The condensed version: My grandmother did all types of needlework and taught me crewel when I was around 7. My very first piece was a clown done entirely in French knots! Since then, I've explored crochet, knitting, macrame (remember that?), needlepoint, silk painting, sewing (not my favorite), quilting, weaving, felt applique, fabric dying, cross stitch, basic hand embroidery, counted canvas work,and punchneedle. Still on my list to explore: rug hooking, and beadwork.

Somewhere along the line I decided I wanted to be an artist, went to school for fine art and fell into a graphic design program as well. Needlework design has become the perfect avenue for me to combine my design skills and my love for cross stitch. I've always had several irons in the fire, and still do! I don't see that pattern going away anytime soon, as I always have way more ideas than I have time for.

I attended the 2005 Nashville Needlework Market with just a small idea that I might like to become a designer someday... I met so many wonderful and helpful people that I came back home full of enthusiasm, got myself in gear and launched My Mark in April of 2005 at the online Needlework Show. My Mark has really come a long way in a short time…I'm looking forward to continued growth in 2008!