Before we received Paint with Thread – Through the Seasons, I had already heard of Emillie Ferris and her beautiful embroidery work. I had been to one of her book launches at a small shop in Leamington Spa, where we got to see her work up close. Emilie is known for her incredibly realistic thread paintings of insects, animals and other botanical subjects and has become one of the most respected names in contemporary embroidery. What makes her story more inspiring, is that she is largely self-taught, which is incredible when you realise the detail and instruction that goes into these pieces.
The Through the Seasons book is organised around the four seasons, taking crafters on a journey through spring, summer, autumn and winter. Rather than feeling like a standard embroidery manual, it reads more like a celebration of the changing year. Each section is inspired by the colours, textures and wildlife associated with a particular season, creating a strong connection between embroidery and the natural world. What stood out to me most was Ferris’s ability to make us, the crafters, really look at nature. Through her embroidery, Ferris encourages us to slow down and appreciate the beauty of things we often overlook.
The projects themselves showcase her signature needle painting technique, where layers of carefully placed stitches create the appearance of brushstrokes. The results are incredibly lifelike, yet despite the complexity of the finished pieces, the instructions feel approachable and encouraging. Ferris explains not only what to do, but why certain techniques create particular effects, helping readers develop their understanding, rather than simply following a pattern.
The photography is stunning, with detailed close ups that allow readers to appreciate the craftsmanship behind each design. Even for those who may never attempt every project, the book serves as a source of artistic inspiration. It’s the type of book that invites you to sit down with a cup of tea and spend time turning the pages.
By the final page, I felt not only inspired to pick up a needle and thread but also encouraged to pay closer attention to the details of the seasons unfolding outside my own window. Get your copy HERE, and we hope to see you next time in Book Club!