Find out more about Essex's creative new company Thread & Fold

What made you launch your new Essex embroidery and haberdashery business? 
I have always been attracted to creative activities and my latest venture is borne out of a personal passion and enjoyment for stitching and embroidery. Thread & Fold is a creative something that has been bubbling up in me for quite a while through my love for fabric and stitching. When lockdown arrived out of the blue, I decided to use the time and space to focus and make it happen. During the last three months I have worked on producing new designs, products and ideas to engage and inspire those both new and familiar with embroidery. My designs reflect my observations with the world and I like to think that they bring joy and a smile wherever they may sit in a home. 

What's your background?
I have always worked within the creative industries and I am an artist at heart. My previous incarnation was Valerie Valerie Designs as a freelance illustrator and stationery designer where, much like Thread & Fold, I created my own ranges of cards and stationery that grew both online and in retailers across the country including John Lewis. My designs were also used on many different homeware products in the US including fabrics, wall art and luggage.

How can your products be used for weddings?
My floral kits make fabulous gifts for the wedding party, especially as they could be themed to the colours and floral choices of the wedding day.

What's your favourite embroidery kit? 
Summer Florals is my favourite kit as I think it typifies my work, style and designs. The flowing textures and vibrant colours work well with the grey linen fabric and I especially liked embroidering the pretty pink French knots.

Visit www.threadandfold.com