Today we’d like to introduce you to Kat Watson.
Hi Kat, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I was born and raised in the Arlington, TX area. Until 2022, I never would have considered myself an artist. But becoming disabled through Covid forced me to try new things that I could do while sitting down. I tried a few embroidery kits and immediately knew I had found my passion. I discovered stumpwork, a type of 3D embroidery, and knew I had to try my hand at it. Now I’m constantly learning new fiber art techniques that continue to enthrall me. Although I deal with physical and mental health issues I’m eternally grateful that being stuck in bed and at home all the time guided me to a love of embroidery. My health is much more in the maintenance phase at the moment which allows me to bring my art to in person markets around the metroplex.
I enjoy capturing realism with thread. My creativity truly took off with my discovery of stumpwork (3D embroidery). And, as my business name implies, I love moss and mushrooms! I’m also fond of butterflies and moths. I dabble in other fiber arts regularly, and I currently am enjoying crochet as well as felt embroidery.
Keep doing the things that bring you joy and bring joy to your world. I’m grateful you’re here.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
Last year I had a major health event that almost took my life. Even long after I recovered physically from my 18-day stay at the hospital I was battling with my mental recovery. It took me a good 10 months of barely embroidering and wondering if I would ever regain the spark I had for the craft. I’m so relieved to know that I was able to overcome and resume stitching.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about Of Moss and Mushroom?
I started my business four years ago. It’s hard to imagine it’s been that long already. I started too early in my opinion. I was still figuring out my niche and craft back then and probably shouldn’t have added turning it into a business that soon. But thank goodness I’ve stuck it out and I’m still here sharing my art with the world.
I specialize in stumpwork, which just means 3D embroidery. I’m known for my unique stumpwork embroidered mixed media terrariums. I’ve never seen anyone create something the exact same way I do. I had to figure out how to do each step of the creative process on my own through trial and error. I am grateful for many stumpwork artists along the way that invigorate me with their own art and inspire me to find my own way of stitching.
As for the business side of things, I think it’s generally been slow and small but I’m grateful for every single person that has cheered me on, whether that’s supporting me by sharing on social media, or choosing to invest financially by purchasing my art. Each one of you makes what I do worth it. I love sharing my art with the world and it gives me a spark of hope every time someone decides my art is worth owning.
I offer unique embroidered terrariums that look so realistic I regularly have to point out to people that they are stitched. I have hopes to offer terrarium stitching classes in the metroplex. And I am working on documenting the process. I also am always interested in custom work. I love making people’s dreams turn into real stitching.
What matters most to you? Why?
How far I’ve come matters so much to me. Five years ago I was newly disabled and battling lifelong depression. Then I decided to try something new that I had no idea would change my whole life. I didn’t realize that you could find your passion in your mid-20s but I’m so grateful I did. My passion for embroidery has kept me going through severe pain and mental health issues. My passion for creating art through stitch is part of why I’m still here.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://of-moss-and-mushroom.square.site/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/of.moss.and.mushroom/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kat.myers.545
- Other: https://www.twitch.tv/of_moss_and_mushroom
