It all started with a cross stitch kit: an interview with Sew Sophie Crafts

How did you get into cross stitching?

I’ve always been a crafter. I think it’s because I struggle to sit still in the evenings – I always want to be doing something. I picked up a cross stitch kit on a trip to Hobbycraft about five years ago and it’s been my very favourite hobby ever since. 

Why did you decide to start your own business?

When I was pregnant with my little boy (affectionately nicknamed Mini Sew) we moved back to Norfolk leaving my full-time job behind. I knew there was every chance I wouldn’t be able to return to that role, so I took the opportunity to set up Sew Sophie Crafts. I launched the business when Mini Sew was four months old (which seems a bit bonkers looking back on it). 

I’ve always wanted to be my own boss, so running my business from home is an absolute dream come true. I can work my own hours and it fits in around family life so well. 

Where do you get your design inspiration/what inspires you?

Anywhere and everywhere really. I often hear or think up phrases and think straight away 'that needs to be a cross stitch' and jot it into the notes section on my phone. I try to create modern and motivational hoops that are suitable for beginners because I love helping new people discover cross stitch.

I can sit for ages trying to think up new ideas, but sometimes they just come to me like a lightbulb moment and I have to sketch it out straight away while it’s in my head. I love that you have so much creative freedom with designs, which is one of the many reasons I love what I do. 

Escape into the world of cross stitching with CrossStitcher magazine – where you’ll find every projects-galore, charts, inspiration and ideas, top tips, stitch-a-longs (SALs) and sew much more! Explore the print and digital subscriptions today! 

What’s your favourite cross stitch creation to-date? Can we see?!

My favourite at the moment would have to be my ‘Today is a New Day’ sunflower design. I love sunflowers (I have one tattooed on my arm!) and really wanted to design one to represent the new year. It’s been so popular, and it brings me a lot of joy seeing everyone’s stitched up sunflowers. 

Crafts are known to be excellent for wellbeing – how vital do you find crafting for your own mindfulness and wellbeing?

Crafting for me has been a really excellent way to practice mindfulness. Back when I picked up my first cross stitch kit I was facing a lot of challenges in my life and stitching really helped me through it. Cross stitch holds a very special place in my heart because of that, and I know it’s helped so many people to deal with anxiety. It’s a great way to focus your mind while also doing something fun and creative. 

What are your top tips for beginners/those who’d like to start cross stitch? 

• Kits are a great way to get started because they have everything you need to get going (including those all-important instructions)
• Start off with something small – nothing too huge that might put you off. A nice quick finish to ease you into the rhythm of cross stitch is perfect
• Enjoy it. Don’t worry too much if you make a mistake – you’re just making your own piece unique!

For even more top tips, check out these 25 pro cross stitch tips for beginners!

Tell us about your craft room/work space – we’d love to see pictures, too!

I’m really excited to have moved into an official ‘Sew Sophie HQ’ – a garden office which I loved decorating and building the furniture for. It houses all of the bits and bobs needed to create my cross stitch kits – along with a comfy blue tub chair to relax and stitch in (when I have the time!). 

Where can people find out more about you?

Website: sewsophiecrafts.co.uk
Instagram: @sewsophiecrafts
Facebook: facebook.com/sewsophiecrafts 

Next, get to know Nicola Hulks, a.k.a. the Mindful Stitching company… and don’t miss her adorable chart, available for you to download!