What's on and coming up...

As January draws to a close, there’s a real sense of momentum building at NaviStitch - exhibitions changing, workshops coming up, and lots of creative plans taking shape as we head into February.

Here’s a little round-up of what’s happening over the coming weeks, plus a bit of personal news I’m sharing first with newsletter subscribers.

In the Sail Loft

Pre-Loved Art Sale | until 14 February

The Pre-Loved Art Sale is now well underway in the Sail Loft Gallery, and it’s already proving to be one of those exhibitions that rewards repeat visits.

With a fabulous mix of framed and unframed artwork, ceramics and unexpected finds, it’s a lovely space to browse slowly - whether you’re looking for something specific or just enjoying the discovery.

The exhibition runs until 14 February, and the gallery is open Wed-Sat, 10am–4pm*

*see closure announcement below

🖼 Framing, Finds & Fresh Starts

The Pre-Loved Art Sale often sparks conversations about framing - whether that’s a piece you’ve just discovered in the gallery, something you’ve had at home for years, or artwork that’s been waiting for the right moment.

I’m always happy to advise on framing options, and bespoke framing is very much part of what I love offering at NaviStitch, alongside commissions, workshops and exhibitions.

Commissions, in particular, are where this all began for me, and they remain one of my favourite parts of what I do - creating something personal and celebrating a memory. If you have a place, a memory or an idea you’d like to turn into a stitched piece, I’m always glad to talk things through.

💌 Valentine’s Card Paper Embroidery – Taster Workshop

If you’re looking for a gentle creative treat in early February, my Valentine’s Card Paper Embroidery Taster Session is coming up soon.

This relaxed 2-hour workshop is designed as an easy introduction to paper embroidery - perfect if you’re curious to try the technique. In the workshop you’ll:

• learn the basics of paper embroidery

• create a stitched Valentine’s card to take home

• enjoy a calm, friendly creative space

📅 Saturday 7 February 🕐 1pm–3pm

💷 £15 (all materials provided during the session)

Spaces are limited, and it would be lovely to welcome a few more of you along.

All of my other paper embroidery workshops are also still booking - coastal, botanical and coastal collage, and if you're unable to make sessions, you can buy my books and toolkits and try it all at home!

🧵 Looking Ahead: Upcoming Exhibitions

The Sail Loft Gallery has a busy and exciting few months ahead:

The Art of Paper Embroidery – Sam Luxford 18th–21st February - An exhibition celebrating paper embroidery, stitched detail and slow, mindful making.

Anne Plummer Exhibition 25th February – 7th March - A beautiful exhibition to follow, with more details to come soon.

And then it's our Spring Exhibition!

If you’re an artist looking to take part in a friendly, welcoming group exhibition this spring, I’d love to hear from you.

🌱 Spring Exhibition: 14 March – 11 April

🎉 Preview night: Friday 13 March (everyone welcome)

📝 Apply here

✨ A Little Personal News (Newsletter First)

I’ve also been quietly working on something new, which I wanted to share first with newsletter subscribers.

I’ve recently launched a new personal website for my artwork — a space that brings together my stitched work, books and creative projects under the Sam Luxford name.

Workshops will still book through NaviStitch, but this site gives a fuller picture of my wider practice and the work I make.

To celebrate the launch, I’m offering a 10% discount via the site until the end of February. I wanted you to be the first to know.

🗓 A Quick Diary Note

Please note that NaviStitch will be closed on Wednesday 4 and Thursday 5 February for a short family event.

The shop and Sail Loft Gallery will reopen as usual on Friday 6 February, 10am-4pm.

Thank you so much for your understanding.

Thank You

Thank you, as always, for your continued support - for visiting, sharing, booking, buying, and encouraging this small creative business.

There’s lots to look forward to as February unfolds, and I hope to see you in the shop or gallery very soon.

I wish you calm waters and plain sailing,

Sam