About Windlecrafts

Launch of Unique Forest Craft Company

Windlecrafts, a unique craft company within the Forest of Dean believed to be the first of its kind in the locality, was launched in 2004 by Ms Sue May.

Sue designs and creates cross stitch kits of local landmarks within the Forest of Dean and surrounding areas. Using specialised computer software, Sue converts drawings and photographs into cross stitch designs. She then makes up the packs to include all of the materials required to create a fine piece of embroidery to be treasured for years.

Sue has held a passion for cross stitch since she was a child, this coupled with her knowledge of the area (Sue is also a well-known tour guide for the Forest) made her realise that there was a huge gap in the market with regard to local cross stitch designs.

"I know whenever I visit somewhere new, I am always on the look out for designs of the area to stitch and, through my work as a tour guide, visitors to the forest often feel the same but there wasn’t really anything available for this area."

Knowing her limitations as a photographer, Sue teamed up with three local photographers to help her capture forest scenes for her creations. Helen Williams and Philip Mugridge (www.willridgeimages.co.uk) are specialist photographers from Viney Hill who help with the wildlife shots, whilst Matt Caldwell (www.caldwellcreations.co.uk) provides the backdrops to many of Sue’s designs.

At present, Sue is concentrating on key sites such as The Speech House and Mallards Pike, but her designs also feature various sculptures on the Sculpture Trail. Eventually, Sue hopes to have a kit for every sculpture plus many more of the other attractions of the Forest and surrounding areas.

Sue’s kits can be purchased via mail order here or alternatively, from the café at Beechenhurst Lodge, Coleford TIC or The Speech House (more details here). She will also be exhibiting her designs and selling her kits at various Craft Fairs throughout the area. Please click here for details.