From Darkness to Stitches: One Woman's Story of Art and Resilience

🧵Needlepoint Nook is an independent publication launched in July 2023 by Iryna Stegnii. ✨If you subscribe today, you'll enjoy full website access and receive weekly email newsletter featuring exciting new content. 🪡Your subscription makes this site possible and allows Needlepoint Nook to continue. ❤️ Remember, every stitch you make counts! 🫶

Welcome to Needlepoint Nook, a cozy corner filled with the vibrant energy of cross-stitch, embroidery, and the art of healing. My name is Iryna, and my journey here is woven with threads of loss, love, and an unwavering passion for needlework.

Originally from Ukraine, Portugal has become my haven, a place where I rebuild my life after experiencing unimaginable tragedy. In February 2022, the world shattered when Russia invaded my homeland. My husband, Andriy, a loving father and brilliant scientist, bravely answered the call to defend our country. Sadly, he lost his life in October, leaving a void that echoed through my soul.

This website, Needlepoint Nook, is my testament to resilience. In the darkest hours, when grief threatened to consume me, it was the rhythmic dance of needle and thread that offered solace. The intricate tapestry of stitches became my lifeline, pulling me back from the brink.

With my daughter and cats by my side, we found refuge in the rolling hills of central Portugal. Here, amidst the whispers of nature and the warmth of a new community, I began to revive my love for needlework.

Needlework: A Language of the Heart

As an artist, I find endless inspiration in the universe's mysteries, the whispers of nature, and the rich tapestry of diverse cultures. Each stitch speaks a silent language, weaving together stories of hope, resilience, and the enduring beauty of life.

Whether you're a seasoned stitcher seeking fresh patterns or a curious beginner taking your first steps, Needlepoint Nook welcomes you with open arms. My designs range from celestial wonders that spark awe to vibrant motifs inspired by ancient traditions, offering something to ignite the creative spirit within us all.

Join the Journey: Stitch by Stitch

Subscribe to my newsletter and embark on this artistic adventure with me. Discover exclusive offers, helpful tips, and regular updates on new patterns designed to inspire and challenge you. Use the #needlepointnook hashtag when posting your finished projects created from my patterns on social media.

Together, let's celebrate the joy of stitching, share our creations, and support each other's artistic pursuits. With every stitch, we transform a blank canvas into a masterpiece, a testament to the human spirit's ability to heal and create beauty even in the face of adversity.

Happy stitching,

Iryna Stegnii