Letters from Lycette

Q&A with The Lady Derby

Jun 29, 2026

When did you first learn needlepoint, and who taught you?

My mentor, Nancy, has given me so many gifts (lessons) and needlepoint is one of these gems. At the time she was my boss and I was a young 20something who didn’t know much about anything. I’ll let the reader do the math & figure out how long it’s been since my first project :)

Who or what inspires you when it comes to needlepoint?

Nieces and nephews - hands down the best inspo. I adore thinking about what will enhance their special occasions, like the OG birthday crown, and love designing things they will find amusing. The memory of our five year old niece’s reaction to spotting the cow jumping over the moon on the Christmas tree lives forever in my head. Thankfully, their tastes are always changing which keeps my brain actively searching for ways to illicit a giggle from them.

What inspired you to start designing needlepoint?

Initially, it was to create things I couldn’t find in the wild. It was natural for me to paint and stitch gifts for friends… friends with new babies, friends getting married, etc. Designing needlepoint is about being open-minded, clever and collaborative… a fun mindset that’s kept me in this space for so long. I am compelled to dream up new things depicted in needlepoint that can enhance an occasion or serve as a reminder of something special. Needlepoint (both painting and stitching) is intentional, contemplative, and I truly believe everything worthwhile takes time.

How would you describe your aesthetic?

I would say that my styles evolve organically and my aesthetic tends to be warm, personal and not overly edited.

Favorites

Thread

Vineyard Silk

18 Mesh or 13 Mesh?

18 Mesh

Spot to stitch

Stitching with one of our dogs on my lap snoring away. HEAVEN! But I needlepoint everywhere: on the tread, in the bath, while cooking… just haven’t mastered it while driving. But just in case there’s traffic, I have a project in the car!

Needlepoint Ins & Outs for 2026

In

building color palettes as I stitch a project

Out

sticking to the prescribed colors

In

stitching with your phone in another room

Out

stitching with your phone nearby

In

taking projects on and off stretcher bars

Out

stretcher bars 24/7

In

savoring the journey

Out

hustling to finish a needlepoint canvas

