Jamie Chalmers

NeedleXChange

#72 in Visual Arts · 🇪🇸 #131 in Visual Arts · 🇳🇿

About the show

Jamie “Mr X Stitch” Chalmers talks with contemporary embroidery, cross stitch, textile art, and mixed media art creators about how they design their work, build sustainable creative businesses, and stay inspired with a needle and thread. NeedleXChange shares in‑depth conversations with fiber artists, stitchers, and makers so you can discover new techniques, creative journeys, and the modern needlework scene.

Newest episodes

Russell Barratt - Within & Without [NX158]

Nov 9, 2026 28 min

In this episode of NeedleXChange, I interview Russell Barratt, a contemporary textile artist known for turning clothing and domestic fabrics into quilts with a distinctly personal voice. His work brings together fabric collage, intuitive composition and the stories carried by familiar materials. Rather than beginning with the rules of quilting, Russell found his way into it through costumes, accessories and making things that felt like him. In part one, we talk about imposter syndrome at the Festival of Quilts, the unexpected memories visitors find in his fabrics, and learning to explain an intuitive process. We also explore borrowing ideas without losing your own voice, the overload of social media, and what happens when you spend time with artwork you don't immediately like. Links Instagram: russelljamesbarrattWebsite: russellbarratt.comIntro music is New Car Smell by Baegel via Epidemic Sound.About NeedleXChange An artist interview podcast exploring contemporary embroidery and textile art. Hosted by Jamie "Mr X Stitch" Chalmers. Stay Connected needl.exchange | Newsletter: bit.ly/NeedleXChangeNewsmrxstitch.com | xstitchmag.com

Lord Libidan - Thread Detective Part 2 [NX157]

Nov 2, 2026 31 min

In this episode of NeedleXChange I continue my interview Lord Libidan, the Yorkshire-based cross stitch designer, blogger and author. Part 2 is all about the making: his new self-published alphabets book - 110 monochrome patterns, affordable and built to actually be used. We dig into designing letters inside pixel constraints, inventing a "fake 70s" style AI could never imagine, his book back catalogue (Star Trek to Hello Kitty), and how he juggles Sashiko, a tabletop RPG and the famous Pokémon pattern he’s only now stitching. It closes on why cross stitch is a genuine obsession: creativity with a grid to hold onto. Links Instagram: lordlibidanWebsite: lordlibidan.comIntro music is New Car Smell by Baegel via Epidemic Sound.About NeedleXChange An artist interview podcast exploring contemporary embroidery and textile art. Hosted by Jamie "Mr X Stitch" Chalmers. Stay Connected needl.exchange | Newsletter: bit.ly/NeedleXChangeNewsmrxstitch.com | xstitchmag.com

Lord Libidan - Thread Detective [NX156]

Oct 26, 2026 40 min

In this episode of NeedleXChange I interview Lord Libidan, the Yorkshire-based cross stitch designer, blogger and author. In Part 1 we trace how a rained-off summer and a tiny Highland cow kit grew into a blog, a design habit and a reputation as the craft’s information guy - then nerd out on threads (scented, glow-in-the-dark, neon and the wool comeback), the quiet DMC/Anchor monopoly, why DMC’s colour numbers make no sense, and what AI slop is doing to cross stitch. Links Instagram: lordlibidanWebsite: lordlibidan.comIntro music is New Car Smell by Baegel via Epidemic Sound.About NeedleXChange An artist interview podcast exploring contemporary embroidery and textile art. Hosted by Jamie "Mr X Stitch" Chalmers. Stay Connected needl.exchange | Newsletter: bit.ly/NeedleXChangeNewsmrxstitch.com | xstitchmag.com

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All episodes

Russell Barratt - Within & Without [NX158]

Nov 9, 2026 28 min

Lord Libidan - Thread Detective Part 2 [NX157]

Nov 2, 2026 31 min

Lord Libidan - Thread Detective [NX156]

Oct 26, 2026 40 min

Haf Weighton - Looking Up Part 2 [NX155]

Oct 19, 2026 25 min

In this episode of NeedleXChange I interview Haf Weighton, a Wales-based contemporary embroidery and textile artist known for turning place, memory and identity into stitch. This is part two, where we turn to Wales, starting with Arts Council support and moving into language, cultural identity and what it means to be an artist who happens to be Welsh. Haf reflects on bilingualism, creativity and belonging, then we get into the practical side of her work: painting on recycled fabric, hand and machine stitch, and a fine-art-led approach to making, before finishing with books, music, films and an unexpected David Bowie story. Links Instagram: HafweightonartistWebsite: hafweighton.artIntro music is New Car Smell by Baegel via Epidemic Sound.About NeedleXChange An artist interview podcast exploring contemporary embroidery and textile art. Hosted by Jamie "Mr X Stitch" Chalmers. Stay Connected needl.exchange | Newsletter: bit.ly/NeedleXChangeNewsmrxstitch.com | xstitchmag.com

Haf Weighton - Looking Up [NX154]

Oct 12, 2026 31 min

In this episode of NeedleXChange I interview Haf Weighton, a Wales-based contemporary embroidery and textile artist whose work is rooted in places, journeys and the details we usually walk past. We talk about the story behind her High Street exhibition, from Arts Council support to a last-minute route to New Zealand and Australia, and the way travel, memory and architecture feed into her work. Along the way we get into sketchbooks, unfinished work, borders, looking at familiar places through other people's eyes, and the part artists can play in bringing new energy to overlooked town centres. Links Instagram: HafweightonartistWebsite: hafweighton.artIntro music is New Car Smell by Baegel via Epidemic Sound.About NeedleXChange An artist interview podcast exploring contemporary embroidery and textile art. Hosted by Jamie "Mr X Stitch" Chalmers. Stay Connected needl.exchange | Newsletter: bit.ly/NeedleXChangeNewsmrxstitch.com | xstitchmag.com

Prisma Andrade: Making the Ordinary Sacred Part 2 [NX153]

Oct 5, 2026 38 min

In this episode of NeedleXChange, I interview Prisma Andrade, a Chicago-based fiber and textile artist and recent School of the Art Institute of Chicago graduate whose work turns her family's archive into material and asks what makes something sacred. Prisma builds her pieces from spinning, jacquard weaving, dye painting and quilting, treating process as a way to make everyday objects sacred. In Part 2 we trace her path from an arts-magnet high school in Dallas to SAIC, her move from painting into fiber, digital jacquard weaving with laser-cut dyed frames, dye painting and quilting that reads like stained glass, her earlier bodily work, and a quickfire on Sing Street and Magdalena Bay. Links: Instagram: prismacolorhell Intro music is New Car Smell by Baegel via Epidemic Sound. About NeedleXChange An artist interview podcast exploring contemporary embroidery and textile art. Hosted by Jamie "Mr X Stitch" Chalmers. Stay Connected needl.exchange | Newsletter: bit.ly/NeedleXChangeNewsmrxstitch.com | xstitchmag.com

Prisma Andrade: Making the Ordinary Sacred [NX152]

Sep 28, 2026 32 min

In this episode of NeedleXChange, I interview Prisma Andrade, a Chicago-based fiber and textile artist and recent School of the Art Institute of Chicago graduate whose work turns her family's archive into material and asks what makes something sacred. Prisma recreates artworks and photographs from her family, past and present, using weaving, quilting and dye to disrupt the border between painting and textile. In Part 1 we get into sanctity and what becomes sacred, how framing tells us to pay attention, her family's migration between Honduras, Spain and the United States, nostalgia and inherited memory, the gender hierarchy inside the family archive, and why textiles are the things that survive the chopping block. Links: Instagram: prismacolorhell Intro music is New Car Smell by Baegel via Epidemic Sound. About NeedleXChange An artist interview podcast exploring contemporary embroidery and textile art. Hosted by Jamie "Mr X Stitch" Chalmers. Stay Connected needl.exchange | Newsletter: bit.ly/NeedleXChangeNewsmrxstitch.com | xstitchmag.com

Margot Peer – Wonky in the Right Way Part 2 [NX151]

Sep 21, 2026 52 min

This is Part 2 of my conversation with mixed-media artist Margot Peer. We open with her breakout piece, "Cross Stitch of Me Crying in My Bathroom When I Was 16," scaled up to a three-foot-by-four-foot, full-body stitching experience in yarn, and the accidental "glitch" of cascading threads that became part of her style. Margot talks candidly about what it means to sit and stitch your own crying face, the difference between documenting a real cry and performing one, and the low-resolution "loophole" that let a nude piece slip past Instagram. We also cover animating cross stitch (a six-month stitched video), glow-in-the-dark experiments, needlework's fraught status as fine art at RISD, and a quickfire run through Bladee, Jamie XX, Empire of AI and Where the Wild Things Are. Links: Website: margotpeer.com Instagram: margot.peer Intro music is New Car Smell by Baegel via Epidemic Sound. About NeedleXChange An artist interview podcast exploring contemporary embroidery and textile art. Hosted by Jamie "Mr X Stitch" Chalmers. Stay Connected needl.exchange | Newsletter: bit.ly/NeedleXChangeNews mrxstitch.com | xstitchmag.com

Masey Kaplan - Loose Ends [NX150]

Sep 14, 2026 54 min

In this episode of NeedleXChange, I interview Masey Kaplan, founder of the Loose Ends project, a global community that matches volunteer textile finishers with projects left unfinished by death, illness or disability. Masey launched Loose Ends with a friend after finishing a sweater for a grieving friend; four years on, nearly 40,000 finishers across 83 countries complete everything from quilts to woodworking and return it to the families. We get into the meditative pull of handwork, kindness between strangers across every divide, the little stitch that marks where one crafter's hands stopped and another's began, and why Masey is building Loose Ends to outlive her. Links: Website: looseends.org Instagram: thelooseendsproject Intro music is New Car Smell by Baegel via Epidemic Sound. About NeedleXChange An artist interview podcast exploring contemporary embroidery and textile art. Hosted by Jamie "Mr X Stitch" Chalmers. Stay Connected needl.exchange | Newsletter: bit.ly/NeedleXChangeNewsmrxstitch.com | xstitchmag.com

Margot Peer – Wonky in the Right Way [NX149]

Sep 7, 2026 37 min

In this episode of NeedleXChange, I interview Margot Peer, a mixed-media artist and Rhode Island School of Design painting major whose hyperrealistic cross-stitches turn deeply personal photographs into universally resonant images. In Part 1 we get into her love of glitches, malfunctions and failing technology, how painting became the "trunk" that everything else grows out of, and the first cross stitch that started it all (an Aphex Twin album cover). Margot explains why she treats each stitch pattern as its own language, why she feels like she is "cheating" with a pattern converter, and how a 1930s typewriter-art movement pulled her into breaking the grid. Links: Website: margotpeer.com Instagram: margot.peer Intro music is New Car Smell by Baegel via Epidemic Sound. About NeedleXChange An artist interview podcast exploring contemporary embroidery and textile art. Hosted by Jamie "Mr X Stitch" Chalmers. Stay Connected needl.exchange | Newsletter: bit.ly/NeedleXChangeNews mrxstitch.com | xstitchmag.com

REPLAY: Meredith Woolnough | Organic Machine Embroidery [NX008]

Aug 31, 2026 52 min

It's the school summer holidays and I'm taking a break. So instead of new chats, I'm replaying some of my old favourites! This is a repeat of episode #8. In this episode of NeedleXChange I interview Meredith Woolnough. Meredith Woolnough is an Australian machine embroidery artist whose organic creations are instantly recognisable and simply stunning. Meredith’s art pieces are celebration of the beauty of nature and at the same time, a technical marvel. We talk about her passion for science and nature, the pleasure she gets from teaching, and how her work is much like darning. Timestamps: 00:00:15 - Start 00:03:30 - How her artistic journey began 00:07:15 - How Meredith’s technique is like darning 00:12:00 - Her involvement in scientific realms 00:21:00 - The 100 Embroideries Project 00:24:10 - How Meredith juggles art/life/children 00:27:00 - Meredith’s toolset 00:32:00 - Teaching embroidery online 00:42:00 - Favourite Band 00:43:00 - Favourite Podcast 00:45:30 - Favourite Film 00:46:15 - Favourite Book 00:48:00 - Interesting fact that no one knows about Meredith Woolnough Links: Website: meredithwoolnough.com.au Instagram: meredithwoolnough Intro music is Let's Go Find The Sun by Sarah the Illstrumentalist via Epidemic Sound. About NeedleXChange An artist interview podcast exploring contemporary embroidery and textile art. Hosted by Jamie "Mr X Stitch" Chalmers. Stay Connected needl.exchange | Newsletter: bit.ly/NeedleXChangeNews mrxstitch.com | xstitchmag.com

REPLAY: Peter Frederiksen - Tension In His Stitches Part 2 [NX064]

Aug 26, 2026 46 min

It's the school summer holidays and I'm taking a break. So instead of new chats, I'm replaying some of my old favourites! This is a repeat of episode #64. In this episode of NeedleXChange I interview Peter Frederiksen. Peter Frederiksen is a Chicago-based artist whose machine embroidered cartoon vignettes are filled with tension and dark humour. In this second part of our NeedleXChange we talk about the craft of old school animation, the joys of living in Chicago and why Peter's titles are in important part of his work. Oh, and he confesses a secret that you'll want to listen to the end for! If you like machine embroidery, then be sure to check out Julie Heaton's episode. Timestamps: 00:00:00 - Introduction 00:02:00 - The Formulaic Nature of Cartoons 00:03:06 - Open-Ended Narratives in Art 00:05:09 - The Impact of Chicago on Artistic Expression 00:13:45 - The Importance of Titles in Art 00:20:03 - Reflections on Furniture and Emotional Spaces 00:24:45 - Peter’s Favourite Band 00:31:09 - Peter’s Favourite Films 00:37:46 - Literary Preferences and Influential Books 00:43:15 - A fact (or two) that not many people know about Peter Frederiksen Links: Website: pefrederiksen.com Instagram: pefrederiksen Intro music is 222 by Sarah the Illstrumentalist via Epidemic Sound. About NeedleXChange An artist interview podcast exploring contemporary embroidery and textile art. Hosted by Jamie "Mr X Stitch" Chalmers. Stay Connected needl.exchange | Newsletter: bit.ly/NeedleXChangeNews mrxstitch.com | xstitchmag.com

REPLAY: Peter Frederiksen - Tension In His Stitches [NX063]

Aug 24, 2026 44 min

It's the school summer holidays and I'm taking a break. So instead of new chats, I'm replaying some of my old favourites! This is a repeat of episode #63. In this episode of NeedleXChange I interview Peter Frederiksen. Peter Frederiksen is a Chicago-based artist whose machine embroidered cartoon vignettes are filled with tension and dark humour. In this first part of our NeedleXChange we talk about how this particular combination of form and content has become Peter's signature style and how he shines a light on a culture we take for granted. If you like machine embroidery, then be sure to check out Julie Heaton's episode. Timestamps: 00:00:00 - Introduction 00:02:00 - Exploring Motion and Action in Art 00:07:59 - The Evolution of Peter's Artistic Style 00:10:58 - The Journey into Stitching and Embroidery 00:13:58 - Early Experiences and Influences in Art 00:17:08 - The Shift to Machine Embroidery 00:19:55 - Themes of Violence and Nostalgia in Animation 00:34:34 - Exploring the Humour in Classic Cartoons 00:38:12 - The Evolution of Animation Styles Links: Website: pefrederiksen.com Instagram: pefrederiksen Intro music is 222 by Sarah the Illstrumentalist via Epidemic Sound. About NeedleXChange An artist interview podcast exploring contemporary embroidery and textile art. Hosted by Jamie "Mr X Stitch" Chalmers. Stay Connected needl.exchange | Newsletter: bit.ly/NeedleXChangeNews mrxstitch.com | xstitchmag.com

REPLAY: Stephanie Kelly Clark - Life Is Art Part 2 [NX087]

Aug 19, 2026 47 min

It's the school summer holidays and I'm taking a break. So instead of new chats, I'm replaying some of my old favourites! This is a repeat of episode #87. In this episode of NeedleXChange I interview Stephanie Kelly Clark. Stephanie is a contemporary embroidery artist whose work transforms humble homes and everyday moments into rich visual stories stitched with painterly precision. In this first part of our conversation, we explore her creative upbringing, the role of art in parenting, and her evolving relationship with embroidery as a medium. From homemade Halloween costumes to thread-based storytelling, Stephanie shares how her domestic life and artistic journey are deeply intertwined. Timestamps: 00:00:00 - Intro 00:08:30 – Exploring Storytelling Through Art 00:11:45 – The Journey into 3D Embroidery 00:15:43 – Nature as Inspiration: The Life Cycle in Art 00:20:02 – The Intersection of Art and Music 00:26:31 – Nostalgia and Personal Connections in Film 00:31:06 – Comedy: A Reflection of Life and Art 00:35:51 – The Challenge of Reading and Learning 00:37:49 – Unexpected Talents and Personal Stories Links: Website: stephaniekclark Instagram: artiststephaniekellyclark Intro music is Sunset by OTE via Epidemic Sound. About NeedleXChange An artist interview podcast exploring contemporary embroidery and textile art. Hosted by Jamie "Mr X Stitch" Chalmers. Stay Connected needl.exchange | Newsletter: bit.ly/NeedleXChangeNews mrxstitch.com | xstitchmag.com

REPLAY: Stephanie Kelly Clark - Life Is Art [NX086]

Aug 17, 2026 30 min

It's the school summer holidays and I'm taking a break. So instead of new chats, I'm replaying some of my old favourites! This is a repeat of episode #86. In this episode of NeedleXChange I interview Stephanie Kelly Clark. Stephanie is a contemporary embroidery artist whose work transforms humble homes and everyday moments into rich visual stories stitched with painterly precision. In this first part of our conversation, we explore her creative upbringing, the role of art in parenting, and her evolving relationship with embroidery as a medium. From homemade Halloween costumes to thread-based storytelling, Stephanie shares how her domestic life and artistic journey are deeply intertwined. Timestamps: 00:00:00 - Intro 00:01:29 – Life as Art: Parenting and Creativity 00:10:25 – Artistic Process: From Painting to Embroidery 00:13:34 – The Evolution of an Artist: Finding One's Voice 00:16:18 – Contemporary Art vs. Craft: Defining the Medium 00:19:27 – Conceptualising Art: The Role of Medium in Storytelling 00:22:39 – The Journey of an Artist: Embracing Change and Growth 00:25:42 – Creating with Intention: The Importance of Composition Links: Website: stephaniekclark Instagram: artiststephaniekellyclark Intro music is Sunset by OTE via Epidemic Sound. About NeedleXChange An artist interview podcast exploring contemporary embroidery and textile art. Hosted by Jamie "Mr X Stitch" Chalmers. Stay Connected needl.exchange | Newsletter: bit.ly/NeedleXChangeNews mrxstitch.com | xstitchmag.com

REPLAY: Orly Cogan - Modern Fictions Part 2 [NX034]

Aug 12, 2026 48 min

It's the school summer holidays and I'm taking a break. So instead of new chats, I'm replaying some of my old favourites! This is a repeat of episode #[]. In this episode of NeedleXChange I interview Orly Cogan. Orly Cogan is a New York-based textile artist whose embroidered fabrics contain other-worldly images of modern concepts with a dream-like twist. In this second part of our NeedleXChange we discover Orly's creative process, how she explores power dynamics in her work, as well as her favourite music/podcasts/books and a heartfelt interesting fact. Come back next week an interview with a new artist and if you enjoy NeedleXChange, a review on your favourite podcast platform would be wonderful. Timestamps: 00:00:00 Intro 00:01:39 Change in Artwork after Motherhood 00:09:15 Depicting Intimate Relationships in Art 00:13:01 Exploring Feminine Archetypes in Art 00:16:42 Orly Cogan's Creative Process 00:19:29 Experimentation with Different Mediums 00:22:09 Orly Cogan's Musical Preferences 00:23:44 Orly’s Favourite Podcasts and Listening Habits 00:27:09 Orly’s Dyslexia 00:30:41 The last good film Orly Cogan watched 00:41:18 An interesting fact that no one knows about Orly Cogan Links: Website: orlycogan.com Instagram: orlycogan Intro music is Her Name is Edith by OTE via Epidemic Sound. About NeedleXChange An artist interview podcast exploring contemporary embroidery and textile art. Hosted by Jamie "Mr X Stitch" Chalmers. Stay Connected needl.exchange | Newsletter: bit.ly/NeedleXChangeNews mrxstitch.com | xstitchmag.com

REPLAY: Orly Cogan - Modern Fictions [NX033]

Aug 10, 2026 38 min

It's the school summer holidays and I'm taking a break. So instead of new chats, I'm replaying some of my old favourites! This is a repeat of episode #33. In this episode of NeedleXChange I interview Orly Cogan. Orly Cogan is a New York-based textile artist whose embroidered fabrics contain other-worldly images of modern concepts with a dream-like twist. In this first part of our NeedleXChange we find out how Orly came to needlework, how her work ties in with the modern art scene and we discover possibly the greatest parenting trick ever. Come back next week for the second part of our chat! Timestamps: 00:00:00 Introduction 00:01:50 Control and Vulnerability in Art and Conversation 00:12:15 Notebooks, Sketchbooks, and Inspiration 00:14:20 The Greatest Parenting Trick Ever 00:18:40 Influences from Childhood and Transition to Fiber Art 00:24:00 Validation and Representation in the Art World Links: Website: orlycogan.com Instagram: orlycogan Intro music is Her Name is Edith by OTE via Epidemic Sound. About NeedleXChange An artist interview podcast exploring contemporary embroidery and textile art. Hosted by Jamie "Mr X Stitch" Chalmers. Stay Connected needl.exchange | Newsletter: bit.ly/NeedleXChangeNews mrxstitch.com | xstitchmag.com

REPLAY: Diana Weymar - Pricks of Inspiration Part 2 [NX056]

Aug 5, 2026 1 hr 5 min

It's the school summer holidays and I'm taking a break. So instead of new chats, I'm replaying some of my old favourites! This is a repeat of episode #56. In this episode of NeedleXChange I interview Diana Weymar. Diana Weymar is an embroidery artist and curator, and founder of the Tiny Pricks project, a collaborative needlework project that immortalises quotes from Donald Trump as a crowdsourced documentary of an unusual part of American history. Diana is the author of Crafting A Better World, a book focusing on collaborative craftivism which is a great addition to your craft library and one of the topics in this second part of our XChange!. Timestamps: 00:00:00 - Introduction 00:02:45 - How Inspiration Strikes 00:09:17 - Navigating the Challenges of Social Media 00:23:45 - Crafting a Better World: How Diana’s Book Came To Be 00:35:45 - Lessons Learned From Making Her Book 00:39:01 - Craftivism as a Time Capsule: Care and Maintenance in Challenging Times 00:45:45 - Favourite Album/Book/Film 00:58:05 - An interesting fact that not a lot of people know about Diana Weymar Links: Website: tinypricksproject.com Instagram: tinypricksproject Intro music is Her Name Is Edith by OTE via Epidemic Sound. About NeedleXChange An artist interview podcast exploring contemporary embroidery and textile art. Hosted by Jamie "Mr X Stitch" Chalmers. Stay Connected needl.exchange | Newsletter: bit.ly/NeedleXChangeNews mrxstitch.com | xstitchmag.com

REPLAY: Diana Weymar - Pricks of Inspiration [NX055]

Aug 3, 2026 43 min

It's the school summer holidays and I'm taking a break. So instead of new chats, I'm replaying some of my old favourites! This is a repeat of episode #55. In this episode of NeedleXChange I interview Diana Weymar. Diana Weymar is an embroidery artist and curator, and founder of the Tiny Pricks project, a collaborative needlework project that immortalises quotes from Donald Trump as a crowdsourced documentary of an unusual part of American history. Diana is the author of Crafting A Better World, a book focusing on collaborative craftivism which is a great addition to your craft library. In this first part of our NeedleXChange we talk about how the Tiny Pricks project came to be, evolving from a personal project to a collective form of embroidered therapy for many people, and the surprise of it being a project that continues to this day. Timestamps: 00:00:00 - Introduction 00:02:10 - The Tiny Pricks Project: From Fun to Momentum 00:11:32 - Stitching That Which Resonates 00:18:12 - “I Am A Very Stable Genius” - How Tiny Pricks began 00:35:56 - Building a Safe and Supportive Community Links: Website: tinypricksproject.com Instagram: tinypricksproject Intro music is Her Name Is Edith by OTE via Epidemic Sound. About NeedleXChange An artist interview podcast exploring contemporary embroidery and textile art. Hosted by Jamie "Mr X Stitch" Chalmers. Stay Connected needl.exchange | Newsletter: bit.ly/NeedleXChangeNews mrxstitch.com | xstitchmag.com

REPLAY: John Thomas Paradiso | Exotic Embroiderings Part 2 [NX012]

Jul 29, 2026 37 min

It's the school summer holidays and I'm taking a break. So instead of new chats, I'm replaying some of my old favourites! This is a repeat of episode #12. In this episode of NeedleXChange I interview John Thomas Paradiso. John Thomas Paradiso is a Washington-based artist who has been exploring the intimacy of gay culture through needlework for over 30 years. Using hand embroidered quilting techniques, working on surfaces including leather and suede, and using traditional materials like doilies to mask the graphic parts of his subjects, John’s work treads the line between pornography and personal portraiture. His art is unapologetic in its openness and his expressions of the passion of gay love are both sensitive and sensational. In our NeedleXChange we talk about how John’s artistic career has run alongside the timeline of the HIV pandemic, the value in re-appropriating homophobic slurs, and how his art has defined his own queer identity. Timestamps: 00:00:00 - Intro 00:01:38 - How John’s subjects come into being 00:04:00 - Why John hand quilts his work 00:08:00 - The challenge of entering into quilt shows 00:16:00 - How John honours his feminine side and strives for masculinity 00:21:00 - Reflecting on his earlier work 00:23:00 - John’s definition of success 00:25:15 - Favourite Album 00:26:55 - Favourite Book 00:29:26 - Favourite Film 00:33:00 - John’s reflections on working in the care sector Links: Website: john-paradiso.com Instagram: john_paradiso_artist Intro music is Let's Go Find The Sun by Sarah the Illstrumentalist via Epidemic Sound. About NeedleXChange An artist interview podcast exploring contemporary embroidery and textile art. Hosted by Jamie "Mr X Stitch" Chalmers. Stay Connected needl.exchange | Newsletter: bit.ly/NeedleXChangeNews mrxstitch.com | xstitchmag.com

REPLAY: John Thomas Paradiso | Exotic Embroiderings [NX011]

Jul 27, 2026 31 min

It's the school summer holidays and I'm taking a break. So instead of new chats, I'm replaying some of my old favourites! This is a repeat of episode #11. In this episode of NeedleXChange I interview John Thomas Paradiso. John Thomas Paradiso is a Washington-based artist who has been exploring the intimacy of gay culture through needlework for over 30 years. Using hand embroidered quilting techniques, working on surfaces including leather and suede, and using traditional materials like doilies to mask the graphic parts of his subjects, John’s work treads the line between pornography and personal portraiture. His art is unapologetic in its openness and his expressions of the passion of gay love are both sensitive and sensational. In our NeedleXChange we talk about how John’s artistic career has run alongside the timeline of the HIV pandemic, the value in re-appropriating homophobic slurs, and how his art has defined his own queer identity. Timestamps: 00:00:00 - Intro 00:01:38 - John’s award winning piece- The Prince of Pansies 00:07:00 - John’s early photography work 00:10:20 - How John’s work ran alongside the AIDS epidemic 00:13:00 - The current state of HIV & AIDS 00:15:24 - John’s transition into textiles 00:20:24 - The power of pansies 00:22:00 - Reclaiming slurs 00:26:45 - How textiles makes graphic work easier to consume Links: Website: john-paradiso.com Instagram: john_paradiso_artist Intro music is Let's Go Find The Sun by Sarah the Illstrumentalist via Epidemic Sound. About NeedleXChange An artist interview podcast exploring contemporary embroidery and textile art. Hosted by Jamie "Mr X Stitch" Chalmers. Stay Connected needl.exchange | Newsletter: bit.ly/NeedleXChangeNews mrxstitch.com | xstitchmag.com

REPLAY: Emma McKee - On Becoming a StitchGawd in Chicago Part 2 [NX052]

Jul 22, 2026 48 min

It's the school summer holidays and I'm taking a break. So instead of new chats, I'm replaying some of my old favourites! This is a repeat of episode #52. In this episode of NeedleXChange I interview Emma McKee. Emma McKee is a Chicago-based cross stitch artist whose work is adored by hip-hop artists and basketball icons. This is the second part of our NeedleXChange and we explore Emma's relationship with Chicago, her love of her Dad, how she has evolved as a designer and we check out her cultural recommendations! If you enjoyed the show, please leave a review on your podcast platform so more people can share the love! Timestamps: 00:00:00 - Introduction 00:02:00 - The Barter System and Artistic Integrity 00:05:54 - The Trade-Off of Being a Full-Time Artist 00:08:19 - Evolution as a Cross-Stitch Designer 00:12:28 - Finding Inspiration in Cities 00:20:43 - The Qualities of a Great Dad 00:28:00 - The Impact of Boredom and Politics 00:31:15 - Favourite Albums and Films 00:41:03 - Emma's Fascination with North Korea 00:44:06 - From Opera Singer to Cross-Stitcher 00:46:05 - Creating Large-Scale Cross-Stitch Projects for Interiors Links: Website: stitchgawd.com Instagram: thestitchgawd Intro music is Loopty Loops by Pandaraps via Epidemic Sound. About NeedleXChange An artist interview podcast exploring contemporary embroidery and textile art. Hosted by Jamie "Mr X Stitch" Chalmers. Stay Connected needl.exchange | Newsletter: bit.ly/NeedleXChangeNews mrxstitch.com | xstitchmag.com

REPLAY: Emma McKee - On Becoming a StitchGawd in Chicago [NX051]

Jul 20, 2026 48 min

It's the school summer holidays and I'm taking a break. So instead of new chats, I'm replaying some of my old favourites! This is a repeat of episode #51. In this episode of NeedleXChange I interview Emma McKee. Emma McKee is a Chicago-based cross stitch artist whose work is adored by hip-hop artists and basketball icons. This is the first part of our NeedleXChange and we talk about how Emma came into cross stitch and the circumstances in which her work came to the attention of the hip-hop community. I love chatting with Emma and this conversation flows in all kinds of directions. Tune in next week for the second part of our XChange and if you enjoyed the show, share it with a friend! Timestamps: 00:00:00 - Introduction 00:03:00 - Emma's Background 00:09:02 - Community Engagement Through Fibre Arts 00:12:12 - The Therapeutic Benefits of Stitching 00:16:09 - Emma's Unique Stitching Technique 00:27:23 - Creating Cross-Stitch Jackets for Chance the Rapper 00:29:02 - Opportunities in the Music Industry 00:30:36 - Learning and Growing in Real Time 00:35:10 - The Impact of Music and Cross-Stitch 00:38:42 - Breaking Stereotypes in Cross-Stitch 00:42:08 - Navigating Corporate Commissions Links: Website: stitchgawd.com Instagram: thestitchgawd Intro music is Loopty Loops by Pandaraps via Epidemic Sound. About NeedleXChange An artist interview podcast exploring contemporary embroidery and textile art. Hosted by Jamie "Mr X Stitch" Chalmers. Stay Connected needl.exchange | Newsletter: bit.ly/NeedleXChangeNews mrxstitch.com | xstitchmag.com

REPLAY: Danielle Clough - Making a Racket Part 2 [NX046]

Jul 15, 2026 39 min

It's the school summer holidays and I'm taking a break. So instead of new chats, I'm replaying some of my old favourites! This is a repeat of episode #46. Danielle is an South African artist known for her vibrant and expressive embroidery work, characterised by bold colours, movement, and layering, creating a visual impact that evokes joy. She believes in the inherent goodness of people and the power of support and validation in fostering self-confidence. This is the second part of our NeedleXChange and we explore Danielle's colour theory, discuss some of her other projects and meander through her cultural touchpoints. It's such a pleasure talking with Danielle and I hope you enjoy it! Timestamps: 0:00:00 - Introduction 0:01:52 - Unleashing Your Colour Language 0:07:57 - The Evolution of Colour Preferences 0:12:28 - The Power of Personal Colour Preference 0:15:52 - The Coda Collective and Collaborative Projects 0:18:41 - Procrastination and the Temptation of Commercial Projects 0:18:41 - Working with Friends and Building a Platform 0:31:18 - An interesting fact no one knows about Danielle Clough Links: Website: danielleclough.com Instagram: fiance_knowles Intro music is Rich People Dreaming by Siine & Superintendent McCupcakes via Epidemic Sound. About NeedleXChange An artist interview podcast exploring contemporary embroidery and textile art. Hosted by Jamie "Mr X Stitch" Chalmers. Stay Connected needl.exchange | Newsletter: bit.ly/NeedleXChangeNews mrxstitch.com | xstitchmag.com

REPLAY: Danielle Clough - Making a Racket [NX045]

Jul 13, 2026 50 min

It's the school summer holidays and I'm taking a break. So instead of new chats, I'm replaying some of my old favourites! This is a repeat of episode #45. In this episode of NeedleXChange I interview Danielle Clough, aka Fiancé Knowles. Danielle is an South African artist known for her vibrant and expressive embroidery work, characterised by bold colours, movement, and layering, creating a visual impact that evokes joy. She believes in the inherent goodness of people and the power of support and validation in fostering self-confidence. This is the first part of our NeedleXChange and we discuss how Danielle became a stitcher, how she became a viral sensation and what it takes to be a commercial artist, among other things. Danielle is awesome and this is a great chat - you'll love it! Timestamps: 0:01:52 Introduction and Seasonal Conversation 00:10:58 Discovering Cape Town and Embracing Nature 00:13:53 The Beginnings of Danielle's Embroidery Journey 00:24:59 From Fashion Design to Thread Sketching 00:27:52 The Humble Origins of Danielle's Embroidery 00:29:30 Fashion vs. Freedom of Creativity 00:36:58 Aligning Brand Ethos with Personal Values 00:45:40 Balancing Commercial Work and Personal Artistic Pursuits Links: Website: danielleclough.com Instagram: fiance_knowles Intro music is Rich People Dreaming by Siine & Superintendent McCupcakes via Epidemic Sound. About NeedleXChange An artist interview podcast exploring contemporary embroidery and textile art. Hosted by Jamie "Mr X Stitch" Chalmers. Stay Connected needl.exchange | Newsletter: bit.ly/NeedleXChangeNews mrxstitch.com | xstitchmag.com

Róisín Phelan - Making Light of Things Part 2 [NX148]

Jul 6, 2026 43 min

In this episode of NeedleXChange I interview Róisín Phelan, a contemporary embroidery and textile artist who has built her practice around punch needle. Part 2 opens with practical punch needle wisdom (use the flat "wrong" side for detail, match your needle to your cloth, and keep the fabric taut), then gets into how she taught herself to embroider water and people, why she leans into a blocky, illustrative style rather than photorealism, and where her signature blue figures came from (it started with a single blue felt tip). We range across the books she rereads, music and comfort telly, an Irish Catholic upbringing and a love of mythology, the fun fact that she had a painting in the Tate before she could read, and a generous case for why craft is art and everyone can draw. Links: Instagram: roisin_art Intro music is Heart & Soul by Roots and Recognition via Epidemic Sound. About NeedleXChange An artist interview podcast exploring contemporary embroidery and textile art. Hosted by Jamie "Mr X Stitch" Chalmers. Stay Connected needl.exchange | Newsletter: bit.ly/NeedleXChangeNews mrxstitch.com | xstitchmag.com

Róisín Phelan - Making Light of Things [NX147]

Jun 29, 2026 38 min

In this episode of NeedleXChange I interview Róisín Phelan, a contemporary embroidery and textile artist who has built her practice around punch needle. We start on common ground (a shared love of squared notebooks and to-do lists) before getting into how she creates the visual identity for the family brewery, the cafe, and the Colours coffee company, and how building a whole visual "world" means a new design comes together in an afternoon rather than a fortnight. Róisín talks candidly about being at home with her baby, why making art is how she looks after herself, and how craft lets her switch off and tune in at the same time. We close on the writing behind her images and the story of her seagull piece "It's Never the Lettuce." Róisín is a lovely person whose practice keeps her grounded, and it was a pleasure to chat with her. Be sure to follow her on Instagram and tune back in next week for the second part of our NeedleXChange. Links: Instagram: roisin_art Intro music is Heart & Soul by Roots and Recognition via Epidemic Sound. About NeedleXChange An artist interview podcast exploring contemporary embroidery and textile art. Hosted by Jamie "Mr X Stitch" Chalmers. Stay Connected needl.exchange | Newsletter: bit.ly/NeedleXChangeNews mrxstitch.com | xstitchmag.com

Sean Alistair - Nothing Ever Really Ends Part 3 [NX146]

Jun 22, 2026 37 min

In this episode of NeedleXChange, I interview Sean Alistair, a Germany-based contemporary embroidery and textile art artist known for work that mixes beauty, chaos, identity and emotional honesty. After the first chat, I realised I needed to ask Sean more directly about the work itself, so we spoke again. In this final part, we dig into Sean’s artistic practice: music as a way of naming and feeling the work, anti-war imagery, anger as creative fuel, why “pretty” can be the wrong read, how feedback can help or derail an artist, and how Sean is rebuilding a portfolio and a creative direction after a huge life shift. Links: Website: seanalistair.com Instagram: sean.alistair Intro music is Main Line (Instrumental Version) by Torii Wolf via Epidemic Sound. About NeedleXChange An artist interview podcast exploring contemporary embroidery and textile art. Hosted by Jamie "Mr X Stitch" Chalmers. Stay Connected needl.exchange | Newsletter: bit.ly/NeedleXChangeNews mrxstitch.com | xstitchmag.com Social: Facebook | Instagram | Pinterest | YouTube | LinkedIn

Sean Alistair - Nothing Ever Really Ends Part 2 [NX145]

Jun 15, 2026 21 min

In this episode of NeedleXChange, I interview Sean Alistair, a Germany-based contemporary embroidery and textile art artist known for work that mixes beauty, chaos, identity and emotional honesty. In this part, we move from the studio into parenthood. Sean talks about becoming a dad, the strange way men are praised for basic childcare, how having a baby interrupts and reshapes a creative life, and the difference between Sean Alistair the artist and Sean the dad. We also spin through Sean's cultural touchpoints, but the conversation was so good that I omitted to dig into Sean's artistic practice. So tune in next week for that part of the chat! Links: Website: seanalistair.com Instagram: sean.alistair Intro music is Main Line (Instrumental Version) by Torii Wolf via Epidemic Sound. About NeedleXChange An artist interview podcast exploring contemporary embroidery and textile art. Hosted by Jamie "Mr X Stitch" Chalmers. Stay Connected needl.exchange | Newsletter: bit.ly/NeedleXChangeNews mrxstitch.com | xstitchmag.com Social: Facebook | Instagram | Pinterest | YouTube | LinkedIn

Sean Alistair - Nothing Ever Really Ends [NX144]

Jun 8, 2026 45 min

In this episode of NeedleXChange, I interview Sean Alistair, a Germany-based contemporary embroidery and textile art artist known for work that mixes beauty, chaos, identity and emotional honesty. In this first part we focus on Into the Wild, the exhibition Sean curated to build community rather than simply put work on walls. We talk about diversity without tokenism, what it means to be an outsider artist, labels like queer, bipolar and textile artist, and how Sean thinks about making, destroying and remaking work as part of the same creative life. Links: Website: seanalistair.com Instagram: sean.alistair Intro music is Main Line (Instrumental Version) by Torii Wolf via Epidemic Sound. About NeedleXChange An artist interview podcast exploring contemporary embroidery and textile art. Hosted by Jamie "Mr X Stitch" Chalmers. Stay Connected needl.exchange | Newsletter: bit.ly/NeedleXChangeNews mrxstitch.com | xstitchmag.com Social: Facebook | Instagram | Pinterest | YouTube | LinkedIn

Renan Estivan - Bodies at Rest Part 2 [NX143]

Jun 1, 2026 46 min

In this episode of NeedleXChange, I interview Renan Estivan, a São Paulo-based contemporary embroidery and textile art artist known for queer tapestries that put the male body at their centre. In this part we get into Maressia and Bataille's idea that the post-industrial body isn't allowed to rest, what slow work has taught Renan about his own queerness, why textile slips past the censors in ways photography doesn't, his current Marseille solo show L'Homme Renommé, and his cultural touchpoints. Links: Website: renanestivan.com Instagram: renan.estivan Intro music is Ordinary Love by Vicki Vox via Epidemic Sound. About NeedleXChange An artist interview podcast exploring contemporary embroidery and textile art. Hosted by Jamie "Mr X Stitch" Chalmers. Stay Connected needl.exchange | Newsletter: bit.ly/NeedleXChangeNews mrxstitch.com | xstitchmag.com Social: Facebook | Instagram | Pinterest | YouTube | LinkedIn

Renan Estivan - Bodies at Rest [NX142]

May 25, 2026 34 min

In this episode of NeedleXChange, I interview Renan Estivan, a São Paulo-based contemporary embroidery and textile art artist known for queer tapestries that put the male body at their centre. In Part 1 we get into his mum's Arraíolos rugs and the embroidery tradition she passed on, choosing design at UNESP over art, how the pandemic in Salvador collided with a pixel-art drawing to spark his first erotic cross stitch, his shift onto the tufting gun, and the Brazilian tapestry lineage running from Kennedy Bahia and Tropicália through Leonilson. Links: Website: renanestivan.com Instagram: renan.estivan Intro music is Ordinary Love by Vicki Vox via Epidemic Sound. About NeedleXChange An artist interview podcast exploring contemporary embroidery and textile art. Hosted by Jamie "Mr X Stitch" Chalmers. Stay Connected needl.exchange | Newsletter: bit.ly/NeedleXChangeNews mrxstitch.com | xstitchmag.com Social: Facebook | Instagram | Pinterest | YouTube | LinkedIn

Shea Wilkinson - Mystery is the Method Part 2 [NX141]

May 18, 2026 34 min

In this episode of NeedleXChange, I interview Shea Wilkinson, a contemporary embroidery and textile art artist known for switching mediums to protect their balance - and chasing the next beautiful pattern. Shea talks candidly about quitting quilting “at the snap of a finger,” taking a two-year hiatus from art, and why felting became a healthier, slower practice - less addictive, less competition-driven, and more sustainable day to day. We get into process and motivation (including using audiobooks to pull yourself into the studio), plus how parenthood sparked a new series idea: photographing soap bubbles up close as bifurcation/fractal landscapes. And yes - we end on sequins, shiny things, and the weirdly deep joy of sparkle. Links: Website: sheawilkinson.com Intro music is Martyr by Nevin via Epidemic Sound. About NeedleXChange An artist interview podcast exploring contemporary embroidery and textile art. Hosted by Jamie "Mr X Stitch" Chalmers. Stay Connected needl.exchange | Newsletter: bit.ly/NeedleXChangeNews mrxstitch.com | xstitchmag.com Social: Facebook | Instagram | Pinterest | YouTube | LinkedIn

Shea Wilkinson - Mystery is the Method [NX140]

May 11, 2026 35 min

In this episode of NeedleXChange, I interview Shea Wilkinson, a contemporary embroidery and textile art artist known for turning big questions into fibre work - from the cosmic to the microscopic. Shea’s practice moves between felt backgrounds, needle felting, hand embroidery, beading, and a research-led obsession with things like crystals, geometry, and the mystery of what we can’t quite explain. Links: Website: sheawilkinson.com Intro music is Martyr by Nevin via Epidemic Sound. About NeedleXChange An artist interview podcast exploring contemporary embroidery and textile art. Hosted by Jamie "Mr X Stitch" Chalmers. Stay Connected needl.exchange | Newsletter: bit.ly/NeedleXChangeNews mrxstitch.com | xstitchmag.com Social: Facebook | Instagram | Pinterest | YouTube | LinkedIn

Charlotte Woods - Beauty in Ugliness Part 2 [NX139]

May 4, 2026 1 hr 2 min

In this episode of NeedleXChange, I interview Charlotte Wood, a mixed media artist known for exploring the beauty in ugliness through character-led, emotionally resonant work. Charlotte trained through an MA in embroidery and works across hand, machine, and sculptural textile approaches - with a deep curiosity for how craft and experimentation collide. We go deep on her making: learning the rules before breaking them, moving from perfectionism towards controlled chaos, what commercial embroidery taught her about speed and being “less precious”, and how her technician/teaching role (plus special effects + foam fabrication skills) are shaping what she wants to build next. Links: Instagram: woodsembroidery Website: woodsembroidery.weebly.com Intro music is Ever So Blue by Hearth via Epidemic Sound. About NeedleXChange An artist interview podcast exploring contemporary embroidery and textile art. Hosted by Jamie "Mr X Stitch" Chalmers. Stay Connected needl.exchange | Newsletter: bit.ly/NeedleXChangeNews mrxstitch.com | xstitchmag.com Social: Facebook | Instagram | Pinterest | YouTube | LinkedIn

Charlotte Woods - Beauty in Ugliness [NX138]

Apr 27, 2026 29 min

In this episode of NeedleXChange, I interview Charlotte Wood, a mixed media artist known for exploring the beauty in ugliness through character-led, emotionally resonant work. Charlotte’s recent practice includes a standout 3D textile sculpture, “the man on the chair”, alongside layered narrative pieces where colour, form, and surface stitch carry memory and mood. We talk about her Hand & Lock journey, how she uses characters to hold sadness and introspection without losing joy, and the Leonard Cohen influence behind the work — plus how ideas like object constancy and “finding balance” show up in what she makes. Links: Instagram: woodsembroidery Website: woodsembroidery.weebly.com Intro music is Ever So Blue by Hearth via Epidemic Sound. About NeedleXChange An artist interview podcast exploring contemporary embroidery and textile art. Hosted by Jamie "Mr X Stitch" Chalmers. Stay Connected needl.exchange | Newsletter: bit.ly/NeedleXChangeNews mrxstitch.com | xstitchmag.com Social: Facebook | Instagram | Pinterest | YouTube | LinkedIn

Robert Ossant & Jessica Pile - The Art of Couture Embroidery Part 2 [NX137]

Apr 20, 2026 38 min

In this episode of NeedleXChange I interview Jessica Pile and Robert Ossant. Jessica Pile and Robert Ossant are researchers and authors focused on couture embroidery, combining technical analysis with historical and creative context to better understand how and why these works are made. In this second half of the conversation, we move beyond the garments themselves into the wider landscape of fashion. Topics include the economics of clothing, sustainability, and the tension between high fashion and everyday wear. The discussion also turns to education, skill development, and the personal journeys that led Jessica and Robert into embroidery and fashion history, offering insight into what it takes to build a creative career in this field. Timestamps: 00:00:00 – Introduction 00:01:15 - Historical Influences: Icons of Fashion 00:06:06 - The Business of Fashion: Balancing Art and Commerce 00:12:03 - Personal Journeys: From Passion to Profession 00:25:43 - Exploring Emotional Literature 00:27:42 - Musical Favorites and Nostalgia 00:30:20 - Cinematic Classics and Personal Connections 00:32:40 - Parenting and Children's Entertainment 00:39:06 - Unexpected Insights and Future Projects Links: Instagram: houseofossant & jessicajane_pile Intro music is Lost Lover Undercover by Ryan James Carr via Epidemic Sound. About NeedleXChange An artist interview podcast exploring contemporary embroidery and textile art. Hosted by Jamie "Mr X Stitch" Chalmers. Stay Connected needl.exchange | Newsletter: bit.ly/NeedleXChangeNews mrxstitch.com | xstitchmag.com Social: Facebook | Instagram | Pinterest | YouTube | LinkedIn

Robert Ossant & Jessica Pile - The Art of Couture Embroidery [NX136]

Apr 13, 2026 43 min

In this episode of NeedleXChange I interview Jessica Pile and Robert Ossant. Jessica Pile and Robert Ossant are researchers and authors focused on couture embroidery, combining technical analysis with historical and creative context to better understand how and why these works are made. In this conversation, we explore their approach to breaking down couture garments - examining not just the stitches, but the ideas behind them. The discussion moves through fashion history, the role of inspiration versus technique, and how couture functions as both a creative laboratory and a cultural statement. Along the way, we consider the relationship between fashion and art, and how embroidery sits at the centre of that dialogue. Timestamps: 00:00:00 – Introduction 00:01:15 - Introduction to Fashion Embroidery 00:02:31 - Overview of the Book's Purpose 00:04:19 - Deep Dives into Designers 00:09:36 - Selecting Designers for the Book 00:11:18 - Gaining Respect for Italian Designers 00:19:17 - Inspiration vs. Intimidation in Embroidery 00:27:16 - The Disconnect Between Runway and Reality 00:35:10 - Economic Disparities in Fashion 00:37:02 - The Art of Fashion: A Complex Relationship 00:38:25 - Sustainability in Couture: A New Era Links: Instagram: houseofossant & jessicajane_pile Intro music is Lost Lover Undercover by Ryan James Carr via Epidemic Sound. About NeedleXChange An artist interview podcast exploring contemporary embroidery and textile art. Hosted by Jamie "Mr X Stitch" Chalmers. Stay Connected needl.exchange | Newsletter: bit.ly/NeedleXChangeNews mrxstitch.com | xstitchmag.com Social: Facebook | Instagram | Pinterest | YouTube | LinkedIn

Helen Adams - Textile Curator Part 2 [NX135]

Apr 6, 2026 53 min

In this episode of NeedleXChange I interview Helen Adams. Helen is the Textile Curator who has been shining a light on contemporary textile art on her terrific blog since 2014. Her fantastic book, Textile Fine Art was published in September 2025. In this second part of our XChange, Helen shares how she became the Textile Curator. We talk about starting a website to “wake up the world”, what it’s like building something as a team of one, and the practical realities of monetising a niche platform. We also get into why social media can feel like finding “your little tribe”, and we finish with Helen's cultural touchpoints. Helen is curating a show at Saatchi Gallery! Textile Art Redefined runs from April 10th - May 10th which is a must-see if you're in the vicinity. Timestamps: 00:00:00 – Introduction 00:01:30 - Navigating social media for artists and curators 00:10:20 - The future of textile art and building a legacy in communities 00:15:20 - Helen's upcoming exhibitions and festival plans 00:19:50 - The role of mentorship in the textile art community 00:24:20 - Exploring innovative textile techniques and materials 00:29:35 - Engaging with textile art enthusiasts 00:36:05 - Helen's advice for aspiring textile artists Links: Instagram: textilecurator Website: textilecurator.com You can get a 20% discount on Helen's book with free shipping from the Lawrence King website until April 9th using the code MRXSTITCH at checkout. Intro music is U Dirty Dawg by Def Lev via Epidemic Sound. About NeedleXChange An artist interview podcast exploring contemporary embroidery and textile art. Hosted by Jamie "Mr X Stitch" Chalmers. Stay Connected needl.exchange | Newsletter: bit.ly/NeedleXChangeNews mrxstitch.com | xstitchmag.com Social: Facebook | Instagram | Pinterest | YouTube | LinkedIn

Helen Adams - Textile Curator [NX134]

Mar 30, 2026 32 min

In this episode of NeedleXChange I interview Helen Adams. Helen is the Textile Curator who has been shining a light on contemporary textile art on her terrific blog since 2014. Her fantastic book, Textile Fine Art was published in September 2025. In this first part of our chat we talk about making a textile art book that lasts longer than algorithms, how you choose artists when everyone is good, and what kinds of work genuinely “buzz your buttons”. We also get into exhibitions and the pressure of doing textile art justice in major spaces, including Saatchi, plus the practical logistics of hanging work properly. Helen is curating a show at Saatchi Gallery! Textile Art Redefined runs from April 10th - May 10th which is a must-see if you're in the vicinity. Timestamps: 00:00:00 – Introduction 00:03:40 - Helen’s career shift from fashion to textile curation 00:05:45 - The inspiration behind her publication and showcasing textile artists 00:08:06 - Curating at Saatchi Art: the process and challenges 00:13:41 - The importance of art galleries and Helen's vision for a textile hub 00:17:45 - The recognition of textile art in the mainstream art scene 00:21:50 - Challenges of managing art spaces and exhibition logistics 00:25:46 - The significance of personal relationships with artists 00:30:05 - The creative process and inspiration behind textile projects Links: Instagram: textilecurator Website: textilecurator.com You can get a 20% discount on Helen's book with free shipping from the Lawrence King website until April 9th using the code MRXSTITCH at checkout. Intro music is U Dirty Dawg by Def Lev via Epidemic Sound. About NeedleXChange An artist interview podcast exploring contemporary embroidery and textile art. Hosted by Jamie "Mr X Stitch" Chalmers. Stay Connected needl.exchange | Newsletter: bit.ly/NeedleXChangeNews mrxstitch.com | xstitchmag.com Social: Facebook | Instagram | Pinterest | YouTube | LinkedIn

Iskren Lozanov - Fashioning Future Folklore Part 2 [NX133]

Mar 23, 2026 26 min

In this episode of NeedleXChange I interview Iskren Lozanov. Iskren Lozanov is an embroidery artist living in Ibiza, originally from Bulgaria. He came third in the 3d Textiles category of The 2025 Mr X Stitch Contemporary Needlework Prize and 2nd in the Open Textile Art category in the 2024 Hand & Lock Prize. We pick up with what’s next for Iskren Lozanov’s practice, including using everyday objects, collaboration hopes, and how this technique can be applied to almost anything. We also get practical about making a living, brand work vs artwork, staying well, and end on favourites plus a brilliant Spice Girls fact. Timestamps: 00:00:00 – Introduction 00:01:20 - Future directions: exploring everyday objects and collaborations 00:03:05 - The freedom found in upcycling and working with found objects 00:06:59 - Balancing slow fashion and original art 00:09:34 - Sharing favorite books and cultural influences 00:13:56 - Music’s role in Lozanov’s creative process 00:17:22 - Favorite films and how storytelling influences his art 00:18:36 - Bulgarian folklore, fairy tales, and cultural motifs 00:19:22 - The acceptance of men in embroidery and needlework communities 00:21:24 - A fact that not a lot of people know about Iskren Lozanov Links: Instagram: iskrenlozano Website: iskrenlozanov.com Intro music is Cyber Bazaar by HATAMITSUNAMI via Epidemic Sound. About NeedleXChange An artist interview podcast exploring contemporary embroidery and textile art. Hosted by Jamie "Mr X Stitch" Chalmers. Support on Patreon Join the Green Room for weekly aftershows, monthly Q&As, and searchable transcripts. Become an Executive Producer to join quarterly roundtables and shape the show's future. patreon.com/c/xstitch/membership Stay Connected needl.exchange | Newsletter: bit.ly/NeedleXChangeNews mrxstitch.com | xstitchmag.com Social: Facebook | Instagram | Pinterest | YouTube | LinkedIn

Iskren Lozanov - Fashioning Future Folklore [NX132]

Mar 16, 2026 40 min

In this episode of NeedleXChange I interview Iskren Lozanov. Iskren Lozanov is an embroidery artist living in Ibiza, originally from Bulgaria. He came third in the 3d Textiles category of The 2025 Mr X Stitch Contemporary Needlework Prize and 2nd in the Open Textile Art category in the 2024 Hand & Lock Prize. We talk about language and identity, Ibiza as a place to make work, and how Iskren Lozanov’s practice moved from fashion into embroidery and sculptural pieces like “Rebirth” and “Veil of Transcendence”, including the research, planning, and labour behind them. Timestamps: 00:00:00 – Introduction 00:01:20 - Growing up in Bulgaria and cultural influences 00:05:42 - Moving to Ibiza and what draws him to the island 00:08:56 - Lozanov’s artistic journey from fashion to sculpture and embroidery 00:11:55 - Primitiveness and beauty in Lozanov’s work, blending ancient symbols with contemporary techniques 00:18:27 - The 'Veil of Transcendence' and exploring cultural afterlife symbols 00:23:05 - His experience in art competitions and building confidence 00:24:59 - Navigating social media and creating sustainable art practices 00:34:26 - The impact of learning and personal beliefs on his views of the afterlife 00:37:46 - Techniques inspired by Orthodox and Catholic iconography Links: Instagram: iskrenlozano Website: iskrenlozanov.com Intro music is Cyber Bazaar by HATAMITSUNAMI via Epidemic Sound. About NeedleXChange An artist interview podcast exploring contemporary embroidery and textile art. Hosted by Jamie "Mr X Stitch" Chalmers. Support on Patreon Join the Green Room for weekly aftershows, monthly Q&As, and searchable transcripts. Become an Executive Producer to join quarterly roundtables and shape the show's future. patreon.com/c/xstitch/membership Stay Connected needl.exchange | Newsletter: bit.ly/NeedleXChangeNews mrxstitch.com | xstitchmag.com Social: Facebook | Instagram | Pinterest | YouTube | LinkedIn

Katarina Orolinova - Lace and Lasers Part 2 [NX131]

Mar 9, 2026 38 min

In this episode of NeedleXChange I interview Katarina Orolinov. Katarina is a Slovakian contemporary embroidery and textile art artist known for laser-cut perspex panels built from lace and geometric pattern logic. Katarina shares early making (drawing, sewing, textiles clubs) and a schooling route that builds serious technical range (embroidery, bobbin lace, weaving). We dig into heritage vs experimentation, studio life, what plays in the background while stitching, and the closing line: the dream upgrade is a laser cutting machine. Timestamps: 00:00:00 – The origin story: drawing, sewing, and deciding on art early 00:01:25 – Learning the fundamentals: embroidery, lace, weaving (the whole toolbox) 00:03:50 – Choosing your path young: how the Slovak system works 00:09:00 – Getting into art university: tests, live models, and creative tasks 00:13:00 – Heritage, but make it future: what belongs in the work (and what doesn’t) 00:19:00 – Studio life: making for work, making for fun 00:20:10 – What’s on in the background while stitching 00:27:50 – Books and blackwork (Jane Goodwin) 00:32:20 – A personal note: summers with Katarina’s grandmother in a foster-care community 00:35:25 – The closer: “I don’t want that ring. I want a laser cutting machine.” Links: Instagram: katarina_orolinova_art Intro music is Below Horizon by Luwaks via Epidemic Sound. About NeedleXChange An artist interview podcast exploring contemporary embroidery and textile art. Hosted by Jamie "Mr X Stitch" Chalmers. Support on Patreon Join the Green Room for weekly aftershows, monthly Q&As, and searchable transcripts. Become an Executive Producer to join quarterly roundtables and shape the show's future. patreon.com/c/xstitch/membership Stay Connected needl.exchange | Newsletter: bit.ly/NeedleXChangeNews mrxstitch.com | xstitchmag.com Social: Facebook | Instagram | Pinterest | YouTube | LinkedIn

Katarina Orolinova - Lace and Lasers [NX130]

Mar 2, 2026 37 min

In this episode of NeedleXChange I interview Katarina Orolinov. Katarina is a Slovakian contemporary embroidery and textile art artist known for laser-cut perspex panels built from lace and geometric pattern logic. Katarina traces the work from a bobbin‑lace brief into bitmap squares, then laser cutting/engraving perspex and stitching into it. We talk architecture as a pattern engine (glass blocks, safety glass, reflection), and the practical reality of scale: thousands of holes, modular panels, and machine‑bed limits. Timestamps: 00:00:00 – “Come to the perspex…”: lace meets laser cutting 00:02:55 – Finding patterns in glass blocks and safety glass 00:04:31 – Reflection, infinity, and letting structure do the talking 00:06:10 – Close your eyes: what the work feels like in space 00:14:45 – The jump from small pieces to a wall 00:15:52 – 2000 holes: laser cut, but every hole placed by hand (digitally) 00:18:09 – Building it as 22 panels (and why that matters) 00:21:38 – The hard limits: machine beds and human arms 00:26:13 – One pattern, many techniques: knitting/weaving/needlepoint logic Links: Instagram: katarina_orolinova_art Intro music is Below Horizon by Luwaks via Epidemic Sound. About NeedleXChange An artist interview podcast exploring contemporary embroidery and textile art. Hosted by Jamie "Mr X Stitch" Chalmers. Support on Patreon Join the Green Room for weekly aftershows, monthly Q&As, and searchable transcripts. Become an Executive Producer to join quarterly roundtables and shape the show's future. patreon.com/c/xstitch/membership Stay Connected needl.exchange | Newsletter: bit.ly/NeedleXChangeNews mrxstitch.com | xstitchmag.com Social: Facebook | Instagram | Pinterest | YouTube | LinkedIn

Charlie Reeder - Stitchsperational Part 2 [NX129]

Feb 23, 2026 36 min

In this episode of NeedleXChange I interview Charlie Reeder aka Stitchsperation. Charlie is a cross stitch designer with an unashamedly joyful aesthetic. In this first part of our NeedleXChange, we talk imposter syndrome, naming the inner critic (“Brenda”), and how stitching can be a safe, meditative place to build confidence. Charlie shares ideas around stitched affirmations and repetition, plus the beginnings of Stitchsperation: bold typographic work, painted backgrounds, and designing what they couldn’t find. Timestamps: 00:00:00 - Introduction 00:01:30 - Art vs craft vs design (and getting put in boxes) 00:05:33 - What Charlie actually likes: clean lines, bright colour, CMYK 00:10:20 - The “very Charlie” look (home, colour palette, recognisable style) 00:13:43 - Brand boundaries + the “teddy bear in an igloo” problem 00:17:30 - Losing the mojo, then finding it again (and managing overwhelm) 00:24:30 - Quick-fire culture picks: books, films/TV, music 00:35:20 - Plot twist: pole dancing is the other happy place 00:38:45 - Injury, depression, and realising what matters Links: Website: stitchsperation.com Instagram: stitchsperation Intro music is Easy Breezy by Boogie Wheel via Epidemic Sound. About NeedleXChange An artist interview podcast exploring contemporary embroidery and textile art. Hosted by Jamie "Mr X Stitch" Chalmers. Support on Patreon Join the Green Room for weekly aftershows, monthly Q&As, and searchable transcripts. Become an Executive Producer to join quarterly roundtables and shape the show's future. patreon.com/c/xstitch/membership Stay Connected needl.exchange | Newsletter: bit.ly/NeedleXChangeNews mrxstitch.com | xstitchmag.com Social: Facebook | Instagram | Pinterest | YouTube | LinkedIn

Charlie Reeder - Stitchsperational [NX128]

Feb 16, 2026 39 min

In this episode of NeedleXChange I interview Charlie Reeder aka Stitchsperation. Charlie is a cross stitch designer with an unashamedly joyful aesthetic. In this first part of our NeedleXChange, we talk imposter syndrome, naming the inner critic (“Brenda”), and how stitching can be a safe, meditative place to build confidence. Charlie shares ideas around stitched affirmations and repetition, plus the beginnings of Stitchsperation: bold typographic work, painted backgrounds, and designing what they couldn’t find. Timestamps: 00:00:00 - Introduction 00:02:47 - Imposter syndrome and “Brenda” (naming the inner critic) 00:06:07 - Stitching affirmations (repetition as reprogramming) 00:10:28 - Back from Canada, broke, and making a Sweden wedding gift 00:12:00 - Painting the fabric, then stitching the words 00:14:42 - Aesthetic in one phrase: “Typographic bright shit?” 00:15:41 - Positivity without going “toxic” 00:17:25 - Cross stitch as TV-time sanity (not doom scrolling) Links: Website: stitchsperation.com Instagram: stitchsperation Intro music is Easy Breezy by Boogie Wheel via Epidemic Sound. About NeedleXChange An artist interview podcast exploring contemporary embroidery and textile art. Hosted by Jamie "Mr X Stitch" Chalmers. Support on Patreon Join the Green Room for weekly aftershows, monthly Q&As, and searchable transcripts. Become an Executive Producer to join quarterly roundtables and shape the show's future. patreon.com/c/xstitch/membership Stay Connected needl.exchange | Newsletter: bit.ly/NeedleXChangeNews mrxstitch.com | xstitchmag.com Social: Facebook | Instagram | Pinterest | YouTube | LinkedIn

Ruth O'Leary - Creating Icons Part 2 [NX127]

Feb 9, 2026 25 min

In this episode of NeedleXChange I interview Ruth O'Leary. Ruth O'Leary is an award-winning embroiderer who’s been exploring AI image generation as a tool for design, iteration, and self-expression. In part two, we move from the big AI conversation into the grounded maker reality: how Ruth learned needlework, what the Embroiderers’ Guild taught her, and why community still matters even in an online world. Ruth also breaks down their process — using AI outputs as reference material, collaging and redrawing in Procreate, then translating it into applique and embroidery — plus a quick run through favourite sci‑fi and a brilliant family‑history curveball. Timestamps: 00:00:00 - Introduction 00:01:30 - The Crafting Landscape: A Need for More Exposure 00:02:46 - Roots of Creativity: Personal Journeys in Needlework 00:04:47 - Community and Learning: The Value of Guilds 00:07:51 - Bridging Generations: Attracting Youth to Craft Guilds 00:11:07 - Digital vs. Physical: The Evolution of Craft Communities 00:12:58 - Exploring Techniques: The Art of Stitching 00:14:32 - Cultural Reflections: The Influence of Music and Film 00:25:12 - Heritage and Legacy: Stitching Poetry into Art Links: Website: rostara.co.uk Instagram: rostara.handmade Intro music is Far Enough by Shiver Disk via Epidemic Sound. About NeedleXChange An artist interview podcast exploring contemporary embroidery and textile art. Hosted by Jamie "Mr X Stitch" Chalmers. Support on Patreon Join the Green Room for weekly aftershows, monthly Q&As, and searchable transcripts. Become an Executive Producer to join quarterly roundtables and shape the show's future. patreon.com/c/xstitch/membership Stay Connected needl.exchange | Newsletter: bit.ly/NeedleXChangeNews mrxstitch.com | xstitchmag.com Social: Facebook | Instagram | Pinterest | YouTube | LinkedIn

Ruth O'Leary - Creating Icons [NX126]

Feb 2, 2026 32 min

In this episode of NeedleXChange I interview Ruth O'Leary. Ruth O'Leary is an award-winning embroiderer who’s been exploring AI image generation as a tool for design, iteration, and self-expression. We talk about AI as a “new medium” (and the early chaotic phase of it), parallels with the Jacquard loom and past industrial shifts, the difference between screen-based fakery and physical needlework, and how Ruth uses AI outputs as reference material that gets reimagined through applique + embroidery to speed up making without losing what Ruth loves about stitching. Timestamps: 00:00:00 - Introduction 00:01:30 - Exploring AI Art and Personal Journey 00:04:20 - The Evolution of Artistic Expression through AI 00:07:03 - The Unexpected Outcomes of AI in Art 00:12:46 - The Impact of Technology on Traditional Crafts 00:15:35 - Navigating the Challenges of AI and Authenticity 00:18:34 - The Balance of Speed and Craftsmanship in Art 00:22:17 - The Role of AI in Realizing Artistic Visions 00:25:07 - The Process of Creation and Inspiration Links: Website: rostara.co.uk Instagram: rostara.handmade Intro music is Far Enough by Shiver Disk via Epidemic Sound. About NeedleXChange: 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. Visit the NeedleXChange website: needl.exchange Sign up for the NeedleXChange Newsletter here: bit.ly/NeedleXChangeNews If you want embroidery inspiration and regular doses of textile art, visit the Mr X Stitch site here: mrxstitch.com If you're looking for modern cross stitch designs, then XStitch is the magazine you need! Find out more here: xstitchmag.com And follow Mr X Stitch on all the usual social media channels! Facebook: mrxstitchInstagram: mrxstitchPinterest: mrxstitchYouTube: mrxstitchLinkedIn: mrjamiechalmers

Robert John Hodge - Renaissance 2.0 Part 2 [NX125]

Jan 26, 2026 38 min

In this episode of NeedleXChange I interview Robert John Hodge. Robert John Hodge makes cross-stitch work based on Renaissance sculptures, using a CMYK / screenprint-style layering approach and recurring Wingdings symbols. In this half we jump into Robert’s newer series - smaller, quicker pieces that work like little stitched collages: videogames, screenshots, photos, culture… and, for reasons we absolutely get into, a whole run of nuclear weapons tests. Part 2 is where we widen out into the stuff that feeds the work: horror films from the 70s and 80s, documentaries that stitch history into a continuum, Kate Bush and Wagner, and even T.S. Eliot’s The Waste Land as a kind of cultural collage blueprint. Timestamps: 00:00:00 - Introduction 00:01:30 – Cross stitch as a serious art medium 00:05:44 – Challenging the “serious art” prejudice 00:07:50 – Balancing making work and making money 00:09:02 – Art-world reality: logistics + day job 00:11:22 – Film influences + nostalgia threads 00:18:16 – A wide media diet (and why it matters) 00:24:53 – Literary influences: T.S. Eliot and collage thinking 00:26:52 – Looping + obsession as the creative engine Links: Website: robertjohnhodge.com Instagram: robertjohnhodge Intro music is Cotton Candy by Cospe via Epidemic Sound. About NeedleXChange: 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. Visit the NeedleXChange website: needl.exchange Sign up for the NeedleXChange Newsletter here: bit.ly/NeedleXChangeNews If you're looking for modern cross stitch designs, then XStitch is the magazine you need! Find out more here: xstitchmag.com And follow Mr X Stitch on all the usual social media channels! Facebook: mrxstitchInstagram: mrxstitchPinterest: mrxstitchYouTube: mrxstitchLinkedIn: mrjamiechalmers

Robert John Hodge - Renaissance 2.0 [NX124]

Jan 19, 2026 38 min

In this episode of NeedleXChange I interview Robert John Hodge. Robert John Hodge makes cross-stitch work based on Renaissance sculptures, using a CMYK / screenprint-style layering approach and recurring Wingdings symbols. We talk about being a finalist in the Hand & Lock Embroidery Prize, how the work is technically constructed, and the bigger ideas underneath it: art vs craft, nostalgia, digital “glitch” language, and how slow, tactile making can transform images that started life as fast and disposable. Timestamps: 00:00:00 - Introduction 00:01:10 – Hand & Lock finalist story + mentor + family cheer squad 00:03:56 – Renaissance sculpture → CMYK layers → Wingdings glitch 00:06:30 – Time-saving stitching: let the fabric do some work 00:09:27 – Hobby → medium (London limits shaping the practice) 00:11:58 – Art vs craft: embroidery as the point, not the punchline 00:14:36 – 90s Windows nostalgia: Wingdings, WordArt energy 00:17:19 – Making patterns: first self-draft + tools/workflow 00:20:01 – Scale, time, and the realities of big stitch work 00:26:30 – Inputs and influences feeding the work 00:30:28 – Process evolution: designing for a “digital” feel 00:36:40 – New “collage” series: smaller, quicker stitched mashups Links: Website: robertjohnhodge.com Instagram: robertjohnhodge Intro music is Cotton Candy by Cospe via Epidemic Sound. About NeedleXChange An artist interview podcast exploring contemporary embroidery and textile art. Hosted by Jamie "Mr X Stitch" Chalmers. Support on Patreon Join the Green Room for weekly aftershows, monthly Q&As, and searchable transcripts. Become an Executive Producer to join quarterly roundtables and shape the show's future. patreon.com/c/xstitch/membership Stay Connected needl.exchange | Newsletter: bit.ly/NeedleXChangeNews mrxstitch.com | xstitchmag.com Social: Facebook | Instagram | Pinterest | YouTube | LinkedIn

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Russell Barratt - Within & Without [NX158]

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Podcast details

Created by: Jamie Chalmers
Status: Active
Latest episode: Nov 9, 2026
Episodes: 173
Release period: Weekly
Avg. episode length: 42 min
Explicit: No
Language: English

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