Back to the future

Big news. We’re moving back to South Africa. Next week.

We’ve had an interesting three or so years in England but are now heading home, mainly to be closer to family and friends again, but also to give me a chance to have a go at this embroidery lark full time.

I haven’t been happy working in an office for a while now. And it feels like the right time to take a leap of faith and pursue my passion. I’ve been testing the waters for about 18 months, as those of you who have bought patterns and issues of the Stitch and Thimble through my website will know (a heartfelt thank you to all of you). I’ve learnt so much in this time about everything from designing embroidered pieces to drawing up patterns to setting up a website to putting together a publication on my own to blogging… some areas still need polishing, but now I'll have the time to work on them.

Right now though, I’m just really excited to apply everything I’ve learnt in a more structured way. By this I mean spend more time on and make better use of my design ideas, and extend my product range and offerings. The nerves do surface from time to time – what if I’m not good enough, will I be able to make a living out of this, will I be able to run a business successfully?

But mainly I’m just excited. Striking out on my own has always been my plan, all I needed was some direction. I feel I have that now and hopefully it all works out. I’ll keep you posted.

PS I may be AWOL for a week or three while we move. Please don’t be alarmed or send out search parties, I’ll be back.