The first and the latest

Hare - Embroidered image with applique and hand stitching.
Approx 500 x 900 mm
The hare embroidery is one of my most recent images completed in the last month. This was born out of my husbands interest in hares and just "had to be done" to prove that what he can do, I can do (no competition really).

Indian runner drake - Embroidery approx 400 x 400 mm

Created using similar techniques to the hare this was inspired by one of the "boys" in the garden. We have 3 Indian runner ducks, along with a goose and some chickens that are expensive pets, but good for inspiration. I love the way the ducks run like little soldiers.

Tortoise. Approx 360 x 220 mm. Hand couched threads over lace and synthetic fabrics.

Finally my first ever embroidered picture. The tortoise was a school project in my second or third year at secondary school and therefore originates from around 1970. I loved needlework at school, but it wasn't considered to be a career option for me at that time. "Go into science" I was advised, as "sewing" didn't have the same status as a worthwhile career. I do wonder what if, especially after watching my eldest daughter study textiles as part of her degree. Just looking at all the opportunities to play made me drool.

One day, after having paid for University fees etc for the children, I may realise my dream.

Spring solstice

This weekend I decided to try to finish some of the projects I have started quite a while ago. While searching in my workboxes I came across the penguins and found the motivation to finish this. Spring has been quite productive for me. In addition to the penguins I finally finished my memory coat. I had been collecting fabric for several years and most of the fabric has memories associated with it. The dolphin print I picked up in Sydney the second time I visited Australia so it must be nearly 10 years old. The chicken print was bought for making Easter cards with the children, the paler blue was picked up as part of my eldest daughters A Level DT projects.......... It feels good to have constructed this from fabric stashed away.

Mothering Sunday

"Summer Gold" Image Size: 8cm x 8cm
"Dusk Flowers" Image Size: 8cm x 8cm

Today I have finally started to put details of my work past and present out there for friends, family and others to see. Above is a small taster of the pieces I have recently finished.

I expect as the days (weeks) go by this will build into a story about what I am working on and with and what is finished.

Those that know me understand that textiles in all their wonderful forms have interested me for decades (yes I am that old!) and are what I consider keep me sane (or insane depending on your point of view).

For now this introduction will be short as my daughter is instructing me in the technical side of setting this up.

Hopefully there will be more soon.

Cheers for now.

Annette