A little bit about me

From a very young age I loved to sew, proof of which can be seen in my photo taken at Santa's grotto. I can still remember the excitement I felt when I first saw that needlecraft box on the shelf, it felt like forever standing in the queue waiting to hand in my ticket, hoping nobody else would choose it. I couldn't wait to reveal its magical contents, tiny reels of cotton, skeins of coloured embroidery thread, a fragile plastic hoop with a small piece of stamped fabric attached and a fold of paper containing the all important needle.

I also loved reading, I would read anything, one of my favourite books was Little Women, I still have my worn out copy containing my first childish attempts at illustration. I had a dream one day that I would write and illustrate a children's book, little did I know that one day my two passions for sewing and reading would combine to make my dream come true.

My first book The Brave Little Ferryboats is the result. It has been a true labour of love, taking four years from having the original idea to completion.

I hope my book will both enchant you and touch your heart, if it does please give a thought and a prayer for those who took part in the battle and also for those who selflessly continue to serve their country, it would be a fitting way to thank them and honour their memory.

Thanks for looking

Maria x

Hello and welcome to the world of 'The Brave Little Ferryboats', my name is Maria and I am a freelance textile artist. I am a mum to four beautiful grown up daughters, a proud nana of four handsome not as yet grown up grandsons and wife to a very loving and supportive husband.

My textile projects have been featured in many of the leading craft magazines and also in local galleries.