Look and Listen

Biography

Janet M. Perry is one of the leading writers of needlepoint stitch guides in the world. She writes innovative guides for needlepoint canvases from over 20 designers. She puts into practice her motto to make needlepoint fast, fun and affordable. Janet is constantly stretching the bounds of needlepoint and then applying these ideas and techniques to projects which are for beginning and intermediate level stitchers. Some of the things she has adapted include paintings by Piet Mondrian, depression quilts, Celtic knotwork, tartans and fence railings. To her the sources for great designs are everywhere and she has several notebooks of ideas to prove it! She has taken many of her methods and adapted them to a classroom format and to consultation for individuals (through shops). Currently she is publishing books on needlepoint tips, bargello, overdyed threads, stitched, and more, which showcase her talents. She is an expert in needlepoint, both on the Web and through her writing as the Needlepoint Pro for Cross-Stitch & Needlework magazine. She works with designers, shops, and thread manufacturers on new products and regularly reports on trends in needlepoint. Her newest book, Needlepoint Trade Secrets, is available on Amazon.com and from needlework shops. Visit her website http://www.napaneedlepoint.com or her blog http://www.nuts-about-needlepoint.com for more information about her products and activities. She lives in Napa County with her husband, children & three cats. In those rare moments when she's not stitching she loves to cook, eat out, read, and shop.

Inspiration

I’m inspired by many things, especially color and pattern. As the daughter of an artist, I draw ideas from so may things I see. It could be as simple as the colors of a vineyard as the leaves turn in the fall, to the chic colors of a fashionable outfit. Continuing sources of inspiration are old buildings, Arts & Crafts style, Art Nouveau and medieval design. Throughout my work I am always looking for ways to create amazing needlepoint effects which provide “big bang for the buck,” in other words, I look for ways to do needlepoint which is easy to stitch but not hard to do. I’m fascinated by threads and yarn of al kinds, so I’m constantly looking for new things to do with what I see. Even more, I’m passionately committed to the idea that needlepoint doesn’t have to bio boring or snobbish -- anyone can make great needlepoint with all kinds of different materials. I’m here to help you make lovely items which reflect your personality and unlock your individual sense of creativity.