I love the start of a new year. Each month I love to write a round up of what I’ve been making. This helps me to see what I’ve made, and holds me accountable for projects half started or bought. This year I’m calling my series The Monthly Thread. January’s post is all about a embroidery sampler & linen collage.

The Monthly Thread: January’s embroidery sampler & linen collage

Let’s start off with the embroidery sampler and linen collage! My first finished make of 2026 was the Pretty Fabrics and Trims Christmas Countdown panel. This was a lovely project to have sitting around and I enjoyed embroidering each motif, hand quilting the panel and binding it all together. I’ve kept it around all month to enjoy but will have to pack it away for next winter at some point.

Once I had finished the panel I moved on to the Craftpod sub box which featured a collage of a robin. Although this was more embroidery, it was fun. I love linen and felt and it came together quickly. I kept the piece square (rather than framed in an embroidery hoop). I have half an idea of making a fabric book with some of my embroideries in ….

As well as all the stitching there were other crafts too. We updated our 3d printed Lego wreath for Spring with hearts and bows.

There was baking too, with some of the kits I picked up for my Gingerbread Gift Guide.

We did leave the house and managed some lovely days out. We visited Strawberry Hill House where I admired the hand stitched labels warning you not to touch anything. We took the tube underneath London to visit the Museum of the Home decorated for Christmas past, as well as the gorgeous Dennis Severs House. Finally, we squeezed in a trip to see the newly designed Liberty fabrics at the Imperial War Museum.

Today I went to the Fashion and Textile Museum to take part in a subverted tea towel workshop with Holly Searle. Using vintage tea towels, the original meaning is subverted by adding a statement which alters the original perspective. It was fun and a great way to spend a morning.

Let me know, what have you been baking or making recently?