From Quote to Stitch: What Inspired My Threads of Thought Embroidery Series

Threads of Thought began as a set of 12 illustrations for a calendar, each one inspired by quotes from female authors in the public domain. These quotes are ones I personally return to — reminders to slow down, breathe, and take care of my wellbeing.

While the artwork worked beautifully in a calendar format, I wanted to give the pieces a more permanent presence. So I began printing them on canvas and hand-embroidering into them. Each one is framed behind glass to preserve the detail, but I also designed them to be tactile for those who prefer to experience art through touch.

The name Threads of Thought is a little play on words — I loved the idea of stitching thoughts, but also the metaphor of how thoughts can be like threads: ones we pull on, release, or gently follow. The act of embroidering, one mindful stitch at a time, often feels like I’m stitching myself back together too. It’s a form of meditation I can still access, even when brain fog sets in.

I chose to focus on quotes by female authors because they’re still a minority in so many cultural spaces — and often the voices most likely to be dismissed. As a response to this, I wanted this collection to feel validating and nurturing. The imagery is rooted in nature and how we relate to it, reinforcing themes of connection, grounding, and quiet strength.

Every quote in the collection reflects creativity, empowerment, and emotional wellbeing. I chose pieces that feel uplifting without crossing into toxic positivity. I wanted to offer gentle encouragement for those who might be struggling or feeling overwhelmed.

My favourite piece in the collection is probably “World Garden.” The quote is from The Secret Garden, one of my favourite books growing up. It’s a reminder that nature is always around us — even in small, quiet places — and that like a garden, our minds need care, patience, and tending too.

This collection is deeply meaningful to me. It’s the kind of artwork I turn to when I feel unsettled — the kind that offers instant calm. Creating these pieces brought me peace during a personally turbulent time, and I hope they bring a similar sense of calm and connection to others.

Creativity is always there for me — whether it’s stitching, sketching, painting, or simply making something with my hands. It offers expression, distraction, and healing. I hope Threads of Thought does the same for those who connect with it.

Thank you for being here and honouring this collection with your time. I’ve loved creating these pieces — and I’d love to create more. 💛