Jean Littlejohn: From conception to creation

The notion of ‘a layered history’ takes on a whole new meaning in textile artist Jean Littlejohn’s hands. Her work ‘Taepa’s Portal’ literally captures hundreds of years of period designs in a single piece through fabric layers and varied stitching techniques. And now you can learn how it all came together with this very generous insider’s look from Jean herself.

Pay special attention to her use of an embellishing machine, which she thinks is often underestimated. It’s incredible how she uses it for mark-making by stitching on both sides of her fabric layers.

This piece was showcased at a recent exhibition called ‘Side by Side’ that Jean hosted with her artistic partner, Jan Beaney. Jean and Jan are not only world-renown for their individual textile art, but they’re also seen as cutting-edge educators across the globe. Their publishing company called Double Trouble Enterprises offers a wide range of books, DVDs and digital workshops. Founded in 1997, Double Trouble has been providing inspiration and instruction to textile artists of all interests and abilities.

Jean is also a member of the 62 Group of Textile Artists and Artists Fellow of the Society of Designer Craftsmen. And she is an Honorary Member of the Embroiderers Guild.