Hillary Fayle's Embroidered Leaves

I received the Spring 2012 issue of Fiber Art Now in the mail the other day. I was so excited to see the photo of Hillary Fayle's embroidered leaves gracing the cover and couldn't wait to find out more about these beautiful works of art. Fayle studied embroidery at the Manchester Metropolitan University in Manchester, England. Passionate for environmental conservation, she began working with leaves after being surrounded and inspired by the beauty of nature at a summer camp she was working at shortly after returning home from her studies in England.

" I generally try to use renewable, sustainable and environmentally friendly materials for my art, so this was an obvious choice. I feel that the delicate yet elaborate stitching reflects the intricate patterns and incredible detail found in the natural world."

The leaves are coated in a non-toxic preservative so they are protected and are able to be stitched on without tearing, as well as retaining their color. Her stitches are inspired by traditional methods of joinery that she adapts and makes variations of, as well as using the actual traditional stitches.

She also makes these incredible leaf cuttings utilizing a more illustrative approach:

Aren't these amazing?

I would love a collection of these delicate and beautiful leaves behind glass. I am excited to see more of Hillary's work and where else it takes her.

For more information and photographs visit http://hillaryfayle.wordpress.com/lovestitching/

*All photographs on this post are from http://hillaryfayle.wordpress.com/lovestitching/