NeedleXChange

By Jamie Chalmers

Jamie "Mr X Stitch" Chalmers interviews needlework and textile artists to find out how they make their art, how they build their business and why they love working with a needle and thread.

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· Arts

5

44 ratings

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FAQs about NeedleXChange:

How many episodes does NeedleXChange have?

The podcast currently has 104 episodes available.

NeedleXChange episodes:

January 27, 2025Harriett Riddell - Portrait Machine Part 2 [NX074]
In this episode of NeedleXChange I interview Harriet Riddell.
Harriet is a globally celebrated free-motion embroidery artist who brings her sewing machine to life in unexpected places, capturing the essence of people, places, and stories through her unique art. Known for her adventurous spirit, Harriet has travelled the world—embroidering bustling Indian markets, serene UK woodlands, and everything in between.
This is the first part of our NeedleXChange, and if you enjoy Harriet's work then listen to episodes 63 + 64 with Peter Frederiksen, another machine stitch marvel!

Timestamps:
00:00:12 - Intro
00:02:40 - Harriet’s process for stitching portraits and embedding personal stories
00:10:15 - Capturing architecture and everyday life in embroidery
00:18:34 - Creating large-scale works and balancing creativity with practicality
00:25:08 - How motherhood shapes Harriet’s creative perspective
00:28:12 - Harriet's favourite music, film and book choices
00:38:00 - A fact that not a lot of people know about Harriett Riddell

Links:
Website: institchyou.com
Instagram: institchyou

Intro music is 222 by Sarah The Illstrumentalist 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
RSSVERIFY
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
...more
42min
January 20, 2025Harriett Riddell - Portrait Machine [NX073]
In this episode of NeedleXChange I interview Harriet Riddell.
Harriet is a globally celebrated free-motion embroidery artist who brings her sewing machine to life in unexpected places, capturing the essence of people, places, and stories through her unique art. Known for her adventurous spirit, Harriet has travelled the world—embroidering bustling Indian markets, serene UK woodlands, and everything in between.
This is the first part of our NeedleXChange, and if you enjoy Harriet's work then listen to episodes 63 + 64 with Peter Frederiksen, another machine stitch marvel!

Timestamps:
00:00:12 - Introduction
00:02:54 - The story behind her son’s name and their love for Bluey
00:10:58 - Emotional connections in media and the power of storytelling through embroidery
00:17:05 - Harriet’s exhibition work, including innovative laser-cut felt pieces
00:23:40 - The challenges of large-scale embroidery and new techniques
00:27:14 - Harriet’s time in India stitching street scenes and saris
00:33:28 - The creative freedom of a bicycle-powered sewing machine

Links:
Website: institchyou.com
Instagram: institchyou

Intro music is 222 by Sarah The Illstrumentalist 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
RSSVERIFY
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
...more
43min
January 13, 2025Betsy Greer - Godmother of Craftivism Part 2 [NX072]
In this episode of NeedleXChange I interview Betsy Greer.
Betsy Greer is a writer, speaker and advocate for the benefits of craft as a tool for change. In this episode, Betsy shares how she came to be a craft legend, the value of Joy as a crafting direction and we touch on Betsy's cultural favourites. If you like this use of needlework, my NeedleXChange with Liz Kueneke might also give you food for thought.

Timestamps:
00:00:00 - Intro
00:01:30 - The Birth of Craftivism
00:07:53 - Exploring Personal Influences in Crafting
00:14:29 - The Importance of Safety in Craftivism Projects
00:23:32 - The Pursuit of Joy
00:26:40 - Betsy's Favourite TV show
00:30:00 - Betsy's Favourite Films
00:32:10 - Betsy's Favourite Album
00:39:40 - Crafting as a Therapeutic Practice
00:44:47 - A Unique Beginning: Betsy's Story

Links:
Website: hellobetsygreer.com
Instagram: craftivista

Intro music is Fearless and Faithful by Christian Anderson 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

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

RSSVERIFY
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
...more
42min
January 06, 2025Betsy Greer - Godmother of Craftivism [NX071]
In this episode of NeedleXChange I interview Betsy Greer.
Betsy Greer is a writer, speaker and advocate for the benefits of craft as a tool for change. In this episode, Betsy shares how this idea came to life, how crafting can be a tool for empowerment, and why it’s such a powerful form of storytelling. This conversation goes pretty deep pretty fast but it was a great opportunity to dive into the topic that I couldn't miss.
If you like this use of needlework, my NeedleXChange with Kate Kretz might also inspire you.

Timestamps:
00:00:00 - Intro
00:01:30 - Craftivism: A Personal Journey
00:07:32 - Personal Transformation Through Craft
00:10:25 - The Role of Choice in Craftivism
00:13:39 - Documenting Change Through Textiles
00:16:32 - The Impact of Personal Narratives
00:22:29 - The Intersection of History and Craft
00:25:27 - The Pragmatic Approach to Change
00:30:13 - Addressing Overwhelming Issues in Apparel Factories
00:32:03 - Finding Local Solutions to Global Problems
00:34:29 - The Role of Creativity in Activism

Links:
Website: hellobetsygreer.com
Instagram: craftivista

Intro music is Fearless and Faithful by Christian Anderson 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

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
RSSVERIFY
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
...more
45min
December 16, 2024Andrew Crummy - Tapestry Titan Part 2 [NX070]
In this episode of NeedleXChange I interview Andrew Crummy..
Andrew Crummy is the designer and project manager of the Great Tapestry of Scotland. This is the second part of our NeedleXChange and we talk about some of the other Tapestry projects that Andrew has been involved with, including the Dundee Tapestry, the Scottish Diaspora Tapestry and the Cancer Tapestry.
It's a great chat that really reinforces the value in communal stitching projects and visual storytelling.

For a similar conversation on participatory needlework projects, listen to my XChange with Liz Kueneke..

Timestamps:
00:02:30 The Evolution of Tapestry Narratives
00:12:47 The Dundee Tapestry: A Community Storytelling Project
00:17:54 The Cancer Tapestry: Personal Stories of Resilience
00:24:20 Creating the History of Europe Tapestry
00:34:00 Andrew's Cultural Favourites
00:41:42 A Unique Family Legacy

Links:
Website: andrewcrummy.com
Instagram: andrewcrummy2016

Intro music is I Am The King by White Bones 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
RSSVERIFY
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
...more
47min
December 09, 2024Andrew Crummy - Tapestry Titan [NX069]
In this episode of NeedleXChange I interview Andrew Crummy..
Andrew Crummy is the designer and project manager of the Great Tapestry of Scotland and in this first part of our NeedleXChange we dive into the story of the Tapestry, from inception to completion. The Tapestry is a fantastic project that illustrates the history of Scotland over 160 hand-embroidered panels. It was created between Spring 2012 and September 2013 and was hand sewn by 1000 stitchers. This is a fascinating insight into a project unlike any other and I think you'll enjoy it.
For another historically influenced conversation, listen to my XChange with Dr Susan Kay-Williams.

Timestamps:
00:00:00 - Introduction
00:02:46 - The Great Tapestry of Scotland: A Community Project
00:14:26 - The Emotional Impact of Stitching
00:20:27 - Hidden Stories and Personal Connections
00:25:05 - Cultural Reflections in Tapestry

Links:
Website: andrewcrummy.com
Instagram: andrewcrummy2016

Intro music is I Am The King by White Bones 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
RSSVERIFY
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
...more
39min
December 02, 2024Salley Mavor - Telling Wee Folk Tales Part 2 [NX068]
In this episode of NeedleXChange I interview Salley Mavor.
Salley Mavor is a mixed media artist whose folk-art inspired vignettes tell stories of light and dark. This is the second part of our NeedleXChange and we discuss how Salley's more political work taught her the power of social media for better or worse, We also find out more about the world of miniatures and we find out about Salley's favourite music, books and all that good stuff!
If you like creative world-builders, you will love our episodes with Audrey Montoya!

Timestamps:
00:00:00 - Intro
00:02:04 - Art as a Response to Political Climate
00:07:00 - Empowerment Through Artistic Expression
00:10:39 - Inspiring Others Through Art
00:13:01 - The Artistic Journey and Teaching
00:14:33 - Art in Everyday Life
00:16:03 - Cultural Influences and Music
00:18:31 - Literary Inspirations and Writing Process
00:21:01 - Miniatures and Playfulness in Art
00:24:27 - Future Projects and Artistic Growth

Links:
Website: weefolkstudio.com
Instagram: salleymavor

Intro music is Peruvian Grass by Wanderer's Trove 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/
RSSVERIFY
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
...more
39min
November 25, 2024Salley Mavor - Telling Wee Folk Tales [NX067]
In this episode of NeedleXChange I interview Salley Mavor.
Salley Mavor is a mixed media artist whose folk-art inspired vignettes tell stories of light and dark. This is the first part of our NeedleXChange and we find out how Salley's artistic process began when she was young and has stayed strong ever since, and the way in which she creates her mixed media worlds. We also explore the world of children's book illustration, something that Salley has been involved in for over a decade.

Timestamps:
00:00:00 - Intro
00:02:14 - Welcome to Sally's World
00:08:07 - Artistic Evolution and Self-Discovery
00:11:14 - The Role of Childhood in Creativity
00:14:07 - Finding Freedom in Art
00:17:19 - The Unique Voice of an Artist
00:20:11 - Balancing Art and Life
00:23:15 - The Language of Stitching
00:26:16 - Emotional Storytelling in Art
00:29:05 - Navigating Joy and Darkness in Art
00:34:25 - The Balance of Creativity and Execution
00:39:31 - Navigating the Challenges of Artistic Process
00:43:55 - The Role of Uncertainty in Art

Links:
Website: weefolkstudio.com
Instagram: salleymavor

Intro music is Peruvian Grass by Wanderer's Trove 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/

RSSVERIFY
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
...more
47min
November 18, 2024Melissa Zexter - Photographic Memories Part 2 [NX066]
In this episode of NeedleXChange I interview Melissa Zexter.
Melissa Zexter is a Brooklyn-based artist whose embroidered photographs explore memory and meaning. This is the second part of our NeedleXChange and we explore tips for stitching on paper, embracing mistakes and we explore Melissa's cultural favourites. Plus, we get a bit spooky, but I've said too much!.
If you like Melissa's art, you'll love my NeedleXChange with Diane Meyer.

Timestamps:
00:00:00 - Introduction
00:02:00 - Exploring New Directions in Art
00:03:38 - Tips for Stitching on Paper and Embracing Mistakes
00:10:15 - The Role of Music in Artistic Creation
00:15:48 - Creative Journeys and Commercial Work
00:18:51 - Artistic Expression and Public Engagement
00:20:45 - Literary Influences and Personal Favourites
00:26:04 - The Balance of Life and Creativity
00:30:45 - A fact that not a lot of people know about Melissa Zexter
Links:
Website: melissazexter.com
Instagram: melissazexter

Intro music is The Harbor by Kylie Dailey 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
RSSVERIFY
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
...more
40min
November 11, 2024Melissa Zexter - Photographic Memories [NX065]
In this episode of NeedleXChange I interview Melissa Zexter.
Melissa Zexter is a Brooklyn-based artist whose embroidered photographs explore memory and meaning. This is the first part of our NeedleXChange and we discuss how Melissa's embroidery technique evolved and the value of analogue photography in a digital world, among other things.
If you like Melissa's art, you'll love my NeedleXChange with Diane Meyer.

Timestamps:
00:00:00 - Introduction
00:02:00 - The Intersection of Photography and Textile Art
00:13:51 - The Role of Personal Connection in Art
00:16:50 - Intuition and Experimentation
00:25:57 - The Emotional Palette of Art
00:28:51 - Integrating Text and Images
00:33:28 - Guilty Pleasures and Creative Processes
00:34:39 - The Intersection of Photography and Portraiture
00:38:30 - The Evolution of Photography
00:41:10 - Teaching Photography: Bridging Technical Skills and Personal Expression

Links:
Website: melissazexter.com
Instagram: melissazexter

Intro music is The Harbor by Kylie Dailey 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/
RSSVERIFY
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
...more
46min

FAQs about NeedleXChange:

How many episodes does NeedleXChange have?

The podcast currently has 104 episodes available.

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