Meet Liz from The Accidental Stitcher, who creates colourful brooches which are hand embroidered using sustainable threads and wool fibres.
Discover The Accidental Stitcher: A Journey in Hand Embroidery
Hi, I’m Liz, the creative mind behind The Accidental Stitcher! Working from my cosy home studio near Hastings in East Sussex, I’ve been specialising in hand embroidery for over 17 years. Alongside creating intricate designs, I also run stitching workshops for all ages, sharing my love for this timeless craft.
Living in the countryside provides me with endless inspiration. My daily dog walks through fields and woods are a constant source of creativity, as nature’s shapes, colours, and patterns weave their way into my work. It’s a true privilege to combine my love of the outdoors with my passion for embroidery.
From Sculptor to Stitcher: A Creative Evolution
Coming from an entrepreneurial family, I always dreamed of starting my own business. Initially, I trained as a sculptor, but after graduating, I found the costs of running a studio prohibitive. During those years, I turned to teaching and organising creative workshops with museums, galleries, and schools.
Then came a life-changing moment: my mum, a miniature embroiderer, gifted me some embroidery threads. I “accidentally” fell in love with textiles and threads. Over time, my work evolved from simple hand-stitched dog designs on cushions to more intricate and refined creations, showcasing a higher level of craftsmanship.
A Celebration of Nature and Sustainability
My designs often carry a narrative of nature, reflecting my surroundings. Birds, in particular, are a recurring theme in my embroidered brooches. They symbolise freedom, hope, and reassurance—qualities I strive to infuse into every piece I create. Each embroidery is designed to be an heirloom—a cherished item that lasts for generations.
Sustainability is also an essential aspect of my practice. This year, I’m focusing on sourcing high-quality materials sustainably. Many of my threads are second-hand or vintage, and I love the idea of giving them a new life. In fact, I often find vintage threads to be superior to many modern options.
Embracing Creativity with Freedom and Joy
My approach to embroidery is free-spirited. I’m not one for strict rules or technical stitches. Instead, I stitch with plain weave fabrics and use a mix of silk, cotton, and wool threads, experimenting as I go. When teaching, I encourage my students to embrace freedom and experimentation. Embroidery doesn’t have to be intimidating—I prefer to call it “hand stitching” and promote it as a calming, hands-on activity requiring minimal materials.
So, whether you’re an experienced stitcher or a curious beginner, I invite you to explore the vibrant world of The Accidental Stitcher. Discover unique, handmade treasures inspired by nature and crafted with care.
Explore my shop on Kraft Space and find your next heirloom piece!