Natalie Gonthier

After developing chronic illnesses which left me disabled and unable to sleep at night, I discovered a love of hand stitching and found it to be a form of therapy which has helped both my physical and mental health.

I had previously studied contemporary textiles as a mature student before going on to Cardiff Met University to complete a B.A. in Artist, Designer, Maker.

I drew upon the techniques learned during my studies and revisited the theraputic nature of creativity and began to hand stitch using a very small embroidery hoop.

Previous methods of sculpting or painting were incredibly difficult due to the nature of my illnesses and I could no longer grip knitting needles or a crochet hook comfortably so I began to sculpt and draw with thread instead.

I began to create tiny embroidered jewellery pieces before exploring three dimensional and stumpwork techniques, mostly inspired by natural surroundings that I now find difficult to physically explore.

This led to me openingan Etsy shop under the name The Mistress of Making where I create and sell hand embroidered jewellery, accessories and homeware.

During lockdown, creating more nature inspired pieces became even more vital as a way of bringing the outdoors in, or even to be worn.

Vintage fabrics, beads and even lockets are utilised wherever possible to reinvent preloved materials and create wearable art pieces to be treasured once more.