Welcome back to a new interview about people in embroidery. This time, I want to introduce you to Rachel – the head & hands behind Leia Patterns. Starting bigger cross stitch patterns (and we all know how time-consuming that can be) has been a challenge for Rachel so she started designing her own patterns that are more beginner-friendly. That`s not all. Rachel started her own business at 19 and is busy like a bee now. Read more about her journey in the Leia Patterns Interview:
Interview series – Hands of Embroidery
Read more interviews with embroidery people here.
Disclaimer: this article contains affiliate links.
Hi Rachel, I’m glad to have you here! Could you give us a short introduction so my readers know who you are?
Sure! My name is Rachel, I’m 22 years old and I’ve been selling cross stitch patterns, kits, and embroidery supplies for 3 years now. I specialize in designing modern and colorful cross stitch patterns and kits. I especially like to make designs that even a beginner cross stitcher or needleworker can complete and enjoy. I love spreading joy through the form of cross stitch!
How did you find your way to embroidery? When did it become a passion of yours?
I was first introduced to embroidery/cross stitch by my mom. She had some old cross stitch patterns and supplies and so at about the age of 15, I decided to give it a try. I stitched a small Christmas tree pattern that took forever to finish, but I got a taste of what cross stitch was like. However, it wasn’t until I started designing and selling patterns that I truly fell in love with it and realized how cool cross stitch and embroidery can be.
You started creating and selling your cross stitch patterns when you were 19 years old. How/When did you realize this is what you want to do instead of a more traditional career path?
Well, I remember that at the age of 19 I needed to make some extra money, but I was going to school full time and didn’t know if I could handle a traditional job with my school schedule. So I did some searching online and discovered the site called Etsy. From there I opened my Etsy shop and created my first patterns and the rest is history! Today I’m so thankful I have this as a career option for me because it is a lot of fun being your own boss.
Patterns & Kits by Leia Patterns
Make your home a happy place with the cross stitch patterns and kits by Rachel aka Leia Patterns. Here are my favorites!
Mountain needle minder
Gift it to yourself or to a stitchy friend. Needle minders are all the rage right now and this one is absolutely stunning!
Pattern set of 4
Including all 4 of her most popular patterns, this cross stitch bundle is a great way to get started with cross stitch on a budget.
Let’s dive into the embroidery related things!
What is your system (or non-system) for embroidery floss storage? Would you share your secret-sauce with us?
I used to be really bad at keeping all my different skeins and bobbins of floss in one big bag. It always took me forever to find anything. But now that my business has grown I’ve gotten a lot more organized. I have 20 – 30 plastic bags that are labeled by DMC floss numbers. I keep all the bags in numerical order and I can find any color I need super fast.
What is your favorite part of the cross stitch process from start to finish and which do you like the least?
My favorite part is probably designing that pattern and having the satisfaction of finishing a cross stitch project. My least favorite part is stitching a pattern that is very big or that I’m no longer interested in.
Which cross stitch or embroidery project was the most challenging one you have ever encountered?
There have been several, I tend to shy away from large patterns. So I would say a large bird wreath pattern that I started was the most challenging. I eventually gave up on it because I didn’t have the patience for it. This was about the time that I decided I wanted to create and sell cross stitch patterns that are easy for anyone to stitch.
Which craft related technique would you love to try out one day that you haven’t done yet?
I would love to try framing my cross stitch patterns in unique or interesting ways. So far I stick mostly to finishing them in embroidery hoops.
What piece of advice would you give to your younger self who has just started embroidering that you wish you had known back then?
I wish I knew not to rush through the process of cross stitch, because you just end up making more mistakes. And when you do make mistakes, that it’s okay and it’s just part of the process!
Thank you for taking the time answering my questions! Where can we find you to see more of Leia Patterns?
You can find my patterns on my website or Etsy.
Follow me on Instagram
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