Dana Lippert

‘I have a passion for learning, but do not have an easy budget to work from so I look for ways to use any scraps to create.

I spent nine years only working on my crazy quilt on Saturdays as I worked full time and did not have a craft room, so had to pack everything up when I was done each time.’

‘I sat in a chair and worked off the edge of a tray table or using an oval quilting hoop to work the panels, teaching myself as I went along. I did not have any books at the time, nor any idea that I could search the internet for instructions to follow. I made it for a full-size bed and once completed I showed it to the shop The Quilting Bee in Spokane, Washington, USA.

My crazy quilt is the first quilt I ever made. Guessing and teaching myself stitches along the way, I absolutely loved doing the needlework.’

‘I used the smallest scraps of fabric and felt to make tiny pocketbooks. I have made many little felt books and given them away with felt embellished hearts to both friends and strangers that I encounter.

My delight is in the making of things and then the gifting to cheer another when they least expect it.

I love to watch YouTube tutorials from any needlework artists who inspire us to make things at home. Projects that are beautiful and functional for decorating our homes, or as gifts for others, that cost very little but have a huge impact on growing our confidence, talents and skills. They inspire so many to cultivate the passion of needlework.’

‘One of my favourites is Marion’s World as well as Rachel Roxbury; #journalofstitchery YouTube videos, she is from Australia and she, along with her sister Sarah, do wonderful projects that have inspired many.’

Nine working years of passion, Dana, without the use of instructions is quite the achievement – no wonder it is such a treasured piece. We found your thoughtfulness of gift giving to friends and even strangers a beautiful way to share the love of needlework with others. Also, thank you for sharing the YouTube links—there’s always something magical about discovering new artists who inspire us to create.

Lorraine Weers

‘I finished Balthazar at the end of last year. I absolutely love him, and Bertie is on the to-do list.’

‘I began embroidery about 20 years ago, after deciding to move on from years of cross stitch. I enjoy all types but particularly colour and 3D. I have done several projects from Inspirations; it is my main source of ideas.’

Congratulations on finishing Balthazar, Lorraine. You have re-created the intricate design beautifully and your love for colour and 3D work bodes well for the possibility of creating more beautiful beetles in the future!

Helen Johnstone

‘I thought you might be interested in a couple of projects I’ve finished during my summer leave here in the UK.’

‘First Festive Fruit from issue #96. I started this a few years back but struggled with the red thread on the red fabric. I recently got strong day light which made all the difference. I switched it up a bit with a couple of berries done in a variegated Perle cotton.’

‘Then Balthazar, the beetle from issue #116. This was one of the most challenging kits I have done as it was so fiddly but again the day light helped. I am thrilled with the result. Feel a need for something more pastel, after all that red!’

Red on red is definitely a challenge, Helen, it’s amazing how much good lighting can make a difference when stitching. We’re so glad you tackled Balthazar; your persistence has paid off handsomely.

Have you stitched a project to give to a stranger? Have you stitched one of Tania Cohen’s beetles? Or have you relied on the summer sun to help with your embroidery?

Whatever you are stitching, we’d love to see it! Email photos of what you’ve created with needle and thread along with a few details about your stitching journey to news@inspirationsstudios.com