In this episode of NeedleXChange, I interview Niamh Wimperis, an embroidery artist and craft entrepreneur known for blending personal experience with traditional needlework techniques.

We trace her evolution — from early frustrations with artistic gatekeeping to discovering embroidery as both a personal refuge and a political statement. Niamh shares how lived experience, including chronic pain, has shaped her work, and reflects on projects like This Is Art and her collaborative blanket fort installation.

Timestamps:

00:00:00 - Introduction

00:01:40 – Navigating Artistic Passion and Financial Realities

00:03:44 – The Joy of Teaching and Community Engagement

00:06:42 – The Importance of In-Person Connections

00:08:38 – Craft Shows: A Platform for Growth

00:11:43 – The Balancing Act of Pricing and Value

00:19:48 – Wholesale vs. Direct Sales: A Strategic Choice

00:24:44 – A Life-Changing Experience on Television

00:33:47 – The Influence of William Morris and Arts and Crafts Movement

00:40:09 – Balancing Tradition and Modernity in Craft

00:47:59 – Cultural Reflections in Media and Literature

00:50:58 – Personal Anecdotes and Humorous Moments

Links:

Website: wimperis.co.uk

Instagram: wimperisembroidery

Intro music is Two Plus Two by Another Notion 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/

Sign up for the NeedleXChange Newsletter here: https://bit.ly/NeedleXChangeNews

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

If you're looking for modern cross stitch designs, then XStitch is the magazine you need!

Subscribe to XStitch Magazine here: https://xstitchmag.com/modern-cross-stitch-magazine/

And follow Mr X Stitch on all the usual social media channels!

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MrXStitch

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/MrXStitch

Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/mrxstitch/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mrjamiechalmers

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In this episode of NeedleXChange, I interview Niamh Wimperis, an embroidery artist and craft entrepreneur known for blending personal experience with traditional needlework techniques.

We trace her evolution — from early frustrations with artistic gatekeeping to discovering embroidery as both a personal refuge and a political statement. Niamh shares how lived experience, including chronic pain, has shaped her work, and reflects on projects like This Is Art and her collaborative blanket fort installation.

Timestamps:

00:00:00 - Introduction

00:01:45 – Art as a Medium for Expression

00:04:42 – The Journey of an Artist

00:07:49 – The Evolution of Political Art

00:10:34 – Finding Identity in Craft

00:13:56 – Navigating the Commercial Art World

00:16:34 – The Subscription Box Experience

00:19:51 – Challenges in Running a Business

Links:

Website: wimperis.co.uk

Instagram: wimperisembroidery

Intro music is Two Plus Two by Another Notion 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/

Sign up for the NeedleXChange Newsletter here: https://bit.ly/NeedleXChangeNews

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

If you're looking for modern cross stitch designs, then XStitch is the magazine you need!

Subscribe to XStitch Magazine here: https://xstitchmag.com/modern-cross-stitch-magazine/

And follow Mr X Stitch on all the usual social media channels!

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MrXStitch

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/MrXStitch

Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/mrxstitch/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mrjamiechalmers

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In this episode of NeedleXChange I interview Bren Ahearn.

Bren Ahearn is a needlework artist using traditional samplers to unpack masculinity, memory and social conditioning. In the second half of my conversation with Bren Ahearn, we delve into the politics of craft, the evolution of his large-scale samplers, and the emotional realities behind making art that speaks to violence, identity and grief.

If you were fascinated by my conversation with Kate Kretz in which we explore ways in which needlework makes a political point - episodes 41 and 42 - you won’t want to miss this!

Timestamps:

00:00:12 - Intro

00:01:30 – Navigating Identity and Masculinity

00:12:23 – The Role of Kindness in Art and Life

00:22:33 – The Evolution of Craft and Queer Identity

00:27:17 – Reflections on School Experiences and Identity

00:30:49 – Musical Influences and Cultural Contexts

00:34:28 – Literary Inspirations and Alienation

00:38:51 – Unexpected Life Experiences and Future Aspirations

Links:

Website: brenahearn.com

Instagram: brenahearn

Intro music is Hipsters are Okay by Daniel Fridell 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/

Sign up for the NeedleXChange Newsletter here: https://bit.ly/NeedleXChangeNews

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

If you're looking for modern cross stitch designs, then XStitch is the magazine you need!

Subscribe to XStitch Magazine here: https://xstitchmag.com/modern-cross-stitch-magazine/

And follow Mr X Stitch on all the usual social media channels!

• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MrXStitch
• Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/MrXStitch
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/MrXStitch
• Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/mrxstitch/
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mrjamiechalmers

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Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of NeedleXChange I interview Bren Ahearn.

Bren Ahearn is a needlework artist using traditional samplers to unpack masculinity, memory and social conditioning. In this first part of our conversation. we discuss the concept of magnified moments, early experiences of gender policing, and how these formative events shape identity and artistic voice. Bren also shares how his shift from weaving to embroidery became a way to challenge the gendered expectations of craft itself.

If you enjoyed our episodes with John Thomas Paradiso - 11 and 12 - where we talked about his queer thread connections, you’ll love this chat with one of the nicest needleworkers you could hope to meet.

Timestamps:

00:00:12 - Intro

00:01:40 – Magnified Moments: The Weight of Childhood Choices

00:07:51 – Embroidery: A Gendered Art Form

00:10:43 – The Evolution of Samplers: From Tradition to Commentary

00:16:37 – The Creative Process: Balancing Art and Marketing

00:19:39 – Contemporary Samplers: Addressing Modern Issues

00:22:49 – The Future of Needlework: Blending Tradition with Innovation

00:30:37 – Exploring Artistic Expression and Activism

Links:

Website: brenahearn.com

Instagram: brenahearn

Intro music is Hipsters are Okay by Daniel Fridell 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/

Sign up for the NeedleXChange Newsletter here: https://bit.ly/NeedleXChangeNews

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

If you're looking for modern cross stitch designs, then XStitch is the magazine you need!

Subscribe to XStitch Magazine here: https://xstitchmag.com/modern-cross-stitch-magazine/

And follow Mr X Stitch on all the usual social media channels!

• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MrXStitch
• Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/MrXStitch
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/MrXStitch
• Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/mrxstitch/
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mrjamiechalmers

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In this episode of NeedleXChange I interview Owen Kelly.

Owen is a fifth-generation embroiderer whose vivid, hand-stitched works blend folk art, cultural symbolism, and personal narrative — all anchored by a lifelong love of textiles and storytelling. In this first part of our conversation, Owen shares his early love of stitching, memories stitched into denim, and how his family history shaped his lifelong relationship with embroidery. It's a journey through punk rock, biker jackets, and the moving legacy of his 'memory skirt'.

Timestamps:

00:00:00 - Intro

00:01:25 – The Joy of Creating: Quilts and Feedback

00:04:16 – Maximalism in Art: Embracing Complexity

00:09:53 – The Grand Poobah: A Stitching Ambassador

00:16:32 – Introducing Seamus O'Commonsey: The Traveling Puppet

00:22:34 – Cultural Connections Through Creativity

00:28:33 – The Role of Music in Life

00:44:10 – Navigating the Music Industry

00:46:58 – The Influence of Music on Art

00:51:04 – Literary Inspirations and Favourites

00:54:50 – Cinematic Memories and Influences

00:59:20 – The Hidden Talent of Table Tennis Coaching

Links:

Instagram: slavetothestitch

Intro music is Silly Simon by TAGE 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/

Sign up for the NeedleXChange Newsletter here: https://bit.ly/NeedleXChangeNews

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

If you're looking for modern cross stitch designs, then XStitch is the magazine you need!

Subscribe to XStitch Magazine here: https://xstitchmag.com/modern-cross-stitch-magazine/

And follow Mr X Stitch on all the usual social media channels!

• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MrXStitch
• Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/MrXStitch
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/MrXStitch
• Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/mrxstitch/
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mrjamiechalmers

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Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of NeedleXChange I interview Owen Kelly.

Owen is a fifth-generation embroiderer whose vivid, hand-stitched works blend folk art, cultural symbolism, and personal narrative — all anchored by a lifelong love of textiles and storytelling. In this first part of our conversation, Owen shares his early love of stitching, memories stitched into denim, and how his family history shaped his lifelong relationship with embroidery. It's a journey through punk rock, biker jackets, and the moving legacy of his 'memory skirt'.

Timestamps:

00:00:00 - Intro

00:03:30 – Growing up stitching: why his creative world never felt tedious

00:06:55 – Flow stitching and creative improvisation

00:09:00 – Custom denim jackets and symbolic commissions

00:13:40 – Craft vs. art: perspectives from punk to Persia

00:16:55 – Denim as a material and a personal statement

00:21:10 – The origin of Owen’s “memory skirt” and stitched life events

00:30:10 – Reflections on masculinity, textiles, and reclaiming space

Links:

Instagram: slavetothestitch

Intro music is Silly Simon by TAGE 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/

Sign up for the NeedleXChange Newsletter here: https://bit.ly/NeedleXChangeNews

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

If you're looking for modern cross stitch designs, then XStitch is the magazine you need!

Subscribe to XStitch Magazine here: https://xstitchmag.com/modern-cross-stitch-magazine/

And follow Mr X Stitch on all the usual social media channels!

• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MrXStitch
• Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/MrXStitch
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/MrXStitch
• Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/mrxstitch/
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mrjamiechalmers

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Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of NeedleXChange I interview Stephanie Kelly Clark.

Stephanie is a contemporary embroidery artist whose work transforms humble homes and everyday moments into rich visual stories stitched with painterly precision. In this first part of our conversation, we explore her creative upbringing, the role of art in parenting, and her evolving relationship with embroidery as a medium. From homemade Halloween costumes to thread-based storytelling, Stephanie shares how her domestic life and artistic journey are deeply intertwined.

Timestamps:

00:00:00 - Intro

00:08:30 – Exploring Storytelling Through Art

00:11:45 – The Journey into 3D Embroidery

00:15:43 – Nature as Inspiration: The Life Cycle in Art

00:20:02 – The Intersection of Art and Music

00:26:31 – Nostalgia and Personal Connections in Film

00:31:06 – Comedy: A Reflection of Life and Art

00:35:51 – The Challenge of Reading and Learning

00:37:49 – Unexpected Talents and Personal Stories

Links:

Website: stephaniekclark

Instagram: artiststephaniekellyclark

Intro music is Sunset by OTE 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/

Sign up for the NeedleXChange Newsletter here: https://bit.ly/NeedleXChangeNews

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

If you're looking for modern cross stitch designs, then XStitch is the magazine you need!

Subscribe to XStitch Magazine here: https://xstitchmag.com/modern-cross-stitch-magazine/

And follow Mr X Stitch on all the usual social media channels!

• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MrXStitch
• Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/MrXStitch
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/MrXStitch
• Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/mrxstitch/
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mrjamiechalmers

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Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of NeedleXChange I interview Stephanie Kelly Clark.

Stephanie is a contemporary embroidery artist whose work transforms humble homes and everyday moments into rich visual stories stitched with painterly precision. In this first part of our conversation, we explore her creative upbringing, the role of art in parenting, and her evolving relationship with embroidery as a medium. From homemade Halloween costumes to thread-based storytelling, Stephanie shares how her domestic life and artistic journey are deeply intertwined.

Timestamps:

00:00:00 - Intro

00:01:29 – Life as Art: Parenting and Creativity

00:10:25 – Artistic Process: From Painting to Embroidery

00:13:34 – The Evolution of an Artist: Finding One's Voice

00:16:18 – Contemporary Art vs. Craft: Defining the Medium

00:19:27 – Conceptualising Art: The Role of Medium in Storytelling

00:22:39 – The Journey of an Artist: Embracing Change and Growth

00:25:42 – Creating with Intention: The Importance of Composition

Links:

Website: stephaniekclark

Instagram: artiststephaniekellyclark

Intro music is Sunset by OTE 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/

Sign up for the NeedleXChange Newsletter here: https://bit.ly/NeedleXChangeNews

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

If you're looking for modern cross stitch designs, then XStitch is the magazine you need!

Subscribe to XStitch Magazine here: https://xstitchmag.com/modern-cross-stitch-magazine/

And follow Mr X Stitch on all the usual social media channels!

• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MrXStitch
• Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/MrXStitch
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/MrXStitch
• Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/mrxstitch/
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mrjamiechalmers

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Welcome back to part two of my conversation with Neil Twist. In this half, we go deeper into Neil’s research on historic Australian samplers and the stories they hold – from 18th-century orphanages to the hidden histories of everyday stitching.

We talk about the moral messages embedded in needlework, the lack of textiles in traditional art history education, and how Neil’s thesis is starting to evolve as he uncovers more. There’s also a good bit of chat about samplers as meditative practice, tech as a liberating force, and how cross-stitch can still feel like a bit of a revolution.

If you enjoyed the episode with Isabella Rosner, there’s a lot of crossover here – especially if you’re into the history and context of textile work.

This wasn't planned as a NeedleXChange but it was such a good chat Neil allowed me to share it!

Timestamps:

00:00:00 - Intro

00:01:50 - Exploring Pixelated Memories

00:04:54 - The Intersection of Art and Memory

00:06:39 - Mindful Stitching and Mental Health

00:09:31 - Breaking Stereotypes in Needlework

00:13:07 - The Challenges of the Needlework Ecosystem

00:15:47 - The Role of Technology in Needlework

00:19:39 - Personal Growth and Community Impact

00:24:39 - Reflections on Change and Progress

Intro music is Zulu by Lucas Pittman 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/

Sign up for the NeedleXChange Newsletter here: https://bit.ly/NeedleXChangeNews

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

If you're looking for modern cross stitch designs, then XStitch is the magazine you need!

Subscribe to XStitch Magazine here: https://xstitchmag.com/modern-cross-stitch-magazine/

And follow Mr X Stitch on all the usual social media channels!

• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MrXStitch
• Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/MrXStitch
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/MrXStitch
• Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/mrxstitch/
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mrjamiechalmers

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Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of NeedleXChange I interview Neil Twist, an academic and self-confessed beginner stitcher based in Melbourne. Neil’s just a year into his embroidery journey, but already he’s exploring big questions about masculinity, perception, and what it means to stitch as a man. We talk about the courage it takes to embroider in public, the reactions you get – both expected and surprising – and how those quiet moments with needle and thread can spark real social reflection. Neil’s experience as a gay man brings a rich and thoughtful perspective to the conversation, especially as we compare how our respective identities shape our paths in textile art.

This wasn't planned as a NeedleXChange but it was such a good chat Neil allowed me to share it!

Timestamps:

00:00:00 - Intro

00:01:30 - Courage in Needlework: A Gender Perspective

00:04:32 - Public Perception and Personal Anecdotes

00:07:36 - Exploring the Embroiderers Guild Experience

00:10:29 - Cultural Connections Through Needlework

00:13:42 - The Historical Context of Needlework in Australia

00:16:32 - The Role of Samplers in Education and Morality

00:19:35 - The Evolution of Needlework Practices

00:22:39 - Cross-Stitch: A Gateway Craft and Its Potential

Intro music is Zulu by Lucas Pittman 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/

Sign up for the NeedleXChange Newsletter here: https://bit.ly/NeedleXChangeNews

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

If you're looking for modern cross stitch designs, then XStitch is the magazine you need!

Subscribe to XStitch Magazine here: https://xstitchmag.com/modern-cross-stitch-magazine/

And follow Mr X Stitch on all the usual social media channels!

• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MrXStitch
• Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/MrXStitch
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/MrXStitch
• Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/mrxstitch/
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mrjamiechalmers

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Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.