Interlude by Di Kirchner

Every one of the talented designers who contribute to Inspirations are masters in their particular skill. Some designers are known for a specific technique, whereas others display a versatility that is nothing less than enviable. It is this versatility and skill that characterises Di Kirchner, a truly talented artist who has been with Inspirations from close to the beginning.

There are so many beautiful techniques to try, but for most of us the idea of mastering them all seems remote.

Yet this is precisely what Di has done. Di first made an impression with her gorgeous smocking designs that appeared in the early days of Australian Smocking & Embroidery magazine.

These were soon accompanied in Inspirations magazine by several must-make baby outfits and accessories, featuring surface embroidery, shadow-work and ribbon work. But then, her glorious crewel designs appeared, and these have since been followed with Hardanger and counted embroidery.

We often ask ourselves if there is anything that this lovely lady can’t do when it comes to needlework design? It seems that she not only perfects the technique but has an uncanny eye for creativity and design as well.

Interlude from Inspirations magazine issue #111 is a perfect example. Following on from some of her incredibly popular crewel designs, this unique cushion offers something different and pushes the boundaries even further.

Although Interlude is undoubtedly situated in the Jacobean tradition, with the bright pomegranate forming the focal point, Di has included a range of other fruits and berries that make Interlude decidedly modern.

The brilliant colours and perfect balance achieved by the inclusion of strawberries, grapes and plump acorns are set off perfectly by the lush foliage and crisp flowers nestled between the leaves and twigs.

The cushion is completed with a striking navy blue ruffle that serves to turn this project from a piece of furniture dressing to a work of art.

Di loves to challenge the embroiderer by using a range of different stitches in her pieces. Interlude will help you to practise raised stem stitch, trellis, woven wheels and long and short stitch. But none of the stitches are impossible and the combination of them provides a delightful mix of open space and dense colour along with a delicious, tactile finish.

Woven Wheel Stitch

If you’ve ever wished that you could try a whole range of embroidery techniques, but were too afraid that you might not succeed, Di Kirchner is a fantastic source of inspiration.

Di has the years of practise and the confidence to work on something new whenever she sees something she loves. And there is no doubt that we are all the beneficiaries of this talent, as it means that we are regularly spoilt by fabulous new and different designs.

Best of all, we never quite know what will come next. We’re all eagerly waiting, and in the meantime, there is the guaranteed pleasure that will come from working Interlude and admiring Di’s unending design talent.

Make Your Own Interlude

Step 1 – Purchase Project Instructions

Interlude by Di Kirchner is a stunning crewel cushion featuring vibrant fruits and acorns.

Step 2 – Purchase Ready-To-Stitch Kit

The Inspirations Ready-To-Stitch kits for Interlude includes everything* you need to re-create this wonderful cushion: Fabrics (unprinted), piping cord, zip, cotton tape, sewing thread, embroidery threads and needles.

*Please Note: To cater for flexibility of purchase, instructions are not included with our kits. For step-by-step directions on how to create this project, please refer to the magazine/digital pattern. Kit does not include cushion insert.