Square & Cross Cushion

Why this particular craft? Embroidery was the first skill I learned when I started sewing a few years ago. I went along to a craft group with my neighbour, at her local church. The church hall was filled with tables of chatting women. Each table was working on a different craft skill. Some were quilters, others were crocheters and knitters; some were making teddy bears and a huge number were scrapbookers.

The day that we showed up, there was space at the embroidery table where the ladies were starting a new project. It was perfect timing mixed with a little bit of luck. That first day, we were taught how to transfer a pattern and the first basic embroidery stitches. I was hooked straight away and finished my project within the next few days, so that I could take it in and show the ladies my work.

Have you tried plenty of other crafts? I love to sew and quilt, although I’m not very good at clothes sewing. I love to vary patterns, and this isn’t a good thing to do when sewing clothes! I enjoy English paper piecing, but haven’t made a full-size EPP quilt yet. In this past year, I learned how to crochet. It’s my go-to craft when I’m out and about with the kids. I generally have a little project that I carry around in my handbag, so I have something to work on while I wait for them at soccer training or dance classes. Yes, I’m one of those mums, who sits and crochets on the side-lines.

Who taught you your crafting skills? I initially learned the embroidery basics from that church craft group. I stayed with the group for a few months, but with a toddler and a baby, it was tricky. I discovered sewing blogs and tutorials on YouTube and learned most of my crafty skills online.

Is it hard to find time to do your stitching? I do most of my work during the school day. The hours between 9am and 2pm are all mine, and it’s when I try to get most of my designs worked out and my main machine sewing done. The crafting that requires brain-power and some concentration. The afternoons are dedicated to ‘mum-stuff’ but then, I generally do a little hand sewing in the evenings (or look at pretty sewing pictures on Instagram and Pinterest).

Anorina Morris, Samelia’s Mum