Jean founded Jean Farish Needleworks in 1981 and organized the first Stitchers’ Escapes cruise in 2016. She teaches needlepoint, counted cross stitch, and other forms of counted thread. She especially loves all forms of whitework.
We asked her to answer a few questions so you can get to know her.
What inspired you to become a designer & start Jean Farish Needleworks?
It’s a wonderful combination of color, design, and math. I see the world in a grid of linen and canvas!
How would you describe your teaching style?
My goal is to be methodical and very much step-by-step with a good dose of humor thrown in for good measure. I want my students to learn in a relaxed atmosphere and to leave the class feeling good about what they are doing. I call it developing “stitch confidence” and that is important to me. My emphasis is on learning, more than on teaching.
Where do you live?
Winston-Salem, … a beautiful city with a rich history in the rolling hills of North Carolina’s piedmont region
When did you start doing needlework?
My earliest memory is being six years old and buying a skein of floss for a nickel and an iron-transfer for about the same at the local Woolworths Five & Dime. I have had a love of what can be created with a threaded needle for a very long time.
Besides needlework, what do you do in your spare time?
I have a nearly insatiable appetite for reading novels. I sew and dabble in quilting and knitting. I don’t cook as much as I once did but I can still bake a pretty good pie!
What do you look forward to on the Stitchers’ Escapes Cruises?
Camaraderie … that indescribable connection with kindred spirits that happens when needleworkers get together; seeing the sights in so many amazing places; fantastic food that I don’t have to prepare nor clean up; and hours and hours of stitching time!
Jean’s 2019 Classes
Escape to Bermuda: Kathryn’s Garden
Escape to Alaska: The Deer & The Grapes
Jean’s 2018 Escape to Europe Classes
Connect with Jean Farish
Jean Farish Needleworks Website