NeedleXChange

<p>In this episode of NeedleXChange I interview <strong>Chloe Savage</strong>.</p><p>Chloe is a conservation embroiderer, couture specialist, and educator whose studio practice spans everything from National Trust restorations to hands-on needlepoint kits.</p><p>In this second half of our conversation, we trace Chloe's creative upbringing through diamond mines, Paris couture, and the Royal School of Needlework.</p><p>She unpacks how life detours—from teen motherhood to science teaching—ultimately fueled her practice and how art became a lifeline through grief. Please note this episode briefly touches on emotional abuse.</p><p>Another artist who processed personal trauma through artistic practice is the wonderful machine embroiderer Julie Heaton. We had a NeedleXChange way back in episodes 25 &amp; 26.</p><p><strong>Timestamps:</strong></p><p>00:00:00 - Introduction</p><p>00:01:30 - Conservation Stories and Experiences</p><p>00:06:52 - Art as a Reflection of Personal Struggles</p><p>00:15:33 - The Journey of Healing and Empowerment</p><p>00:18:50 - Future Directions in Textile Art</p><p>00:22:59 - Embracing Creative Freedom</p><p>00:24:03 - The Role of Education in Artistic Expression</p><p>00:27:04 - The Influence of Family on Creativity</p><p>00:28:17 - Exploring Personal Interests and Hobbies</p><p>00:29:27 - The Impact of Art Installations</p><p>00:30:27 - Chloe's Favourites</p><p>00:40:57 - Overcoming Challenges and Unique Facts</p><p><strong>Links:</strong></p><p>Website: <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.chloesavageembroidery.com?utm_source=mrxstitch"><strong>chloesavageembroidery.com</strong></a></p><p>Instagram: <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.instagram.com/chloesavageembroidery/"><strong>chloesavageembroidery</strong></a></p><p>Intro music is <strong>Getting Good at Letting Go (Instrumental Version) by Vicki Vox</strong> via <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.epidemicsound.com/referral/3403dx"><strong>Epidemic Sound</strong></a>.</p><p><strong>About NeedleXChange:</strong></p><p>NeedleXChange is a conversation podcast with embroidery and textile artists, exploring their process and practice.Hosted by Jamie "Mr X Stitch" Chalmers, it is an in-depth showcase of the best needlework artists on the planet.</p><p>Visit the NeedleXChange website: <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.needl.exchange/Sign"><strong>needl.exchange</strong></a></p><p>Sign up for the NeedleXChange Newsletter here: <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="http://bit.ly/NeedleXChangeNewsIf"><strong>bit.ly/NeedleXChangeNews</strong></a></p><p>If you want embroidery inspiration and regular doses of textile art, visit the Mr X Stitch site here: <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="http://mrxstitch.com"><strong>mrxstitch.com</strong></a></p><p>And follow Mr X Stitch on all the usual social media channels!</p><ul><li>Facebook: <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.facebook.com/mrxstitch"><strong>mrxstitch</strong></a></li><li>Instagram: <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.instagram.com/mrxstitch"><strong>mrxstitch</strong></a></li><li>Pinterest: <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.pinterest.com/mrxstitch"><strong>mrxstitch</strong></a></li><li>YouTube: <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.youtube.com/c/mrxstitch"><strong>mrxstitch</strong></a></li><li>LinkedIn: <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/mrjamiechalmers"><strong>mrjamiechalmers</strong></a></li></ul>

<p>In this episode of NeedleXChange I interview <strong>Chloe Savage</strong>.</p><p>Chloe is a conservation embroiderer, couture specialist, and educator whose studio practice spans everything from National Trust restorations to hands-on needlepoint kits.</p><p>In this first part of our conversation, we dive into the power of shared studio spaces, the value of peer critique, and how Chloe has built a collaborative practice that's both rigorous and restorative.</p><p>My recent NeedleXChanges with Kirstie McLeod, founder of the Red Dress project, also emphasised the benefits of collaborative projects and if you’ve not listened to those yet, you’re missing a treat. Find that chat at episodes 112 + 113.</p><p><strong>Timestamps: </strong></p><p>00:00:00 - Introduction</p><p>00:01:30 - Introduction to Creative Spaces and Community</p><p>00:06:51 - Collaborative Environment and Skill Sharing</p><p>00:12:36 - Finding Community and Support in Art</p><p>00:18:05 - Teaching Skills and Embracing Failure</p><p>00:24:46 - Creative Solutions in Crafting</p><p>00:29:23 - Childhood Influences and Artistic Roots</p><p>00:35:06 - Reconnecting with Needlework</p><p>00:39:44 - Fashion and Couture Insights</p><p>00:44:31 - The Pressure of Fashion Week</p><p>00:47:37 - Navigating Design Collaboration</p><p></p><p><strong>Links:</strong></p><p>Website: <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.chloesavageembroidery.com?utm_source=mrxstitch"><strong>chloesavageembroidery.com</strong></a></p><p>Instagram: <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.instagram.com/chloesavageembroidery/"><strong>chloesavageembroidery</strong></a></p><p>Intro music is <strong>Getting Good at Letting Go (Instrumental Version) by Vicki Vox</strong> via <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.epidemicsound.com/referral/3403dx"><strong>Epidemic Sound</strong></a>.</p><p><strong>About NeedleXChange:</strong></p><p>NeedleXChange is a conversation podcast with embroidery and textile artists, exploring their process and practice.Hosted by Jamie "Mr X Stitch" Chalmers, it is an in-depth showcase of the best needlework artists on the planet.</p><p>Visit the NeedleXChange website: <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.needl.exchange/Sign"><strong>needl.exchange</strong></a></p><p>Sign up for the NeedleXChange Newsletter here: <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="http://bit.ly/NeedleXChangeNewsIf"><strong>bit.ly/NeedleXChangeNews</strong></a></p><p>If you want embroidery inspiration and regular doses of textile art, visit the Mr X Stitch site here: <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="http://mrxstitch.com"><strong>mrxstitch.com</strong></a></p><p>If you're looking for modern cross stitch designs, then XStitch is the magazine you need! Find out more here: <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://xstitchmag.comAnd"><strong>xstitchmag.com</strong></a></p><p>And follow Mr X Stitch on all the usual social media channels!</p><ul><li>Facebook: <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.facebook.com/mrxstitch"><strong>mrxstitch</strong></a></li><li>Instagram: <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.instagram.com/mrxstitch"><strong>mrxstitch</strong></a></li><li>Pinterest: <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.pinterest.com/mrxstitch"><strong>mrxstitch</strong></a></li><li>YouTube: <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.youtube.com/c/mrxstitch"><strong>mrxstitch</strong></a></li><li>LinkedIn: <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/mrjamiechalmers"><strong>mrjamiechalmers</strong></a></li></ul>

<p>In this episode of NeedleXChange I interview <strong>Severina Seidl</strong>.</p><p>Severina is a German embroidery artist whose work blurs the line between thread, paint, and narrative abstraction.</p><p>In this second half, Severina shares her ambitions in fashion embroidery, reflects on the push-pull between creativity and career, and gets candid about what it means to pursue art without a roadmap. Plus, we get her picks on books, music, and life growing up without TV.</p><p>For another artist making mixed media with a hint of darkness, my NeedleXChanges with Ruth Norbury (NX 27 &amp; 28) are definitely worth a listen.</p><p><strong>Timestamps:</strong></p><p>00:00:00 – Introduction</p><p>00:01:30 – Reflections on Artistic Journey</p><p>00:02:45 – Influences and Inspirations</p><p>00:09:45 – Cinematic Inspirations</p><p>00:10:43 – Growing Up Without Television</p><p><strong>Links:</strong></p><p>Website: <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.severinaseidltextiles.com/"><strong>severinaseidltextiles.com</strong></a></p><p>Instagram: <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.instagram.com/severina.seidl_textiles"><strong>severina.seidl_textiles</strong></a></p><p>Blue Mind (Instrumental) by Torii Wolf via <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.epidemicsound.com/referral/3403dx"><strong>Epidemic Sound</strong></a>.</p><p><strong>About NeedleXChange:</strong></p><p>NeedleXChange is a conversation podcast with embroidery and textile artists, exploring their process and practice.</p><p>Hosted by Jamie "Mr X Stitch" Chalmers, it is an in-depth showcase of the best needlework artists on the planet.</p><p><strong>Visit the NeedleXChange website:</strong> <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.needl.exchange/Sign"><strong>needl.exchange</strong></a></p><p><strong>Sign up for the NeedleXChange Newsletter here</strong>: <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="http://bit.ly/NeedleXChangeNewsIf"><strong>bit.ly/NeedleXChangeNews</strong></a></p><p>If you want embroidery inspiration and regular doses of textile art, visit the Mr X Stitch site here: <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="http://mrxstitch.com"><strong>mrxstitch.com</strong></a> If you're looking for modern cross stitch designs, then XStitch is the magazine you need! Find out more here: <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://xstitchmag.comAnd"><strong>xstitchmag.com</strong></a></p><p>And follow Mr X Stitch on all the usual social media channels!</p><ul><li>Facebook: <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.facebook.com/mrxstitch"><strong>mrxstitch</strong></a></li><li>Instagram: <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.instagram.com/mrxstitch"><strong>mrxstitch</strong></a></li><li>Pinterest: <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.pinterest.com/mrxstitch"><strong>mrxstitch</strong></a></li><li>YouTube: <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.youtube.com/c/mrxstitch"><strong>mrxstitch</strong></a></li><li>LinkedIn: <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/mrjamiechalmers"><strong>mrjamiechalmers</strong></a></li></ul>

<p>In this episode of NeedleXChange I interview <strong>Severina Seidl</strong>.</p><p>Severina is a German embroidery artist whose work blurs the line between thread, paint, and narrative abstraction.</p><p>We explore her journey from fashion school in Germany to the Royal School of Needlework, unpacking the nerves, transitions, and discovery of her personal style. From her early experiments in French knots to the impact of McQueen critiques, Severina charts an evolving, experimental path.</p><p><strong>Timestamps: </strong></p><p>00:00:00 – Introduction</p><p>00:01:30 – Moving from Germany to the RSN</p><p>00:09:11 – Developing a Unique Style</p><p>00:11:59 – Embracing Mess and Mistakes</p><p>00:14:28 – Maleficium: Concept and Creation</p><p>00:23:02 – The McQueen Feedback Shift</p><p>00:30:49 – Public Perception and Artistic Identity</p><p><strong>Links:</strong></p><p>Website: <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.severinaseidltextiles.com/"><strong>severinaseidltextiles.com</strong></a></p><p>Instagram: <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.instagram.com/severina.seidl_textiles"><strong>severina.seidl_textiles</strong></a></p><p>Blue Mind (Instrumental) by Torii Wolf via <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.epidemicsound.com/referral/3403dx"><strong>Epidemic Sound</strong></a>.</p><p><strong>About NeedleXChange:</strong></p><p>NeedleXChange is a conversation podcast with embroidery and textile artists, exploring their process and practice.</p><p>Hosted by Jamie "Mr X Stitch" Chalmers, it is an in-depth showcase of the best needlework artists on the planet.</p><p><strong>Visit the NeedleXChange website:</strong> <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.needl.exchange/Sign"><strong>needl.exchange</strong></a></p><p><strong>Sign up for the NeedleXChange Newsletter here</strong>: <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="http://bit.ly/NeedleXChangeNewsIf"><strong>bit.ly/NeedleXChangeNews</strong></a></p><p>If you want embroidery inspiration and regular doses of textile art, visit the Mr X Stitch site here: <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="http://mrxstitch.com"><strong>mrxstitch.com</strong></a> If you're looking for modern cross stitch designs, then XStitch is the magazine you need! Find out more here: <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://xstitchmag.comAnd"><strong>xstitchmag.com</strong></a></p><p>And follow Mr X Stitch on all the usual social media channels!</p><ul><li>Facebook: <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.facebook.com/mrxstitch"><strong>mrxstitch</strong></a></li><li>Instagram: <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.instagram.com/mrxstitch"><strong>mrxstitch</strong></a></li><li>Pinterest: <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.pinterest.com/mrxstitch"><strong>mrxstitch</strong></a></li><li>YouTube: <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.youtube.com/c/mrxstitch"><strong>mrxstitch</strong></a></li><li>LinkedIn: <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/mrjamiechalmers"><strong>mrjamiechalmers</strong></a></li></ul>

<p>In this episode of NeedleXChange I interview Manuela Caniato.</p><p>Manuela is an Italian-born textile artist and educator now based in Belgium, with a background in linguistics and fashion history.</p><p>In this episode of NeedleXChange I continue my conversation with Manuela Caniato.Manuela shares the thinking behind her embroidered portraits that explore themes of damage, decay, and beauty. We discuss her techniques with fine threads and beads, her playful sense of anarchy, and her upcoming exhibition in Leuven.</p><p><strong>Timestamps:</strong></p><p><strong>00:00:00</strong> - Introduction</p><p><strong>00:01:30</strong> – Artistic Expression and Personal Projects</p><p><strong>00:05:15</strong> – The Intersection of Art and Music</p><p><strong>00:09:48</strong> – Literary Influences and Favorite Reads</p><p><strong>00:12:05</strong> – Cinematic Inspirations and Visual Storytelling</p><p><strong>00:17:08</strong> – Personal Aspirations and Life Reflections</p><p><strong>Links:</strong></p><p>Website: <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://manuelacaniato.com/?utm_source=needlexchange"><strong>manuelacaniato.com</strong></a></p><p>Instagram: <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.instagram.com/manuela_caniato/"><strong>manuela_caniato</strong></a></p><p>Intro music is Easy Breezy by Boogie Wheel via <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.epidemicsound.com/referral/3403dx"><strong>Epidemic Sound</strong></a>.</p><p><strong>About NeedleXChange:</strong></p><p>NeedleXChange is a conversation podcast with embroidery and textile artists, exploring their process and practice.</p><p>Hosted by Jamie "Mr X Stitch" Chalmers, it is an in-depth showcase of the best needlework artists on the planet.</p><p><strong>Visit the NeedleXChange website:</strong> <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.needl.exchange/Sign"><strong>needl.exchange</strong></a></p><p><strong>Sign up for the NeedleXChange Newsletter here</strong>: <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="http://bit.ly/NeedleXChangeNewsIf"><strong>bit.ly/NeedleXChangeNews</strong></a></p><p>If you want embroidery inspiration and regular doses of textile art, visit the Mr X Stitch site here: <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="http://mrxstitch.com"><strong>mrxstitch.com</strong></a></p><p>If you're looking for modern cross stitch designs, then XStitch is the magazine you need! Find out more here: <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://xstitchmag.comAnd"><strong>xstitchmag.com</strong></a></p><p>And follow Mr X Stitch on all the usual social media channels!</p><ul><li>Facebook: <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.facebook.com/mrxstitch"><strong>mrxstitch</strong></a></li><li>Instagram: <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.instagram.com/mrxstitch"><strong>mrxstitch</strong></a></li><li>Pinterest: <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.pinterest.com/mrxstitch"><strong>mrxstitch</strong></a></li><li>YouTube: <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.youtube.com/c/mrxstitch"><strong>mrxstitch</strong></a></li><li>LinkedIn: <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/mrjamiechalmers"><strong>mrjamiechalmers</strong></a></li></ul>