Daily Drawings: The Illustrator

I've been doing a few gouache sketches for a new line of prints and embroideries. Here is one I sketched out this week...

DIY Patterns: Geometric Motif 4

It's been a while since I shared a free DIY cross stitch pattern with you all. This pattern would make a great design for a tote/clutch bag or it could be done on a smaller count of aida to give you a nice fresh wall hanging.

You can download the full colour pattern here.

Amazing Illustrators: Stefan Zsaitsits

Austrian born artist, Stefan Zsaitsits, is a real talent. His works are mainly drawings simply using graphite to create detailed portraits which border on the surreal. Facial characteristics are obscured with creatures and, on occasion, fantasy scenes. The techniques used by the artist are labour intensive but result in beautiful works of depth.

If you would like to see more please check out the website

Paperfolk Loves... Hasta Mostla

After leaving artschool (now 10 years ago!) I trained and worked in Community Arts for a few years. I mostly worked with groups of young people who were disengaged for a variety of reasons. Although I moved on to work in a different type of learning and engagement I can honestly say that those years were probably some of the most rewarding time in my working life.

As a result I have a bit of a soft spot for artist led community collaborations and know how difficult it can be to achieve success in these situations. I came across Hasta Mostla, a project between female embroiderers from Mexico and artists from Mexico and Iberoamerica.

I think the images below speak for themselves but if you would like to check out more work in progress or details there is a project website as well.

Monday Musings... Lost Values

Over the weekend I was introduced to Lost Values , an eco-friendly company started by Elena Corchero. I absolutely love their range of products that are useful and chic at the same time. Clothing and accessories have a reflective surface so are perfect for cyclists and those of us who live in countries that get pretty dark in the winter!