The year in embroidery has been a delightful journey, albeit less fruitful than I imagined it would be last January. As usual, my ambition was greater and project list longer than the days on the calendar. Still, I celebrate the wonderful pieces finished in 2022. It feels good to know I moved closer to completing my Master Craftsman in Crewelwork designation.

Cross-Stitch

Krista West of Avlea Folk Embroidery designed two of my projects: Attavyrian Star and Vine and Blue Larkspur (pictured top left and center). West is a whimsical and talented designer who specializes in designs inspired by the rich and beautiful textile traditions of the Mediterranean. Most of her designs (including the two I completed) are of the cross-stitch variety, but she has a line of embroidery designs and kits as well. I find working the geometric patterns of Avlea designs to be very therapeutic and the outcomes satisfying.

For my third cross-stitch project (pictured bottom left), I stitched a Véronique Enginger design called Les Agrumes (citrus fruits). Enginger is the proprietor of Les Brodeuses Parisiennes, a design house out of Paris. This piece is part of the “Les Créateurs” collection, which features beautiful botanical studies of fruit such as peaches, lemons, and cherries. The oranges in this design are so vibrant you can almost taste the luscious sweet juice and smell the fragrant blossoms.

Crewelwork

Much of my attention this year was focused on Project #2 of the Crewelwork Master Craftsman program (pictured center bottom). I researched early American crewel design — its origins, materials used, and the design features, color palettes and fashionable stitches of the era. The finished piece was stitched on 30-count Legacy Linen in the Swan Feather color. I used delicate Bella Lusso 100% Merino wool in shades of indigo and saffron, a prominent color combination in early American needlework.

Having passed the judges’ discerning eyes, I am now on to Project #3 in 2023 — a study in texture and dimension. Here, I will be attempting some new techniques, including stumpwork and detached stitching. I am drawing inspiration from 19th century aeronauts who fueled an international fascination with ballooning, long before jet engines ruled the skies.

Also in 2023, I look forward to joining my stitching tribe at the EGA National Seminar — Boston Stitch Party! I hope to see you there.

And so, in the fading hours of 2022, I wish you the peace and grace of the Christmas season. May you find a few quiet moments to pull needle and thread before the year ends. Happy New Year and happy stitching!