Architectural freehand embroidery of Northwood House Cowes

Freehand machine embroidery

Social media wasn't an early interest for me sharing dinner photos on Facebook and Twitter never really appealed. But a decade ago, I started sewing again, which led to an unexpected discovery: Instagram.

Instagram offered really easy access to creative inspiration from around the world, making a much welcome upgrade from my art school days.

Back the, creative inspiration meant a trip to the library to study books and magazines, using the photocopier to record anything of interest. Whilst I remember those days very fondly, smartphones really do save time and effort!

Ten years ago, Instagram was an all new social media platform for me. Not only did it give endless inspiration on the screen, it allowed creatives like me to share their own portfolios and work in progress.

One of the first videos I uploaded, was a reel of me sewing a freehand architectural embroidery. It went viral. I got 1.5k new followers overnight.

Commissions rolled in and I slaved away on my sewing machine night after night.

Relocation and space limitations have led me to focus on watercolors, but I'm nearly ready to stitch again.

Thanks to everyone who has followed this creative journey. Without you Instagram followers, this creative chapter of my life would not have been possible.

Ink line drawing of Northwood House, Cowes

Embroidered cushion featuring freehand embroidery of Northwood House, Cowes