In this episode of NeedleXChange I interview Neil Twist, an academic and self-confessed beginner stitcher based in Melbourne. Neil’s just a year into his embroidery journey, but already he’s exploring big questions about masculinity, perception, and what it means to stitch as a man. We talk about the courage it takes to embroider in public, the reactions you get – both expected and surprising – and how those quiet moments with needle and thread can spark real social reflection. Neil’s experience as a gay man brings a rich and thoughtful perspective to the conversation, especially as we compare how our respective identities shape our paths in textile art.
This wasn't planned as a NeedleXChange but it was such a good chat Neil allowed me to share it!
Timestamps:
00:00:00 - Intro
00:01:30 - Courage in Needlework: A Gender Perspective
00:04:32 - Public Perception and Personal Anecdotes
00:07:36 - Exploring the Embroiderers Guild Experience
00:10:29 - Cultural Connections Through Needlework
00:13:42 - The Historical Context of Needlework in Australia
00:16:32 - The Role of Samplers in Education and Morality
00:19:35 - The Evolution of Needlework Practices
00:22:39 - Cross-Stitch: A Gateway Craft and Its Potential
Intro music is Zulu by Lucas Pittman via Epidemic Sound (https://www.epidemicsound.com/referral/3403dx) .
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/
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If you want embroidery inspiration and regular doses of textile art, visit the Mr X Stitch site here: https://www.mrxstitch.com (https://www.mrxstitch.com/)
If you're looking for modern cross stitch designs, then XStitch is the magazine you need!
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