Mary Beale: How long have you been stitching? Who taught you to stitch?
Annemiek Koning: "I have been stitching since I was a little girl. My mum taught me how to do it and the first project I stitched was a bookmark on aida with a running stitch. All in very bright colors of course."
Mary Beale:
Do you mainly cross-stitch or needlepoint?
Annemiek Koning: "I do mostly cross-stitch. Earlier this year while visiting a dear friend in Dallas, she taught me how to needlepoint and ever since I have been working on projects on and off. But cross-stitch is my main passion."Mary Beale: Do you stitch mainly for yourself or others?
Annemiek Koning: "I started out stitching lots of things for other people. At acertain moment I realized that though I had been stitching for years, I had hardly anything in my own house. Most of what I stitch these days are for my own pleasure."Mary Beale: What is the biggest needlework project you have ever undertaken? Did you keep it or give it away?
Annemiek Koning: "The biggest project hmmm, I don't do a lot of really big projects. I am working on a band sampler which is about 250 stitches square and that is big to me. And it will definitely stay in my possession."Mary Beale: Which Mary Beale design have you stitched? Have you stitched more than one?
Annemiek Koning: "The quaker sampler is the first one I have stitched. Until the website appeared I didn't really know about Mary's designs. Needless to say I am compensating for that now. Now that the quaker sampler is done I am looking for a new project to start. Could be one of the stockings as I really like them."
Mary Beale:
Do you have a favorite? Why?
Annemiek Koning: "About two years ago I saw Sampler Wreath stitched up and fell in love with it. I guess from what I have seen so far that's my favorite design. I love alphabets, houses and the unusual shape of the design appeals strongly to me."Mary Beale: Do any of your Mary Beale needlework projects have a story?
Annemiek Koning: "Not really, the quaker sampler was something I wanted to stitch for a long time and when I got the 45 count fabric and soie surfine I knew this was what I wanted to stitch it on and with."Mary Beale: Do you have any special old needlework in your home such as old samplers, Victorian or vintage beaded bags, etc?
Annemiek Koning: "I do have a sampler that was stitched my one of my great-grandaunts. It isn't finished but it is really beautiful."Mary Beale: Do you pursue any other artistic endeavors such as painting, gardening, interior design, etc? Are any of these artistic pursuits your career?
Annemiek Koning: "Yes, I design cross stitch patterns myself and it is a part of my career. Still have an almost f/t job, but designing allows me to pursue a dream."
