NeedleXChange

Jamie Chalmers
  • 5.0 (4)
  • ARTS
  • UPDATED WEEKLY
NeedleXChange

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. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  1. Rosie James - Worth The Wait Part 2 [NX078]

    3 DAYS AGO

    Rosie James - Worth The Wait Part 2 [NX078]

    In this episode of NeedleXChange, I continue my conversation with Rosie James, a machine embroidery artist who stitches everyday moments into intricate textile pieces. In Part 2, we dive into her technical process, from working with transparent fabrics to engineering large-scale embroidery. Rosie also shares insights into her evolving artistic practice—and her unexpected love of playing the accordion! Timestamps: 00:00:00 – Intro 00:00:45 – Engineering large-scale embroidery: hoops, tension, and materials 00:09:33 – Stitch speed and movement: balancing control and fluidity 00:18:26 – Appliqué vs. line work: when to add colour 00:27:54 – The evolution of Rosie’s work and what’s next 00:35:40 – Folk music, film, and… accordion playing?! Links: Website: rosiejamestextileartist.wordpress.com Instagram: rosiejamestextileartist Intro music is The Juggler by Ch@ntarelle 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: https://www.needl.exchange/ Sign up for the NeedleXChange Newsletter here: https://bit.ly/NeedleXChangeNews If you want embroidery inspiration and regular doses of textile art, visit the Mr X Stitch site here: https://www.mrxstitch.com If you're looking for modern cross stitch designs, then XStitch is the magazine you need! Subscribe to XStitch Magazine here: https://xstitchmag.com/modern-cross-stitch-magazine/ And follow Mr X Stitch on all the usual social media channels! Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MrXStitchTwitter: https://www.twitter.com/MrXStitchInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/MrXStitchPinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/mrxstitch/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mrjamiechalmers Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    38 min
  2. Rosie James - Worth The Wait [NX077]

    FEB 17

    Rosie James - Worth The Wait [NX077]

    In this episode of NeedleXChange, I interview Rosie James, a textile artist renowned for her free-motion embroidery that captures fleeting human moments. Rosie’s work explores movement, liminality, and the unseen narratives of crowds, often stitching figures frozen in time from photographs she takes in public spaces. Timestamps: 00:00:00 – Intro 00:01:46 – Absurdism, liminality, and waiting in Rosie’s work 00:10:27 – Documenting movement through stitch 00:19:35 – The role of loose threads in capturing energy 00:28:10 – From print to embroidery: Rosie’s artistic journey 00:35:55 – Crowd Cloud and the transition to large-scale installations Links: Website: rosiejamestextileartist.wordpress.com Instagram: rosiejamestextileartist Intro music is The Juggler by Ch@ntarelle 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: https://www.needl.exchange/ Sign up for the NeedleXChange Newsletter here: https://bit.ly/NeedleXChangeNews If you want embroidery inspiration and regular doses of textile art, visit the Mr X Stitch site here: https://www.mrxstitch.com If you're looking for modern cross stitch designs, then XStitch is the magazine you need! Subscribe to XStitch Magazine here: https://xstitchmag.com/modern-cross-stitch-magazine/ And follow Mr X Stitch on all the usual social media channels! Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MrXStitchTwitter: https://www.twitter.com/MrXStitchInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/MrXStitchPinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/mrxstitch/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mrjamiechalmers Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    40 min
  3. Alison Carpenter-Hughes - Free-Motion, Free Spirit Part 2 [NX076]

    FEB 10

    Alison Carpenter-Hughes - Free-Motion, Free Spirit Part 2 [NX076]

    In this episode of NeedleXChange, I interview Alison Carpenter-Hughes. In part two of our conversation, Alison dives deeper into the emotional and symbolic aspects of her work. We discuss her connection to Leicester’s textile heritage, her ventures into community art, and how she plans to push the boundaries of her practice with bold colours, symbolism, and new materials. Plus, we get a glimpse into her personal world - her love of rock music, film favourites, and the books that inspire her creativity. Timestamps: 00:00:00 - Introduction 00:02:10 - The emotional impact of Alison’s work and historical research 00:10:45 - Leicester’s textile heritage and community art projects 00:22:30 - Exploring risk, experimentation, and storytelling in embroidery 00:35:00 - The challenge of stitching on unconventional materials, including money 00:45:40 - Moving beyond realism: symbolism, colour, and embracing her darker side 00:56:20 - Music, film, and books that inspire Alison 01:05:10 - What’s next? Big changes and new creative directions Links: Website: ajcgallery.com Instagram: pootlesmoon Intro music is The Juggler by Ch@ntarelle 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: https://www.needl.exchange/ Sign up for the NeedleXChange Newsletter here: https://bit.ly/NeedleXChangeNews If you want embroidery inspiration and regular doses of textile art, visit the Mr X Stitch site here: https://www.mrxstitch.com If you're looking for modern cross stitch designs, then XStitch is the magazine you need! Subscribe to XStitch Magazine here: https://xstitchmag.com/modern-cross-stitch-magazine/ And follow Mr X Stitch on all the usual social media channels! Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MrXStitchTwitter: https://www.twitter.com/MrXStitchInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/MrXStitchPinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/mrxstitch/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mrjamiechalmers Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    40 min
  4. Alison Carpenter-Hughes - Free-Motion, Free Spirit [NX075]

    FEB 3

    Alison Carpenter-Hughes - Free-Motion, Free Spirit [NX075]

    In this episode of NeedleXChange, I interview Alison Carpenter-Hughes. Alison is a machine embroidery artist known for her intricate, emotionally resonant portraits. Her work explores texture, layering, and the interplay of colour to bring stitched images to life. In this episode, she shares her journey from discovering free-motion embroidery to refining her craft, discussing the creative risks, technical challenges, and personal stories woven into her work. If you like free motion embroidery, then episodes 25 & 26 with Julie Heaton are also worth a listen! Timestamps: 00:00:00 - Introduction 00:01:25 - Alison’s journey into machine embroidery 00:07:00 - Early works and first experiments with free-motion stitching 00:15:40 - Winning Needle Crafter of the Year and gaining recognition 00:21:10 - The technical challenges of embroidery, from puckering to stabilisers 00:35:30 - Using thread like paint and the evolution of her artistic style 00:45:55 - The emotional depth in her portraits and finding personal expression Links: Website: ajcgallery.com Instagram: pootlesmoon Intro music is The Juggler by Ch@ntarelle 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: https://www.needl.exchange/ Sign up for the NeedleXChange Newsletter here: https://bit.ly/NeedleXChangeNews If you want embroidery inspiration and regular doses of textile art, visit the Mr X Stitch site here: https://www.mrxstitch.com If you're looking for modern cross stitch designs, then XStitch is the magazine you need! Subscribe to XStitch Magazine here: https://xstitchmag.com/modern-cross-stitch-magazine/ And follow Mr X Stitch on all the usual social media channels! Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MrXStitchTwitter: https://www.twitter.com/MrXStitchInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/MrXStitchPinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/mrxstitch/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mrjamiechalmers Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    47 min
  5. Harriett Riddell - Portrait Machine Part 2 [NX074]

    JAN 27

    Harriett Riddell - Portrait Machine Part 2 [NX074]

    In this episode of NeedleXChange I interview Harriet Riddell. Harriet is a globally celebrated free-motion embroidery artist who brings her sewing machine to life in unexpected places, capturing the essence of people, places, and stories through her unique art. Known for her adventurous spirit, Harriet has travelled the world—embroidering bustling Indian markets, serene UK woodlands, and everything in between. This is the first part of our NeedleXChange, and if you enjoy Harriet's work then listen to episodes 63 + 64 with Peter Frederiksen, another machine stitch marvel! Timestamps: 00:00:12 - Intro 00:02:40 - Harriet’s process for stitching portraits and embedding personal stories 00:10:15 - Capturing architecture and everyday life in embroidery 00:18:34 - Creating large-scale works and balancing creativity with practicality 00:25:08 - How motherhood shapes Harriet’s creative perspective 00:28:12 - Harriet's favourite music, film and book choices 00:38:00 - A fact that not a lot of people know about Harriett Riddell Links: Website: institchyou.com Instagram: institchyou Intro music is 222 by Sarah The Illstrumentalist 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: https://www.needl.exchange/ Sign up for the NeedleXChange Newsletter here: https://bit.ly/NeedleXChangeNews If you want embroidery inspiration and regular doses of textile art, visit the Mr X Stitch site here: https://www.mrxstitch.com If you're looking for modern cross stitch designs, then XStitch is the magazine you need! Subscribe to XStitch Magazine here: https://xstitchmag.com/modern-cross-stitch-magazine/ And follow Mr X Stitch on all the usual social media channels! Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MrXStitchTwitter: https://www.twitter.com/MrXStitchInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/MrXStitchPinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/mrxstitch/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mrjamiechalmers Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    40 min
  6. Harriett Riddell - Portrait Machine [NX073]

    JAN 20

    Harriett Riddell - Portrait Machine [NX073]

    In this episode of NeedleXChange I interview Harriet Riddell. Harriet is a globally celebrated free-motion embroidery artist who brings her sewing machine to life in unexpected places, capturing the essence of people, places, and stories through her unique art. Known for her adventurous spirit, Harriet has travelled the world—embroidering bustling Indian markets, serene UK woodlands, and everything in between. This is the first part of our NeedleXChange, and if you enjoy Harriet's work then listen to episodes 63 + 64 with Peter Frederiksen, another machine stitch marvel! Timestamps: 00:00:12 - Introduction 00:02:54 - The story behind her son’s name and their love for Bluey 00:10:58 - Emotional connections in media and the power of storytelling through embroidery 00:17:05 - Harriet’s exhibition work, including innovative laser-cut felt pieces 00:23:40 - The challenges of large-scale embroidery and new techniques 00:27:14 - Harriet’s time in India stitching street scenes and saris 00:33:28 - The creative freedom of a bicycle-powered sewing machine Links: Website: institchyou.com Instagram: institchyou Intro music is 222 by Sarah The Illstrumentalist 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: https://www.needl.exchange/ Sign up for the NeedleXChange Newsletter here: https://bit.ly/NeedleXChangeNews If you want embroidery inspiration and regular doses of textile art, visit the Mr X Stitch site here: https://www.mrxstitch.com If you're looking for modern cross stitch designs, then XStitch is the magazine you need! Subscribe to XStitch Magazine here: https://xstitchmag.com/modern-cross-stitch-magazine/ And follow Mr X Stitch on all the usual social media channels! Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MrXStitchTwitter: https://www.twitter.com/MrXStitchInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/MrXStitchPinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/mrxstitch/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mrjamiechalmers Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    41 min
  7. Betsy Greer - Godmother of Craftivism Part 2 [NX072]

    JAN 13

    Betsy Greer - Godmother of Craftivism Part 2 [NX072]

    In this episode of NeedleXChange I interview Betsy Greer. Betsy Greer is a writer, speaker and advocate for the benefits of craft as a tool for change. In this episode, Betsy shares how she came to be a craft legend, the value of Joy as a crafting direction and we touch on Betsy's cultural favourites. If you like this use of needlework, my NeedleXChange with Liz Kueneke might also give you food for thought. Timestamps: 00:00:00 - Intro 00:01:30 - The Birth of Craftivism 00:07:53 - Exploring Personal Influences in Crafting 00:14:29 - The Importance of Safety in Craftivism Projects 00:23:32 - The Pursuit of Joy 00:26:40 - Betsy's Favourite TV show 00:30:00 - Betsy's Favourite Films 00:32:10 - Betsy's Favourite Album 00:39:40 - Crafting as a Therapeutic Practice 00:44:47 - A Unique Beginning: Betsy's Story Links: Website: hellobetsygreer.com Instagram: craftivista Intro music is Fearless and Faithful by Christian Anderson 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: https://www.needl.exchange/ Sign up for the NeedleXChange Newsletter here: https://bit.ly/NeedleXChangeNews If you want embroidery inspiration and regular doses of textile art, visit the Mr X Stitch site here: https://www.mrxstitch.com And follow Mr X Stitch on all the usual social media channels! Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MrXStitchTwitter: https://www.twitter.com/MrXStitchInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/MrXStitchPinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/mrxstitch/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mrjamiechalmers Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    40 min
  8. Betsy Greer - Godmother of Craftivism [NX071]

    JAN 6

    Betsy Greer - Godmother of Craftivism [NX071]

    In this episode of NeedleXChange I interview Betsy Greer. Betsy Greer is a writer, speaker and advocate for the benefits of craft as a tool for change. In this episode, Betsy shares how this idea came to life, how crafting can be a tool for empowerment, and why it’s such a powerful form of storytelling. This conversation goes pretty deep pretty fast but it was a great opportunity to dive into the topic that I couldn't miss. If you like this use of needlework, my NeedleXChange with Kate Kretz might also inspire you. Timestamps: 00:00:00 - Intro 00:01:30 - Craftivism: A Personal Journey 00:07:32 - Personal Transformation Through Craft 00:10:25 - The Role of Choice in Craftivism 00:13:39 - Documenting Change Through Textiles 00:16:32 - The Impact of Personal Narratives 00:22:29 - The Intersection of History and Craft 00:25:27 - The Pragmatic Approach to Change 00:30:13 - Addressing Overwhelming Issues in Apparel Factories 00:32:03 - Finding Local Solutions to Global Problems 00:34:29 - The Role of Creativity in Activism Links: Website: hellobetsygreer.com Instagram: craftivista Intro music is Fearless and Faithful by Christian Anderson 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: https://www.needl.exchange/ Sign up for the NeedleXChange Newsletter here: https://bit.ly/NeedleXChangeNews If you want embroidery inspiration and regular doses of textile art, visit the Mr X Stitch site here: https://www.mrxstitch.com And follow Mr X Stitch on all the usual social media channels! Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MrXStitchTwitter: https://www.twitter.com/MrXStitchInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/MrXStitchPinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/mrxstitch/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mrjamiechalmers Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    43 min
See All (78)

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
4 Ratings

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. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Information

  • Creator
    Jamie Chalmers
  • Years Active
    2023 - 2025
  • Episodes
    78
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © XStitch Limited
  • Show Website
    NeedleXChange

You Might Also Like

To listen to explicit episodes, sign in.

Stay up to date with this show

Sign in or sign up to follow shows, save episodes, and get the latest updates.
Select a country or region

Africa, Middle East, and India

Asia Pacific

Europe

Latin America and the Caribbean

The United States and Canada