Bright and early on a Monday morning, and here’s the first of my two Big Newses I’ve been waiting to share: I’m delighted to be hosting a workshop on the fabulous Making Zen online stitching retreat, happening from 26th May, and you can get your free ticket here:
Making Zen is much more than just another free event. Itās an opportunity to slow down, tune out the noise, and reconnect with your inner artist. If you’re looking for a quiet pocket of time to make something with those delicious scraps of fabric and threads, then here’s an invitation to somewhere special.
Itās called the Making Zen Online Retreat, and itās five soul-soothing days (26ā30 May 2025) hosted by Kate Ward of Zen Stitching, where 32 (!) makers, artists, and creators share an invitation to slow down, reconnect with your creativity, and rediscover the joy of making with your hands.
You’ll discover:
- How to turn your scraps and remnants into stunning art (and peace of mind)
- Cultural traditions in art to explore
- Why listening to your gut might be the most creative move you make

And I’m delighted to be there too, sharing my session on zero waste stitching.
If you’ve already purchased the course, the Making Zen workshop will still be of value. In addition to the workshops there are free gifts and exclusive extras, plus you get to join over thirty other workshops from some incredible artists including Jody Alexander, Ann Smith, Mirjam Gielen, and many more.
And the best thing about all of this is that – yes! – itās 100% free to attend.
No strings, no catch. Just art, peace, and a community of makers who understand the value of quiet, mindful making.
I’ll look forward to seeing you there, with an open mind and hands full of thread.
For transparency, you will see that this email contains a few links to the Making Zen ticket. These are affiliate links, which means if you later decide to upgrade to the VIP Pass, Iāll receive a small commission (at no extra cost to you) and you’ll be helping to support my work as an independent artist. Thank you so much for signing up – there’s so much to enjoy here.
And PS – for anyone looking for information on pricing (for the VIP pass) here are the prices:
Fast action – $67 for first hour after signing up
Early bird – $97 until event begins
Regular – $147 until the end of the event.
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This all sounds so wonderful, Karen, many congrats on being part of such a wonderful gathering of creatives! Iām very interested in attending, yet due to health concerns I would need to purchase an add-on VIP ticket/membership in order to glean the most from trying to attend some courses. I canāt for the life of me find any transparency on this cost posted anywhere – could someone direct me to that info, please? I would be so appreciative ššš»
Christi Carter
Dear Flora Studio
So sorry, Christi, I should have included that information. Here are the prices for the VIP pass:
Fast action $67 for first hour after signing up
Early bird $97 until event begins
Regular $147 until the end of the event
Thanks so much š
Thank you, very exciting or should I not be excited?
Thanks, Maureen, I think a little gentle excitement and anticipation are probably both appropriate here
On how lovely that you’re going to be part of making zen. I’ve participated in it for the last few years, such a great way to explore techniques and discover talented makers. I’ll definitely be joining in this year too š Fiona
Lovely! It’s my first time and I can see there are some amazing artists taking part. Looking forward to it too š
I’m thrilled to learn you’ll be part of the Making Zen workshops and I have registered!
fabulous – thanks so much Stephanie š
I really like Making Zen and have gotten to take classes from amazing people. How fun you’re doing it this year!
Looking forward to it.
It was a lovely surprise to be asked to take part. Looking forward to it too š
What a splendid idea for an event!
Yes, it looks great, I’m delighted to have been included in the line-up