Slow Stitching on the Move: How I Create Luxury Embroidery in a Tiny Space

My embroidery journey is deeply intertwined with my love for the sea. The ever-changing blues, from sparkling whites and turquoise as the sun hits the waves, to the deep navy of the open ocean, have always fascinated me. The contrast of soft golden sands against the endless sky fuels my creativity. My lifelong fascination with the coral reef, its intricate textures, and dazzling colours has been a central theme in my work. But this year, I want to take my stitching in a different direction.

While I cannot always travel by the sea, I find inspiration in the stunning beauty of the English countryside. The Great British landscape has so much to offer—from ancient forests to the intricate network of rivers and canals that weave through the land. The reflections of trees in still water, the shifting tones of leaves through the seasons, and the dappled sunlight breaking through the woodland canopy all serve as a wellspring for my creativity.

My Creative Process

I take my camera everywhere, capturing fleeting moments of beauty, and while I often carry a sketchbook, it’s not always feasible to use. My embroidery process is largely intuitive—most of my pieces begin without a drawn plan. Instead, I work from a deep, sensory connection to a place.

My heart guides my hands, directing each stitch,

colour choice, and embellishment as I translate my emotions and memories onto fabric.

Slow stitching is at the heart of my creative practice. It is a meditative, deliberate process that allows me to fully immerse myself in the textures, colours, and rhythms of nature. By embracing this approach, I create intricate, luxurious embroidery that tells a story—whether it’s the delicate swaying of underwater coral or the layered textures of a moss-covered woodland floor.

Stitching in a Tiny Space

Creating high-end embroidery in a motorhome presents unique challenges, but I have adapted my tiny space to accommodate my practice. My portable studio consists of a carefully curated selection of materials and tools that allow me to work efficiently in a small area. Some essentials include:

• An embroidery frame to maintain fabric tension while stitching. I have two frames in the van including my favourite metal Lowry frame. This enables me to work with both hands free which is needed when I am hand beading or beading using a tambour hook. My other frame is a combination one that has a table clamp but also fits into a base which can be used when I’m sat outside

• A selection of fine embroidery threads and beads to capture the intricate details of my designs. These take up the most room and are stored in the storage locker in our double floor. I also have a storage inside the van which houses my frames and a small selection of beads so that I can work without having to leave the van

• Portable lighting to ensure I can stitch at any time of day, even in dim conditions. This lamp is also a magnifying lamp and is powered by 12v USB so that it can be plugged into the van or alternatively a power pack if I am working outside

• Storage solutions such as small, labelled containers for organising materials and keeping my workspace clutter-free. I am lucky to have a large van with underfloor storage so I am able to carry quite a large amount of materials with me.

Despite the space limitations, my motorhome offers a unique advantage—it allows me to work in ever-changing landscapes. One day, I might be embroidering by the sea, the next in a forest, and later along the banks of a winding canal. These shifting environments continuously fuel my creativity and bring a dynamic energy to my work.

The Luxury of Handmade Embroidery

Luxury embroidery isn’t just about the materials used—it’s about the time, skill, and attention to detail that goes into each piece. Every stitch, bead, and embellishment is placed with intention, creating a one-of-a-kind artwork that reflects the beauty of the natural world. My embroideries are sometimes encased in resin, preserving them as timeless pieces of art that embody both fragility and resilience. It’s also about the process of the many hours of learning about different materials, stitches and techniques. I only ever buy the best of materials, whether that be silk organza or the very best of beads from Japan, these are what make the work come alive.

Through my work, I hope to inspire others to slow down, appreciate the beauty of the world around them, and embrace creativity as a way to connect with their surroundings. Whether by the sea or in the heart of the countryside, my journey as an artist is one of exploration, discovery, and deep artistic expression—stitched one thread at a time.

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