Yea! First Blog Post! 3/5/15

Heya! Just testing this. Since I don't have any work ready to be posted I just have a little survey!

When it comes to art, I am often exceedingly patient and specific with the way I do it. My art is mostly described as modern, design-wise. This means they are usually complicated and take a large amount of time. This is due to my nature to put my heart into whatever I do, whether it is cross stitch, ceramics, or digital drawing ~ all of these may make it here!

What was the first piece you stitched and when did you begin?

It was a simple starter stitch of some hummingbirds on flowers. My mom got me started way back probably around middle school, maybe 10 years ago. Unfortunately I don't have much to show for it! I have given away about 95% of all my projects, large and small, without photographing them first. That's why I created this; to keep track for myself and anyone else who's interested.

What types of needlework do you do now and what is your favorite?

I only do cross stitch for now because that is what I have a great collection of materials for. I am fascinated by other types and would love to try them someday.

How much time every week do you devote to needlework?

A few hours each day before or after work.

What other hobbies do you have besides needlework?

I have a great interest in Japanese culture, language and art, but I also love video games and movies; I'm realtively tech-savvy (sp?) so I also like just about anything in that department. 

Work or career – present or past?

Phew! Confusing question. I've graduated college with a degree in Japanese, Asian Studies and Anthropology, and am joining the Navy in the near future. I like to take things one day at a time but in the future I want to have a great collection of my own projects to look back on and be proud about. Art is so amazing; my life will inevitably be filled with it.

Do you have a particular project you would like to stitch?

I have an entire folder devoted to them, actually. A lifetime's worth, I am sure. 

Is there a new technique you would like to learn in the future?

I am always up for learning more things but in the meantime I actually want to become better at some things first. especially those damn french knots.

Do you have any “bits of wisdom” you would like to share?

I think it's most important in life to do what you want, or go after your passion, but mainly what makes you happiest. In Japanese, this is said  好きにしろ (suki ni shiro). 

What reactions have you received from people who have received pieces of your finished needlework?

I most often make small ornaments around Christmas time and they are always a hit. I have only done a few medium or large projects but always gave them away and people love them. Much like a cook's greatest compliment is the clean plate at the end, the greatest compliment to me is actually displaying my work or sharing it with others. 

What is your favorite thread and fabric to work with?

I'm relatively picky and do not work with Aida fabric anymore, so all my projects are done on evenweave 28 ct or above, though 28 count is most comfortable. I have only worked with two kinds of thread, cotton and a yarn variety, both for xstitch. The yarn is a bit more temperamental! But again, I'm really up for about anything. 

What tool or accessory would you not want to be without?

My lamp. Got it for Christmas and I literally could not be without it.

Are there any symbols, themes or ideas that are found throughout your art?
I think it's extremely important to have a signature, and I guess mine would have to be what effects me most. Japanese influences are often a focus. I also have a sort of spiritual connection with the number 4 (sorry Japan :( they associate it with death or just general badness) and things that are white, so those often can make some sort of appearance due to their significance.