Stitch magazine February/March 2020 Vorige editie

In recognition of International Women’s Day (IWD), this issue is packed with projects, features and inspiration – all either by or about women. Embroidery may be dominated by women, still the depth and breadth of skill and talent continues to astound. As ever the best is brought to you by Stitch magazine. Stacey Chapman’s project Woman to Woman captures the essence of this beautifully: our faces may all be di¬fferent but there is so much that threads us together. In She’s Got It, Maggie Gee challenges stereotypes with a sumptuous Venus symbol bursting with intricate floral stitching in contrasting bold colours. Then Alex Law’s aspirational cushion – Reach for the Stars – won’t just grace your sofa, it will act as a daily reminder to keep pushing to be the best version of yourself. For a success story, check our interview with the delightful Jenny Adin-Christie. Having discovered it is as much about saying no as saying yes, she is managing the delicate balance between running her embroidery business, teaching, travelling and her family life. One of Jenny’s pieces, the Gawthorpe needlecase, features a silver fish - the highest award in girl guiding. Coincidentally one of the charities supported by IWD is the World Association of Girl Guides and Girl Scouts. WAGGS supports girls to develop their leadership skills, speak out on issues that are important to them and make positive choices. Today’s badges reflect this: meditation, campaigning and aspirations awards sit alongside craftivity. It’s a shift pondered by Ellen Dissanayake. You can read her thoughts on the link between using our hands to make things and our basic emotional needs. It will get you thinking and reaching for your next project! Speaking of which… To occupy a cold winter’s afternoon or two, take your pick from Chloe Redfern’s cheerful goldfinch, Sheena Norquay’s peacock inspired needlecase or Jay Hooper’s ornamental dolls.