NeedleXChange

Jamie Chalmers
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Jamie "Mr X Stitch" Chalmers interviews needlework and textile artists to find out how they make their art, how they build their business and why they love working with a needle and thread. 🎧 Members get the ad-free feed + monthly Q&A + the AfterShow segment appended to Part 2. Join the Green Room: patreon.com/xstitch

  1. Ruth O'Leary - Creating Icons [NX126]

    4 DAYS AGO

    Ruth O'Leary - Creating Icons [NX126]

    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

    33 min
  2. Robert John Hodge - Renaissance 2.0 Part 2 [NX125]

    26 JAN

    Robert John Hodge - Renaissance 2.0 Part 2 [NX125]

    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

    38 min
  3. Robert John Hodge - Renaissance 2.0 [NX124]

    19 JAN

    Robert John Hodge - Renaissance 2.0 [NX124]

    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

    39 min
  4. Martha Hussey - The Work Behind The Work Part 2 [NX122]

    12 JAN

    Martha Hussey - The Work Behind The Work Part 2 [NX122]

    In this episode of NeedleXChange I interview Martha Hussey. We talk fresh off the heels of Martha’s solo show in London and discuss DIY curation as well as Royal Academy highs and near-misses, Martha talks textiles’ growing place in contemporary art and why she’s already sketching the next body of work. We also hit the soundtracks, the films, the books, and the beauty in the mundane that fuels her studio. Timestamps: 00:00:00 - Introduction 00:01:30 - The Challenges of Curating an Exhibition 00:06:46 - The Royal Academy Experience 00:09:39 - The Growing Presence of Textile Arts 00:12:10 - Creativity and the Artistic Process 00:14:49 - Humor and Reflection in Art 00:16:45 - The Soundtrack of Creativity 00:20:42 - Visual Inspirations: TV and Film 00:21:33 - Cinematic Influences on Art 00:25:37 - Literary Inspirations and Reflections 00:29:10 - The Mundane as Art00:32:08 - Personal Insights and Vulnerabilities Links: Website: marthahussey.com Instagram: marthahusseystudio Intro music is I Been All Alone by Dev Do It 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

    42 min
  5. Martha Hussey - The Work Behind The Work [NX122]

    5 JAN

    Martha Hussey - The Work Behind The Work [NX122]

    In this episode of NeedleXChange I interview Martha Hussey. Martha trained in fine art at St Martin’s and later dove into an art-therapy diploma during lockdown, discovering how stitch can quiet the mind and surface truth. In this first half we get into the meditative mechanics of embroidery, why the back of the work matters as much as the front, and how humour and the “Sexy Stitch” series emerged alongside tufted wall pieces and hairy latch-hook portraits. We also trace the evolution from painting to thread palettes and that pivotal “do something creative for 15 minutes a day” moment that reignited her practice. Timestamps: 00:00:00 - Introduction 00:01:30 - The Journey into Art Therapy 00:09:47 - The Role of Humor in Art 00:12:32 - The Evolution of Artistic Expression 00:15:25 - The Significance of the Back of the Work 00:28:45 - Art as a Reflection of Society 00:31:03 - The Boldness of Artistic Expression 00:33:14 - Navigating the Art World: From Gallery to Solo Show Links: Website: marthahussey.com Instagram: marthahusseystudio Intro music is I Been All Alone by Dev Do It 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

    34 min
  6. Loren Batt - Lore Maker Part 2 [NX121]

    29/12/2025

    Loren Batt - Lore Maker Part 2 [NX121]

    In this episode of NeedleXChange I interview Loren Batt. Loren is an American-born artist who’s made France home for decades. In this first half, we trace her path from linguistics and art history into printmaking, then the leap into layered, tapestry-like paintings and quilted figures inspired by guild traditions, street life in New York, and medieval folk energy. In Part 2 we dive into Loren’s themed series: ex-voto boxes - small wishes hung en masse, guardian angels that gently hold everyday burdens like insomnia or being unheard and Sailing to a Better Place born from a need for hope We also cover collaborations in a troglodyte château, future animation dreams, and why playful aesthetics can carry real social weight without confrontation. Timestamps: 00:00:00 - Introduction 00:01:30 – Art as a Reflection of Society 00:05:47 – The Itch to Create: Artistic Process and Inspiration 00:13:00 – Rediscovering Artistic Passions 00:18:46 – Interdisciplinary Collaborations in Art 00:21:00 – Creating Unique Installations 00:23:17 – The Role of Music and Theatre in Art 00:24:18 – Musical Influences on Creative Work 00:29:29 – Literary Inspirations 00:30:57 – The Impact of Visual Storytelling 00:34:59 – The Importance of Personal Collections Links: Website: lorenbatt.com Instagram: lorenbatt Intro music is Afternoon by Ennio Máno 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

    51 min
  7. Loren Batt - Lore Maker [NX120]

    22/12/2025

    Loren Batt - Lore Maker [NX120]

    In this episode of NeedleXChange I interview Loren Batt. Loren is an American-born artist who’s made France home for decades. In this first half, we trace her path from linguistics and art history into printmaking, then the leap into layered, tapestry-like paintings and quilted figures inspired by guild traditions, street life in New York, and medieval folk energy. We talk bilingual identity, raising globally mobile kids, and the moment canvas stopped being “invisible” support and became living textile - complete with stitched frames and characters stepping out into relief. Timestamps: 00:00:00 - Introduction 00:06:57 – Identity and Assimilation in a Globalized World 00:09:38 – Language, Bilingualism, and Cultural Flexibility 00:12:15 – The Artistic Journey: From Childhood Dreams to Reality 00:15:03 – Exploring the Influence of Art History 00:20:06 – The Intersection of Textiles and Art 00:31:01 – Exploring the Intersection of Fabric and Art 00:34:27 – Childhood Inspirations and Artistic Foundations 00:38:26 – The Potential of Animation in Art 00:42:12 – Themes of Connection and Humanity 00:45:54 – Guardian Angels and Whimsical Commentary 00:49:09 – The Role of Objects in Human Connection Links: Website: lorenbatt.com Instagram: lorenbatt Intro music is Afternoon by Ennio Máno 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

    44 min
  8. Chloe Savage - Perfection and Reflection Part 2 [NX119]

    15/12/2025

    Chloe Savage - Perfection and Reflection Part 2 [NX119]

    In this episode of NeedleXChange I interview Chloe Savage. Chloe is a conservation embroiderer, couture specialist, and educator whose studio practice spans everything from National Trust restorations to hands-on needlepoint kits. In this second half of our conversation, we trace Chloe's creative upbringing through diamond mines, Paris couture, and the Royal School of Needlework. 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. 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 & 26. Timestamps: 00:00:00 - Introduction 00:01:30 - Conservation Stories and Experiences 00:06:52 - Art as a Reflection of Personal Struggles 00:15:33 - The Journey of Healing and Empowerment 00:18:50 - Future Directions in Textile Art 00:22:59 - Embracing Creative Freedom 00:24:03 - The Role of Education in Artistic Expression 00:27:04 - The Influence of Family on Creativity 00:28:17 - Exploring Personal Interests and Hobbies 00:29:27 - The Impact of Art Installations 00:30:27 - Chloe's Favourites 00:40:57 - Overcoming Challenges and Unique Facts Links: Website: chloesavageembroidery.com Instagram: chloesavageembroidery Intro music is Getting Good at Letting Go (Instrumental Version) by Vicki Vox 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 And follow Mr X Stitch on all the usual social media channels! Facebook: mrxstitchInstagram: mrxstitchPinterest: mrxstitchYouTube: mrxstitchLinkedIn: mrjamiechalmers

    44 min
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About

Jamie "Mr X Stitch" Chalmers interviews needlework and textile artists to find out how they make their art, how they build their business and why they love working with a needle and thread. 🎧 Members get the ad-free feed + monthly Q&A + the AfterShow segment appended to Part 2. Join the Green Room: patreon.com/xstitch

Information

  • Creator
    Jamie Chalmers
  • Years Active
    2023 - 2026
  • Episodes
    126
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Jamie Chalmers
  • Show Website
    NeedleXChange

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