I started stitching when I was in elementary school. My mother was very talented with a needle and could do just about anything, from quilting, monogramming, sewing and knitting , but she didn’t like needlepoint. I begged her to get a canvas for me when I was about 10 and I’ve been stitching ever since. 

My friend Lisbet Chrisman, a former Stitch by Stitch teacher,  urged  me on when we’re raising babies together. I started making stockings for my children. At this point, I have made stocking for all of my children, grandchildren, godchildren and in-laws, more than 20 in all. They have become more and more complicated through the years, thanks to advice from Stitch by Stitch and stitch guides from Tony Minieri. Stitching saved my sanity during Covid - I made way too many pillows and ornaments during the lockdown!

Stitch by Stitch is my constant source of inspiration and education.  Marina Perna taught me so many techniques and stitches and introduced me to the whole realm of fibers.  Betty, Madalena, Susan and Mary Ellen are always available to suggest stitches and help choose colors, either on the fly or during stitch time. Their patience is infinite and they are an invaluable resource. Their customer service is above and beyond, to the point of taking my fabric sample to market to find the perfect canvases for matching pillows. 

Who could ask for more?