Jan begins the creative process by collecting and storing natural items and exploring different patterns, texture, media and markings to cultivate her final design. She uses simple yet effective methods for altering fabric prior to stitching, including dyeing, embellishing and stamping, then transforms her fabric into a vibrant, textured artwork using a combination of traditional hand stitching, machine stitching, and other media.

Following a fascinating, illustrated step-by step chapter on Jan's key techniques, join her as she takes you through the stages of three types of work for which she is most renowned: the stitched landscape, the memory cloth and the bird sculpture. Each project also includes a break down of the materials, tools and techniques used, so that you can understand as well as see the development of her astounding, mixed-media creations.

Throughout the book, a gallery of Jan's work complements her techniques and projects, providing inspiration for your own textile artwork. These are stunning pieces that will open your eyes and turn your own creative concepts into original, personal work.

She loves to help beginners to start on their own creative journeys, and so regularly delivers absorbing, fun workshops as well as offering talks and taking part in the Embroiderers' Guild's summer schools around the UK. Jan exhibits her work frequently and has experienced great success over the years. She loves embroidery and never feels fully satisfied unless the surfaces she works on are completely covered in stitch. Her finished pieces include machine and hand embroidery, appliqué and mixed media.

She works intuitively and strongly believes that there are no rules for creativity, focusing on the freedom of working naturally and organically, with a view to developing ideas that will produce unique and exciting results.

Jan lives in north-east Lincolnshire, UK, with her husband Derek and dog Bertie.