In this episode of NeedleXChange I interview Hattie McGill.

Hattie is an embroidery artist and costume specialist whose goldwork has graced screens from Doctor Strange to Bridgerton.

In this first part, we explore Hattie’s training at the Royal School of Needlework, her unexpected leap from furniture restoration into embroidery, and the behind-the-scenes craftsmanship that goes into cinematic costume design.

For another artist whose embroidery skills are Royal School of Needlework approved, check out episodes 17 and 18 with the wonderful Chrissie Juno Mann.

Timestamps:

00:00:00 - Introduction

00:01:30 – Embroidery Beginnings: A Family Legacy

00:04:32 – The Journey to the Royal School of Needlework

00:07:24 – From Furniture Restoration to Embroidery

00:10:30 – The Allure of Gold Work

00:13:28 – Understanding Gold Work: Techniques and Tips

00:16:34 – Teaching and Learning Embroidery

00:19:23 – The Challenges of Stitching and Project Management

00:22:26 – Film and TV Contributions: A Stitch in Time

00:26:05 – The World of Costume Design

00:29:23 – Embroidery in Film: A Niche Craft

00:33:40 – The Art of Detail: Handcrafted Costumes

00:38:02 – Navigating the Film Industry

Links:

Website: hattiemcgillembroidery.com

Instagram: hattiemcgillembroidery

Intro music is Emmanuel by Joyspring via Epidemic Sound.

About NeedleXChange:

NeedleXChange is a conversation podcast with embroidery and textile artists, exploring their process and practice.Hosted by Jamie "Mr X Stitch" Chalmers, it is an in-depth showcase of the best needlework artists on the planet.

Visit the NeedleXChange website: https://www.needl.exchange/

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If you want embroidery inspiration and regular doses of textile art, visit the Mr X Stitch site here: https://www.mrxstitch.com

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