The Exemplary 2026
3rd Place, Professional Original

Inspiration and Intent
My journey with Miss Ruby began as a tribute to NAN’s 40th Anniversary. Although she wasn’t finished in time for the exhibit, she became an exciting future teaching piece. I’ve always been captivated by portraits created with needlework, so I set out to make one myself—especially a portrait that blends different materials and techniques. This project offered the perfect chance to bring my love of mixed media into the world of needlework.

Design Concept
Inspired by late Victorian and early 20th-century portraits, I wanted Miss Ruby to have a timeless elegance and a touch of playful charm. My vision included rich colors, sparkling textures, and a glance that would capture the viewer’s attention.

Materials Used
For the main portrait, I worked on an 18-count canvas. Miss Ruby’s hat was done on Merlot Congress Cloth. The hat itself was attached to the main canvas using applique technique. I anchored the hat with a string of pearl trim for extra flair. To finish, I added “millinery accents” such as feathers or ribbons, to give her a three-dimensional look.

Stitching Techniques
Her head and feathers were stitched directly onto the canvas. I experimented with mixed media by combining different types of threads, including rayon metallic (a shiny thread), to capture blue glints in her raven hair. Her eye was crafted with layers of sparkling metallic thread, creating that flirtatious glance I imagined. Each step felt exciting, as I tried new techniques and watched her personality emerge.

Finishing Touches and Artistic Choices
I deliberately left the background empty—no extra stitching—so Miss Ruby’s personality could shine without distractions. Adding the hat and millinery accents was so much fun, and I loved how these details made her pop off the canvas. Choosing colors and textures was a joyful process, and I felt connected to Miss Ruby through every stage of creation.

Final Reflections
Creating Miss Ruby was a wonderful adventure in needlework and mixed media. My fascination with portraits—and the thrill of experimenting—motivated me from start to finish. I hope viewers feel her spirit and charm as vividly as I did while stitching her story.