I field a lot of questions about my hand embroidery via email and on Instagram and thought it'd be helpful if I compiled some of my most frequently asked questions here.
How do you come up with your designs?
Just like my paper goods line, the majority of my ideas and designs come straight from my imagination. In many instances, I'm inspired by my own painting and drawing work.
Do you use a pattern? Do you trace your design onto the fabric before you stitch?
Nope! All of my embroideries are done freehand and I create the design as I go along. I do not draw out anything beforehand. I sometimes use invisible ink to draw an outline of the final shape/size that I want the piece to be.
Where can I buy one of your finished pieces?
I sell my pieces framed and matted in my shop. Right now, I can only ship in the U.S. via my website. If you are interested in ordering one and you live outside the U.S., shoot me an email for a shipping estimate.
What if I want to purchase a piece in your shop, but it is sold out?
If an item is listed as sold out, it means that the one-of-a-kind piece of art has sold. Please don't hesitate to contact me at hello{at}happycactusdesigns.com to explore creating a similar design for you.
Do you sell patterns?
Not at this time. Hopefully down the line I will eventually offer patterns or kits for sale. For now, I'm just happy creating my own original work.
Can I recreate your designs?
Please do not. While I greatly appreciate your enthusiasm for my work, I also encourage you to create your own original work or purchase patterns from those who sell them. Reproducing my work is actually stealing, whether you intend to or not. And trust me, it's more fun creating your own original works!
How did you learn to embroider?
I taught myself. I was sidelined with an ankle injury at the end of 2014 and decided that if I was going to be resting on my couch for a few weeks then I should try my hand at embroidery. I have consulted a handful of books and stitch guides, but I have found YouTube videos most helpful so I can see how to do various stitches.
Where do you get your supplies?
I mainly purchase my supplies online since I live in a small mountain town without a needlework shop that supplies everything I need. I think DMC has the best embroidery thread (don't fall for the imitation brands claiming to be DMC online!). As for the linen, hoops, scissors, and other fabric and tools that I use, I source those supplies from various shops across the U.S. I try to invest in the highest quality supplies because you definitely get what you pay for. I encourage you to go to your local art or needlework shop to get supplies or spend time researching online like I did.
How long does it take to create a design?
Most pieces take a number of hours. I don't always sit with a stopwatch and track my time, but smaller pieces usually take at least 3 hours, while larger pieces can take upwards of 10-20 (my best guestimate!).
Can I share your work on my blog, website, or Instagram fee?
Please feel free to as long as you provide proper credit and link back to me.
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