Think of embroidery as coloring with thread, playful, creative, and bursting with possibilities. In this episode of Creative Living, Emmy-winning host Jane Clauss sits down with fiber artist and entrepreneur Melissa Galbraith of MCreativeJ to explore the vibrant world of hand embroidery. Whether you are a seasoned maker or just curious about picking up a needle and thread, you will discover how this timeless craft can be modern, accessible, and full of personality. From Melissa’s journey of turning a hobby into a thriving business, to beginner-friendly stitches and tips for upcycling your wardrobe, this episode is all about unlocking creativity and celebrating community through handmade art.

Listen to the entire conversation or jump ahead with the episode breakdown below.

[0:00:09 – 0:01:36] Introduction to Hand Embroidery and Guest Melissa Galbraith

In this opening segment, host Jane Clauss introduces the theme of the episode, hand embroidery, and welcomes guest Melissa Galbraith, a fiber artist and small business owner behind M Creative J. Jane sets the stage by discussing the creative possibilities of embroidery, its rich history, and how Melissa brings a modern twist to the craft. The conversation highlights Melissa’s background, her brand’s focus on bold, nature-inspired designs, and her role as an author and marketing expert. This section provides listeners with context about the guest and the creative journey they’re about to explore.

[0:01:46 – 0:04:24] Hand Embroidery Basics: Stitches, Accessibility, and Getting Started
Melissa explains what hand embroidery is, likening it to “coloring with thread.” She discusses the accessibility of the craft, emphasizing that beginners can start with just one or two basic stitches and still create beautiful work. The conversation covers the variety of stitches available, from simple ones like the satin stitch and French knot to more advanced techniques such as bullion knots and stump work. Melissa reassures listeners that embroidery is beginner-friendly and doesn’t require mastery of all stitches, making it approachable for anyone interested in trying it.

[0:08:25 – 0:12:23] From Hobby to Business: Melissa’s Entrepreneurial Journey
This segment delves into Melissa’s transition from a corporate job to running her embroidery business full-time. She shares how her passion for embroidery grew into teaching workshops and eventually writing books. Melissa discusses the challenges of valuing fiber art, the decision to pivot from selling finished pieces to creating kits and teaching, and the satisfaction she finds in helping others learn. The conversation offers insights into the realities of turning a creative hobby into a sustainable business and the importance of adaptability and community support.

"I think it just means trying new things or trying things in general. You know, because you don't know until you try it if you like it or not,"
—Melissa Galbraith. MCreativeJ

[0:18:00 – 0:20:23] Upcycling, Tools, and Practical Tips for Embroidery on Clothing
Jane and Melissa discuss the trend of upcycling clothing with hand embroidery, including practical advice for beginners. Melissa explains the importance of choosing the right fabric, preferably non-stretchy materials like cotton or linen, for those just starting out. She also addresses the use of embroidery hoops, stabilizers, and the challenges of working on different types of garments, such as denim and shoes. This section is rich with actionable tips for listeners interested in personalizing their wardrobe or starting embroidery projects on various surfaces.

[0:28:44 – 0:30:37] Camp Craft Away: Community, Workshops, and Creative Exploration
Melissa introduces Camp Craft Away, an adult summer craft camp she co-hosts near Seattle. She describes the event as a space for creative professionals and enthusiasts to try new crafts, learn from local artists, and build community. The camp features hands-on workshops in a variety of disciplines, from broom making to stained glass, and has grown significantly over the years. This segment highlights the value of creative community, the importance of making time for exploration, and the opportunities available for listeners to get involved in similar events.

Thanks for listening to the show! If you have a creative living topic or guest suggestion, please let us know!

Sarah Hurley Inspires Creativity & Strategy in this Episode of Creative Living

Feeling stuck in your creativity? This episode of Creative Living is your permission slip to break out of the “I’m just a…” mindset and start building something bold. Jane Clauss chats with creative entrepreneur and trend forecaster Sarah Hurley, who shares her no-fluff wisdom on turning passion into profit and doing it with confidence.

As Sarah Hurley beautifully puts it, creativity is 'freedom… a moment to 'mess around with paints and glitter and pretty things and try stuff out.' This powerful, open-hearted spirit sets the tone for this inspiring conversation.

From overcoming imposter syndrome to embracing industry trends without losing your spark, this episode is packed with strategies, inspiration, and that little creative kick you didn’t know you needed.

You’ll learn how to:

• Use trends to your advantage (without selling out)
• Push past doubt and show up boldly
• See the creative industry as wide open not walled off

Building, reimagining, or simply soaking it all in, this episode hits refresh on your creative spirit.

'Creativity is freedom' @SarahHurley drops the most inspiring definition of what it means to be a creative entrepreneur. Listen to the full podcast now.

Want to skip around or jump straight to the good stuff? Here’s your handy timecode breakdown because we love making it easy for you. You’re welcome!

[0:00:10 - 0:02:21] Defining the Creative Industry

Overview: Sarah Hurley breaks down the misconception that the creative industry is a narrow field. She explains that creativity spans multiple industries like greeting cards, party supplies, and stationery. Creatives often limit themselves by saying "I'm just a..." when in reality, their skills can translate across numerous sectors. The key message is to see creativity as a broad, interconnected landscape with endless possibilities for growth and innovation.

[0:12:07 - 0:15:46] Overcoming Creative Business Hurdles

Overview: Sarah discusses the common challenges creatives face when turning their passion into a business. She emphasizes that most creatives start from a hobby perspective, which differs from traditional business planning. The focus is on shifting mindsets from "I'm just..." to "I am an entrepreneur." Sarah provides strategies for goal-setting, including defining specific revenue targets and breaking down larger objectives into manageable steps to prevent overwhelm and build confidence.

[0:34:55 - 0:36:04] Sustainability: Beyond a Trend

Overview: Sarah declares sustainability is no longer just a trend but a fundamental way of doing business. She notes that manufacturers are now transparently discussing their eco-friendly processes and packaging. The conversation highlights that sustainability has evolved from simply slapping an eco-logo on a product to a comprehensive approach of understanding and implementing environmentally conscious practices across all business operations.

[0:41:35 - 0:42:22] Breaking News: Hurleywood Studios Launch

Overview: Sarah announces the launch of Hurleywood Studios, her third business venture focused on content development. Planned for launch in September/October, this new studio represents the exponential growth of her content-based business. She revealed the initial launch at the License and Expo in Vegas, expressing excitement about the upcoming projects and the studio's potential.

[0:43:36 - 0:44:26] Creativity as Freedom

Overview: When asked what creativity means to her, Sarah succinctly defines it as "freedom." She describes creativity as an escape at the end of the day, a moment to experiment with paints, glitter, and materials. The discussion concludes with her powerful message that it's never too late to start pursuing creative dreams, emphasizing that the best time to start is right now.

Discover the unexpected magic of paper in this fascinating podcast episode that goes far beyond mere writing surfaces. Join Emmy Award winning lifestyle host, Jane Clauss, as she explores Hahnemühle, a 440-year-old German paper company that's revolutionizing creativity and sustainability. Learn how innovative paper makers are transforming everyday materials like bamboo, hemp, and sugarcane into extraordinary artistic tools, challenging everything you thought you knew about paper. From the company's rich historical roots to cutting-edge sustainable production techniques, his episode explores how tradition and innovation go hand-in-hand.

Whether you’re an artist, a journaler, or just someone who loves beautiful materials with a story, you'll be amazed by how a simple sheet of paper can unlock unlimited creative potential. Get ready to turn the page on your next creative chapter, one sustainable sheet at a time.

“Creativity means for me, doing or creating something that makes me forget time… It’s not limited to art, it can help solve problems in a creative or effective way.” - Rana Ardal, Hahnemühle

If you want to jump around or revisit your favorite moment, we made a handy cheat sheet with show notes for you!

[0:00:10 - 0:02:20] Hahnemühle’s Rich History and Sustainability
- Jane introduces Hahnemühle, a 400-year-old paper company from Germany
- Highlights the company's commitment to sustainable paper production
- Emphasizes the intersection of creativity and environmental consciousness
- Sets the stage for a deep dive into innovative paper manufacturing

[0:02:37 - 0:07:10] Company Origins and Unique Production Methods
- Explanation of the company name (rooster mill)
- Detailed history of paper production dating back to 1584
- Discussion of their unique mold-made paper machine from 1871
- Insight into traditional handcrafted papermaking techniques
- Showcases the company's long-standing expertise in paper production

[0:07:46 - 0:14:13] Sustainable Fiber Innovation
- Introduction of the natural line of papers using alternative fibers
- Exploration of materials like bamboo, hemp, agave, and sugarcane
- Detailed research process for developing new sustainable paper products
- Explanation of how these fibers require less water and no pesticides
- Demonstrates the company's commitment to environmental innovation

[0:20:51 - 0:25:26] Digital Fine Art Paper and Creative Possibilities
- Invention of digital fine art paper range in 1997
- Discussion of paper's versatility beyond traditional uses
- Exploration of three-dimensional paper art
- Highlighting the museum in Berlin dedicated to paper art
- Showcasing the creative potential of paper as a medium

[0:29:16 - 0:34:43] Accessibility and Creativity for Everyone
- Launch of mini pads and bookmark products
- Emphasis on making creativity accessible to all
- Personal reflections on what creativity means to the speakers
- Encouragement for people to explore their creative potential
- Invitation to engage with Hahnemühle’s products and philosophy

"We want to inspire people, and we want to give everybody the feeling that everybody is an artist." - Barbara Knipper, Hahnemühle