It has taken a long time for me to develop an artistic process that fits me. It wasn’t until I read “Living and Sustaining a Creative Life” by Sharon Louden that I was finally able to identify my personal practice and understand how important it is to have one. The book contains interviews and essays by 40 contemporary artist. My process and routine are still evolving with my changing life but I have a much more solid foundation. I always begin with my sketchbook, once an annoyance in undergrad, I couldn’t live without it now. My work is very content heavy and it requires a lot of research, brainstorming, and of course sketching. I keep a book with me all the time because I never know when something will strike a chord. After finalizing an idea I do a master sketch. The masters are usually simple contour drawings that I use to transfer the image to fabric. Once I complete my work with the masters I file them away for future use. From there I can begin either the watercolor work on the fabric or begin stitching, I always work with the lightest colors first and build darker colors on top to create detail; any embellishments are the final step. One of the most important aspects of developing my process has been separating myself from my work. Because of the personal nature of my art I often find myself being emotionally affected by it. I have had to find techniques that detach me from the connections I have made with my art. It is definitely the hardest part of my process and it is something I am still developing. I’ve found that process and routine are essential with the labor intensive nature of embroidery. Often I work on several pieces at once to avoid burnout. Process is indispensable, and possibly the most important part of art making.