Canvas Conversations: Laura Shih

Today in our Canvas Conversations Series, I am excited to introduce to you fellow stitcher, Laura Shih. Inspired by a close friend and long-time needlepointer, @stitched_af, Laura began stitching during the pandemic, as many did. She grew up in Bethesda, MD, and attended New York University. She is currently a Senior Account Manager at Amazon Ads, but outside of work her main "job" is working on her new home build, set to be complete in late 2023/early 2024. She currently resides in Summit, NJ with her husband and golden retriever, Lucky, until their new home is complete. When she has time, she loves to stitch projects to go in the new house. She is an avid traveler, and loves to stitch ornaments as mementos of the trips she takes throughout the year, as well as collecting charms from each location for her charm bracelet. This year, she is looking forward to trips to Nantucket, Lake Como, the Hamptons, Charleston, Maine, Bethany Beach, Venice, St. Barths - and lots of stitching ahead!

I sat down with Laura and asked her 20 questions:

Favorite needlepoint project 
Definitely my wedding crest that I had custom painted. It was an ambitious, large, 18 mesh project that I started when I was just learning to needlepoint and ended up taking me over a year to complete. I still haven’t had it finished - that might take another year! We are building a house, and I plan to choose my finishing fabric to coordinate with our new primary bedroom. It will be such a special piece to have in our new home.
 
On your needlepoint Wishlist. This year I have been trying very hard not to purchase anything new as my stash is completely out of control, but I can never resist a sassy saying or an ornament to commemorate a trip. I have my eye on this Nantucket ornament and this bar sign! I also would love to do the Patricia Stone nativity set or Tricia Lowenfield Designs 12 days of Christmas as my next big holiday series. (Santa, are you listening?!) 
 
Dream stitching spot. Lakeside in Lake Como. Thankfully I am headed back there in July!  

13 or 18 Mesh Canvas. Both! But if I had to choose just one, 13.  

Last book you read and liked. Brazen by Julia Haart

Favorite flower. Hydrangeas  

Guilty pleasure. Reality TV - I am a Bravoholic. 

On your nightstand. A candle, orts jar and scissors, a silver heart dish, Laneige lip mask (IYKYK), citrine, rose quartz, and palo santo. 
 
Currently listening to. Meduza is my favorite right now - summer vibes! 
 
Currently watching. Under the Banner of Heaven on Hulu and Keep Sweet: Pray and Obey on Netflix - I love true crime and anything cult-related/adjacent. 
 
If there were more hours in the day I would. Spend more time stitching!! 

Favorite places to shop  J.Crew, Ralph Lauren, Hill House, Net-a-Porter, Nordstrom, and love a good local boutique! 

Favorite Instagram follows. @marthastewart48 @hillhousevintage @evachen212 @eholmes @vincentmeylan @melissasmrekar @carly @kristarobertso @melangecollecte @lycettedesigns 

Can’t leave the house without. At least 2 lip balms/lip glosses, sunglasses, hair tie, keys/phone/wallet. 

Coffee or tea. I’m not drinking caffeine at the moment! But I love a decaf iced coffee or decaf Twinings English Breakfast. 
 
Favorite holiday to celebrate. Christmas!

Wardrobe staples. Nap dresses, a good pair of jeans, white tees, linen, cashmere sweaters, and anything blue and white!

Creative inspiration. Travel, Instagram, Pinterest

Best piece of advice. Wear sunscreen every day, even when it’s cloudy, and even in the winter.

Life mantra. Live, travel, adventure, bless, and don’t be sorry.” - Jack Kerouac

 


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