Like many needleworkers, Kim Beamish was introduced to the craft by her mother and encouraged by relatives to pursue a variety of embroidery techniques. This early encouragement led to a lifelong fascination with how various facets of needlework could be combined to create something fresh, innovative, and inspiring. EGA was excited to sit down with Kim ahead of her upcoming Online Studio Class: Blossom, to learn more about where she draws inspiration from and what she’s currently learning. In the world of embroidery, there’s always something new and exciting to learn!
What were your first experiences with needlework?
My first experience was like most, my mom taught me a few stitches to complete a pillowcase. I remember I tried crewel work when I was young. Around 2000, I saw some Hardanger embroidery and wanted to try it. That led to relatives giving me gifts where I could try different techniques.
You’re an EGA Master Craftsman in Counted Thread, hold an Embroiderers Association of Canada Teacher Certification, and are interested in techniques like Hardanger, Pulled and Drawn Thread, Felting, Needle Tatting, Blackwork, and Cross Stitch. What is it about these techniques and styles that draws you to them?
I have always been curious and wanting to learn more. I love the different effects you can get from these various techniques. I enjoy combining the different techniques and pushing the limits in some of the things I design.
Your designs have been featured in books like Cross Stitch Christmas, Whitework Inspirations, and magazines like A Needle Pulling Thread, Just CrossStitch, Stitch, and Inspirations. Do you have any advice for needleworkers interested in sharing their designs with a larger audience?
Don’t be afraid to give it a try. Reach out and explore. Even if you get a rejection, keep trying. You never know what will happen.
Where do you find inspiration for your designs? What does your design process look like?
I get inspiration from those things around me. It could be the time of year, a certain colour combination I see. I take walks every day and nature always has something to inspire.
My design process involves making some quick sketches and notes when an idea comes to me. I like to get it out of my head. In the notes I might note a particular technique(s) I want to include, and will sometimes make a template or model that I can look at to help visualize. I will then have some fun pulling fabrics and threads.
I then go to the computer to make more templates and charts. I will make samples and make edits as I work through the design. Notes on things to keep in mind while stitching are also taken. I take photos as I work and use these to support the instructions for the design if I plan on teaching the design.
Do you have a favorite design?
I wouldn’t say I have one favorite. There is something about each design that is special—the effect obtained with a technique or thread, solutions to any problem solving I had to do while stitching.
I would have to say whatever my latest design is, is my favorite for that moment.
Are you working on anything new or fun right now?
I am developing more three dimensional designs. I have been furthering my knowledge of Goldwork and working with finer materials. I am quite excited to be playing with bringing these and the various counted thread techniques together.
What is your favorite piece of advice for needleworkers?
Remember to have fun! Do not get stuck on perfection. Enjoy the stitching journey. Don’t be afraid to try something new or play with new materials or techniques. Don’t be afraid to change colour options or details to a design. I always enjoy seeing where students take my designs. Many times I think, “why didn’t I think of that!”
What inspired the Blossom by Kim Beamish course and design, and what do you hope students take from it?
I was looking to develop a small project for EAC/ACB Virtual Threads. I wanted to give the opportunity to try/practice some surface embroidery but also give the opportunity to try adding changing parts of the design to use materials the stitchers have in their stash.
Where can interested stitchers learn more about you and your work (social media platforms, website, etc)?
I really enjoy teaching my designs and techniques to those interested. I am fortunate to have had many opportunities to do this and share my stitching journey. I look forward to more teaching and sharing in the future. On Instagram, I am @craftycreationsbybeamish, and on Facebook, I am Kim Beamish.
