Hey there, can you introduce yourself?

Hello, my name is Leah and I'm the author of 'Cross Stitch to Calm'. I'm a mother of 5 children, 2 of whom are autistic. I use cross stitching as a way of relaxing and escapism. (in my head I'm under a palm tree, on a beach, stitching away!)

Tell us a bit about the book?

The book has 40 simple projects, aimed at both the novice and experienced stitchers. There are projects that can be completed in an evening or two and also some that could take a little bit longer, say a few weekends. All colors are interchangeable so I'm looking forward to seeing how others interpret my patterns.

What was the inspiration behind it?

I was contacted by the publisher as they liked my 'aesthetic' and they proposed the idea for a cross stitch book. They wanted natural and organic kinds of patterns and the idea was to be super simple.

Which is your favourite project?

Oooo, I have two, if you don't mind! 'Flock' and 'Fossil' are my favorites! Also, my favorite one to design was 'Red-Eyed Tree Frog' since that was for my youngest son who is obsessed with anything froggy!

What is your craft space like?

I adore my new craft space though it's still a work in progress. We recently moved and I chose this small room at the front of our house that looks out over a field. Spring will soon be exploding so I'm really looking forward to stitching in the sun!

Have you always been creative?

Absolutely! My poor mother! I was always bugging her to thread needles for me or cast on/off when I was a little girl.

When did you first start crafting?

I was very young (maybe 5 or 6) and I remember making pin cushions. Lots and lots of pin cushions! Another project that comes to mind was a cushion I made for my grandpy (I adored him!). It was navy blue felt and I used a blanket stitch in white. Looking back it was truly awful but bless him, he told me it was beautiful. :)

Who are your crafty heroes?

My all time favorite author is Diana Gabaldon! And I love to read Stephen Fry as me makes me laugh out loud!

Crafty heroes? My friend Emma! She makes the most beautiful scarves and adorable doll furniture. And she has the most fabulous wit!

Where do you find inspiration?

Nature! I love to sit outside with my stitching and enjoy the elements.

What's next for you?

Textiles for the home! I'd like to focus on simple shapes and textures that will look good around my house. Also, upcycling fabrics and clothes. I have a black garbage bag packed with old denim and I'm waiting for the perfect idea to come along.