Suzie Vallerie
Suzie Vallerie has been a passionate stitcher since her teens, with nearly 30 years experience in the exciting world of needlepoint. She branched out from her retail store she currently owns and operates, The Enriched Stitch, to the wholesale side of the business by creating the Vallerie Needlepoint Gallery. VNG Canvas is a collection of fresh, fun and funky hand painted needlepoint designs. Suzie recently purchased Amanda Lawford and DC Designs, adding a revered and immensely talented artist to her gallery.
Suzie is a national needlepoint teacher, creating stitch guides for many designers.
Enjoy touring the gallery!
WHO IS AMANDA LAWFORD?
Born in England in 1951, Amanda began her interest in artistic endeavors at a very young age. Drawing, painting, puppet making, and wire sculpture were just a few of her pursuits. In fact the only thing she did well in in school was Art!
After several mainstream jobs in her early 20’s, it became apparent that office work was not for her! The opportunity arose to paint needlepoint designs through her mother, who at the time was an avid needlepointer and working for a retail needlepoint shop in Carmel, California. She suggested that Amanda should try designing and painting canvases for the shop. That was in 1975, and she has been at it ever since!
She returned to England in 1985 & 1986 and worked for the Royal School of Needlework. Amanda has also worked for the art departments of a number of music videos, television productions, and feature films.
Her distinctive line of hand-painted canvases is nationally known, and often includes the works of other artists besides her own. She is especially known for her Giant Santas, which she pioneered, as well as her decorative borders.
Amanda has retired from the needlepoint world to pursue her fine art in acrylic paintings. You can view her current work on her new website.
WHO IS DEREK CLARKE?
An artist in his own right, Derek is the man behind DC Designs. He also just happens to be Amanda’s son!
Their designs are available through specialty needlework shops nationwide.
