In 1997 I promised myself I would do everything I could to design and stitch an embroidery sampler that would win an embroidery competition.

I’d been, by chance, to an embroidery snd quilting show in Harrogate because I had nothing else to do. That’s was when and where my interest in embroidery was kindled. I watched Jack Robinson demonstrating the blackwork piece he was working on. Wow!

The catch? I couldn’t stitch. Never even picked up a needle. The internet was just beginning to take off. No apps or iPads. Didn’t have an email address.

I have spent the last 21 years learning to stitch. I’m at a point where I feel confident enough to have a go at researching, designing and stitching my own sampler for the Madeira 2019 competition. Don’t expect to win, but know I will enjoy the journey.  My last sampler acts as inspiration as I make the first stitch.