For this Designer Showcase, we’re turning our attention to the stylish and sophisticated Initial K Studio. Their stunning canvases strike the perfect balance between classic design and fresh, modern appeal—making them standout choices for stitchers who appreciate both elegance and simplicity.
Tell us about yourself! We’d love to hear a bit about who you are beyond the needle and thread.
I’m Kristi - Texas native, mom of two, and the brains behind Initial K Studio. I left the corporate world to follow a more creative path in 2014, starting with quilting (and even writing a book!) before falling in love with the calm, portable rhythm of needlepoint.
What first sparked your interest in needlepoint?
When my son was just 3 months old, we found out he was anaphylactic to dairy - one of those terrifying, life-changing moments. I spent the next year exclusively pumping, and stitching became my way to unwind. It was the one thing that brought me peace in the middle of chaos. Two years later, after having my second baby and going through three surgeries within two weeks postpartum, I picked up my needle again, and stitching helped me heal, process, and reconnect with myself after all the trauma.
Where did the name “Initial K” come from?
My family is big on passing down initials from one generation to the next, and while brainstorming business names, “Initial K” popped up at the top of the list.
What inspired you to make the leap from stitcher to designer?
I have a background in graphic design, so the transition from stitcher to designer was seamless.
What’s your favorite part of the design process?
My favorite part of the design process is establishing the color palette. I love, love, love working with color, and 99% of the time, the color palette drives my design decisions.
What was the first design you created - and why?
My first design is the Cascade canvas, based on the first quilt pattern I created.
Do you have a favorite canvas in your line?
They’re all my favorites!
If you had to describe your brand in a single sentence, what would it be?
Initial K Studio provides fresh, colorful hand-painted needlepoint canvases that make stitching fun, accessible, and inspirational.
What advice do you have for new stitchers?
Pick a canvas that you absolutely love, no matter the size. If you love the design, you’ll be inspired to work on it consistently. Otherwise, it may end up in the endless WIP pile - speaking purely from experience.
This or that
18 or 13 mesh?
It depends on my mood - but I like to stitch an 18 mesh project in between my big 13 mesh projects. It makes for a great palette cleanser.
Simple stitches / decorative stitches?
I love both! But again, it depends on the project - I typically like to mix basketweave with a few decorative stitches here and there.
Stretcher bars/ stitching in-hand?
I use stretcher bars for smaller projects, and stitch in hand for my bigger projects.
Favorite project you’ve stitched
Patricia Sone’s Tree Topper Angel. It was such a joy to stitch, and I loved the challenge of learning all of the decorative stitches. I can’t wait to display it next Christmas!
Top 3 must-have accessories
Seam Ripper, snips, and a neck lamp are my go-to accessories.
