The Stitch Festival ‘23
With half of the ALBION collective exhibiting at The Stitch Festival this year we decided to send down Yasmeen from Thread & Mercury to document the exciting things on show. Over to you Yasmeen . . .
It was amazing to see so many creative people and businesses all under one roof at the Business Design Centre in London! People inspiring and being inspired to make and create. Mountains of fabrics, yarns, thread and every kit you could ever think of!
If crochet, knitting, macrame, embroidery, needlepoint or dressmaking are your thing then The Stitch Festival in March was the place to be.
Kits by Emily Peacock
I love to admire the work of other creatives and see the variety of different crafts out there. I would say I have probably tried a bit of everything, from felting to crochet and embroidery. But there’s only one craft that has really grabbed me and kept my attention….yep you’ve guessed it, Needlepoint! I find the repetition of stitching and the simplicity of creating patterns on a canvas so therapeutic. It’s something less delicate than embroidery but more intricate that knitting, for me it’s the happy medium that sits in between.
There were 4 Albion designers exhibiting at the show and it was great to see their stands heaving with people. Each designer has their own special style so there was something for everyone. From small kits to larger projects, it was a feast for the eyes and hard to come away with nothing.
The Makers Marks has a range of large and small kits with a retro, nostalgic feel. I love the soft pastel colours Emma uses and the range of different stitches she explores. The earring kits are such an innovative way to wear your latest project.
There is an array of everything from trims to kits at Anns Orchard. I love how Emma explores stitching onto difference base materials, the butterflies stitched onto card are so delicate and beautiful.
Miesje at Thread Bear explores abstract patterns and blocks of colour in her kits and handprinted textiles. The handmade kit bags are beautifully made and the bookmark kits are a must have.
If you’re an established needlepointer you will be familiar with the work of Emily Peacock. Her designs are bright and colourful and kits include the lovely sea creatures and bold font designs. The new little box range is a great way to make your project into something useful.
Emily’s stand was a collaboration with iconic British wool brand Appletons, who had some beautiful tapestry and crewel wool on sale.
If, like me, you came away with nothing then luckily you can still buy online! I will be waiting for a gap in my project list before I buy something from each of these amazing needlepoint designers!
Written by Yasmeen aka Thread & Mercury