With the Unesco Heritage city of Aubusson just a mere twenty minutes away, I have access to one of the best tapestry manufacturers in history. Encouraged by Louis XIV minister Colbert, in the 17th Century, Aubusson flourished and today it is a bustling place for tourists, cafes, tapestry dealers and other artisans, including the tapestry museum and manufacturing, just accross the river. The tours are wonderful, and the tapestries are amazing, from 17th century ones to modern commissions from Japan and a whole series featuring Tolkeins, Lord of the Rings.

I am lucky to be able to sell my products and designs in a lovely boutique in the town centre and I role my income into my art, teaching and writing. 

I’ve always loved needlepoint, cross-stitch and embroidery, but it was pattern making that appealed. I bought  stitching software that can produce the charts, colour choices, stitch types, canvas weaves and a brilliant stitched photo of the completed design.

This week I worked on a set of autumnal designs featuring game birds, forest wildlife and my favorite, a guinea.  I first design, then work in digital, on photoshop and finally on the stitching software, altering colours and adding detail. It takes an hour to complete each one.

I will be taking these to Aubusson next week to see how they are received. If all goes well, I will work on a spring range.

I also have designs on my shop of Hens and Guineas. Find these at https://www.judicastille.shop/products/guinea-crosstitch