Blog — Mallory Donen

April 2025 - Update

  • New Patreon Pattern Launch - April 1

  • Custom Portrait for SRAM Video

  • New Finished Works

  • Upcoming Workshops/Summer Course

  • Upcoming Shows/Markets


New Patreon Pattern Launch - April 1

My second pattern on Patreon is now available! Become part of my cross-stitch crew for only $6.50/month to gain access to 2x patterns (Feb 1 pattern will expire on May 1, but will become available for purchase outside of Patreon). Patterns are PDF downloads, so you can save to your computer and complete at your own pace.

By joining the crew here's what you'll be unlocking:

✂️ CROSS-STITCH PATTERN - PDF DOWNLOAD
Bi-monthly original cross-stitch pattern designs

✂️ ACCESS TO EDUCATIONAL CONTENT
How to cross-stitch videos & tips (new video will be posted in April!)

✂️ EXCLUSIVE BEHIND THE SCENES CONTENT
Photos and videos of works in progress


Custom Portrait for SRAM Video

I’ve been patiently waiting to share this custom portrait project that came in at the end of 2024, during the busiest time of the year. I managed to complete it in record time to have the customer (a producer from LA) send an Uber pick up to collect their package and complete the filming of their video for SRAM (a bike tech company), in North Vancouver.

Part of the brief (to help execute the “gag” for the video) was that the portrait should look like it was stitched with wires. To create the effect, I stitched the background and select shades in silver embroidery thread. I was worried about the challenges I’ve had with this type of thread in the past, but in the end it worked out way better than I could’ve ever imagined!

Click to watch the video on youtube or below.


New Finished Works

Cross-Stitch Translation 1-9, Cotton embroidery thread, silk yarn, 22 x 22 inches framed, 2025
230 hours of labour

Mini Loose Ends, 4 ¾ x 4 ¾ inches, embroidery, 2025, 2 hours of labour


Upcoming Workshops/Course

Discover the world of cross stitch! In this introductory workshop, you will learn basic cross-stitch skills, techniques, and tips. Artist Mallory Donen will demonstrate and guide you through a simple tulip pattern and show you how to neatly finish your cross-stitch project in a small hoop. All skill levels and experience are welcome. All supplies will be provided.

Cost: $39
Location: The Music Box, 1564 Argyle Ave, West Vancouver, BC V7V 1A1

Not available for the April 26th workshop? Well I have good news, I’m running the same workshop from my studio on June 21, 3-6pm, cost is $90 (plus Eventbrite fees). The reason for the higher price point is the smaller class size, which means more 1-1 time with your favourite teacher! Also the cost of supplies for the workshop in West Vancouver are covered by the Ferry Building Gallery, while the workshop from my studio I’ll be purchasing all the supplies needed!


Upcoming Shows/Markets

  • SMALLS Exhibition, Reception April 4, 5-8pm, 1310 William St (Eastside Atelier)

  • First Saturday Open Studios, 12-5pm, Studio 211, 2111 Main Street

  • Exploring Stitch, Group Show at the Silk Weaving Studio, May 22 - June 12

  • Exploring Stitch, Opening Reception, May 22, time TBD

  • Exploring Stitch, Drop in “Stitch in” at the Silk Weaving Studio, May 31, time TBD

  • XOXO Fibre, 10am-6pm, June 7, Pipe Shop, North Vancouver

  • Khatsahlano Street Party, 11am-9pm, West 4th ave, Vancouver

February 2025 - Update

  • Blog Schedule Update (Bi-monthly)

  • Patreon Launching! - February 1st

  • Upcoming 2025 - Events, Shows & Workshop


Blog Schedule Update (Bi-monthly)

After 8 years of maintaining this blog on a monthly basis, I’ve made to decision to adjust the schedule. From now on, I’ll be posting bi-monthly updates! I’ll also be cutting back the content so that the focus is on announcing upcoming events, shows & workshops.

If you want even more content, please follow me on social media @mallorydonen (IG, FB, & TikTok) and starting this month I’ll be launching on Patreon!


Patreon Launching! - February 1st

At the beginning of the year I made the decision to get started on Patreon! It's something I've been thinking about for a while now and I thought, hey, why not now? I love cross-stitching and sharing my art with others, so I'm hoping this will be another extension of my art practice. I want to help encourage others to make cross-stitch art that's a little outside the box and not as common (when it comes to cross-stitch imagery). I like to tell people that I make "not your grandma's" cross-stitch art. So if that's what you're looking for, this is the place for you and I'd love for you to join my crew!

All the patterns I've planned for 2025 release are circle cross-sections (or swatches) taken from old abstract acrylic paintings that I made back when I was primarily painting. I love color, pattern and mark-making, so that's the kind of vibe you should expect to see every other month.

I hope you'll join me on this little cross-stitch journey this year 😌.


Upcoming 2025 - Events, Shows & Workshop

  • First Saturday Open Studios, February 1, 12-5pm, Studio #211, 2111 Main St

  • First Saturday Open Studios, March 1, 12-5pm, Studio #211, 2111 Main St

  • “SMALLS” First Saturday Exhibition, April 4-6, Eastside Atelier Studios

  • Cross-Stitch Workshop - TBD (April), West Vancouver

  • “Stitchery” Group Show - TBD (May), The Silk Weaving Studio, Granville Island

  • I’m a Vendor at XOXO Fibre, June 7, 10am-6pm, The Pipe Shop, North Vancouver

Year in Review - 2024

Reflecting back over the past year, I’m happy to say I achieved so much that I’m proud of and succeeded in my goal to have a better work life balance! Read below for a summary of my 2024 year in review.

✨January

  • Largest custom pet portrait to date

  • Introduced heart cards

✨February 

  • “I weathered the storm…” project 

  • Designed patches for market merch

  • Designed DIY Glitch X-Stitch Kit

✨March

  • Expanded sticker collection

  • March Mini Collective Chaos Show

  • Sold original artwork at March Mini

  • Slice Mini Mart

✨April

  • Eri Silk project, 125 hours of labour

✨May

  • New market display mock up

  • Eri Exploration group show

  • ESF Spring market

  • West of Main Art Walk

  • A Closer Look Group Show/Artist Talk

✨June 

  • Time off/long weekend in Whistler

  • Updated Etsy Shop

  • Static Glitch Series

✨July

  • Mini Framed X-Stitch prep for VMF

✨August 

  • Dream Mechanism group show

  • Richmond Art Walk

  • Vancouver Mural Festival

  • Custom Portrait

✨September

  • B&W First Saturday Exhibition

  • Flats Fest @ Emily Carr

  • Car Free Day Main Street

  • Fall Patch collection

  • Market display upgrade 

✨October

  • Studio sale/pop up

  • Merry Chrismukkah sign/card design

  • Slice Mini Mart

  • Hanukkah card restock

  • Holiday inventory prep 

✨November

  • Silk Purse Holiday Artisan Market

  • Quilted Vest project 

  • STA Christmas Craft Fair

  • Open studio w/ Steph

  • ESF Holiday market

✨December 

  • Holiday pop up at Rath Art Supplies

  • Slice Holiday Market

  • Make It Show (2nd year vending)

  • Rush Custom Portrait

What an amazing year! I’ve been enjoying a relaxing end of December, spending time with family, reading, and relaxing. Last weekend, I took myself out for a fancy 5 course meal, at a vegan restaurant, in Kits, called Folke to celebrate. It was a wonderful way to welcome in the New Year, bring it on 2025!


Labour Report - 2024


First Saturday Open Studios - Jan 4

First Saturday is a public monthly artist-run open-studio event.

Come visit artists where they work at City Centre Artist Lodge.

The following artist studios will be open:

Tracy Anne Northey - Studio # 34
Ilena Lee Cramer - Studio # 109
Elana Sigal - Studio # 110
Lukas Lundberg - Studio # 208
Mallory Donen – Studio # 211
Stephane Savoie - Studio # 123
Devorah Peterson - Studio # 221 

Location: 2111 Main Street, Vancouver, BC V5T 3C6
Date: January 4, 2025
Time: 12pm-5pm

https://www.firstsaturday.ca/next-open-studios

December 2024 - Update

  • Shop in person for 15% off discount

  • First Saturday Open Studios - Dec. 7

  • Make It Show @ the PNE - Dec 12-15

  • Registration Open for Winter Course - Jan 14 - Feb 6

  • Shop my art/merch at Retail


Shop in person for 15% off discount

With Canada Post on strike, shipping options are limited and expensive this holiday season.
Please consider shopping locally or in person, whenever you can.

If you stop by my studio during next First Saturday (Dec 7)
OR
at my booth during Make It Vancouver (Dec 12-15)

You can get 15% off your entire purchase.

Show me the coupon code below for a discount:

Code: 15HOLIDAY24


First Saturday Open Studios - Dec. 7

First Saturday is a public monthly artist-run open-studio event.

Come visit artists where they work at City Centre Artist Lodge.

The following artist studios will be open:

Tracy Anne Northey - Studio # 34
Ilena Lee Cramer - Studio # 109
Elana Sigal - Studio # 110
Lukas Lundberg - Studio # 208
Mallory Donen – Studio # 211
Stephane Savoie - Studio # 123
Devorah Peterson - Studio # 221

Location: 2111 Main Street, Vancouver, BC V5T 3C6
Date: December 7, 2024
Time: 12pm-5pm

 https://www.firstsaturday.ca/next-open-studios


Make It Show @ the PNE - Dec 12-15

I’m so excited to be a Makie at Make It Vancouver happening Dec 12-15 at the PNE Forum! The show will feature 250 amazing local brands and makers. This is an awesome spot to get all your holiday shopping done while supporting creative entrepreneurs. There will also be food trucks, a lively festive atmosphere, and holiday fun to be had by all. Make sure to follow @makeitshow for a chance to win prizes leading up to the show. Can’t wait to see you there! makeitshow.ca/vancouver

Show hours:
Thursday, December 12, 5pm-9pm
Friday, December 13, 11am-9pm
Saturday, December 14, 10am-6pm
Sunday, December 15, 11am-5pm


Registration Open for Winter Course - Jan 14 - Feb 6

Learn the basics of cross-stitch with me in this 4 week introductory course! Or you can register as a part-time student by registering for 1 week of your choosing.

Over the course of 4 weeks, I will review cross-stitch materials, techniques, basic pattern making and how to finish your embroidery projects in several ways!

This is a small course taught from my artist studio at the City Centre Artist Lodge, so spaces are limited to 4 full-time students and 2 part-time students per week (part-time students select 1 week of the course to attend).

Registration Fees:
$300 - Full time student (4 weeks)
$110 - Part time student (1 week only)

Schedule: All classes are Tuesdays & Thursdays, 6:30-8:30pm (January 14 - February 6).

Location:Studio# 211, 2111 Main Street, City Centre Artist Lodge

Supplies: Students are provided with all necessary supplies including Aida cloth, needle, threads, and hoops.

Refunds are only available 7 days prior to the start of the course, students will be charged a $20 refund fee. To request a refund, email mmdonen@gmail.com.

Refunds will not be accepted once classes begin.

*No prior experience required, all classes are beginner level.


Shop my art/merch at Retail

Here’s an updated list of retail locations you can shop my art/merch this holiday season.

Craft Council of BC
1386 Cartwright St
Vancouver, BC, Canada, V6H 3R8
Shop hours: Tues - Sun | 10a - 5:30p

Pressure Point
A shop celebrating local emerging artists
2111 Main St, Studio #108
Vancouver BC, Canada, V5T 3C6

Rath Art Supplies
2412 Main St
Vancouver, BC, V5T 3E2

Silk Purse
1570 Argyle Avenue
West Vancouver BC  V7V 1A1

Slice of Life
1636 Venables St
Vancouver, BC V5L 2H2
Shop hours: 10am - 8pm, 7 days a week

November 2024 - Update

  • Holiday Shopping (Merch Shop & Retail)

  • Nov-Dec Events


This past month I’ve been taking significant time off in preparation for the busy holiday season, which is now fast approaching!

I’ve been revamping my website with separate shop pages for Available Artworks (this will feature medium-large artworks at more premium price points for those looking to grow their art collection) and Merch Shop (small items for those with smaller budgets).

I’m hope this new distinction will help provide a more efficient way to shop on my website. I’ve updated other pages on my website too, so feel free to explore whenever you get the chance!

Holiday Shopping

I know it’s crazy to say, but it’s already time to start thinking about the holiday season! I’m excited to share that I’ve just released some new holiday products, including XMAS Tree pins & Chrismukkah Cards. Click through to shop these new items and view my entire Holiday collection.

While I’d love it if you would shop online and buy directly from my website, I understand some of you prefer to shop in-person! Below are all the retail locations you can shop my art/merch this holiday season.

Craft Council of BC
1386 Cartwright St
Vancouver, BC, Canada, V6H 3R8
Shop hours: Tues - Sun | 10a - 5:30p

Pressure Point
A shop celebrating local emerging artists
2111 Main St, Studio #108
Vancouver BC, Canada, V5T 3C6

Silk Purse
1570 Argyle Avenue
West Vancouver BC  V7V 1A1

Slice of Life
1636 Venables St
Vancouver, BC V5L 2H2
Shop hours: 10am - 8pm, 7 days a week

Of course you’ll also find me at my studio during open hours & other pop up events this November & December.

See below to plan ahead, I hope to see you soon!

November

  • First Saturday Open Studio - Nov 2, 12-5pm

  • STA Christmas Craft Fair - Nov 3, 10-4pm

  • Open Studio w/ Guest Steph Ford Studio - Nov 15, 4-8pm, Nov 16, 2-6pm

  • Eastside Flea Holiday Market (NEW LOCATION-79 West 3rd Ave) - Nov 23-24, 11-5pm

December Event

  • First Saturday Open Studio - Dec 7, 12-5pm

  • Make It Show Vancouver - Dec 12-15


October 2024 - Update

  • NEW Available Works B&W Static Glitch 02-03

  • October Studio Sale & Uni Design World Pop Up/Free Workshop - Oct 5

  • First Saturday Open Studios - Oct 5

  • Upcoming Fall/Winter Events


NEW Available Works B&W Static Glitch 02-03

Last month I showed a new series of black & white glitch inspired cross-stitch pieces as part of the First Saturday exhibition. I had all three works professionally framed at my go-to framer (Kent Picture Framing) and surprise, Kent (the owner), bought one of them!

SOLD - Static Glitch – B&W 01⁠, Cotton embroidery, 14ct Aida cloth⁠, 10 3/4 x 10 3/4 inches framed, 2024

The other two works from the series are still available for purchase through my website.

Black and white framed cross-stitch artwork.

Static Glitch – B&W 02, Cotton embroidery, 14ct Aida cloth⁠, 10 3/4 x 10 3/4 inches framed, 2024

Black and white cross-stitch framed artwork.

Static Glitch – B&W 03⁠, Cotton embroidery, 14ct Aida cloth⁠, 10 3/4 x 10 3/4 inches framed, 2024


October Studio Sale & Uni Design World Pop Up/Free Workshop - Oct 5

I’m so excited to announce that I’ll be sharing my studio space with Maya the owner of Uni Design World this First Saturday, October 5th! Her sustainable fashion brand uses a unique style of patchwork design; every piece is meticulously crafted and is truly one-of-a-kind!

We’re partnering for this open studio to offer you a unique textile and fiber experience! Come play/interact with us at our FREE workshop to see how we improvise and create different colour combinations and turn scraps of fabric/threads into something new.

During the open studio we’ll both be offering end of season/end of line discounts. Trust me, you don’t want to miss this (I’ve never offered discounts this high before)!

Help me clear out some old inventory, I’m running out of space in the studio.

Hope to see you there!


First Saturday Open Studios - Oct 5

As always, there will be other studios at City Centre opening for First Saturday, so there will be plenty to explore!

First Saturday is a public monthly artist-run open-studio event.

Come visit artists where they work at City Centre Artist Lodge.

The following artist studios will be open:

Tracy Anne Northey - Studio # 34
Ilena Lee Cramer - Studio # 109
Elana Sigal - Studio # 110
Lukas Lundberg - Studio # 208
Mallory Donen – Studio # 211
Stephane Savoie - Studio # 123
Devorah Peterson - Studio # 221 

Location: 2111 Main Street, Vancouver, BC V5T 3C6
Date: October 5, 2024
Time: 12pm-5pm

https://www.firstsaturday.ca/next-open-studios


Upcoming Fall/Winter Events

September 2024 - Update

September 2024 - Update

Only 1 week left to register for my Fall cross-stitch course! All classes are taught out of my studio at City Centre Artist Lodge, which means classes are 6 students maximum. This way everyone gets plenty of one-on-one time. If you’ve been thinking about it, now is the time to sign up before spaces fill up!

Read More

August 2024 - Update

August 2024 - Update

I’m so excited to be offering a 4 week course this Fall, dedicated to the art and craft of cross-stitch. Lucky for you, you’re getting first access to registration since you’re reading my blog!

Read More

July 2024 - Update

July 2024 - Update

Believe it or not, I took time off in June to decompress and relax! I even spent a long weekend with my best friend in Whistler! We visited the Scandinave spa and spent the rest of our time reading, eating, and walking trails. I didn’t even bring art with me to “casually” work on.

Read More

June 2024 - Update

  • “A Closer Look” - Watch Artist Talk on YouTube

  • Black to Da Roots/Black Music Month Festival - May 31 - June 2

  • First Saturday Open Studios - June 1

  • “Eri Explorations” - Show ends June 16th

  • Westward Music Festival - June 22-23


“A Closer Look” - Artist Talk

Watch on YouTube for an engaging conversation with these talented artists as they share insights into their inspirations, creative processes, take a tour of the exhibition & answer questions from viewers like you live!

Exhibition Dates: May 22 - Jun 30

Kay Meek Arts Centre, 1700 Mathers Ave.

Artists Emily Cowan, Mallory Donen & Joanne Frewer present smaller works that invite viewers to get up close & really explore the themes & techniques of each piece. Exploring a variety of media from painting to embroidery to assemblage, these artists investigate themes of home, women's work, traditional craft & change.


Black to Da Roots - May 31 - June 2

The first music festival of 2024 at City Centre starts this weekend, May 31 - June 2nd!

I’ll be opening my studio for limited hours, that are subject to change.

Please check my Instagram stories/broadcast channel for the most up-to-date hours.

  • Friday, May 31 - 3:30-6:00pm

  • Saturday, June 1 - 12-5pm

  • Sunday, June 2 - TBC

As always, find me in Studio 211, Bay 1 upstairs, at City Centre Artist Lodge (2111 Main St).

For more information on this free event, visit the Facebook Event page.


First Saturday Open Studios - June 1

First Saturday is a public monthly artist-run open-studio event.

Come visit artists where they work at City Centre Artist Lodge.

The following artist studios will be open:

Tracy Anne Northey - Studio # 34
Ilena Lee Cramer - Studio # 109
Elana Sigal - Studio # 110
Lukas Lundberg - Studio # 208
Stephane Savoie - Studio # 123
Mallory Donen - Studio # 211
Devorah Peterson - Studio # 221

Location: 2111 Main Street, Vancouver, BC V5T 3C6
Date: June 1, 2024
Time: 12pm-5pm  

https://www.firstsaturday.ca/next-open-studios


The group show ”Eri Explorations” is still on view until June 16th, featuring 13 different artists creating an interesting mix of pieces all inspired by the theme of wild “Eri” silk. The exhibit showcases small and large wall hangings, visual art pieces, 3-D work, as well as knitted and woven garments. Come see the diversity that Eri silk has to offer.⁠

Location - Granville Island⁠
The Silk Weaving Studio ⁠
1531 Johnston St⁠
Vancouver, BC V6H 3R9⁠


Westward Music Festival - June 22-23

I’ll also be opening my studio during this ticketed music festival at City Centre Artist Lodge!

Please check my Instagram stories/broadcast channel for the most up-to-date hours.

  • Saturday, June 22 - 1-9pm

  • Sunday, June 23 - 1-9pm

Studio 211, Bay 1 upstairs, at City Centre Artist Lodge (2111 Main St).

For more information Visit website for festival day/weekend passes/tickets.