Experience the artistry of Melanie, a British-born artist residing in the South of France, who excels as an independent cross-stitch and blackwork designer, as well as a fabric and thread dyer.

How did you first start?

M: "I first started my creative career by designing a cross-stitch sampler inspired by the Catalan area of France, where I live. I sold the chart in a local shop, and it was an instant hit—it sold like hotcakes! From there, I created another design, then another, and before I knew it, I had become a cross-stitch designer!"

Tell me more about your business. What inspired you to start your own brand?

M: "I started my cross-stitch design business 19 years ago, in 2006, because I wanted to stay at home with my two young children. My teaching job wasn’t very fulfilling, and I needed something that fit around school runs and housework. What began as a small venture to create balance between work and home life has grown into something I’m truly passionate about."

How did you choose your business name?

M: "Originally, I wanted an English name for my company as a way to showcase my English roots while living in France. I first came up with “Rhubarb and Custard,” but my husband suggested naming it after our children instead. I loved the idea, and it quickly changed to “Tom & Lily Creations,” which felt much more personal and meaningful."

What’s the secret to your creative process and what do you enjoy most about it?

M: "The most important aspect of my creative process has always been authenticity. When I was designing cross-stitch and Blackwork, my main goal was to bring joy to my stitchers, often incorporating humor into my designs. Now that I primarily hand-dye threads and fabrics, I continue to pour positive energy and love into my colours, ensuring they bring joy and a sense of well-being to everyone who uses them."

How would you describe your style? 

M: "I would describe my cross-stitch and Blackwork designs as naïve, with a focus on simplicity and charm. The overdyed threads I create are best suited for flat, one-dimensional designs, as they don’t lend themselves to depth or perspective. Many of my designs prominently feature animals and the seasons, which have always been a major source of inspiration for me. I’m deeply influenced by the changing seasons and their unique colour palettes, which continue to shape my work today."

What’s your favorite make and why? What are you most proud of?

M: "I’m especially proud of the thread and fabric subscriptions I launched in 2020. When cross-stitch fairs were no longer possible, and we were all confined at home, I decided to create monthly subscriptions so my customers could still enjoy high-quality, hand-dyed supplies delivered straight to their doors. These monthly creations continue to inspire me, pushing me to explore new colour ranges and combinations.

I’m also incredibly proud of the bimonthly boxes (Broderie & Colour Box) I produce in collaboration with my friend Dominique Molière. These boxes mainly feature cross-stitch designs, with the occasional special technique discovery box, all complemented by my hand-dyed supplies." 

What do you hope people get from your art?

M: "I hope my art brings a sense of well-being through stitching and colour. My goal is for my colours to bring joy and pleasure to the stitchers who use them. Taking a bit of time each day to stitch is such an important way to relax, reset, and stimulate the brain to release feel-good hormones. It’s not just about the products themselves but about what they convey—a moment of calm and creativity in a busy world."

What’s the biggest lesson you’ve learned?

M: "Over the past 19 years, I’ve learned countless lessons, both in business and personally, as I’ve grown alongside my business. The biggest lesson I’ve learned is that I’m solely responsible for my success. When I set my heart and soul into something, I know I’ll always find a way to make it happen. I’ve also learned that if I follow my intuition and stay true to my most authentic self, my mission is always attainable."

What fun things can we expect from you in the future?

M: "I’m constantly creating in my mind, even when I sleep! There are so many ideas I’d love to bring to life, but they need to be done one step at a time. I’ve just launched a new subscription platform and I’m working on exciting new offers for my subscribers, including half subscriptions and a free private membership for all who subscribe. There are plenty of other plans in the works, so stay tuned and keep in touch!"

Melanie can be found on:  Instagram / Facebook / Website