artblog — Blog — Mallory Donen

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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

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


February 2024 - Update

  • Joy of Painting - 2013 Re-Release

  • Shop Update: Heart Cards 

  • COLLECTIVE CHAOS - MARCH MINI Show at Slice of Life


This past month I've been taking things a little slower than usual. I've been focusing most of my time on recovering from the end of year burnout and working on a commission (which I'm excited to share in next month's update).


Joy of Painting - 2013 Re-Release

I'm happy to share the availability of a painting I completed back in 2013! Yes, 2013! The painting has lived with my parents for the past 10 years, but alas they've downsized and this beauty needs a new home. It currently fills a wall in my apartment, but I'd love to give it a new home with more space to breathe. I even have a time-lapse video to share with you (because I'm a timelapse hipster, I've been documenting my process before it was cool).


Shop Update: Heart Cards

Valentine's Day is just around the corner, so I've added a few cross-stitch heart cards to my online shop. Why not send one that special someone? Shipping & studio pick up options available at checkout.


COLLECTIVE CHAOS - MARCH MINI Show at Slice of Life

I'll be exhibiting something mini at this collective MARCH MINI show next month. Save the date & RSVP so you can jump the line if space fills. There will be music, merch and a door prize!

Date & Time
Saturday, March 2
7:00 p.m. - 11:00 p.m. PST

Location
SLICE OF LIFE
1636 Venables Street
Vancouver BC V5L 2H2

COLLECTIVE CHAOS features 20 different artists with a new theme every month!

exhibiting artists who live and work in vancouver, this is a radically inclusive gallery project to support all those who apply to the slice program.

November 2023 - Update

  • Holiday Product Feature

  • Where to buy my art locally: Retail & Other

  • November Markets

  • Studio Hours

  • December Markets


Holiday Product Feature

It’s been a busy month getting ready for the peak holiday season of selling at markets! In preparation, I’ve been creating specific holiday products including cross-stitch holiday cards & ornaments, which are perfect for decorating your homes and meaningful gifts for family or friends. See below for a sneak peak!

Throughout November & December, I’ll also being offering gift bags & bundle deals!


Where to buy my art locally: Retail & Other


Find me at these local markets or schedule a private studio visit this holiday season by emailing me directly!

November Markets

NOV 4: FIRST SATURDAY OPEN STUDIOS
City Centre Artist Lodge, 2111 Main St, Studio 211, 12-5pm⁠

NOV 5: STA CHRISTMAS CRAFT FAIR⁠
541 W Keith Rd, North Van⁠

NOV 12: HOLIDAY BAZAAR⁠
1448 West Broadway⁠, 1-7pm

NOV 25-26: PORTOBELLO WEST⁠ HOLIDAY MARKET
181 Roundhouse Mews, Yaletown⁠

NOV-DEC STUDIO HOURS:
Tuesdays & Thursdays, 4-5pm or by appointment
2111 Main St, Studio 211

December Markets

DEC 2-3: CITY CENTRE ARTIST LODGE⁠ HOLIDAY MARKET
Studio 211 - 2111 Main Street⁠

DEC 7-10: MAKE IT⁠
PNE Forum⁠

Dec 16-17: EASTSIDE FLEA⁠
1101 Union St⁠


Please consider shopping local & handmade this holiday season.

See you soon!