Alison Springett

‘I am not a person who would find waving a banner or going on a protest march something they could do, to communicate and hopefully engage people in a debate that is needed to bring about changes that are necessary for better living standards; but I can sew.

So, I decided to use what I feel has the potential to be a non-confrontational, non-aggressive form of communication and also a beautiful medium, needlework, to send a future message for change to an MP in London supported by a concise background message about my piece.

I am hoping this MP, someone with the power, role and position to bring about and foster the changes I should like to see, and I know others need to have happen, will then be inspired to initiate the actions necessary for these permanent alterations to occur; with my small sewn piece acting as a daily decorative reminder to strive for this.’

My small sewn cake was inspired by the historical phrase ‘let them eat cake’ and donates the plight of many working people's reliance today on food banks to survive and the need for change to happen so every working person is in receipt of a living wage on which they can live.

‘As a sewn piece my little cake measures 1 inch in height and measures 1 and a half inches (2.5cm x 3.8cm) across its top. It has small red beads on its circular surface, which represent decorative cherries, and a covering of gold over long and short stitched shading, which has been used to give the appearance of a fancy iced top.’

‘A thin silk cord has been used to replicate the filling between what are then layers of sponge cake, the sides of which have been formed using raised surface stitches of twisted (not laid down in a flat linear manner) bullion knots.

My fabric for this creative piece was upcycled pre-loved small, cotton pieces. It has been encased in a small acrylic cake dome, with the overall height of this completed project measuring not quite 3 inches (7.5cm).

I hope you like my cake and the concept behind what I hope to achieve with it.’

Alison, what a thoughtful approach to your cause. Your needlework and the symbolism behind your miniature cake is a compelling statement. The detailed use of beads and knots showcases your skill but also the care and attention you wish to convey with the intention behind the work. What an inspiring way to use the embroidered medium to pass on your feelings, all while staying authentic to yourself – congratulations!

Noreen Casson

‘This Christening Gown was made using a pattern from the magazine Australian Smocking & Embroidery issue #93, ‘Diamonds and Pearls’.

I adapted the smocking plate from another issue of AS&E and my trims were not exactly like the original pattern, but I am happy with the way it turned out.’

‘I found a pattern in an old Creative Needle magazine and used that for the garment bag.’

‘I continue to enjoy my collection of AS&E magazines and love the eye candy in your newsletter. You people do exquisite work!’

Noreen, your Diamonds and Pearls gown is breathtaking! It’s wonderful how timeless the AS&E patterns are and creating a garment bag to keep your beautiful smocking safe is genius. We’re so glad you are getting some stitching joy from All Stitched Up! - and thank you for your kind words.

Penelope Williams

‘I do enjoy your newsletter and look forward to reading it with my coffee every Friday morning. I wanted to share images of my Dorset Feather Stitchery.’

‘The Kaftan I made with a vogue pattern and embroidered.’

‘And, finally a handbag tissue cover.’

Penelope, we loved hearing about your ritual of reading the newsletter with a coffee every week and we thank you so much for sharing your beautiful stitching with us. Each piece showcases your range of mastered techniques – well done.

Have you stitched a design for a cause that you believe in? Used your needle and thread to create your own garment? Or perhaps stitched some practical items?

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