.iheartstitchart.com. But I use Instagram the most. :)

Here's a little about how I got started:
I created iHeartStitchArt because I wanted to learn embroidery stitches, but when I searched for designs and inspiration, two things held me back. First, most of the designs I saw were stuck in a 1980’s time warp; pretty, but not what I wanted for my own home. And second, I wanted unique materials; specifically linen, and really good hoops, and different thread. I realized that if I was searching for cute embroidery patterns and supplies, other people must be also.

So, I decided to create my own embroidery designs inspired by nature, vintage illustration, French antiquities, modern home decor, and so much more... I searched for materials that are lovely in texture and form - natural linen fabric, smooth wooden embroidery hoops, easy-to-thread tapestry needles, and quality embroidery thread! And with that, I began producing cohesive kits complete with everything you need to get started.

My process:
When I create a kit, it all starts in my sketchbook. I will take inspiration from something and render my own versions of it until I have a simplified image suitable for stitching. There are few things I enjoy more than sitting down with blank paper and a good pen - my favourites are the Uni-Ball roller pens - and doodling to my hearts' content! When the design feels right, I transfer it to a piece of linen and experiment with stitching.

With the final design in hand, I begin screen-printing the images and assembling colour options. Putting the kits together brings me so much joy - to see beautiful linen with a design ready to go, sitting beside a vibrant palette of thread... it makes my fingers itch! I get excited thinking about where this image will end up.

The meaning behind it all:
But iHeartStitchArt exists for a deeper meaning, as well... and that is because I am a self-styled Creativity Crusader. I believe that in our automatic, computerized, buy-everything world, creativity is a balm that soothes our scattered souls. Creative activity – sewing, stitching, sanding wood, turning soil, kneading bread – is calmingly repetitive. It offers the mind a chance to turn inward, to wander, to listen, to rest. When was the last time you felt calm and restored?

I believe we can find solace in a more creative life. And that is the real reason I want you to try embroidery, and why I’ve worked hard to make our kits lovely to work with, easy to begin, and convenient to take along with you, wherever you may go. You will love how hand embroidery makes you feel.

My dreams...
In the end, I am proud of my kits and so happy to offer them to the world. I love being able to spend most of my time with my three little ones, and to work with my hands with such beautiful things. I hope to show my children, in time, that we as a family can earn a living doing work that brings joy and beauty to the world, and that allows us to be together. That is my greatest dream for my business, and for my children.
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