Today’s guest is none other than Anna Maria Horner, designer extraordinaire and author of the new book Anna Maria’s Needleworks Notebook (Wiley). The gorgeous hand-stitching book (I’ve seen it myself, and it is not to be missed!) releases mid-October, but you can pre-order now from Anna Maria or Amazon.
We’re excited to learn a little more about Anna Maria’s new book and her creative business! There’s also a giveaway at the end of this post.
Congrats on your third book release! Where did you find your inspiration for this project, and what do you love about hand stitching?
Thank you so much! I have been making embroidery and needlepoint since I was a little girl. The inspiration to collect projects for a book came about as I was just trying to figure out how I would want these disciplines presented to me as a reader/maker. It was important to me to make a book that could be just as inspiring for the novice as it is for the experienced needlecrafter. And doing that meant making sure there was lots of inspiration for the final usage of a worked piece, whether that be in a frame, a bag or a some fashionable application.
I love hand work. I love the slower pace and the connection that it has to drawing and painting. Simply said I know, but there are many crafts that I like, and only a few I love. Embroidery and other related needle crafts just happen to fall into the love category for me.
Is writing a book similar to designing a new fabric line?
Yes and not really. They are similar in the devotion I develop to each through out the process, but the language is all together different. The language of a fabric collection is almost entirely visual apart from the narrative style I attach to it with the collection name, then print and color names, and so on. I try to propel the story of the collection through those names. I think of a book as a literal conversation between myself and the reader, and in my category of sewing and how-to, it is of course also educational. The book as well has a visual element, which is in part the projects that I develop, but also the photography, how the pages feel, what the fonts look like, and all these things are speaking to the reader as well through the subconscious. So it’s important to me to get them right, so I am making my “story” unique and inspiring the reader.
Your designs and your career are inspiring to so many creative people. What lessons have you learned in your career that might help us?
I think having support is a huge bonus. If you have the luxury of not having to be the main bread winner in your house, then it might lighten your stress to take a few risks, or just spend a good amount of time developing your ideas. Then again, I have always found having to win a bit of bread can be pretty inspiring, too. We all work differently, so sometimes your productivity and creativity formulas are more or less a direct product of your environment. If you can, get to know what kind of conditions put you at your best and try to get there as often as possible. You might travel down a path the dries up after a while, but simply continuing to work on something will eventually bring you to what you were meant for, if you’re paying attention.
From reading your blog, it seems that you stay busy with family, design projects and teaching opportunities. Do you have any secrets to keeping a work/life balance?
It is not an easy balance, and I do get it wrong sometimes. The hardest thing for me to do is take time to take care of myself. Over this past summer though, I have demanded taking off on a run 3 to 4 times a week, which has left me feeling better than ever. Running has helped me keep my energy where it needs to be for work and for my family, even though it takes time out from both. But the payoff is much bigger than a couple of hours a week. I also find that saving slower-paced projects for evenings when I can work on them in the midst of my husband and kids is not only more enjoyable, but it lightens that daytime load.
Those are wise words! What’s next for you?
I always have a new fabric collection (or two) in the works as well as new sewing patterns. After the launch of the book, I will be introducing Field Study Rayons, Voiles and Velveteens, the Escape Artist bag pattern, the Flight Map quilt pattern and also some palettes of tapestry wool to continue growing my needleworks product. And there’s loads to look forward to next year, including some reprints of older fabric favorites and also linens!
Thanks for the sneak peek, Anna Maria! We can’t wait to make projects from your new book!
Giveaway!
Wiley Craft is generously giving away a copy of Anna Maria’s Needleworks Notebook. To enter the giveaway, leave a comment below telling us one thing you’ve learned from our Q&A with Anna Maria. We’ll choose a random winner on 10/4/12.
Congrats to commenter #179, Lori!
189 comments
I’ve learnt that Anna finds exercise a useful and necessary part of her day.
I have learned about how Anna wants to talk to her readers and tell the story of the project.
I learned that keeping a good work/life balance is hard for everyone, not just those of us with a “normal” 9-5 that doesn’t involve crafty endeavors 🙂
I learned some good tips about balancing real life and craft life! I like the quiet crafting in the evening amongst family idea.
I love this quote from Anna Maria, “We all work differently, so sometimes your productivity and creativity formulas are more or less a direct product of your environment. If you can, get to know what kind of conditions put you at your best and try to get there as often as possible.”
Knowing yourself is a key to success!
Thanks for the great interview.
I learned that Anna Maria is a runner! Is there anything this woman can’t do? 🙂
I learned that out of all her crafting, Anna Marie loves handwork the most.
Very inspiring interview! The stitchery is beautiful and I love how family centered Anna Maria is. 🙂 thanks for the chance at this lovely book!
I learned that Anna has learned the importance of time for herself. Also, that she needs to have easy projects in the evening in order to spend time with her family.
That there is another (or two) fabric lines coming, along with new patterns!
I did not know Anna Marie was a runner. I am surprised at the number of designers who run as a way to energize themselves.
I learned that she has a busy schedule of releases and we should expect to see some reprints (yay!) and some linens (double yay)!
She is very right in saying that we need to take a little time for ourselves in order to do all that we need to do with our families. Anna is an extremely talent person and certain gives her all to whatever she does.
I learned that she finds time for herself important and energizing. Also, to not be afraid of trying new things.
I’m so excited for this book! I love her needlework! And *linens* are coming out! I’ll definitely be getting some of those.
I learnt that she loves to do hand work the best out of all the other amazing things she does. This book will be lovely 🙂
It is exciting to learn a little about all the upcoming projects that Anna Maria has in the pipeline – very inspiring!
It was a good reminder that saving time to exercise actually gives you more energy to get things done. I forget this! Love her work. That book is so beautiful!
I am always feeling overwhelmed as I try to balance everything in my life and I love knowing that Anna Maria has found ways to keep her family and work in balance. It gives me hope. I also appreciate knowing that this is only possible with concious effort. It makes me feel as if I might be doing as well as I can at the moment.
She is such an incredibly busy lady, between books, fabric, family and more.
I thought it was great how she knew she needed to exercise. This gave her energy she needed to keep going. It doesn’t seem like it would work this way, but it does. Great interview! Thanks so much!
i have learned that anna is sweet, loves her family, and has struggled with finding that delicate balance between self, work, and family. taking that time to run and doing slower projects at night is something i think i need to do. thanks for the inspiration!
i can’t wait to get my hands on this book…even better if i win it! 🙂
You know, I have this romanticized picture of what Anna Maria’s lovely life must be like. It’s all fabric and sketches and stitches and beautiful kids. I don’t stop to think about how crazy it must be for her! Glad to hear her talk about making time for herself and her health… we can work better when we check out priorities like that. She’s so inspiring!!
I love the tip she offers about saving slower paced projects for evenings when the family is relaxing. Personally, I have come to enjoy things like folding laundry, fixing broken toys, and mending clothes in the evenings so I can still enjoy my family and not feel like I am missing out, but I have never introduced craft projects to that time and maybe I should! I am inspired by Anna Maria’s confidence in building her brand and her humbleness as she continues to balance the boat of work and family. I’m looking forward to reading her new book!
Never give up! Always keep working on something! It will lead you somewhere!
Anna Maria is such an incredible inspiration!
I am so excited to learn that Anna Marie will be releasing a fabric line of Rayon prints!!!
I learnt that Anna Maria pay attention to detail in everything she does. If she thinks about the font, the layout and visual appeal in addition of course to the content…she’s sure to have a winner !
It should read ,” I learnt that Anna Maria pays attention to detail in everything she does. If she thinks about the font, the layout and visual appeal in addition of course to the content…she’s sure to have a winner !!”
I just love AMH! She is so warm and kind and encouraging, not to mention her amazing designs. Her advice to just keep going is wonderful, and I often find myself leaving things only partly done (both creative projects and household tasks), so those words mean a lot to me.
It’s an encouragement to take up some slower paced projects! I feel like I’m always spending time away from my family to sew and I should pick up some hand projects to work on around them 🙂
wise words about balancing family needs and your own needs- i needed that advice today! good for anna maria, taking some time to run! it does help give you more energy, and a healthy mom is a better mom, for the long run! (no pun intended) bravo!
I did not know that Anna Maria was a runner. It’s good to know that she is taking care of herself so that we (her family & her fans) can enjoy her talents for many years to come.
Good advice to balance the family’s time. Also really like the encouragement that having to be part of bringing home the bacon can really push you into inspiration!
I learned that like most of us Anna Maria has a hard time fitting in time for herself but with determination you has.
“The language of a fabric collection is almost entirely visual apart from the narrative style I attach to it with the collection name, then print and color names, and so on.” I love that idea, that her illustrations are a language that tell a narrative. To me that’s way more fun than running!
I am so exited about Field study velveteens! Those will be soo beautiful!
I have always been impressed with Anna Maria’s amazing ability to balance her life with work and family. I learned today that she takes her time for herself by exercising, which is a great way to use personal time, and exactly what I, a mom of a 3 year old and 6 month old, need to hear from someone so inspirational as Anna Maria!
How she balances family needs with her own needs is very important to do and something I strive for and sometimes feel guilty for doing but its needed. I also need to take my time with projects instead of wanting instant gratification.
glad to learn there is a new bag pattern coming out soon. i love my art student tote!
I have learned that simply continuing to work on something will eventually bring you to what you were meant for, if you’re paying attention. Thanks for the interview !!!
i love the reminder to find what conditions put you at your best and find a way to get in them more often. thanks for sharing a bit of anna maria with us!
I just loved this Q&A! I learned much from her talking about the differences between designing a collection of fabrics and writing a book. Isn’t she so eloquent? Wonderful interview!
I especially liked how she devotes different times of the day to different projects based on how intense her concentration for the project needs to be. I agree that it’s easier to knot and hang out with my guys than to try sewing a quilt or project when they are around because the two divide my attention. I also agree that fabrics speaks to us differently then the actual literal instruction of a book. Either way I feel I can listen and read the stories being told.
she loves hand work!
Thanks for the great interview. Anna Maria is so inspiring and I probably already new this but it was interesting to hear her say that she thinks of the book as a conversation. I do often feel she is speaking to me and it’s not just words on a page or screen.
Would love to add this book to her others in my collection!
I learned she loves to run!
Thanks for the giveaway!
Lovely interview! I learned a little about how she balances work life balance.
I learned about all the fun things she has coming up!
I love that Anna saves her handwork to do at night do that she can work and interact with her family. I’ve been trying to do the same for the past few months and it makes a big difference to a family’s relationships with each other!
I learned that exercise really is important for everyone, especially us crafters. I learned that someone else, like me, enjoys time with family, and time to “work” on the things they love. Just like her, I like to do hand-work and relax while my family plays around me, or while my hubby and I sit together after the kids are in bed, and watch a movie or he plays xbox.
I am always inspired by her work and what she shares of her life, but I have to say, the advice about exercising really hit home. That it is a matter of insisting on it, not seeing it as one more thing I don’t have time for…
I didn’t know that she went running as part of her day. So excited to see that she is helping to bring back handwork. Can’t wait to see the linen fabrics.
I can empathize with Anna on tending to leave time for personal things off the list. I do the same and have found, as she has, that I do better when I take care of myself first.
I’ve just started doing a good embroidery. Now that I’m past the newby “this-is-too-hard-phase”, I’m really enjoying it.
I, too, found wisdom in what she said about taking care of herself so she can better fulfill her duties. Sometimes it’s so hard, though!
There is something about a thread pulled through a needle, quietly and in rhythm that is relaxing and glorious. I fell in love with crewel, needlepoint etc as a child from my grandmother. Although I have tried and will continue other endeavors, I think I will always return to the calm of needle crafting. Today’s beautiful threads add to the excitement of creating a piece of art. In the busy world, needle work is my refuge.
It’s great to hear about how she finds a balance between work and family. Thanks!!
I liked how she was a down to earth mom just like me who has figured out that you have to MAKE time for yourself as well as your family.
I was so excited to learn about her new stuff coming out next year and that some of her older stuff is going to be reprinted!!
Balance is an important part of life and it is important to take time out for yourself even if it is just a little time (I am sick and home from work today). Feeling inspired!
Learned that she likes to run. I keeps her energy up. Good job Anna Maria!
I learned that Anna has a variety of talents and is sharing her work with all of us. Looking forward to some quality linens, and hopefully some new linen patterns!
Taking the time for yourself and taking care of yourself. Need to do that more.
Take time for yourself and taking care of yourself
She is such a wonderwoman. I was especially excited to hear about some possible reprints!
I learned one of Anna’s secrets of keeping her life balanced…running. She is truly a creative inspiration.
I learned that Anna Maria has a multitude of talents and is still able to make time for herself amidst her family/work balance. She is truly remarkable!!!
Linens! Oh boy…….linens. Am I ever looking forward to those.
I grew up with a book similar to Ann Marie’s and that got me started embroidering. It’s wonderful to see that gifted people are still interested in creating, either writing books about stitching or actually doing the work. I can’t wait to see the book, whether I win it or I have to purchase it, to see what I can start on.
Thanks for the very good read of Ann Marie’s motive and method of getting all that work accomplished.
I learned she has found that taking time for herself is important and that exercise helps her feel more energized.
I learned that she uses running to help balance life work family. I too was doing that in the summer, but haven’t been since school started again. I think that maybe what I am missing.
Take time for myself. It certainly won’t be running though. Not with my heel spurs. Someone would find me on the side of the road crying and have to give me a ride home or try to carry me.. then they would have a hernia, and it would just get ugly from there LOL.
I’ve always wondered how she manages to do it all! Maybe I will find time for a run tomorrow…
AMH is one busy lady! I’ll have to put my running shoes on ASAP.
I learned that Anna is working on new fabric collections and new sewing patterns. Thank you very much for the giveaway!
I learned this is her third book
AMH is like most of us: hardest thing is to take care of yourself! Thanks for the interview as well as the chance to win her new book!
I love that she feels a book is like a literal conversation – it feels like that when we read so it’s lovely to think that it is written in that vein.
I like Anna Maria’s way for relax – running!:) and thanks for chance! want to win this awesome book!
I totally love how she does her handiwork in the evenings, a nice slower pace! Also excited about the different fabrics of Field Study coming out!!
I learned she loves hand work. 🙂
I like that she plans her books with both the beginner and experienced stitcher in mind. Thanks for the chance at this beautiful book!
I have been following Anna Maria since before the birth of her youngest son. She is such a huge inspiration to me. I love the little details of her creations and how she is able to merge business with her busy family life.
Thank you for the opportunity to win a copy of her book. Keeping my fingers crossed …
I enjoyed reading about her work/life balance.
I’ve learned that Anna Maria is a runner! how does she manage to do it all… And her work is amazing.
thank you for the chance to win. I think I’ll get the book this way or another…
I’ve learned a little more about what to expect from the book. And that no matter your profession, balance is very important. Thanks for a great interview.
This was a wonderful interview…since I won a book recently, you can toss me from the draw, but I wanted to stop by and say that this was very interesting. I enjoyed reading her interview and learning that she likes the slower pace of the hand-stitching….I share her enthusiasm!
Recognizing that you have to include something in your day, other than crafting, is a great point. I have a tendency to have tunnel vision and work nonstop all day, then feel so rundown when I stop.
I love doing hand work. I didn’t know she had this book out. I learned that Anna thinks of a book as a literal conversation between herself and the reader.
I absolutely loved her words about continuing to work on something and it will come to you, if you pay attention! so many times it comes and we let it go because we didn’t notice… Thanks for the chance to win this very inspiring book!
What a talented lady AMH is!!
I’m so glad she takes time for herself to go for a run!
I like how she trys very hard to make the whole project totally understandable and exciting to do. I can so agree with the slow pace.
I like how she describes finding the right kind of atmosphere to be creative in. For her it’s not being the main bread winner but it helps to have to win a little bread 🙂
I learned that Anna Maria Horner has been doing needlework sincr she was a little girl. My sweet mother taught me when I was young also. She recently passed away at age 89, but I have good memories of spending that time together.
I loved reading about her thoughts on exercise! She’s in inspiration.
I enjoyed reading about Anna Maria’s creative process, and how important it is to her to make sure her lessons are appropriate for a wide range of skills. Her advice about balancing time was also great. This would be a wonderful book to add to any collection. Thanks for a chance to win.
I learned that there are Field study velveteens coming!
Anna Maria is so inspiring–she accomplishes so much and is so humble about it. (But I already knew that!) What I learned from this interview is how many things she has lined up for us–I’m really looking forward to the new “Flight Pattern”.
It was interesting to read that Anna Maria is aware of the subconscious elements of book design, and the effect it has on the reader. I like that attention to detail.
HELLO! THANKS FOR SHARING! I LEARNED SOME NEAT IDEAS FOR MANAGING FAMILY+CRAFTS. BOOK LOOKS SO GREAT!
msstitcher1948@yahoo.com
I’ve learned that brightly colored embroidery on a black background is gorgeous! Can’t wait to see the book.
AMH is a runner – her exercise of choice
AMH has many varied projects in the works at once: needlework, patterns for garments and quilts, as well as fabric collections. Plus, this book that I wish to win!
I learned that she takes the time to exercise and that she loves hand work.
Anna runs 3-4x a week! That’s great!!
I learned that there so many sides to this talented designer. I would love this book! So amazed at how she balances all her creative endevors with family sucessfully.
Really enjoyed this Q & A and definitely could relate to Anna Maria’s line when she said about hand work: “Simply said I know, but there are many crafts that I like, and only a few I love.”
I love what she does, and I was happy to learn that an older line is reprinted!!! (please, let it be Good folks!!!!). And it is a great idea to do slower projects in the evening… Think I should do handquilting!
What a lovely book! Bringing her love of needlework and her family life together is wonderful. Balancing these two are worth the effort.
I learned she loves this kind of needle craft. That kind of love will definitely come through in the work.
I learned that she believes time for herself is important too. That is something I think we often forget.
Looking forward to seeing this book and the new bag and quilt patterns that will be released soon.
I learned that if you really manage your time well you can do it all. Have a book, fabric line, take care of your family and so much more. What a fun looking book
I learned that we both believe that time for ones self is a matter of self preservation. But when you are dedicated to work and home this doesn’t always come naturally. I love needlework and I’m so inspired by Annas work!
I learned that it’s not as easy as she makes it look, to balance a family with an intense career. Thanks for the profile.
I’ve learned Anna Maria loves the slower pace of needlework. I tend to be in a hurry to finish a project, and then it remains unfinished for a loooong time because I don’t take some time each day to just sit, relax, and enjoy the process. I need to follow Anna Maria’s example! Oh, and I’ve also learned I would SO love to win this book!
Love her 🙂 I learned that writing a book taps into a different creative process than designing fabric, very interesting. Can’t wait to see the book in person!
I learned that Field Study will be released in voiles and velveteens. Can’t wait for that!
I love that she started so young and continues to pursue her passion
I love Anna Marie’s comment that she considers her books to be a conversation between herself and the reader. Just knowing that would make me feel connected to her in a special way! Be especially blessed, Kathy H
I was excited to learn about the new base cloths for Field Study… very exciting! Love Anna Maria’s work, and so excited to see her focusing on needlework, which is also close to my heart.
A reminder to make time for exercise-you are more productive as a result
I love going to estate sales. Every time I am at one, I can’t help but pray that the lady of the house loved to sew, do needle work or some other crafty thing. I am so happy that Anna Marie has a love for needle work too. I love how she compares it to painting or some other art form. Her book may give me just the courage I need to try it for myself.
I was excited to hear that Field Study will be released in textiles beyond quilting cotton. Hurray!
Setting aside the time to take care of yourself is so important.
I learned that Anna Maria is a runner, and that there will be some fabric reprints – woohoo!
I think the most important thing I learned from the interview is that it is important to take time for yourself. Too often we get to busy with life and taking care of everyone else’s needs and all we have to do that we forget to take care of ourselves.
I learned that I need to start taking time for myself like Anna Marie does with running 🙂
I learned that Anna Marie loves embroidery, not just likes it. I am happy to hear it because I thought she liked quilting and fabric more!
It’s interesting to hear Anna Maria’s views on the similarities and differences between designing fabric and writing a book. she never fails to amaze me with her ability to manage and balance all she has on her plate. Very inspiring.
I love everything Anna Maria creates. All the colour, the flowers the natural world inspiration. Can’t wait to see her new book!
I learned that Anna Maria has support for her endeavours. How blessed she is!
Looks like a great book and I can’t wait to have a look at it, by winning or otherwise.
I am just amazed how she handles a big family and all her endeavors. Kudos! Thanks for a chance!
Everyone needs to know how to lead a balanced life , between work , hobbies and family . I could sense this from the interview . Her love towards handwork is so inspiring and I too love that.
thanks for the giveaway .
enterthegiveaways at Gmail dot com
I learned that she continues to design amazing things, and keeps stretching her boundares!
Her comment about finding out what conditions we work best under has me thinking hard. With a retired husband home I have much learning to do!! Lol
I learned about the book! I didn’t even know it was coming out but I would love to own a copy for my library’s
I didn’t learn this “the exercising payoff is much bigger than a couple of hours a week”, but it was just reinforced, once again.
I did learn that I need to start squirreling away money for the new Field Study collection!
I also like to get my hand stitching done in the evening, when my husband and I can just relax together. I feel productive and we also get the chance to spend some time together. Thanks for the great interview. 🙂
I learned she is coming out with awesome new stuff I can’t wait to get. Thanks for the chance!
Continue to work and “pay attention” to find out what we are made for. I like your approach.
I have learnt no matter what you do or how much you love your craft you need to take care of yourself.
Taking care of oneself first, I must remember that!
I learned that Anna Maria always has a new fabric collection and new patterns in the works.
melodyj(at)gmail(dot)com
She saves her slower paced projects for night hours. Which makes more sense in my home too.
Anna you are a superstar and on top of this have produced a wonderful book!
Great looking book! I learned that Anna Maria loves hand work/stitching due to its slower pace and connection to painting and drawing. 🙂
I agree with you about trying to do everything and sometimes getting it wrong. I am a mother of 6 and now that they are mostly grown, I am always busy with something, but sitting down with my needlework washes the day away. I love yours and that you have been doing this since a child. Good for you!
Lisa Rose
I am happy to learn of this designer who is totally new to me. It’s heartening to hear how she manages to balance so many things in her life – family, crafts, health, etc. I’m sure her book will be fascinating as well.
She found that saving slower-paced projects for evenings doesn’t detract from her family so she can work and enjoy them too. Thanks.
I learnes that Anna Maria is passionate about needlework! Good luck with the new book!
I learned that Anna Maria keeps on keeping on!
I am so excited to learn that Anna Marie will be releasing a fabric line of voille & velvet prints!!! Two of my favorite fabrics!!!! I can’t wait to sew with those two
I learned that Anna Marie is releasing new Field Study fabric! Can’t wait!!
With the right situation, you can do anything you put your mind to.
I learned that she runs, just like me! WTG Anna Marie!
There were two things that stood out. Knowing yourself and demanding time for yourself.
In knowing yourself you’ll know when and what situations either add stress to any given project and how you react. And demanding time for yourself. As women we tend to put everything and everyone in front of the line. My grandmother told me years ago..take time everyday to make you happy, even if it’s 10 minutes sitting on the porch starting at nothing.
Wonderful book and I would kiss the postal delivery person if he showed up at my door with it. lol!
That she views her books as conversations between her and the reader. I like that!
It reminded me that I used to love cross stitch, it’s slower paced & I feel contented when I’m doing it. I’ve got another design picked out now, I havn’t done any for years.
I learned I am not the only one who has had to make time for myself family and not just work on my own business. Balance is important to our health and our peace of mind. This looks like it will b a great book and I thank you for the opportunity to win it.
Anna’s interview impressed upon me her sense of enjoyment in her life which she tells through her hands and her book(s). I too enjoy a slower pace at night with my cross-stitch as it allows me to center my thoughts and enjoy the company of my daughter and my husband.
Just like Anna I have been doing handwork all my life. If I did not have handwork on some days I think I would go nuts.
I have always loved needle work but have been away from it for a while,after seing some of your work
Anna Maria,it makes me realize how much I have miss it.Would really would love to win your book. Paula
She reminds everyone to take time out for yourself even when life gets busy.
I learned about how she balances work/life. She is an inspiration!
I just love hearing about her life and the idea of saving the “slower paced” projects for late in the day is something I try to do also!
Nice to know even a busy lady like Anna finds solace in hand stitching. Ive always said my stitching is my therapy lol
Love the Field Study fabric designs too!!
Thank you for the giveaway! I learned that self-care and work/life balance are a universal challenge for creative women. I am continually in awe of the creativity of Anna Maria and love to expand my own experience with the support of her inspiration.
I’ve learnt she is a very busy lady. I think everybody who are into crafts are busy all the time, because you tend to do things you love as much as possible. When it comes to doing household chores you rush them so you can get back to what you love doing. I know I do!!
I learned that continuing to work on something will eventually bring you to what you were meant for (in regards to changing crafts, etc.). Valuable statement, Anna Maria!! Thank you for your words of encouragement and for the giveaway!
Support is a huge thing for her…not just financially, but emotionally as well. Lovely giveaway!
I learnt that it’s necessary to take time out for ones self. Run 2-3 times a week or hit the gym.
I have been restricted a bit lately being unemployed to trying new things. This is really something I’d like to win as it sounds like great fun!!! I hope to finally break my losing streak and experience Anna Maria’s lovely designs.
I learned that how she uses her voice to set the interaction between herself and the reader – I’m curious to see if it’s different than she does in her blog, I love her writing style so I’m looking forward to getting this book!
I loved learning about how support, balance and taking time for herself keeps her energy where it needs to be. Thanks for the opportunity to enjoy this book!
I learned I must try stitching on dark fabric. Those flowers pop right out and the color makes me smile!
I really like her point of view about books … that it’s a literal conversation between her and the readers. That’s a very nice way to look at it. Just add a cup of tea! 🙂
Anna is amazing. She does try and do it all. It makes me feel like you can never do enough. I am a caregiver, disabled, and recovering from back surgery. I try to get things done, but feel like I am to slowed down. I refuse to give up though.
I learned that it is also difficult for Anna Maria to balance her home and work requirements.
I love that Anna Maria said, “It was important to me to make a book that could be just as inspiring for the novice as it is for the experienced needle crafter.” I am a beginner, but these designs are beautiful and it makes me feel like I could pull them off.
I learned that Anna has the same worries all woman have, even with her amazing talent that we are all glad she shares with us.
I learned a number of things about Anna Maria from this post. That she loves handwork best I can appreciate most, because I feel the same. She gives good advice to women – take care of yourself.
I too have found the walking/running helps to clear the head and get me focused again. Loved reading the interview!
I learned that she is inspiring not only in her astounding creativity, but also in her effort to take care for herself!
I learned that she’s been doing needle work since she was a little girl! I wish I could say the same 🙂
She always has a new fabric collection (or two) in the works as well as new sewing patterns.
Thanks for the wonderful giveaway!
The support of who is around is always important!
Very very nice the embroidery on dark canvas, I have to do that!
I learned that she feel the importance of your environment and creativity – and how that varies so we should tune into what works best for us as individuals. AND that we’ll be seeing Field Study in Rayons, Voiles and Velveteens – yummy!
I love her devotion to all the parts of her life. Family, work, exercise, etc. She is an insperation.
I have learned some the advantages of doing handwork.
I should take the advice of making time for myself either exercising or crafting time several times per week is what I learned! awolk at rogers dot com