craft

August 2025 - Update

August 02, 2025

New Patreon Pattern Launch - August
Stitching Loose Ends
Upcoming Shows/Markets

New Patreon Pattern Launch - August
The August cross-stitch pattern has now been released! Become a paid member for access to four cross-stitch patterns to download as PDF 💚 ✨️.

Join the Patreon Crew

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

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

Stitching Loose Ends

I’m taking a bit of a break from new projects right now, so I’m taking the time to slow down and work away at my ongoing project “Stitching Loose Ends” where I use up loose threads from old projects. If you’ve been following along with my art practice, you’ll know that this is a project I started back in 2018 the year I moved to Vancouver.

Upcoming Shows/Markets

Nostalgic Futures, Group Show at the Art Shop, by appointment until September
Flats Fest, September 6, Emily Carr Campus, 12-9pm
CHAOS COLLECTIVE, September 6, group art show, Slice of Life Vancouver, 7-10pm
Car Free Day - MAIN Street, September 14, 12-7pm

June 2025 - Update

June 01, 2025

New Patreon Pattern Launch - June 1
Books Open - Custom X-Stitch
Merch Shop Update
Summer Workshops/Course
Upcoming Shows/Markets

New Patreon Pattern Launch - June 1

Become part of my cross-stitch crew for only $6.50/month to gain access to 3x patterns.

Join the Patreon Crew

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

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

Books Open - Custom X-Stitch

My books are currently open for customs, which are great options for unique artworks to gift yourself or your loved ones! I cross-stitch handmade portraits of pets, people, landscapes, abstracts (truly anything your heart desires), so reach out and we’ll discuss your idea. Don’t wait to the last minute, customs take at least 1-2 months from email/phone consultation, design, creation, and framing (depending on the size of the project). Below are examples of past custom works I’ve made for clients over the past several years.

book now

Merch Shop Update

I’ve been preparing lots of small items for market season, but you can shop my online merch any time. I recently added a Riso X-Stitch Pattern, Glitch X-Stitch Patches, Cupcake X-Stitch Cards, and Mini Framed X-Stitch!

Shop Merch

Summer Workshops/Course

Upcoming Shows/Markets

Exploring Stitch, Group Show at the Silk Weaving Studio, May 22 - June 19
Exploring Stitch, Drop in “Stitch in” at the Silk Weaving Studio, June 1, 12-4pm
XOXO Fibre, 10am-6pm, June 7, Pipe Shop, North Vancouver
Khatsahlano Street Party, July 5, 11am-9pm, West 4th ave, Vancouver
CCAL Events (Make Good Party, Boots & BBQ), Aug 16-17, at City Centre Studio #211
Flats Fest, September 6, Emily Carr Campus, 12-9pm
CHAOS COLLECTIVE, September 6, group art show, Slice of Life Vancouver, 7-10pm
Car Free Day - MAIN Street, September 14, 12-7pm

April 2025 - Update

April 01, 2025

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.

Join the Patreon Crew

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

September 2024 - Update

September 01, 2024

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!

August 2024 - Update

July 30, 2024

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!

October 2023 - Update

October 06, 2023

QR code Sign
New Monochrome Series/Exhibition
First Saturday - October 7
Feeling Crafty?! - Workshops
Fall/Holiday Schedule

The past month has been another busy one, so here’s a quick recap:

I vended at Car Free Day for the first time and had such an amazing time!

I made a new cross-stitched QR code sign (photos below).

I spent lots of time focusing on holiday production (stay tuned for Xmas cards and ornaments).

My new monochrome series is currently being shown at First Saturday Group Exhibition.

I finished writing a collaborative project proposal to the Canada Council for the Arts for a grant in 2024.

QR Code Sign

New Monochrome Series

Last Friday was the opening reception for the Monochrome group show at 1000 Parker St studios in East Vancouver, the first member’s exhibition curated by First Saturday. It was a very busy opening with lots of support for the exhibiting artists! Of course, my friend Hayley and I dressed monochromatically accordingly.

The show will run until Thanksgiving, so this weekend is your last chance to see all the works in person. Unsold works will return to my studio and be available for sale shortly there after.

Please email me directly if you’re interested in any of the works from my cross-stitch Monochrome Series.

First Saturday - October 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

Pressure Point - Studio # 108

Elana Sigal - Studio # 110

Stephane Savoie - Studio # 123

Mallory Donen - Studio # 211

Denise Coles - Studio # 221

Paulo OConnor - Studio # 225

Devorah Peterson - Studio # 221

Zandi Dandizette - Studio # 235

Five Cat Collective - Studio # 31

Location: 2111 Main Street, Vancouver, BC V5T 3C6

Date: October 7, 2023

Time: 12pm-5pm

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

Feeling Crafty?! - Workshops

If you're feeling crafty this fall and want to learn new skills (or shake the dust off of some old ones), then these fiber workshops are for you!

Fall/Holiday Schedule

Oct 7 - First Saturdays, Studio 211, City Centre Artist Lodge
Nov 4 - First Saturdays, Studio 211, City Centre Artist Lodge
Nov 5 - STA Christmas Craft Fair, 541 W Keith Rd, North Vancouver
Nov 16-19 - Studio Hours TBD
Nov 25-26 - Portobello West Holiday Market, Yaletown
Dec 2-3 -City Centre Holiday Market, City Centre Artist Lodge
Dec 7-10 - MAKIE at Make it Holiday Market, PNE Forum
Dec 16-17 - Vendor at Eastside Flea Holiday Market, 1101 Union

July 2023 - Update

June 30, 2023

Studio Update/Process
Glitch Pin Workshop - Learn the Basics of Cross-Stitch
First Saturday - July 1
Vancouver Mural Fest is BACKK!!! (Aug 4-13)
Summer Schedule

Studio Update/Process

It’s been so nice getting back into my studio rhythm this past month, I’m back in the thick of it taking on multiple projects at once, I just can’t help myself! I work better when I’m busy, it helps me stay focused and committed to larger cross-stitch works. That way I can balance my time by taking “breaks” from my big projects by stitching smaller things here and there. I’m also happy to say that because of this I have more freedom to exercise my creative muscles and experiment with other techniques/approaches I’ve been itching to try. One of the new approaches I’ve been wanting to explore is cross-stitching with bigger stitches. This means instead of one stitch per square on Aida cloth, I’m actually stitching across two squares.

My newest project Glitch Streak 04 (an addition to my Glitch Streak collection, inspired by a scan glitch) uses this new technique and will be part of an exhibition for a Pride celebration during Vancouver Mural Fest. I’m not ready to share the completed piece yet, I’m still getting it framed! But I’ll share this detail photo instead so you can see the technique that I’m talking about.

*Glitch Streak 04*, detail, embroidery thread, Aida cloth, 2023

Glitch Pin Workshop - Learn the Basics of Cross-Stitch

I had a schedule conflict with my workshop, but thankfully THIS___ gallery was so accommodating! We’ve adjusted the time to 9am-1pm. Hoping that works better and that more of you decide to sign up. This is my first in person workshop and I can’t wait to teach you how to cross-stitch. Spots are limited, so register now using the button below!

In this introductory cross-stitch workshop, artist Mallory Donen will demonstrate her step-by-step process of converting glitch images into cross-stitch patterns to make a glitch pin.
You will learn the fundamental skills of cross-stitch and pattern creation using Stitchfiddle.com.
By the end of the workshop, you will go home with your very own cross-stitched glitch pin!
Tickets are $50 (+tax) including all supplies.

First Saturday - July 1

Stop by my studio this weekend for First Saturday (12-5pm, Studio #211) and visit several other artists at the City Centre Artist Lodge (list of open studios below).

I’ve been re-organizing my studio display and have even better ways to show you all what I have to offer! You can always visit me during other studio hours (listed below) or other events in Vancouver. Or contact me directly (reply to this email) to schedule a private studio visit.

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:

Five Cat Collection - Studio # 31
Maxine Woogman - Studio # 32
Tracy Anne Northey - Studio # 34
Ilena Lee Cramer - Studio # 109
Elana Sigal - Studio # 110
Stephane Savoie - Studio # 123
Mallory Donen - Studio # 211
Denise Coles - Studio # 221
Devorah Peterson - Studio # 221
Location: 2111 Main Street, Vancouver, BC V5T 3C6
Date: July 1, 2023
Time: 12pm-5pm
https://www.firstsaturday.ca/next-open-studios

Vancouver Mural Fest is BACKK!!!

That’s right, you heard me! The most exciting, popular event of the summer is returning and there will be so much to check out this year! The festival takes place August 4-13, with mural tours, live music, food trucks, and of course open studios at City Centre Artist Lodge!

The main time to check out the studios at the Artist Lodge (City Centre Motor Hotel) will be during the Mt. Pleasant Street Party (Aug 10-13). But I’m also planning to have studio hours on the first weekend (Aug 4-5) of mural fest.

So if you want to take your time and have more room to explore my studio, I suggest stopping by on the first weekend! That will be the best time to get close and personal with my work! I hope you all can make it, please check out the mural fest website for more details/information.

Vancouver Mural Fest website

Summer Schedule:

July 22 - Vancouver Farmer’s Market,
City Centre Artist Lodge, 2111 Main Street,
Studio# 211, 12-5pm

Aug 4 - Studio Hours
City Centre Artist Lodge, 2111 Main Street,
Studio# 211, 3-5pm

Aug 5 - First Saturday
City Centre Artist Lodge, 2111 Main Street,
Studio# 211, 12-5pm

Aug 6 - Studio Hours
City Centre Artist Lodge, 2111 Main Street,
Studio# 211, 12-5pm

Aug 10-11 - Vancouver Mural Fest/Mt. Pleasant Street Party
City Centre Artist Lodge, 2111 Main Street,
Studio# 211, 5-10pm

Aug 12-13 - Vancouver Mural Fest/Mt. Pleasant Street Party
City Centre Artist Lodge, 2111 Main Street,
Studio# 211, 2-10pm

June 2023 - Update

May 31, 2023

The Art of Slowing Down: Women’s Labour & Craft
2023 Pop-ups/Markets
Glitch Pin Workshop - Learn the Basics of Cross-Stitch

Last month I took some time away from the studio to recover from the tiring burnout of three solo exhibitions back-to-back since Fall 2022. A couple weeks ago I met with a client for a portrait photoshoot and I’m currently working on their cross-stitch portrait commission. I have a couple commissions being framed now, I can’t wait for my collectors pick them up so that I can share photos with you! My books are still open for commissions, so please visit the commission section of my website to learn more and reserve your spot before my spots fill up for the year!

It’s the final week of my solo exhibition, The Art of Slowing Down: Women’s Labour & Craft, so if you haven’t been following along on social media I’m sharing photos of the installation! I’m so thankful for all the support that everyone at Artlink Contemporary Gallery provided for the installation and documentation of my second solo exhibition in the US.

The Art of Slowing Down: Women’s Labour & Craft

This solo show challenges notions of labour, productivity, and the value of art in relation to craft and women’s work. Throughout her practice, Donen has explored the connection between the repetitive nature of women’s work and machines. Advances in technology continue to make physical human labor obsolete. In opposition to mass production Donen embraces slow repetitive processes, such as hand-stitching and knitting to bring awareness to undervalued women’s labor and traditional craft.

2023 Pop-ups/Markets

This weekend you can find me vending at the Dragon Boat BC - Vessi 500M Championship in partnership with Got Craft. My booth will be set up along the sea wall, I’ll be sharing a booth with fellow City Centre Artist Lodge tenant, Happy Nomad Candles. It’s supposed to be another beautiful weekend, so stop by for a free market featuring 20+ local artisans/businesses between 9am-5pm and watch the live Dragon Boat racing!

**June 3** - Dragon Boat BC - VESSI 500 x Got Craft Market, 9-5pm, Science World, 1455 Quebec Street

2023 Schedule:

June 17 - VHS Market (Vintage & Handmade Society), 11-6pm, 800 West Georgia, Downtown Vancouver
Aug 10 - Vancouver Mural Fest, City Centre Artist Lodge, Studio# 211, 5-10pm
Aug 11 - Vancouver Mural Fest, City Centre Artist Lodge, Studio# 211, 5-10pm
Aug 12 - Vancouver Mural Fest, City Centre Artist Lodge, Studio# 211, 2-10pm
Aug 13 - Vancouver Mural Fest, City Centre Artist Lodge, Studio# 211, 2-10pm
Nov 25-26 - Portobello West Holiday Market, 10-5pm, 181 Roundhouse Mews, Yaletown (Vancouver)

Glitch Pin Workshop - Learn the Basics of Cross-Stitch

Buy tickets

May 2023 - Update

May 03, 2023

The Art of Slowing Down: Women’s Labour & Craft
2023 Pop-ups/Markets
Glitch Pin Workshop - Learn the Basics of Cross-Stitch

Last week I travelled to Fort Wayne, Indiana to install my next solo exhibition opening this week. This is my second solo show in the USA and the first time I’ve travelled outside of Canada to install my work. Overall, it was a great experience working with the gallery and I’m very happy with how the exhibition came together. I’ll be sharing more installation photos/videos on my social media in the coming weeks so be sure to follow me on Instagram (I post the most there)/Facebook.

The Art of Slowing Down: Women’s Labour & Craft

2023 Pop-ups/Markets

2023 Schedule:

June 17 - VHS Market (Vintage & Handmade Society), 11-6pm, 800 West Georgia, Downtown Vancouver
Aug 3 - 13 - TBD Vancouver Mural Fest, City Centre Artist Lodge, Studio# 211
Nov 25-26 - Portobello West Holiday Market, 10-5pm, 181 Roundhouse Mews, Yaletown (Vancouver)

Glitch Pin Workshop - Learn the Basics of Cross-Stitch

Buy tickets

April 2023 - Update

April 01, 2023

Proofs of Labour
No Smoking (Motel Collection)
Glitch Pin Workshop - Learn the Basics of Cross-Stitch
Portrait Draw - $10 entry for a chance to win a custom portrait valued at $350!
2023 Pop-ups/Markets

Proofs of Labour

I finished the final stages of unstitching all the threads from my Proofs of Labour conceptual cross-stitch project. Here’s what the Aida cloth looks like after 48 hour of unstitching. Remnants of fibres remain on the cloth and the holes are wider/stretched out from being punctured by needle and thread and finally unstitched. The labour logs and jars containing the unstitched threads will be part of the installation for an upcoming solo show in Indiana, May 4 - June 4, 2023.

No Smoking (Motel Collection)

My latest No Smoking cross-stitch series was inspired by actual signs from my studio located at the City Centre Motor Hotel and are a continuation of my Motel Collection.

Shop the motel collection

Glitch Pin Workshop - Learn the Basics of Cross-Stitch

Buy tickets

Portrait Draw/Raffle

$10 Entry for your chance to
win a cross-stitched portrait valued at $350!

How it works:
- Send $10 entry fee via etransfer (email: mmdonen@gmail.com)
- On April 10th, I will be drawing a lucky winner
- the winner will be asked to provide a photograph of a person/pet/item of their choosing
- I will create a custom small cross-stitch portrait (artwork approx. 3.5 x 3.5 inches)
- the winner will receive their original commission matted & framed (framed 12 x 12 inches) by May 31st

2023 Pop-ups/Markets

April 22-23 - Portobello West Spring Market, 10-5pm, 181 Roundhouse Mews, Yaletown (Vancouver)
June 3 - Dragon Boat BC - VESSI 500 x Got Craft Market, Science World, 1455 Quebec Street
June 17 - VHS Market (Vintage & Handmade Society), TBD, 800 West Georgia, Downtown Vancouver
Aug 3 - 13 - TBD Vancouver Mural Fest, City Centre Artist Lodge, Studio# 211
Nov 25-26 - Portobello West Holiday Market, 10-5pm, 181 Roundhouse Mews, Yaletown (Vancouver)

QR code Sign