Anniversary Sampler (Embroidery Project)

I designed The Jessie Chorley Anniversary Sampler to celebrate a milestone in my life as an artist, designer and tutor. This was in 2020, when my business turned 15 and I turned 40. This project is a celebration of my ongoing passion for my work as a social artist and tutor.

The hand-printed design that is the focus of this embroidery project uses elements from several of my own favourite illustrations. These run throughout my work in embroidery, ink and collage and are brought together and celebrated within this anniversary sampler.

I have left three key areas in the sampler empty, so that you can fill them in with motifs and designs of your choice. These areas are inside the teapot, between the moon and the butterfly and above the handle of the pen. You can see how I have incorporated my own imagery in these areas, by stitching a house inside the middle of the teapot, an ink pot directly above the pen and a sailboat on a wavy sea between the moon and the butterfly.

The design, printed in my favourite shade of blue ink, celebrates two of my favourite techniques, hand stitching and fine needle-turned appliqué.

I hope that you too can find joy in the process of slow stitching and making marks with your needles, threads and fabrics to create your own unique stitched story.

In my own version of this design, I have chosen to cover the print almost entirely with stitches, leaving none of the template visible. Whether or not you choose to leave any of the print showing is a matter of personal preference.

Take inspiration from my colour choices, as you start your own personal journey in stitch and fabric.

Once complete this project can be framed, I would suggest in a large box frame. It could also be made into a wall hanging.

This slow stitch project also makes a beautiful gift for a beloved friend or family member.

This kit does not come with formal instructions; enjoy playing!

You will receive the follow:

One cotton print measuring 45cm x 35cm
A packet of beautiful fabric scraps
A paper printed four page brochure, as inspiration and guidance

Copyright ©Jessie Chorley

All rights reserved. This DIY project is an original Jessie Chorley design and is for personal use, inspiration and enjoyment only and must not be used in commercial projects.