Magazine Magic

How exciting.
I had the previlidge of visiting the offices of Express Publications to spend some time with Marilyn Horwood, the editor of Embroidery and Cross Stitch Magazine.

I arrived a little early and she was still proofing the pages for the next edition. She invited me to sit with her and watch the process. Not only did I get a sneak peek at what's coming up next, I saw how the rough proofs of the magazine were checked by Marilyn for content and consistency. She talked openly and freely while I watched her bring up the pages on her computer and I learned a little on the process of the layout and advertising.

Then we went upstairs to her office where Marilyn showed me more of the gorgeous work that's soon to grace the pages of E&C. Wow! There are some talented people in this world. To see all the stitched samples together was quite daunting. I had to remind myself that they come from many different people with a wide range of talents and experience. Luckily Marilyn also seemed appreciative of the work I'd brought to show her. She appeared to be particularly interested in my dyed background fabric.

As I was leaving, she showed me different departments and introduced me to editors of other magazines that I've often enjoyed such as 'HandMade', 'Beading' and 'Country Craft'. Not only were they all such lovcly people, they made it clear I'd be welcome to submit work (from the other crafts I enjoy) to their magazines.

And what a place to work!
There's patchwork quilts, samples of fabric, and examples of people's work everywhere. It certainly wouldn't be the ideal office for anyone who enjoys clear surfaces, but I'd be in my element.

I left feeling so inspired and ready to create. I look forward to a bright future contributing designs to the many wonderful magazines at Express Publications.