I'm a textile artist who loves travelling and the esoteric.
Just like you, I wanted to find peace in my life.
A few years ago, I was super busy. I was teaching in a few different capacities, and I felt like I had no spare time. I was always running from one task to the next, and often running behind!
Until I made stitching a daily practice!
I began regular stitching out of necessity - I needed samples for a class I was teaching, so I started making them. It wasn't long before I noticed myself feeling calmer and more relaxed after my stitching sessions, and I began to look forward to picking up my needle and thread.
Now, I aim to "sew" joy.
In a world that often praises busy-ness, so many of are feeling stressed out and burnt out just trying to keep up. A regular sashiko practice has changed my perspective, and I want to share the joy that it brings me with as many people as I can.
I hope you'll join me!
I believe strongly in starting where you are, with what you have.
Creativity doesn’t have to be expensive or wasteful, and I love collaborating with artists who share that belief. Whether we’re using natural materials, reusing materials, or shopping our own stashes first, creating mindfully goes beyond being present in the moment - it extends to being mindful of our environment and the other communities around us, too.
We support Care International, an organization that is focused on helping women overcome poverty and giving them the tools they need to help strengthen their communities.
Why do I teach Zen Stitching?
I want to share peace of mind with you.
Whilst on exchange program in Japan at the Kyoto Seika University, I began learning more about things like Zen Buddhism, sashiko and boro, wabi-sabi, and so much more. I have so much respect and fascination for Japanese culture - I continue my creative studies with Japanese teachers Kazue Yoshikawa, Momiyama Takao and Atsushi Futatsuya. I also apply Buddhist philosophies to my everyday lifestyle.
I’m also passionate about living a meaningful life that nurtures my creative spirit. Part of this, for me, includes time to think through my thoughts and ideas as a sort of meditation, and I’ve discovered that using my hands to stitch at the same time makes it easier to take that precious time to sit with myself.
And I’m not the only one who feels that way! Using our hands to stitch is active meditation, bringing us the same feelings of relaxation and peace as traditional meditation.
Fun facts about me
01.
I've been fascinated with textiles since I was a girl, learning to knit from my grandmother at age 4.
02.
I've been able to combine travel with study in England, France, Italy, Japan, and Canada, where I now live.
03.
I am originally from Australia and travel back for visits each year.
04.
I love the outdoors and go camping frequently.
05.
I have a fluffy cat name Keiko, a Japanese name for "happy child."
