We chat to Eppie Thompson of The Fabled Thread about her style, stitching and storytelling and why colour is so important to her…
Interview by Julian Odessa
Eppie Thompson ensures storytelling is at the core of everything she stitches. From Aesop’s Fables to Rudyard Kipling – stories from the past provide her with inspiration and her aim is to spread the word to everyone about the joy that sewing and stitching can give…
Tell us about the first embroidery piece you ever did.
The first piece I ever stitched was a sampler for two friends getting married. I designed it based on things important in their lives. It was quite ambitious, so my friends didn’t end up getting it until their first anniversary!
I grew up with my granny stitching samplers for every child and grandchild that came into the family. She is now 99 and still stitching every day, so I do think that needlework is in my genes!
How would you describe your style? What is your favourite piece that you currently offer?
I would say my style is whimsical, colourful, and with storytelling at its core. Every piece I create is either based on a story (our Just So range which all depict Rudyard Kipling stories) or I imagine my own story to go alongside. I love that there’s a narrative in the pieces which only the stitcher may know – it creates a special connection between the stitcher and their artwork. One of the first ranges I created was The Fables – these are all based on Aesop’s Fables. In this range, my favourite design is constantly changing but right now it’s probably The Lion in Love.
What is it about embroidery that gives you such drive?
Embroidery is so simple – whether you have been stitching for 20 hours or 20 years, you can create something beautiful. I love that!
I started stitching when working in finance, working long hours in stressful roles – the repetitive action of sewing became meditation for me. If you make a mistake, you can easily unpick it (or if you are lazy like me, just stitch over it!) – this simplicity takes so much stress out of the creative process.
I believe strongly that everyone would benefit from stitching. We’re tied to our phones, emails, social media and, speaking from my own experience, the constant distractions and notifications have a terrible effect on my attention span and patience. Sewing is the antidote to that – a way of forcing me to slow down. I am driven by a desire to help everyone experience the joy that sewing gives me!
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