Atlantic Blue Canvas has captured the hearts of stitchers with its beautifully hand-painted canvases, timeless style, and thoughtful attention to detail. Known for creating designs that feel both classic and fresh, Atlantic Blue offers canvases that inspire creativity and make every stitching session feel a little more special.
In this edition of our Designer Showcase, we’re getting to know the creative minds behind Atlantic Blue Canvas and learning more about the story behind the brand. From how needlepoint became such an important part of their lives to where they find inspiration for new designs, we’re diving into the artistry and passion that goes into every canvas.
At Needlepoint.Com, we love highlighting the incredible designers who help make the needlepoint community so inspiring and creative. Keep reading to learn more about Atlantic Blue Canvas, discover what makes their designs so unique, and maybe even find inspiration for your next stitching project!
Shop Atlantic Blue here.
Tell us about yourself! When did needlepoint become an integral part of your life? Where did the name “Atlantic Blue” come from?
I grew up in Delray Beach, Florida, and started stitching in 6th grade, starting with small
projects and a few belts in college. I’ve always been a pretty crafty person.
There’s a popular street in downtown Delray Beach called Atlantic Ave, where my family had a retail store, and it ends right at the Atlantic Ocean. Blue is also my favorite color. I wanted something that would sit at the top of the alphabet, be easy to spell, and wouldn't use my name, so Atlantic Blue Canvas was born!
Walk us through your design process. Where do you find inspiration for your next design?
Food, travel, and the ocean inspired my first few designs! I used to paint the canvas first and then chart, but now I do all the charts digitally first, which is easier and faster to send to painters that way.
How many designers do you have in your designer group? How do you pick new designers to be a part of it?
We distribute for over 20 designer brands. We truly have a little bit of everything at ABC, which I think is why we appeal to such a wide range of stitchers.
When a designer is looking to join ABC, we look at several things: their overall business goals, sales history, portfolio size, and design execution (use of color, sizing, and uniqueness). We also work with several non-traditional needlepoint designers whose artwork wasn't originally created for needlepoint canvas, for example, acrylic, watercolor, or cross-stitch, and we've helped convert it into needlepoint designs.
How would you describe the style or personality of Atlantic Blue?
We try to be intentional about creating canvases that work for all levels of stitchers, as well as different-sized canvases. Whether you are looking for that next big project, a stash buster, a small ornament, something for a new baby, or even an upcoming trip, you can find it within our canvas offerings. We also keep an open mind when it comes to what to produce and not just what I would want to stitch.
Do you have a favorite decorative stitch or one you always come back to?
Love an open t-stitch and diagonal mosaic. I should probably learn a few new ones!
What advice do you have for someone just starting their needlepoint journey?
Start small, like a key fob or a mini! Keep the color count low and look for something that is easy to finish. Continental and DMC fibers are totally fine; I don’t think I used a fancy fiber or decorative stitch for at least 10-15 years into stitching, which is crazy. And if you haven’t tried velvet yet, it’s the best!
What’s coming next for Atlantic Blue that stitchers can look forward to?
We always have something new coming… we’re adding new designers, prepping for a
club launch, and already have new holiday designs in the works!
Shop Atlantic Blue here.
