A chat with Zoe from Junebug and Darlin

We recently started stocking cross stitch kits from Junebug and Darlin both because we love them and also because we recognise that in parts of the world that aren't Scotland, there are months when knitting is not that enjoyable and it is good to have other craft options.

Zoe was kind enough to record a brief overview of her crafting philosophy. We have shared that over on Ysolda's instagram, but we are putting the transcript here. 

This is Zoe from Junebug and Darlin, I use she/her pronouns, live in Portland, Oregon and create modern cross stitch kits.

When I design a new pattern, I want to make sure it will be something that folks will want to make and display with pride. A lot of my phrases are inspired by radical activist movements and self-care affirmations, in addition to the subversion of traditional cross stitch designs like homo, sweet homo.

I try to design kits that inspire me in hopes that they will inspire others. One of the best parts about crafting these forever pieces is seeing which designs resonate with which individuals. For some the perfect kit is a rainbow safe space and for others its fierce and tender.

I love making crafts for queers and I’m glad my work can go beyond just my community. Seeing the variety of folks that purchase kits for themselves or their friends is really encouraging. I hope to keep designing kits that allow a diverse group of folks to participate in my craftivist agenda.

As well as the beautiful kits we stock, Zoe offers a selection of PDFs she calls "Donation Based Purchases". These PDFs are created with specific non-profit organizations in mind and 100% of the proceeds from their purchases are given to the organization attached. Current designs donate to Planned Parenthood, Southerners on New Ground and the Transgender Law Center.